Seasonal potential fishing zone model in the regional fisheries management of Indonesia (WPP-RI) 716 based on remote sensing satellite data

Abstract

The variability of atmosphere-ocean interactions highly influences the distribution of fishing zones in the surrounding Indonesia Through Flow (ITF) channel, such as the WPP-716 region. Therefore, the seasonal determination of the fishing zone is crucial in this zone as one of the regional fisheries managements in Indonesia. This study aims to create a potential fishing zone (PFZ) model in the Regional Fisheries Management of Indonesia (WPP-RI) 716 based on the remote sensing satellite data. This study used the daily SST data extracted from the Suomi-National Polar-Orbiting Partnership-Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (SNPP-VIIRS) image Level 2 from 2018 to 2019. A Single Image Edge Detection (SIED) method is applied to determine the PFZ points. Supporting data, such as sea current patterns, chlorophyll-a, fish-catching zones and Catch per Unit of Effort (CpUE), are also considered to bolster this study's findings. The models were validated and compared with the results established by central authority fish catch data. Of particular concern, the highest detection of PFZ is observed during the second transitional season, reaching 1835 points scattered all over the study area. The frequently detected PFZ is identified in northern Sulawesi and Sangihe Islands, where the circular eddy current observed during the second transitional season, ranging from 0.6 to 0.8 m/s, indicating upwelling (high productivity) events proven by the variability of surface temperature and chlorophyll-a and aligned with the high value of CpUE (ranging from 20 to 28 ​kg/GT/day). The developed model is expected to be a basis for further decision-making regarding fishery resources management in the study area.