ANALYZING FISH DISTRIBUTION AND DENSITY IN BANGGAI SEA WITH HYDROACOUSTIC METHOD AND GIS-DASHBOARD VISUALIZATION

Abstract

Estimating fish stocks, including their distribution and density, plays a vital role in the management of capture fisheries. Hydroacoustic technology is widely utilized for fish stock estimation. In 2022, BRIN and IPB University conducted hydroacoustic data recording in the Banggai Sea as part of the "Banggai Upwelling Dynamics Exploration and Experiment" to estimate fish stocks. According to the analysis, the total fish density in the Banggai Sea is 527,914 fish km^-2. Very small fish (<12 cm) are estimated to have the highest density at 292,471 fish km^-2, while small (12 to 28 cm) and large fish (28 to 58 cm) have densities of 98,472 fish km^-2 and 124,519 fish km^-2, respectively. Very large fish (>58 cm) have a density of only 12,452 fish km^-2. The spatial distribution of fish predominantly occurs in the eastern waters of Banggai Island and the northern waters of Taliabu Island. The most significant potential is the epipelagic layer (0 to -200 meters), with very small-sized fish having the highest density, followed by large-sized and small-sized fish. To summarize the analysis results of fish distribution and density, a GIS-Dashboard is utilized. This online platform integrates various maps and charts, offering an engaging and easily understandable visualization of the information. The GIS-Dashboard provides a comprehensive overview of the spatial distribution of fish in the Banggai Sea, serving as a valuable tool for fisheries management.