Sebangau National Park is a protected area located in Central Kalimantan, Indonesia, in the island of Borneo. Covering an area of approximately 568,700 hectares (1,405,900 acres), it is recognized as one of the largest peat swamp forests in the world. The name "Sebangau" derived from the local Kenyah Dayak language, referring to the name of a river that flows through the park.
Sebangau National Park is characterized by its unique and significant ecosystem, primarily composed of tropical peat swamp forests. These forests consist of acidic, waterlogged soils enriched with high levels of organic material. It is home to a diverse range of plant species, many of which are specially adapted to the challenging conditions of the swamp environment.
The national park is renowned for its rich biodiversity and acts as a vital habitat for numerous endangered species, including the Bornean orangutan. It is estimated that a substantial population of around 6,000 orangutans inhabit the park, making it one of the largest remaining populations of this critically endangered primate. The park also supports other notable wildlife, such as proboscis monkeys, clouded leopards, and many bird species.
In addition to its ecological significance, Sebangau National Park plays a crucial role in preserving carbon stocks and mitigating climate change. The peat swamp forests store vast amounts of carbon, preventing it from being released into the atmosphere as greenhouse gases.
Efforts towards conservation and sustainable management of Sebangau National Park are ongoing, in order to protect its unique ecosystem, wildlife, and contribute to the global fight against climate change.
