Dominant species of squid in the waters of Western Kalimantan and Northern Java identified by DNA barcoding method

Squid resources in Indonesia have high economic value, and their exploitation tended to increase due to declining fish resources in many waters. Previous research mentioned that 21 squid species were identified in Indonesian waters. However, many researchers argued that the identification of cephalopod morphology, especially squids, was challenging, and that is why supporting methods were needed, one of which was DNA analysis. The study aimed to determine the type and distribution of squid in the western waters of Kalimantan and northern Java using the DNA barcoding method on the COI gene. Squid samples were collected from six locations, consisting of Tanjung Pinang, Bangka Belitung (Babel), Kalimantan Barat (Kalbar), Muara Angke, Pekalongan, and Lamongan. The analysis results showed that Uroteuthis chinensis was present in all sampling locations except Tanjung Pinang, where Uroteuthis edulis and U. sibogae were found. The results of this study are very important in the management of squid resources because they can contribute to the sustainable manage ment of marine resources and the maintenance of the sustainability of marine ecosystems.