Spatial-Morphological Dynamics of Clan-Based Settlements (Huta) Using Landscape Metrics in Sihapas Barumun Subdistrict, 2005–2025

Abstract

The development of road infrastructure often triggers morphological transformations in traditional settlements that remain tied to local customs and culture. This study aims to analyze the morphological transformations and spatial patterns of clan-based settlements (huta) in Sihapas Barumun District using a time-series approach for the period 2005–2025. The research method involved consistent digitization of satellite imagery at a fixed mapping scale of 1:3,000 and a Minimum Mapping Unit threshold of 1,000 m², integrated with landscape metric modeling using FRAGSTATS software. Quantitative analysis results indicate a significant structural shift from the fragmentation phase toward the corridor agglomeration phase. The active expansion phase (2005–2025) is characterized by an increase in the Number of Patches (NP) from 17 to 23 units and Patch Density from 0.1552 to 0.2100 due to the emergence of new expanding huta. Conversely, during the convergence phase (2015–2025), the NP value decreased to 15 units and the PD value decreased to 0.1370, indicating the physical merging of forest polygons due to the filling of empty spaces. This linear consolidation is validated by an Aggregation Index (AI) of 88.57% and a Largest Patch Index (LPI) of 0.0660 in 2025, proving that a morphological evolution occurred from a clustered point pattern to a continuous rectangular corridor pattern. Thus, the stability and direction of settlement distribution are adaptively controlled by genealogical social structures based on clans and the control of customary land amidst the pull of road modernization. This analysis serves as a foundation, given the importance of integrating clan customary boundaries into regional spatial plans to prevent agrarian conflicts resulting from massive compaction of settlement corridors.