Identifying distinct squid populations in Indonesia

• Genetic analysis to distinguish different populations of Indian squid
• Enabling better stock management and development of harvest strategies
• Supporting efforts to improve sustainability and meet the MSC Fisheries Standard

Distinguishing squid stocks

Research supported by an MSC Student Research Grant will identify whether there are distinct populations of Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvaucelii) in the Malacca Strait. It is thought that differing water depths and currents between North and South Sumatra have separated the stock into two stock units, which are unable to mix.

To prevent the squid stock from being overfished, sustainable management measures need to be developed. However, the development of these measures requires an understanding of each stock unit. Different units may have different rates of growth, reproductive maturity and mortality, which can influence resilience to fishing.

Analysing squid DNA

Reza Alnanda, a PhD student at IPB University, will collect at least 50 tissue samples from squid caught at four different locations in the Malacca Strait.

DNA will be extracted, and genetic tests carried out. This will help identify whether there is genetic diversity between the stock units and determine which units the samples have originated from.