Muhammad Arif Rahman, Wahyu Endra Kusuma, Ledhyane Ika Harlyan, Dewa Gede Raka Wiadnya
Kawakawa (Euthynnus affinis) is a migratory tuna species with significant commercial value in Indonesia, particularly in the Java region. This study aims to explore morphometric variations between Kawakawa populations from the northern and southern coasts of Java to assess their population structure for effective fisheries management. Samples were collected from six locations, and 14 morphometric characters were measured and analyzed using the Principal Component Analysis, Linear Discriminant Analysis, and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis. Although significant differences in certain traits were observed, the overall morphometric differentiation between populations was weak, suggesting high connectivity and the possibility of a single stock in Javanese waters. These findings challenge the hypothesis of distinct populations and emphasize the need for combining morphometric and molecular techniques for more accurate stock delineation. Further research incorporating genetic data is essential for refining population assessments and informing sustainable management strategies for Kawakawa in Indonesian waters. © 2026, Egyptian Society for the Development of Fisheries and Human Health. All rights reserved.
Post Graduate Program, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Brawijaya, East Java, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; Study program of Aquaculture, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; Study program of Fisheries Resource Utilization, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, 65145, Indonesia
