Estimation Potential Fishing Zones of Decapterus ruselli Using Oceanography-Based Remote Sensing Data in the Bone Gulf, Indonesia

This study aimed to identify and map potential fishing zones of Decapterus ruselli (Scad fish) in the waters of Bone Gulf by utilizing remote sensing technology based on oceanographic parameters. Sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a concentration (Chl-a) data obtained from MODIS-AQUA satellite imagery were used to determine the optimal habitat range, which is between 28.3–30.7°C for SST and 0.05–0.21mg m-³ for chlorophyll-a. Spatial analysis was conducted over six months (May – October 2024) and showed fluctuations in the area of potential zones influenced by seasonal dynamics. The widest zone was recorded in October (24.478.51km²), while the narrowest occurred in August (6.819.07km²). Model verification using actual capture data in September and October showed high spatial suitability, confirming the reliability of the satellite-based predictive approach. These findings prove that remote sensing is an effective method in mapping the spatial distribution of Decapterus ruselli and has the potential to support efficient and sustainable fisheries planning. The resulting potential zone maps can be used as a strategic reference for small-scale fisheries fleets and hence support ecosystem-based fisheries management in the waters of Bone Gulf, Indonesia.