SEAFDEC/IFRDMD Advances JAIF-Supported Project with CPUE Analysis and Stock Assessment Workshop
SEAFDEC/IFRDMD successfully organized an in-house training workshop on Catch Per Unit Effort (CPUE) Analysis and Stock Assessment under the JAIF-supported project “Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia.” The workshop took place in Denpasar, Indonesia, from 27 to 31 August 2025, and served as a capacity-building platform to enhance technical expertise in analyzing eel fisheries data collected from different pilot sites in the region.
The JAIF-Eel project is structured around two key analytical components: stock assessment and DNA analysis. While DNA analysis focuses on applying molecular tools to understand eel species diversity and distribution, the stock assessment component emphasizes evaluating eel population abundance and sustainability. The training in Denpasar was conducted within the framework of the stock assessment component, aiming specifically to strengthen participants’ ability to analyze and interpret CPUE data collected from pilot rivers in Indonesia, Myanmar, and the Philippines. CPUE serves as a crucial metric in fisheries research, as it helps estimate fish stock abundance and provides insights into long-term sustainability.
The workshop began with welcoming remarks and an official opening by Mr. Toru Shimoda, Deputy Chief of IFRDMD, who highlighted the importance of producing reliable and high-quality data to support evidence-based fisheries management in Southeast Asia. He emphasized that building technical knowledge on stock assessment is essential for ensuring the sustainable use of anguillid eel resources, which are increasingly under pressure due to both ecological and economic factors.
The resource person, Prof. Toshihide Kitakado from Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology (TUMSAT), served as the main instructor. With his extensive expertise in fisheries stock assessment, he guided participants through technical lectures, case studies, and hands-on analytical sessions.
This in-house training workshop on CPUE Analysis and Stock Assessment successfully enhanced participants’ technical knowledge and practical skills in fisheries stock assessment. With strong support from JAIF, guidance from experienced instructors, and active contributions from participants, the workshop laid a solid foundation for improving data-driven approaches to managing anguillid eel resources.
The workshop concluded with closing remarks by Mr. Andi Soesmono, Chief of IFRDMD, who commended the dedication of participants and resource persons. He underscored the importance of translating the knowledge gained during the training into practical applications that can contribute to regional fisheries management and policy development.