Reef Fish Status in Northern Acehnese Reef Based on Management Type

The objectives of this study were to provide reliable data and information on reef fish in the northern Aceh region of Weh and Aceh islands based on management types. Using underwater visual census techniques at 29 sites around Weh Island and Aceh Islands. Reef fish abundance in in area that were protected under the management of Panglima Laot of Sabang Weh Island (32505 no.ha-1) and biomass (748 kg.ha-1) were also significantly higher than in Aceh Islands which is open access areas (abundance=9539 no.ha-1; biomass=396 kg.ha-1). Fish species from the family Pomacentridae (damsel fish) were highest in abundance and biomass at northern Acehnese reef. Population of carnivorous fish such as parrotfish (Family Scaridae) was low in all study sites which indicated that northern Acehnese reef is lack of reef resilience both in managed and open access area. Higher numbers and abundance of reef fish in marine managed areas, such as Panglima Laot in Sabang, could be considered for further conservation purpose of marine resources.