Biological Aspects of Yellowfin Tuna in Bone Gulf Waters, Indonesia

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the composition, growth patterns and condition factors of yellowfin tuna caught in Bone Gulf waters. Sample collection was carried out in July – November 2018 at two stations, i.e., station 1 in Cimpu Luwu Regency and station 2 at the Lonrae Fish Landing Site, Bone Regency. At station 1, 10,366 individuals were caught, with an average size of 81.19 cm in length and of 14.43 kg in weight. Station 2 had a larger average size, i.e., 97.14 cm in length and 27.79 kg in weight. The results of the analysis of tuna growth patterns at station 1 and station 2 showed a value of b < 3, indicating negative allometric growth. This means that the weight gain of the species was slower than its length gain. The average value of the condition factor was 1.03±0.25 for station 1 and 1.07±43 for station 2. These values varied according to temporal variation and fish size.