The Agroecosystem of Salak Gulapasir (Salacca zalacca var. amboinensis) in New Development Areas in Bali

This research was aimed to identify the agro ecosystem characteristics of salak Gulapasir (Salacca zalacca var. amboinensis) and the environmental factors affecting the yields and quality of the fruit. The research was conducted at Sub-district of Slemadeg Barat, and Sub-district of Pupuan, Survey was conducted in each location within the agro ecosystem zone of 400-500 m above sea level (asl), 501 – 600 m asl, 601-700 m asl and 701-800 m asl. Yields and quality of fruit from each area, was analysed using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The analysis of ground water balance contents in each area was done using Thornthwaite and Mather methods (1957). The measurement of the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil was in accordance with the data required for the agroecosystem analysis. The results of the studies indicated that the monthly rain fall over a period of 10 years according to Oldeman method that the zones between 400-500 m asl and that of 501 – 600 m asl were classified as C2 agro climate zone, the zones between 601 – 700 m asl were categorized as B2, and the ones between 701 – 800 m asl belongs to B1. The results of the analysis of soil water contents indicate that the 400 – 500 m asl zones experience the highest water deficit (125.82 mm/year) while within the 701-800 m asl zones there was annual water surplus. The studies indicated that different agroecosystem zones truly affect yields and quality of fruit. The highest weight and quality of fruits are produced within the 501-600 m asl zones.