lautnusantara.com_ Lemuru fish (Sardinella lemuru) is one of the most vital fishery commodities in the waters of the Bali Strait. Throughout the year, this fish is a primary target for fishermen from both Bali and East Java, although its availability fluctuates significantly according to seasonal patterns.

Year-Round Availability: The Economic Pulse of the Region

Generally, lemuru fish are always present in the Bali Strait. The existence of this fish underpins the economy of many coastal communities. However, it's crucial to understand that while always present, catch numbers and fish size vary with natural cycles. These fluctuations are influenced by various oceanographic conditions, such as changes in sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a concentration.

Understanding Lemuru's Seasonal Patterns in the Bali Strait

Experienced fishermen deeply understand these seasonal patterns to maximize their catches:

Peak Season: The Fishermen's Big Haul

• November to January (West Monsoon/West Wind Season): This period, often called the "west monsoon," is the most productive time for lemuru fishing. Although sea conditions can be rougher due to the westerly winds, the upwelling phenomenon (the rise of cold, nutrient-rich water from the seabed) supports abundant food sources and a thriving lemuru population.
• December: Generally considered the peak of the lemuru fishing season, with the highest catch index indicating exceptional abundance. Fishermen can achieve very bountiful harvests.
• February: Still considered a good month for fishing, carrying over the remaining abundance from the peak season.

Lean Season and Transition: Challenges for Fishermen

• March to November: This period is generally considered less favorable for large-scale lemuru fishing operations. The quantity of available fish tends to be lower, and most fish may not have reached an economically viable size.
• May: Often the month with the lowest catch index, marking difficult times for lemuru fishermen.
• July-August: Although significant upwelling occurs during this southeast monsoon, which should increase the availability of phytoplankton (lemuru's main food), peak lemuru catches more often coincide with the west monsoon, not necessarily this upwelling season. This illustrates the complexity of lemuru fish's ecological dynamics.

Factors Determining Lemuru Abundance

Several key factors influence the fluctuations in lemuru populations and their distribution in the Bali Strait:

• Global Climate Phenomena: Climate changes like El Nino or La Nina can significantly impact sea surface temperature and chlorophyll-a concentrations, directly affecting the food chain and lemuru availability.
• Local Upwelling: The ascent of cold water masses from the seabed brings abundant nutrients. This triggers the growth of phytoplankton and zooplankton, which are the primary food sources for lemuru, thereby influencing their concentration and movement.
• Food Availability: The amount of plankton in the waters largely determines the distribution and abundance of lemuru schools. The fish will tend to congregate in areas with high food availability.
• Exploitation Levels: High and continuous fishing pressure is also a crucial factor affecting lemuru populations. Sustainable management is essential to ensure this resource remains viable.

Lemuru fish are indeed a blessing to the Bali Strait, available year-round. However, by understanding the seasonal patterns and environmental factors that influence them, we can better appreciate the efforts of fishermen and the importance of wise fisheries resource management. The consistent presence of lemuru, despite its fluctuations, makes the Bali Strait one of the largest lemuru fishing centers in Indonesia.

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