Determinants of Rat Population Density in the Port Area of Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35799/jbl.v16i1.66726Keywords:
rodent ecology, trap success, Rattus norvegicus, seaport, environmental sanitationAbstract
Rats are important vectors of zoonotic diseases and pose significant public health risks, particularly in port areas. This study aimed to analyze environmental factors influencing rat population density in Manado Seaport, North Sulawesi. A quantitative descriptive study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted using field surveys. A total of 100 rat traps were set for five consecutive days across four observation sites: the Harbor Master’s Office, cargo loading building, residential areas, and storage warehouses. Environmental variables observed included cleanliness, waste presence, drainage conditions, food availability, and potential nesting sites. The results showed that 28 rats were captured, yielding a Trap Success (TS) rate of 28%, which exceeds the safe threshold of <2% based on the Indonesian Ministry of Health (2014) guidelines. The identified species were Rattus norvegicus and Mus musculus, with R. norvegicus as the dominant species. Higher TS values were found in locations with poor sanitation, abundant waste, and readily available food sources. Waste presence and food availability showed the strongest associations with rat density, followed by drainage conditions. These findings indicate that poor environmental sanitation contributes to increased rat populations. Therefore, improved waste management, environmental sanitation, and routine monitoring are essential to reduce the risk of rat-borne disease transmission.
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