Assessment of Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) for Octopus Fisheries in Torosiaje Village, Indonesia

This study estimated the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) of octopus (Octopus spp.) in Torosiaje Village, Indonesia, to inform the sustainable management of small-scale fisheries. Primary data on catch and effort from 2021 to 2024 were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and fisher records, with local ecological knowledge (LEK) integrated to complement stock assessments. Using the Schaefer surplus production model, the MSY was estimated at 129,908 kg/year, with an optimum fishing effort (Emsy) of 172.74 standard fishermen. These results offer a biological benchmark for regulating harvest limits and fishing pressure. However, implementing MSY-based strategies entails socio-economic trade-offs that may impact fisher livelihoods. Co-management, participatory monitoring, and the integration of LEK are critical for ensuring compliance and equity. Minimum Landing Size (MLS) regulations should be supported by socio-economic measures to foster acceptance. Overall, this study highlighted the need for a holistic, community-based governance framework that balances ecological sustainability with the socio-economic resilience of small-scale fishing communities.