Status and economic impact of Parachromis Maraguensis in Taal Lake, Philippines

Issue Date

12-2006

Abstract

Taal Lake, home to world's only freshwater sardine, Sardinella tawilis and other endemic and indigenous species suffers from invasion of non-native fish, Parachromis managuensis. A study on P. managuensis has been conducted from March 2005 to February 2006 to determine the ecological parameters that the fish and its impact on the lake's biodiversity and the economy of the lakeshore communities.

Monitoring of ecological parameters was conducted monthly in sixteen sampling station affected by the alien fish. Samples from landed fish catch were taken from eight landing centers around Taal Lake for 22 days a month at two days interval during peak landing time. An interview with fisherfolks and consumers was undertaken to determine relevant information on the economic impact of P. managuensis.

Ecological parameters in the alien fish native range have matched that of Taal Lake. The percentage composition of the five major fishes caught showed that P. managuensis ranked fourth in abundance. The alien fish has been a source of food and income to fish farmers but its market value is low enough to augment their family needs. The fish is not beneficial for it has just displaced the indigenous species that demand higher market value.

Source or Periodical Title

Journal of Environmental Science and Management

ISSN

0119-1144

Volume

9

Issue

2

Page

1-19

Document Type

Article

College

School of Environmental Science and Management (SESAM)

Frequency

semi-annually

Physical Description

maps, pictures, tables, graphs

Language

English

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