Distribution and Catch Characteristics of Portunus Pelagicus in North Madura Waters

Abstract

Portunus pelagicus is one of fishery commodity with high economic value and great demand in domestic and foreign markets. P. pelagicus is commonly found in Madura Sea waters. This study aimed to know the catch characteristics of P. pelagicus in North Madura. The locations of this study are Masaran, Sampang Regency, and Pasean, Pamekasan Regency. In this study, census sampling was done using the census method, which involved gathering samples of all the P. pelagicus that fishermen caught on each trip. The catch method in North Madura is using folding traps. In Masaran, the location of the sampling is <2 mils near the coast, and the location of Pasean is around 2-4 miles from the coast. Based on in situ data the water quality in Masaran, Sampang, and Pasean of Pamekasan Regency had various conditions that were able to influence the existence of P. pelagicus. The total weight amount catches in Masaran, Sampang reach 13297 grams (99 individuals), and Pasean, Pamekasan reach 13967 grams (63 individuals). The sex ratio in Masaran, Sampang is 1:3 greater than in Pasean, Pamekasan that is 1:1. Carapace width was divided into small (<10 cm), medium (>10), and large (>12 cm) size classes. In Masaran, P. pelagicus is dominated by large and medium, the amount of large is 56 individuals of crabs, the medium is 32 individuals and 12 individuals are small and do not follow the rule of legal catch. Meanwhile, in Pasean 35 individuals are size large, 22 individuals are medium and 6 individuals are small. These results can be used as the basis for the management of P. pelagicus in North Madura.