Assessment of VIIRS Sensor Capabilities for Detecting Nocturnal Light Fishing and Oceanographic Parameters in the Northern Waters of Tegal, Indonesia

Abstract

Aims: To evaluate VIIRS sensors' capability in detecting light fisheries distribution in Tegal Northern Waters and assess related oceanographic parameters. Current knowledge of potential fishing grounds for night time light fishing fleets remains limited, requiring research using remote sensing techniques. Methodology: VIIRS Day-Night Band data was analyzed alongside sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll-a data. Field verification was conducted to assess accuracy. Results: Highest vessel detection of mini purse seine occurred during transitional seasons (March-May and September-November), lowest during western monsoon (December-February). Fishing grounds concentrated 5-9 miles offshore (6°42'0" - 6°48'0" S and 109°15'0" - 109°21'0" E). Optimal conditions: SST 29.5-30°C, chlorophyll-a 0.5 mg/m3. VIIRS imagery accuracy: 97% for SST, 94.68% for chlorophyll-a detection. Conclusion: VIIRS sensors effectively map light fishing spatial distribution and relate to key oceanographic parameters, providing valuable data for optimizing pelagic fish resource utilization. This approach offered an improved method for identifying potential fishing zones and understanding spatiotemporal patterns of nocturnal fishing.