Catch composition and fishing season of blue swimming crab using a collapsible trap in Pemalang coastal water, Central Java

Abstract

Abstract The blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus) is an economically important fishery resources that has penetrated the export market that requires proper management. Pemalang Regency is still entirely dependent on natural catches, so information on seasonal patterns of blue swimming crab fishing is essential for fishermen to support the efficiency and effectiveness of the fishing activity. This research was conducted in Danasari village, Pemalang sub-district, in January–December 2022 with the aim of determining the composition of collapsible trap catches based on the crab fishing season in the waters of Pemalang Regency. Danasari fishermen classify the blue swimming crab fishing season into two, the west season starts in November–May (high rainfall), and the east season starts in June–October (low rainfall). The survey method was performed by collecting data of blue swimming crab catch as the main target and bycatch. Carapace width of the blue swimming crab was also measured. The data obtained was analyzed descriptively using Microsoft Excel 2010 software. The results showed that the catch composition of collapsible traps in Pemalang consisted of crustaceans, fish, and mollusks. The best season to catch blue swimming crabs was during the west season because the catch is more stable than during the east season.