The Reproductive Aspect of Tropical Abalone (Haliotis asinina L.) in the Waters of Tanakeke Islands at South Sulawesi

Abstract

The objective of research was to analyze the reproductive aspect of abalone (Haliotis asinina L.) which included the beginning of gonad maturity, the peak of spawning season, the comparison of male and female abalone caught in the nature, the reproductive potential, and abalone fecundity. Research was located at the waters of Tanakeke Islands, Takalar District, South Sulawesi. Method of research was field survey. Sampling stations were determined based on the distribution of coral reef in the islands. Result of research indicated that male abalone reached the beginning of gonad maturity at shell length of 64.50 mm, while female abalone reached it at shell length of 64.09 mm. Abalone had spawned throughout year with two peaks of spawning season, precisely at the beginning of dry season and rainy season. The comparison of male and female abalone primes was 1:1. Abalone group with shell length of 60-70 mm contributed more than 70 % to the total reproductive potential of the population. Total fecundity of the tropical abalone at research was ranging from 255,900 to 756,200 eggs.