Effectiveness of Monitoring the Use of Fish Aggregating Devices in the Banda Sea Marine Conservation Area, Central Maluku

The continued use of fishing aids such as fish aggregating devices (FADs) and "lobe" fishing methods remains a major challenge contributing to overfishing in the Banda Sea Marine Conservation Area.Although awareness campaigns have been conducted, many fishers continue to use FADs, citing declining fish stocks within the area.While fishing activities are permitted, the use of FADs within conservation zones is prohibited, as their presence can undermine conservation objectives and lead to resource degradation.Therefore, effective supervision and management in accordance with existing laws and regulations are crucial.This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of monitoring the use of FADs in the Banda Sea Conservation Area and its surrounding waters in Central Maluku Regency, as well as to formulate strategies for improving compliance.The study employed a questionnaire to assess the weight and value of key monitoring variables.Respondents included personnel from the Ambon PSDKP Station, KKPN Banda Work Unit, Maluku Provincial Marine and Fisheries Office, Marine Police, Navy Post, Coral Triangle Center (CTC) Foundation, and the Banda Lestari Community Group.The results indicate that the supervision of FAD use in the Banda Sea Conservation Area achieved an effectiveness score of 80.79%, categorized as effective.However, to further enhance supervision and improve community compliance, it is necessary to strengthen weaker aspects of monitoring, particularly community participation and the intensity of supervision.