Analysis of Oceanographic Physical Parameters of Blue Swimming Crab (Portunus Pelagicus) Fishing Grounds in Pangkep District Waters

Blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus) or known by its common name as blue swimming crab (BSC), belongs to the Crustacean phylum of the Portunidae family. The seasonal pattern of crab is influenced by the number of recruits produced by each individual crab in the fishing area. Temperature and salinity are important factors affecting the distribution, activity, and migration patterns of crabs. This study aims to determine the physical oceanographic parameters (bathymetry, currents, and brightness) in crab fishing grounds in the coastal area of Pangkep Regency. This research was conducted from March to May 2023 AD by following the Hijri calendar of Ramadan to Dhulhijjah 1444H in the waters of Pangkep Regency. Based on the analysis of bathymetry data obtained information that the depth in the observation zone ranges from 0.5 to 80 meters. Based on measurements of ocean currents in the field, it can be seen that the current speed at sea level has an average speed ranging from 0.2- 1.09 m/s with the dominant current direction towards the north to northeast. Based on field measurements, it is found that zone 3 has the highest average brightness level of 16.27 meters. Based on observations of oceanographic physical conditions in accordance with the presence of crabs, so the potential for abundant crab catches is abundant.