Utilization of remote sensing data to analyze the influence of oceanographic dynamics on scad fish (Decapterus ruselli) abundance in Kendari Waters, Indonesia

¹ Department of Fisheries Science, Faculty of Marine Science and Fisheries, Hasanuddin University, Perintis Kemerdekaan Km. 10 Street, 90245 South Sulawesi, Makassar, Indonesia
² Faculty of Science and Technology. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. 43600 UKM, Bangi Selangor, Malaysia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

Scad fish (Decapterus ruselli) is an important pelagic fishery commodity in the Kendari Waters, but fluctuations in catch are often influenced by oceanographic dynamics. This study analyzed the relationship between oceanographic conditions and the abundance of scad fish based on fishermen's catch per unit effort (CPUE) data from 2022 and satellite- derived parameters, including sea surface temperature (SST), salinity (SSS), chlorophyll-a (CHL-a), and sea surface height (SSH). Spatial-temporal analyses were performed using Pearson correlation. Results revealed distinct seasonal variations with the highest CPUE observed in September (~665 kg trip-1). Significant negative correlations were found between SST (r=-0.36; p=0.041) and SSH (r=-0.30; p=0.048), indicating that lower temperatures and sea surface heights correspond to higher fish abundance reflecting the influence of upwelling processes that enhance nutrient availability and productivity. These findings confirm that physical oceanographic factors are more dominant than chemistry or biology in determining the availability of scad fish. The eastern period (August–October) was identified as the most productive and potential phase for fishing activities. This research provides a scientific basis for season-based fisheries management and oceanographic dynamics, while encouraging the sustainable use of fish resources.