Link between shark and human in Tanjung Luar, East Lombok Regency, Indonesia

The relationship between humans and sharks has existed for a long time, especially in shark utilization. Tanjung Luar is the largest shark and ray fishery in West Nusa Tenggara. The community’s dependence on shark and ray resources is very high in this location. This study aims to look closely at the performance of shark target fishing and utilization and to measure the acceptance of shark fishers to regulation. Data were collected in November 2021 using questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and snowball techniques. There were 15 respondents: eight fishers who caught sharks, three collectors that bought whole sharks directly from the fishers, and four processors who processed shark bodies into products. The results showed that the most extensive fishing grounds were the Southern Nusa Tenggara (60%), followed by Kangean (20%), Sulawesi (13%, and Savu Sea (7%).) The fishing gear used is drift longlines, with an average fishing duration of 15 days. The largest catch is usually obtained from June to September. There are 21 shark-targeting vessels, five collectors, and several shark body processors. Sharks provide a protein source and livelihood. This study revealed the history behind shark fishing by Tanjung Luar community, shark utilizations and fishers’ responses to the local government regulation on shark fishing management.