Relative Abundance of Landed Fish Family: Scombridae in the Municipality of San Jose, Dinagat Islands, Philippines

Dinagat Island has rich marine biodiversity; however, little is known of these resources in scientific reports. Family Scombridae, comprising tunas, mackerels, and bonitos, plays a vital role in the food security, economic livelihoods, and ecological balance of tropical coastal communities. This study aimed to assess the species composition and relative abundance of landed Scombridae species in the Municipality of San Jose, Dinagat Islands, Philippines, from January to October 2024. A total of five species Katsuwonus pelamis, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Euthynnus affinis, Auxis thazard, and Thunnus albacares were identified and documented using market-based sampling techniques, with direct collaboration from local fisheries personnel. The results revealed that K. pelamis dominated the high species landings (60.06%), followed by R. kanagurta (24.13%), while the other species represented less than 10% each of catch landings. These findings highlight the predominance of fast-growing, commercially valuable species in local fisheries, reflective of broader regional trends in pelagic fish exploitation. The study provides essential baseline data for local fisheries management and underscores the need for species-specific monitoring, sustainable harvest strategies, and community-based conservation initiatives to safeguard the long-term productivity and ecological health of Scombridae fisheries.