Income Analysis of Seasonal Targeted Shark Fishers in Muncar, Banyuwangi, Indonesia

Abstract

Shark fisheries hold significant economic importance for coastal populations, especially in areas where alternative livelihoods are scarce. In Muncar, East Java, shark fishing has historically contributed to both income generation and food security among local fishers. Nonetheless, rising concerns about overfishing and the subsequent decline of apex predator species underscore urgent sustainability challenges. This study investigates the socio-economic role of shark fisheries within the Muncar fishing community and evaluates the ecological impact of intensive shark harvesting. Data were collected through systematic monitoring of daily shark landings at local markets beginning in December 2019, complemented by in-depth interviews with fishers conducted from October 2023 to October 2024. The research analyzes community dependence on shark fishing and evaluates their economic adaptability amid potential ecological pressures. By integrating socio-economic dynamics with environmental considerations, the study highlights the trade-offs between livelihood sustenance and marine biodiversity preservation. The results are intended to guide the development of sustainable fishery management policies that align conservation efforts with the economic well-being of small-scale fishing communities. Key objectives include examining historical shifts in shark catch trends, identifying the ten most frequently landed shark species, and analyzing income patterns among fishers engaged in shark fisheries.