Management, Capture Techniques, and Distribution Chain of Lobster Fisheries (Panulirus spp.) in Bawean Island, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract

Bawean Island is one of the water areas in Indonesia that has significant potential lobster resources as a high-value fishery commodity. This research was conducted through field surveys and quantitative data collection to comprehensively examine the management aspects, capture techniques, identification of lobster species, collection systems, and the lobster distribution chain on Bawean Island. The research was carried out over four months involving direct observation, interviews with fishermen and collectors, and quantitative data collection from four main collector locations. The results show that lobster fishing on Bawean Island is small-scale and open access, with three species found, namely bamboo lobster (Panulirus versicolor), pearl lobster (Panulirus ornatus), and Pakistan lobster (Panulirus polyphagus). The main capture technique uses the diving method (masker) with the assistance of compressor boats operating at night at depths of 7–30 meters. The distribution system involves local collectors who then distribute to larger markets in Surabaya via sea transportation. Bamboo lobster shows dominance in catch composition (69% of total stock), while pearl lobster has the highest economic value reaching Rp 500,000/kg. The lack of structured production data is one of the main challenges in the sustainable management of lobster resources in this area.