MORPHOMETRIC AND MERISTIC CHARACTERISTCS Of Siganus virgatus (Valenciennes, 1835) In THE SPERMONDE WATERS, SOUTH SULAWESI

Abstract

Indonesia is known as a center of marine biodiversity, including the family Siganidae. However, detailed data on specific morphological characteristics in dynamic regions such as the Spermonde Islands remain limited. This study aims to comprehensively describe the morphological characteristics of Siganus virgatus in the waters of the Spermonde Islands as a basis for taxonomic data and fisheries management. A total of 50 specimens were collected from the Paotere Fish Landing Center during January–February 2026 and analyzed using morphometric and meristic approaches. The results show that S. virgatus in this region has a distinctive oval body profile with two dark brown diagonal lines as the primary diagnostic features. Morphometric data indicate an average total length of 158.8 mm, with the shape of the caudal fin changing from notched to moderately forked as individuals mature. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that three principal components explained 82.94% of the total data variation, with PC1 dominated by body size (98.84%), while PC2 and PC3 represented body shape factors, specifically trunk proportions and caudal fin indentation. Overall, the morphological characteristics of specimens from the Spermonde Islands are consistent with the standard taxonomic description for the Western Indo-Pacific region, thereby reinforcing the accuracy of species identification to support the sustainability of local fishery resources