Population dynamics of Baelama anchovy Thryssa baelama (Forsskål, 1775) on the coast of Kabauw Village, Haruku Island, Central Maluku, Indonesia

Abstract

Baelama anchovy (Thryssa baelama) is one of the small pelagic fish from the family Engraulidae used by the local community in Kabauw village, Haruku island-Central Maluku. The intensive fishing of T. baelama as consumption and baitfish with pole and line fisheries by the local communities has been carried out for a long time, but information on the biological parameters of their populations has never been used as a basis for fisheries management. This study aimed to analyze the population dynamics of T. baelama on the coast of Kabauw Village. Fish sampling was carried out twice a month, every two weeks from October to December 2020. The fishing of T. baelama used a net with a mesh size of 0.75 inches. All fish samples were measured for total length. Length frequency data were analyzed using FiSAT II software to estimate growth, mortality, and recruitment parameters. The results showed that the estimated growth parameters; L∞, K, and t0 were 12.85 cm, 1.01 years-1 , and-0.199 years-1 , respectively, and asymptotic length can be achieved at the age of 4.0. Natural mortality 1.82 year-1 is higher than fishing mortality 0.52 year-1. With a total mortality of 2.80 years-1 , and the exploitation rate is still low 0.19 years-1. Based on the prediction of the recruitment pattern, the peak of recruitment occurred in October at 25.14%. A management strategy is needed for the sustainable use of T. baelama; technically, it can be done by determining the fishing season, selectivity of fishing gear, and fishing quotas. These three strategies can be implemented simultaneously through Sasi or similar systems, which can be revitalized through collaboration between stakeholders, with a dominant role attributed to the village government.