Year: 2025 | Month: December | Volume: 12 | Issue: 12 | Pages: 777-792
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijrr.20251280
Integrated Drivers of Watershed Degradation and Biodiversity Loss in Tropical Lake Catchments: A Review
Bontor L. Tobing1, Dewi Wahyuni K. Baderan2, Marini Susanti Hamidun3, Sukirman Rahim4, Asda Rauf5
1Doctoral Program in Environmental Science, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia.
2,3,4,5Postgraduate Program, Universitas Negeri Gorontalo, Gorontalo, Indonesia.
Corresponding Author: Bontor L. Tobing
ABSTRACT
Watershed degradation poses a significant threat to biodiversity in tropical lake catchments, where land-use change, sedimentation, and declining water quality undermine ecological stability. This study presents a systematic synthesis of recent research examining the biophysical, ecological, and governance drivers of degradation and their impacts on watershed health and biodiversity. Findings reveal that agricultural expansion, deforestation, and urbanization accelerate erosion and nutrient loading, leading to habitat loss, eutrophication, and reduced species richness. Hydrological and ecological disruptions are further compounded by systemic governance barriers, including fragmented policies and limited community engagement.
The review highlights the effectiveness of government-led rehabilitation programs, community-based conservation approaches, and technological monitoring tools such as remote sensing in supporting watershed restoration. Cross-sectoral and participatory governance frameworks emerge as essential for integrating socio-economic and ecological priorities. Despite these advancements, persistent challenges inhibit implementation, indicating the need for stronger institutional coordination and adaptive management strategies. Long-term monitoring and interdisciplinary collaboration are identified as critical components for improving restoration outcomes and informing sustainable watershed management. This study emphasizes the importance of holistic, integrated approaches to safeguard freshwater biodiversity and strengthen ecosystem resilience in tropical lake systems.
Keywords: Watershed degradation; Biodiversity loss; Land-use change; Sedimentation; Water quality; Participatory governance
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