Number of Species and Fish Catch Yield in Kaimana Waters, West Papua Based on 2024 Commercial Fisheries Data

Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Papua University, Manokwari, West Papua, Indonesia.

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Abstract

This study aimed to assess species composition and catch dynamics within the diverse fishing grounds of Kaimana waters, including riverine, estuarine, coastal, and marine ecosystems. The research utilized secondary data consisting of a comprehensive one-year catch recapitulation (2024) from fishing company PT. Industri Perikanan Namatota (IPN). Methodologically, the study employed dominance analysis to identify primary species and monthly fluctuation analysis to evaluate temporal harvest patterns. The results identified 36 commercial fish species with a cumulative annual catch of 3,079,412.90 kg. Dominance analysis revealed six species with yields exceeding 70,000 kg, led significantly by the short mackerel (Rastrelliger brachysoma) at 2,415,706.5 kg, accounting for 78% of the total volume. Other major species included sea catfish (Arius sp.), threadfin (Polydactylus sp.), croaker (Johnius borneensis), true snapper (Lutjanus sp.), and mangrove snapper (Lutjanus argentimaculatus). The monthly fluctuation analysis indicated peak productivity from January to March and October to December. Management implications suggest that the high concentration of catch on a single dominant species (Rastrelliger brachysoma) requires targeted monitoring to prevent localized overfishing. The high productivity of Kaimana fisheries can be further optimized through strategic seasonal harvest controls, securing both ecosystem balance and resource sustainability for future generations.