Distribution of Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharinus melanopterus) Based on Habitat Characteristics by the Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) Method in Morotai Waters of North Maluku

Abstract

Morotai has abundant marine biological resources, sharks being one of them. The blacktip reef shark is one of the dominant types of coral reef sharks in Morotai waters. Worldwide shark are threatened due to the demand for shark fins and over fishing, to protect sharks is important to know their distribution so protected areas can be established. This research aims to examine the distribution of blacktip reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) based on habitat characteristics in the Morotai Waters. Through surveys and observation of coral cover, using the Line Intercept Transect (PIT) method and the Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) to record the blacktip reef sharks who passed by the coral reef. Water quality parameters measured include temperature, salinity, visibility, acidity, current type, tides, and moon phases. Blacktip reef sharks were found in three of the four research stations. Station 4 was the one with the most blacktip reef shark appearances, amounting to 91 individuals. This station has the lowest sloping contour and has the smallest live coral cover of only 1%. Station 4 is dominated by sand covering 40%. All water quality parameters influence blacktip reef shark occurrence. The highest appearance of the blacktip reef shark happens during the new moon phase, when the tides are loose and the currents are quite strong.