Assessment of fish diversity and environmental conditions towards integrated conservation of endemic fishes (Cyprinidae) of Lake Lanao, Philippines

Date

6-2018

Abstract

Historical records show that Lake Lanao has 24 native fishes including 18 endemic cyprinids. Recent fish landing surveys reveal that Lake Lana is dominated by introduced fishes, mostly by Giuris margaritace (Eleotridae). Ten fishes are found, comprising one endemic and nine introduced species. Barbodes tumba is the only endemic fish recorded and is thriving mainly in river tributaries of Lake Lanao.

Using IUCN Red List of Threatened Species categories and criteria, three endemic cyprinids, Barbodes sirang, B. lindog, and B. tumba, are uplisted from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered. The remaining 15 endemic cyprinids have disappeared for over 30 years and are considered Critically Endangered "Possibly Extinct". The endemic cyprinids are mainly threatened by invasive alien species. Fish introductions resulted in catastrophic disappearance of endemic and other native species affecting almost 20,000 fisherfolk.

A combination of ex-situ (offsite) and in-situ (onsite) conservation approaches under community-based resource management may yield high species recovery and success. Habitats of Barbodes tumba should be protected and rehabilitated. Breeding and stock enhancement programs must be implemented. Equally important is to locate surviving individuals of B. lindog and B. sirang. Governance of Lake Lanao is weak.

Institutionalizing its management with active participation of all LGUs and communities surrounding the lakeshore is paramount.

Document Type

Dissertation (Limited)

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science

College

Graduate School (GS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Rafael D. Guerrero III

Committee Member

Carmelita M. Rebancos, Teodoro R. Villanueva, Antonio J. Alcantara

Language

English

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

En – AGROVOC descriptors

CYPRINIDAE; FISHES; ENDEMIC SPECIES; SPECIES DIVERSITY; AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT; INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT; PHILIPPINES

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