<![CDATA[Seaweed plays an essential ecological role in coastal ecosystems by providing habitat, primary productivity, and supporting marine biodiversity. Despite its ecological and economic importance, information regarding the community structure and density of seaweed in Barrang Caddi Island, Makassar City, remains limited. This study aimed to analyze the community structure, species density, and environmental conditions influencing seaweed distribution in the coastal waters of Barrang Caddi Island. The research was conducted from April to May 2025 at three sampling stations using a quantitative descriptive approach. Seaweed data were collected using the line transect–quadrat method (1 × 1 m quadrats along 50 m transects), while water quality parameters, including temperature, salinity, and pH, were measured in situ. Community structure was evaluated using the Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H'), Pielou's evenness index (E), Simpson's dominance index (C), and species density (individuals m⁻²). The results showed that the seaweed community exhibited moderate diversity (H' = 1.2456–1.2932), high evenness (E = 0.8985–0.9328), and moderate dominance (C = 0.2896–0.3156), indicating a relatively stable community structure. Species density varied among stations, with Caulerpa sp. (3.2 ind. m⁻²), Sargassum sp. (1.12 ind. m⁻²), and Turbinaria ornata (1.4 ind. m⁻²) representing the dominant species at Stations 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Water quality remained within suitable ranges for tropical seaweed growth, with temperatures of 27–29°C, salinity of 29–30 ppt, and pH of 8.07–8.46. These findings indicate that the coastal ecosystem of Barrang Caddi Island continues to support diverse and relatively stable seaweed communities. The study provides baseline ecological information that can support sustainable coastal management, biodiversity conservation, and future monitoring of macroalgal resources in the Spermonde Archipelago.]]>
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