BKKPN Kupang and YKAN Strengthen Science-Based Snapper-Grouper Fisheries Management in the Savu Sea

Coral reefs are vital tropical marine ecosystems that play an essential role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting coastal communities. In the Savu Sea, East Nusa Tenggara Province, these ecosystems provide crucial habitats for high-value fish species such as snappers and groupers, which serve as the main livelihood for small-scale fishers.

Overexploitation and climate change continue to pose significant threats to the sustainability of these ecosystems. To address this challenge, Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) is enhancing two science-based fisheries management initiatives: the Crew Operated Data Recording System (CODRS) and the Territorial Use Rights for Fishing (TURF) reserve.

In the Savu Sea, this initiative aims to collaborate and sustainably manage snapper-grouper fisheries in the districts of Southwest Sumba, Central Sumba, and East Sumba. The initiative involves the government, particularly the National Aquatic Conservation Area Center (BKKPN) Kupang, local communities, academics, and other conservation partners as stakeholders in managing the Savu Sea Marine National Park.

“Area managers, fishers, and conservation partners such as YKAN need to synchronize efforts in controlling resource use within the area. Through approaches such as CODRS and TURF reserves, we can manage fisheries sustainably without compromising community welfare,” said Imam Fauzi, Head of BKKPN Kupang, during a coordination meeting on September 29, 2025, in Kupang.

The Savu Sea is part of the Lesser Sunda Seascape, one of Indonesia's priority marine conservation areas. It is one of the 50 most climate-resilient coral reefs on the planet. 

Healthy coral reefs are vital for fisheries productivity, and sustainable fishing practices are essential for preserving the ecosystem. Science-based governance and community collaboration are vital foundations for balancing ecological and economic interests.

Data from Fishers for Sustainable Fisheries

One of the major challenges in fisheries management is the lack of accurate data on fish stocks. To address this, YKAN has implemented CODRS since 2014, a fishery data collection system run directly by fishers. Using simple cameras, fishers photograph their catches onboard and during landing. Field technicians then analyze the photos to identify fish species, measure their lengths, and record fishing locations.

“CODRS not only produce more accurate data but also empower fishers as key actors in resource management,” explained Glaudy Perdanahardja, Fisheries Conservation Strategic Lead at YKAN. “Through this data, fishers can understand fish stock conditions and the importance of sustainability to secure their livelihoods,” he added.

The information collected through CODRS is utilized to analyze the size distribution of caught fish and assess the status of fish stocks. This scientific basis enables more precise management decisions, including identifying critical areas that require protection or special management measures.

The next step in strengthening fisheries management is implementing the TURF reserve concept. This grants specific fishing area management rights to fisher groups. This approach provides fishers with secure access to fishing grounds while also giving them responsibility for maintaining sustainability.

This model allows fisheries management to better adapt to local ecosystem conditions and community needs. Using CODRS data, YKAN and local communities can identify priority areas for protection or management, determine access rights, and develop action plans to ensure long-term sustainability.“Through TURF reserves, we promote responsible, community-based fisheries management. Fishers become not just resource users but also stewards of sustainability,” added Glaudy.

This initiative, driven by multi-stakeholder synergy and data-driven approaches, seeks to establish a model for sustainable fisheries management in Indonesia. By prioritizing the protection of marine ecosystems, these efforts also ensure the long-term economic prosperity of coastal communities.

“Protecting the sea means protecting life. When fishers are empowered, data drives policy, and management is done collaboratively, we don’t just conserve coral reefs—we ensure the ocean remains productive for generations to come,” concluded Muhammad Ilman, YKAN’s Ocean Program Director.