THE GONADAL MATURITY LEVEL OF SAMPUREA FISH (SARDINELLA GIBBOSA) LANDED AT THE SAMPOLAWA BAY FISH LANDING SITE, BUTON REGENCY

Abstract

This study analyzes the length-weight relationship, gonadal maturity level, and the size at first maturity (L50) of Sampurea fish (Sardinella gibbosa) at the Fish Landing Base (PPI) in Sampolawa Bay, Buton Regency. The analysis of the length-weight relationship indicates a negative allometric growth pattern with the equation W=2.4983L^−4.0765W and an R² value of 92.84%, showing a very strong correlation between the fish’s length and weight. The analysis of the gonadal maturity level shows that the majority of the population is in the early maturity stage (TKG 1), with a relative frequency of 70.5% for females and 74.6% for males. The frequency decreases at higher TKG levels, with only a small portion reaching full maturity (TKG 4). The size at first gonadal maturity (L50) was calculated at 104.46 mm, indicating that at this length, around 50% of the population has reached sexual maturity. These findings highlight the importance of sustainable fisheries management, such as establishing a minimum capture size based on L50 and monitoring environmental conditions to ensure the sustainability of Sampurea fish stocks in Buton waters. This study is expected to provide a strong scientific basis for fisheries management policies and support marine ecosystem conservation efforts in the region.