Biological aspects of the Halmahera Walking Shark (Hemiscylium halmahera) as Data and Support Protection Regulations Endemic Species on Equatorial Latitudes in Halmahera Sea, North Maluku, Indonesia

The Halmahera Walking Shark (Hemiscyllium halmahera) is a species of marine fish endemic to the Halmahera Islands. This species is distributed in the Halmahera sea in general. This species is also found in the archipelago. The archipelago in the Halmahera Sea that is part of the equatorial region is Tawabi Island. Tawabi Island is a small island located on the equator. This research aimed to obtain data on the population structure of the H. halmahera on the small island of Tawabi on equator. H. halmahera samples were captured in coral reef, seagrass and mangrove ecosystem areas. Morphometric data were taken, such as the total length and the body weight of the fish using a ruler. Marine environment  quality such as salinity, temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen were taken using standard operational procedures with Horiba equipment. The population structure analyzed was cohort, class frequency, and condition factors. The results of the study found cohorts of fish, namely adult and old ages. The juvenile age group was not found in the age group. The class interval formed two age groups that supported the results of the cohort analysis. H. halmahera body shape was plump. The plumpness of the fish indicates that the habitat is supportive and food sources are abundant. Marine environmental conditions were found to be normal, thereby supporting the ecological sustainability of the H. halmahera species. The population structure of the H. halmahera on the small island of Tawabi at equatorial latitudes is described as having different subpopulations.