Growth, mortality, recruitment pattern, and exploitation rate of shared stock flying fish (Exocoetidae) at border area of Indonesia and Timor Leste in Ombai Strait

Flying fish (Exocoetidae) is one important small pelagic fisheries commodity in border areas of Indonesia and Timor Leste. However, the data of population parameters in Ombai Strait are not yet known, which is important to inform unit stock management and sustainable fisheries. This study aimed to provide information about growth and mortality parameters, recruitment pattern, and exploitation rate of flying fish. Data collection was carried out during May 2018-June 2019 by measuring and observing the flying fish landed at the fish landing sites in Belu Indonesia and Bobonaro Timor Leste. Data analysis used the FAO-ICLARM Stock Assessment Tools (FiSAT) program. The results showed that the asymptotic length (L∞) was 330.5 mm, growth constant (K) was 0.99 per year, and growth performance indices (Φ) was 0.50. The natural mortality (M) was 0.92 per year, fishing mortality (F) was 0.12 per year, and total mortality (Z) was 1.04 per year. The highest recruitment occurs in May to September with peak season in June (14.82%) and September (15.16%). Exploitation rate (E) flying fish in the border area of Indonesia and Timor Leste in Ombai Strait is relatively low about 0.11 and still at a rational and sustainable utilization range (E < 0.5).