MORPHOMETRIC AND MERISTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE BARONANG FISH Siganus canaliculatus (PARK, 1797) AS A BASIS FOR BIOSYSTEMATICS IN THE SPERMONDE ISLANDS

Abstract

The fish Siganus canaliculatus (Park, 1797) is a coastal fishery commodity in the Spermonde Islands that holds ecological value and serves as an important herbivorous fish in seagrass ecosystems, as well as possessing high economic value. This study aims to analyze morphometric and meristic characters as a basis for biosystematics to support accurate taxonomic identification and evaluation of the population structure of this fish in the Spermonde waters. A total of 50 fish were collected from the Paotere Fish Landing Site during January–February 2026. Morphometric analysis was conducted by measuring 25 body characters, following the protocol of Randall & Kulbicki (2005). Meristic analysis included counting the number of spines and rays in all fins, as well as supporting characters such as the number of longitudinal scales and gill rakers. Data variation was then tested using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify the primary distinguishing characters. The results of the study showed that S. canaliculatus has a standard length (SL) ranging from 101.1–165.2 mm with a homogeneous laterally compressed body shape. Meristic characters were stable in the number of dorsal fin spines (13) and pectoral fin rays (15–18). PCA analysis revealed that morphometric diversity is dominated by size factors (PC 1 at 99.03%), with anterior body dimensions (Pre-dorsal Length and Pre-anal Length) serving as the most distinct  differentiating variables. The low variation in body shape indicates a population that tends to be uniform in the Spermonde Islands. This study provides updated biometric data specific to the Siganus canaliculatus population in the Spermonde Islands in 2026. The use of PCA analysis contributes scientifically to establishing the Pre-dorsal and Pre-anal parameters as key indicators for distinguishing fish stocks. This data serves as a crucial tool for sustainable fisheries resource management and the strengthening of the marine biosystematics database in South Sulawesi.