<![CDATA[Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) is a protected species whose survival depends heavily on the availability and distribution of forage within its habitat. This research aims to identify the types and distribution of Malayan tapir forage in Way Kambas National Park (WKNP) while also examine its diet. Data collection included types of Malayan tapir forage and vegetation structure through vegetation analysis. Distribution patterns were analyzed using the morisita index, while diet was analyzed using proximate analysis. The total of Malayan tapir forage successfully identified was 30 from 24 families, a stable community condition shown by the diversity and richness indices are categorized as the moderate category, while the evenness index is categorized as the high category. A predominantly clumped distribution pattern was 12 species. Based on feeding signs, the most frequently consumed were senggani (Melastoma malabathricum) and berasan (Symplocos stenosepala), with frequencies of 38.10% and 28.57% respectively. Proximate analysis results indicate that these species are complementary, senggani providing the highest crude protein (13.82%) and berasan supplying the lowest crude fiber (21.99%) that ideal for the digestion of hindgut fermenters. The presence of seeds in the feces confirms the vital role of Malayan tapir as a seed dispersal agent in WKNP.]]>
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