Evaluation of Fishing Ground Indian Scad (Decapterus spp.) Based on Indicator Composition Catch, Sea Surface Temperature and Chlorophyl-a

Abstract

Determination of accurate fishing ground gives influence on efficiency of fishing operation and productivity. However, fishermen in the northern part of Aceh have difficulties in deciding the position and resulting to the minimum yields. The objective of the research were: (1) to determine the distribution of sea surface temperature (SST), and a-chlorophyll in the north water of Aceh, (2) to determine the composition catch number and size of indian scad (Decapterus spp.) in north water of Aceh, (3) analyzing the relationship between SST and chlorophyll on the catch number and size of indian scad in north water of Aceh, and (4) predicting potential fishing ground in the north water of Aceh. Data were obtained from field data (in-situ) and satellite image data (ex-situ). It was performed by three steps, (1) field surveying in the study location, (2) collecting field data, and (3) downloading SST image and a-chlorophyll from MODIS satellite. Results showed the relationship between SST and chlorophyll is not significant towards catch number and size length of indian scad. Furthermore, SST and chlorophyll are varied in each seasonal period at the range from 27.53oC to 28.83oC and from 0.20 mg/m3 to 0.22 mg/m3. Sizes of fish captured using purse seine are not complying with the current standard and are included under category of restricted to be captured. The most potential fishing ground of indian scad in north water of Aceh during January-March 2012 located Pulo Beras waters.