Ecosystems Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) assessment for grouper and snapper fisheries in Bontang, East Kalimantan, Indonesia

Abstract

Groupers and snappers are two demersal fish groups that are currently experiencing heavy fishing pressure both for the live reef fish trade and as fresh or processed fisheries commodities across the Coral Triangle. The purpose of this study was to assess the status of grouper and snapper fisheries in the Bontang region, East Kalimantan, Indonesia using Ecosystems Approach to Fisheries Management (EAFM) indicators. The assessment followed the Indonesian EAFM Assessment Guidelines methodology, with 6 Domains (Fisheries Resources, Habitat and Ecosystems, Fishing Technology, Social, Economy, and Governance) and 32 indicators. Data were collected through a desk study and site visits including key informant interviews, direct observation and secondary data collection. With the exception of the Social Domain, at least one indicator in each Domain was in the Very Poor category, and three indicators were in the Poor category. Management policies and actions are needed to maintain the overall Good status and address the issues threatening sustainability.