The pelagic fish from the South Banten Waters, part of the Indian Ocean along the coastal areas of Lebak Regency, Banten, has made its mark in export markets due to its recognition as one of the finest categories of fish in Indonesia. We appreciate the fact that these pelagic fish can enter the export markets, as stated by Head of the Lebak Regency Fisheries Department, in Lebak on Wednesday. Pelagic fish populations in the South Banten Waters are native to the area and have become a vital source of income for coastal communities. Large pelagic fish species in this region include tuna, skipjack tuna, barracuda, mackerel, marlin, wahoo, sardines, barracuda, and bonito, with prices varying between IDR 30,000 to IDR 95,000 per kilogram. In fact, the weight of tuna can reach up to 60 kilograms each due to the deep waters of the Indian Ocean. These large pelagic fish are exported to foreign countries through companies based in Jakarta. Moreover, pelagic fish are used as raw materials for various food products such as fish floss, fish crackers, and fish meatballs. Meanwhile, small pelagic fish species include flying fish, anchovies, mackerel, and more.

We ensure that the money circulation from the fishermen's catches, based on reports from Fish Auction Places (Tempat Pelelangan Ikan or TPI), reaches IDR 5 billion per month, and it is primarily from pelagic fish, explained by Winda. She further noted that the current number of fishermen in Lebak Regency stands at 3,635 individuals, with a catch production ranging between 600-700 tons per year. This translates to a monthly transaction turnover of IDR 5 billion and an annual turnover of IDR 60 billion. The pelagic fish populations usually exhibit group behavior and undergo migratory patterns. As a result, they contain up to 30% oil within their body tissues and stomach cavities. These oil-rich and protein-heavy pelagic fish have led to increased economic well-being among the fishermen. Winda emphasized the importance of fishermen continuing to enhance their pelagic fish catch production to further improve their livelihoods. A fisherman from TPI Binuangeun in Lebak Regency, expressed his gratitude for the economic assistance that they now receive from their catches of pelagic fish, as the population of these fish thrives in the South Banten Waters. Sailing at sea for a week can yield a net income of IDR 1.5 million.

Source: https://www.antaranews.com/berita/3769527/ikan-pelagis-perairan-selatan-banten-tembus-pasar-ekspor