Potency and utilization of strawberry conch (Strombus luhuanus) in the rocky shore of Oma coastal waters, Central Maluku

Abstract

The family of Strombidae is known as tropicopolitan species which is distributed in both tropical and subtropical areas. A coastal community in Maluku including people in Oma Village is always collected to the Strombid during low tide especially for Strombus luhuanus which is found in some areas shallow waters, rocky shore, sandy, muddy, rubble, and seagrass bed. Data needed for sustainable management for the species were potency and utilization level. Therefore, the objectives of the present study were to study the potency and utilization of Strombus luhuanus. The research was carried out from April to December 2018 by using the transects line method and interview. All of the individuals of the species found were counted and measured. The potency of Strombus luhuanus was estimated as many as 316,800 individuals and the size collected was 3.00-6.00 cm. Results showed that the utilization activity by coastal communities is known as “bameti” (collection of intertidal biota during low tide) and conducted by women, men, and children The utilization level was very high and has already overexploited. As a consequence, based on the size collected and the high level of utilization, the population of Strombus luhuanus would probably decrease in the future. Therefore, some management strategies are recommended to conserve the species sustainability in nature.