Analysis of Gonadal Maturity Stages in Ponyfish (Leiognathus equula) in the Waters off Takalar, South Sulawesi
Keywords:
gonad maturity stage, Leiognathus equula, ponyfish, reproduction, takalarAbstract
The common ponyfish (*Leiognathus equula* Forsskål, 1775) is a demersal fish species found in the waters of Takalar, South Sulawesi. Information regarding gonad maturity stages is essential for understanding reproductive development and establishing a basis for sustainable fisheries resource management. This study aimed to analyze the gonad maturity stages of *L. equula* based on sex and the time of observation in the waters of Takalar, South Sulawesi. The study utilized reproductive biology data collected from April to September 2023, with a total sample size of 900 individuals. Gonad maturity stages were determined based on morphological characteristics and classified into five stages (GMS I–V). The analysis revealed that male fish were predominantly at GMS II from April to July 2023; however, by August, GMS III became dominant, and September saw an increase in individuals at GMS IV and V. Among females, GMS II was dominant from April to August, while September showed a marked increase in GMS III, IV, and V. In September, the male population comprised 34% GMS II, 26% GMS III, 32% GMS IV, and 7% GMS V, whereas the female population consisted of 32% GMS II, 41% GMS III, 22% GMS IV, and 5% GMS V. These patterns indicate that gonad maturation proceeds gradually but intensifies toward the end of the observation period. The results also suggest that gonad maturation in males tends to lag behind that of females. This information can serve as a basis for managing the L. equula fishery, particularly in terms of reducing fishing pressure on fish during their reproductive phase.
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