Literature Review: Population and Habitat Problems, in the Conservation Process of the Bornean Orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus)

Abstract

The Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) is one of Indonesia's priority conservation species facing serious threats due to habitat loss, fragmentation, hunting, and increasing human activities. This study aimed to review population status, habitat characteristics, feeding ecology, conservation challenges, and conservation efforts related to Bornean orangutans based on published scientific literature. This research employed a literature review approach by collecting and analyzing national and international scientific publications obtained through Google Scholar. The data were analyzed descriptively through identification, classification, comparison, and synthesis of previous findings. The results showed that Pongo pygmaeus wurmbii accounts for the largest proportion of the population (70%), while P. p. morio and P. p. pygmaeus represent 23% and 7%, respectively, with all subspecies categorized as Critically Endangered (CR). Natural forests were identified as the most important habitat type, whereas peat swamp forests serve as supporting habitats. Fruit constitutes the primary food source (60%), complemented by leaves, bark, flowers, insects, fungi, and honey. Habitat loss and fragmentation remain the most significant conservation threats, followed by hunting, human-orangutan conflicts, illegal trade, forest fires, and climate change. Conservation efforts include habitat protection, habitat restoration, rehabilitation and reintroduction, conflict mitigation, and law enforcement. In conclusion, the long-term survival of Bornean orangutans depends on integrated conservation strategies involving habitat protection, ecological restoration, community participation, and strengthened policy implementation. Future conservation programs should prioritize landscape-scale habitat management and stakeholder collaboration to ensure sustainable orangutan populations.