Komparasi Morfometrik, Pola Pertumbuhan Dan Faktor Kondisi Ikan Genus Scarus Dari Perairan Pulau Weh, Aceh

Scarus fish play an important ecological role in supporting the health of coral reefs. Unfortunately, studies related to morphometric variations, growth patterns and condition factors of scarus fish are still unexplored. Hence, this research aimed to describe morphometric variations, growth patterns and condition factors of scarus fish (Scarus quoyi, Scarus rubroviolaceus and Scarus niger) collected from Pulau Weh water, Aceh. As many as 50 fish for each species were obtained through fishermen's catches. The main parameters investigated include morphometric comparisons, length and weight distribution, growth patterns and condition factors. The number of morphometric characters measured was 12 characters. Morphometric comparisons and condition factors between fish species were analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by the Least Significant Difference Test (LSD) and discriminant function test. Meanwhile, comparative growth patterns were analyzed descriptively. The research results show that dorsal finbase length, pectoral fin length, and caudal peduncle depth were key characters in distinguishing the three species of scarus fish. A comparison of morphometric characters between Scarus quoyi and Scarus rubroviolaceus showed a 63.6% different character. Meanwhile, both Scarus rubroviolaceus and Scarus niger, and Scarus quoyi and Scarus niger showed a 54.5% different character. All scarus fish in this study had a negative allometric growth pattern (b<3) with condition factor values ranging from 1.008 to 1.020. Efforts to develop fishing gear selectivity and further research related to reproductive biology aspects of the scarus fish are essential to obtain comprehensive information and support sustainability programs.