Balancing economic returns and conservation: A bioeconomic assessment of Sardinella lemuru fisheries management in Muncar, Banyuwangi, Indonesia

The present research offers a comprehensive bioeconomic analysis of the sardinella lemuru fisheries in Muncar District, Banyuwangi, with a particular emphasis on evaluating the optimal management regime among Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY), Maximum Economic Yield (MEY), and Open Access (OA). The data collected for the analysis of the Bioeconomic Model comprise both primary (multistage sampling technique) and secondary data sources (2006–2022). The findings highlight that implementing the MEY management regime would result in the highest economic rent, signifying an ideal balance between profitability and resource conservation. Notably, the analysis reveals that sardinella lemuru fishing in this region has not exceeded biological thresholds, as actual catches remain below recommended MSY and MEY levels. In contrast, an OA management regime, marked by a lack of profitability and intensified competition among fishermen, reveals the risks of unrestricted access to the resource. The policy recommendations stemming from this research emphasize the immediate implementation of the MEY management regime, coupled with rigorous monitoring and compliance measures, as well as support for sustainable fishing practices and resource allocation strategies. As the quest for responsible resource utilization and community well-being continues, further research and dynamic adaptation are essential for addressing the multifaceted challenges of fisheries sustainability. • The research confirmed the MEY estimation provides the highest economic rent for Sardinella Lemuru in Muncar, Banyuwangi. • The study highlights the importance of adopting fisheries management strategies considering economic and ecological aspects. • The Sardinella Lemuru fisheries in Muncar has not experienced biological overfishing as the actual catch below MEY and MSY. • The findings show a potential for Sardinella Lemuru fisheries with optimal conditions lead to a biomass of 3,625,023,624 tons. • The findings offer to promote sustainable fishing practices and optimize economic benefits from Sardinella Lemuru resources.