PELAGIC FISH DIVERSITY IN THE EAST COAST WATERS OF NORTH SUMATRA

Abstract

This study aims to determine the level of pelagic fish diversity in the waters of the East Coast of North Sumatra and describe the condition of the existing fish community as the basis for sustainable fisheries management. The research was carried out in three main locations, namely Belawan, Tanjung Balai, and Kuala Tanjung, during the period from March to May 2025. The research method uses field surveys with purposive sampling techniques through landing fishermen's catches, species identification, and diversity analysis with Shannon-Wiener indices, uniformity, and dominance. The results of the study showed that eight types of pelagic fish were found, with mackerel (Rastrelliger spp.) and tembang fish (Sardinella fimbriata) as the dominant species. The diversity index value (H' = 1.91) indicated moderate diversity, with high uniformity (E = 0.92) and low dominance (C = 0.14). This indicates that the pelagic fish community in the region is relatively stable and is not dominated by one particular type of fish. Differences between locations show the influence of environmental conditions and human activities. These results reinforce the importance of ecological-based fisheries resource management to maintain the sustainability and balance of marine ecosystems on the East Coast of North Sumatra.