sd-sample article E.C. Capinpin Jr. 51 SCIENCE DILIMAN (JANUARY-JUNE 2013) 25:1, 51-70 Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture as a Resource Conservation Strategy in Carot, Anda, Pangasinan Emmanuel C. Capinpin Jr. Pangasinan State University ABSTRACT The study describes the abalone f ishery in Carot , Anda, Pangasinan to develop mariculture and to reseed a part of the harvest as a resource conservation strategy. The abalone f ishery of Anda is ar tisanal or small- scale, typif ied by f ishers gleaning or free-diving on shallow rocky areas w h i c h a r e t h e t y p i c a l h a b i t a t of a b a l o n e . Low d e n s i t i e s of 1 . 6 7 t o 8 individuals per 250 m2 were observed. Local f ishers have knowledge of productive f ishing areas. Hence, cage culture of abalone in these areas c o u l d b e a v i a b l e r e s o u r c e c o n s e r v a t i o n s t r a t e g y a s t h e y s e r v e a s reproductive reserves to supply larvae for continued productivity of the f ishing grounds. Abalone mariculture following the Farmer Field School (FFS) concept was explored to address both resource management and e c o n o m i c n e e d s . A s a r e s o u r c e e n h a n c e m e n t a c t i v i t y, m a r i c u l t u r e guarantees that cultured abalone are allowed to grow to maturity before harvested, while some are retained to restock a marine sanctuary. Since mariculture makes possible the aggregation of individuals, the probability that fertilization would take place is increased. As supplemental source o f l i v e l i h o o d , a b a l o n e i s a h i g h - v a l u e c o m m o d i t y a n d i t s c u l t u r e c a n h e l p a u g m e n t t h e i n co m e of f i s h e r s . S m a l l a b a l o n e ( 3 - 4 c m ) c a n b e c u l t u r e d f u r t h e r f o r 3 - 4 m o n t h s t o i n c r e a s e t h e i r s i z e a n d w e i g h t . Mariculture should be done from November to May to avoid the rainy s e a s o n a n d i m p r o v e s u r v i v o r s h i p . T h e e x p e r i e n t i a l a c t i v i t y w a s s u cce s s f u l b e c a u s e i t b ec a m e a m e a n s f o r t h e f i s h e r s to ex p e r i e n ce resource management. Under the FFS, the researcher became a facilitator a n d m e n t o r e d t h e c o o p e r a t o r s i n l e a r n i n g f r o m t h e i r e x p e r i e n c e . T h e l e s s o n s s h a r p e n ed t h e f i s h e r s ’ s k i l l s i n o b s e r v a t i o n , p r o b l e m - s o l v i n g , d e c i s i o n - m a k i n g , a n d c r i t i c a l t h i n k i n g . T h i s e n a b l e d t h e m t o g a i n a n appreciation of their resource. Keywords: Abalone f ishery, mariculture, Farmer Field School, conservation, resource management, experiential activity ISSN 0115-7809 Print / ISSN 2012-0818 Online Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 52 INTRODUCTION Fisheries of all kinds in the Philippines have surpassed their sustainable levels of catch or are overf ished (Green and others 2003). The sea urchin f ishery in Bolinao, Pangasinan is one example showing the disastrous effects of unregulated harvesting of marine invertebrates (Juinio-Meñez and others 2001). Commercial harvesting started in the 1970s but lasted only a few years due to heavy exploitation. The scenario was aggravated by the practice of collecting small urchins even before they had the opportunity to reproduce. The University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute embarked on seed production to enhance the recovery of wild urchin populations through reseeding in marine protected areas, and the promotion of community-based grow-out culture. Results were promising, with juvenile recruitment pulses recorded beginning in 1999 (Juinio-Meñez and others 2008a, b). At present, the sea urchin industry in Bolinao is seen to have been revived and is thriving very well. This strategy could also work well with other highly exploited species like abalone. Abalone can be found in Carot, Anda in Pangasinan but is now believed to be overf ished. The area is being degraded due to overharvesting and other destructive f ishing practices such as destroying rocks to collect cryptic abalone and cyanide f ishing, among others. Abalone is a high-value commodity with a big potential for export. The life history traits of abalone make them especially vulnerable to overf ishing, which poses a great challenge to f ishery management. In areas where the abalone are found to be very few and widely apart, chances of successful fertilization are low. Unless the direct users and the policy makers are educated about the status and proper management of the abalone f ishery, it may eventually collapse. Hence, sustainable alternatives to overharvesting need to be explored and promoted in coastal f isher communities to mitigate the prevalent trend of ever-decreasing catches. One possible option is to educate coastal f isherfolk communities to help them become resource managers and promote community-based abalone mariculture as a resource conservation strategy (Capinpin 2012). The abalone f ishery of Anda is artisanal or small-scale, typif ied by f ishers gleaning or free-diving on shallow rocky areas which are the typical habitat of abalone. In promoting resource management to the coastal f isherfolk, it must be harmonized with their immediate need for daily subsistence (Bangi and Juinio-Meñez 2001). If the aim is to reduce pressure on marine resources, the f isherfolk must have other means of livelihood. Thus, mariculture was explored to address both resource E.C. Capinpin Jr. 53 management issues and the need for development of sea-based livelihood. As a resource enhancement activity, mariculture guarantees that the cultured organisms with economic value can be allowed to grow to sexual maturity before they are harvested, while retaining some for reseeding. Since mariculture makes possible the aggregation of individuals, the probability that fertilization would take place is increased. As supplemental source of livelihood, abalone is a high-value commodity that can help augment the income of the communities. Moreover, by taking care of the abalone stocks in cages, the f isherfolk will gain an appreciation of, and eventually care for, their unique but important resource. This study is envisioned to become an entry point in heightening the ecological awareness of local communities on sustainable management through hands-on, experiential, resource management activities. The present study aims to assess (1) the status of the abalone f ishery in Carot, Anda, Pangasinan to justify the establishment of abalone mariculture primarily as a resource conservation strategy and as a supplemental source of livelihood; (2) the growth and survival of abalone in cages; and (3) the efforts to reseed a part of the harvest of the mariculture cooperators for resource conservation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study Area The study was conducted in Barangay Carot in Anda, Pangasinan, northern Philippines where the target species is naturally available. Only about 30 f ishers — both daytime and night-time f ishers — are actively f ishing for abalone in Carot. This small number is due to the fact that it requires experience to be able to harvest the cryptic abalone. To these f ishers, abalone f ishing comprises a large part of their income. Assessment of Abalone Fishery Group and Ind ivid ual Interviews A focus group discussion was conducted among abalone gatherers to collect data on abalone gathering and collection methods, abalone species caught, average catch per day, time of collection, marketing, biology and ecology, and historical trends in f ish catch. Additional information was collected via individual interviews with abalone gatherers who were also identif ied as possible cooperators in the experiential activity/Farmer Field School (FFS) activity. Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 54 Transect and Actual Catch Data Transect surveys were done in Carot (Banlag and Purod Wilda) and in barangay Tondol on December 18 and 19, 2012, respectively. Tondol was included as a basis for comparison as abalone can also be found in that area. Three replicate 50m x 5m belt transects were established in each site and all abalone within the belt were counted. In addition, on March 14, 2011, the catch composition of two cooperators was examined to validate data gathered from the interviews and actual survey. Abalone Mariculture Using the Farmer Field School (FFS) Concept The FFS is a group-based learning process that involves actual interactions with and among gatherers/farmers (Gallagher 2003). In this process, the participants carry out experiential learning activities that help them understand the ecology of abalone. In this particular study, these activities involved growth experiments, regular f ield observations, and group analysis. Likewise, the local research partners/ cooperators were involved in this undertaking through experiential (participatory) experimentation concerning culturing abalone in cages as a way to enhance the recovery of abalone stocks and as a possible supplemental source of livelihood. Identification of Cooperators Six abalone gatherers were chosen to implement the project based on the following criteria: 1. Must be an active member of the community, preferably a group leader; 2. Has attended a basic seminar on the biology and culture of abalone; 3. Interested in conducting experimental/trial grow-out of abalone in cages; 4. Has time for the activity; and 5. Has time to attend monthly regular meetings as well as emergency meetings, especially when problems arise during the course of the activity. The tasks of the cooperators included: participation in the mentoring sessions; setting up of cage culture sites; stocking, monitoring the growth and development of stocked individuals; cleaning and maintenance of the cages; feeding; and recording any unusual observations. Cage materials were provided by the researcher. The labor and maintenance were provided by the cooperators as their contribution in the experiential activity. It was also agreed with the cooperators that they should harvest only stocks that had attained a shell length of 50 mm — mature abalone that have already spawned many times and have already contributed E.C. Capinpin Jr. 55 to the replenishment of the population. It was made clear to them that there should be no immediate expectations of prof it, but it was hoped that the practice could serve as reproductive reserves to further replenish natural stocks. It was emphasized that abalone or H. asinina attains sexual maturity at 35 mm and spawns at 13-15 day intervals (Capinpin and others 1998). It was also an agreed policy to leave or retain a part of the harvest in the cages to be released in a nearby marine protected area. Source of Abalone For stock conservation and resource management purposes, it was best to use native stocks rather than those coming from another region since the latter might have a different genetic structure that could pose a threat to the genetic diversity of the local stocks. However, local stocks were diff icult to f ind in large numbers so only a few small wild abalone were used. Grow-out Experiments Net cages measuring 50 X 50 X 20 cm were constructed using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes f itted together and covered with nets similar to that used by Capinpin and others (1999). Two pieces of PVC gutter were placed inside each cage as shelters. The cages were suspended and tied to bamboo poles set at depths of about 1.5 m. It was ensured that the cages were not exposed during the lowest tides. Two trials were conducted, with each trial consisting of three replicate cages. The stocking densities, initial sizes, and date of stocking of small wild abalone are shown in Table 1. Trial Stocking Density Initial Size Initial Weight Date of (Abalone/Cage) (cm) (g) Stocking 1 25 42.74±0.54 16.60 April 8, 2011 2 50 40.99±0.80 14.39 May 30, 2011 Mean of 3 replicates Mean±SE Table 1. Stocking densities, initial sizes and date of stocking of abalone grown in sea cages The abalone mariculture was conducted for 3-4 months or up to 120 days. Feeding was done at weekly intervals by providing a pre-determined amount of the algae found in the area, preferably Hydropuntia edulis (=Gracilaria coronopifolia) using the established daily feeding scheme as a guide (Capinpin and others 1999). Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 56 The grow-out area (N 16°20’52.8" E 119°59’38.9") for pilot culture was accessible to the cooperators and visible from their residences, allowing them to guard the site against poaching. The site is also a natural seagrass area, dominated by Enhalus acoroides and Thalassia hemprichii. Water depth is about 1.5 m during the lowest tide, and water circulates freely. There are no freshwater tributaries in the vicinity. Growth Eval uation Abalone length and weight were measured every 15 days. Shell lengths were measured using a Vernier caliper and weights were measured using a kitchen weighing balance. Mean weights were determined by taking the biomass (total weight of the sample) divided by the total number of animals. Mean shell lengths were taken from all the stocked individuals. Daily growth rates in terms of weight (DG W ) and shell length (DG SL ) were also calculated as follows: DG W (g day -1) = G W /n DG SL (µm day-1) = G SL /n where G W is increase in weight (g) calculated as f inal weight minus initial weight, G SL is increase in shell length (µm) calculated as f inal length minus initial length, and n is days of culture. Physico-chemical Parameters Physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, salinity, pH, ammonia, and nitrite were recorded weekly. Assessment of Reseeding as a Resource Conservation Strategy To reiterate, it was agreed upon at the start of the mariculture activity that a portion of the harvest will be set aside for reseeding in a nearby marine protected area. Prior to the release, the abalone were tagged using Dymo and glue and placed in cut PVC pipes adapted from McCormick and others (1994). This method allows the easy transport of abalone and affords protection from predation immediately after transfer. Upon reaching the reseeding site, one end of each pipe was lodged in crevices or between boulders where the abalone can avoid exposure and exit safely. The site was revisited after one day to observe movement and/or presence of empty shells. E.C. Capinpin Jr. 57 Statistical Treatment and Data Analysis Frequencies, means and percentages were computed to summarize and describe the results. Additional data were presented in descriptive form as narrated by the subjects. Cost and Return Analysis A simple cost and return analysis was done based on the following assumptions: 1. The farmers would use indigenous materials such as bamboo for cages instead of PVC materials, which was provided to them in the present study; and 2. The sale of abalone would be at PhP 400/kg, which is the current farm gate price (Encena and Bayona 2010). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Assessment of Abalone Fishery There are two abalone species found in Anda, Pangasinan, namely Haliotis asinina and H. planata. Of the two species, only H. asinina was gathered as H. planata was rare. H. asinina has the potential for culture because of its large size and body weight and fast growth rate (Capinpin and Corre 1996, Capinpin and others 1999). There were two types of abalone gatherers: the daytime and the night-time gatherers. The daytime collectors used a face mask and an improvised hook to collect abalone. The night-time collectors used a face mask, hook, and a lighting device (Petromax). Both types of f ishers used rafts in order to move around the f ishing ground and improvised nets (nylon or bamboo) to hold collected abalone. Of the 12 abalone gatherers interviewed, 67% were regular day time gatherers and 33% were regular night-time gatherers. They also gleaned other commercially important invertebrates such as sea cucumbers, sea urchins, and other shellf ishes. All of them have more than ten (10) years experience in abalone gathering. Interviewees claimed that night-time gatherers collected more abalone than daytime gatherers. Night-time gatherers harvested up to 10 kg each of abalone. This is not surprising as abalone are nocturnal animals. They hide under rocks and in crevices at daytime and move out at night to feed on seaweeds. Night divers need not overturn the rocks since abalone are out searching for food or spawn when they are gravid during new and full moon periods (Capinpin and Hosoya 1995, Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 58 Figure 1. Size frequency distribution of abalone catch (n=34) of Cooperator #1 off the coast of Cabungan near the sanctuary in a 4-h f ishing operation. Counihan and others 2001). Ready-to-spawn abalone are active, with their foot relaxed and flabby (Breen and Adkins 1981, Setyono 2006). Setyono (2006) observed that they do not retract their foot when touched, and would even crawl freely onto one’s hand when handled. Night divers noted that abalone were easy to catch at this time; describing them (abalone) as maamo (tame) and madulas (loosely attached to the substratum). Night divers go f ishing during the new and full moon periods because they can collect more abalone during these times. The divers would f ish for about 2-3 consecutive nights without missing any particular night. Depending on sea conditions, all the night divers would f ish until dawn, i.e. up to 6-7 hours at a time. For H. asinina, spawning episodes coincide with new and full moons for recently captured abalone held in tanks (Capinpin and Hosoya 1995, Counihan and others 2001). Actual Catch Data Figures 1 and 2 show the size distribution of the catch of the two f isher-cooperators. For the f irst cooperator, the 34 pieces of abalone caught in a 4-h f ishing operation had a total weight of 1.2 kg with an average weight of 35.29 g. This corresponds to a catch per unit effort (CPUE) of 300 g/h. The biggest number (41%) of the catch fall under the 5.1-5.5 cm size category. Overall, 68% of the catch was over 5 cm in size and within the agreed legal size limit among the cooperators (Fig. 1). On the E.C. Capinpin Jr. 59 Figure 2. Size frequency distribution of abalone catch (n=29) of Cooperator #2 off Cangaluyan Island in a 3-h f ishing operation. other hand, the total catch of the second cooperator (Fig. 2) in a 3-h fishing operation off Cangaluyan Island consisted of 29 pieces for a total weight of 1.15 kg or a mean weight of 39.65 g. The biggest number (45%) of the catch fell in the 6.1-6.5 cm category. The computed CPUE was 383 g/h. Overall, 83% of the total catch was over 5 cm in size, which was considered as legal size limit. Sungthong and others (1993) surveyed the distribution of wild H. asinina around Samet Island in Thailand in 1989 and reported the number of abalone collected by divers per hour (CPUE) from 5.79-6.00 in Hin Khan Na and 9.5-10.25 in Ao Thien Reefs. The CPUEs of the two f ishermen of 8.5-9.7 abalone per hour in the present study was comparable to that in Ao Thien Reef (9.5-10.25 abalone per hour) in Samet Island. Abalone smaller than 5 cm represented 25% (16/63) of the combined catches. Fishers typically include small abalone (<5 cm) when they sell their catch. As much as 1/4 of abalone caught in local waters may be grown further to a larger size for better prof it, as well as allowing them to reproduce many times before harvest. Transect Surveys Table 2 shows the estimated density from the transect surveys at Carot (Banlag and Purod Wilda) and Tondol. There were more abalone collected in Banlag than in Purod Wilda and Tondol. Abalone were cryptic during daytime when the survey was done and the distribution was highly dependent on the presence of suitable rocky substrates. Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 60 The observed densities of abalone were 8.00, 1.67, and 3.33 per 250 m2 of surveyed area in Banlag, Purod Wilda, and Tondol, respectively. The observed densities in Banlag (3.2 per 100 m2) were similar to the study of Maliao and others (2004) on selected open access areas in Sagay, Negros Occidental. The densities in Purod Wilda and in Tondol were lower (0.67-1.33 per 100 m2). Maliao and others (2004) reported higher mean abalone densities in MPA areas in Sagay, implying that a properly enforced no-take MPA can promote recovery of local stocks. Site Coord inates Number (per 250 m-2) Banlag in Carot Transect 1 N 16° 21’33.2" E 120°00’06.6" 10 Transect 2 N 16° 21’34.3" E 120°00’06.4" 10 Transect 3 N 16° 21’45.6" E 120°00’06.6" 4 Mean 8.00 Purod in Carot Transect 1 N 16° 21’26.5" E 120° 00’04.4" 1 Transect 2 N 16° 21’23.9" E 120° 00’01.6" 0 Transect 3 N 16° 21’17.5" E 120° 00’01.5" 4 Mean 1.67 Tondol Transect 1 N 16°19’24.8" E 120° 00’04.7" 1 Transect 2 N 16°19’09.2" E 120°01’21.7" 3 Transect 3 N 16°19’12.5" E 120°01’23.0" 6 Mean 3.33 Table 2. Actual density of abalone inside the 250 m2 belt transect Catch Data Based on Interview Based on interviews, the current catch of daytime f ishers ranges from 1 to 2 kg in a typical f ishing trip lasting about 4-6 h, from about 8 am to about 2 pm. On the other hand, night-time gatherers can collect as high as 7-10 kg each during the whole night but at a much limited time, depending on sea conditions as well as on the phase of the moon. Comparing the actual catch data and what the f isherfolk revealed in the interview, it can be inferred that the data from interviews were valid and approximated the actual data. This implies that, with validation, the information gathered from interviews can be a useful companion to standard scientif ic approaches. Local Trade and Market Abalone f ishers currently have two buyers in the area. One of them buys their catch at PhP130/kg. The other buyer, a Korean, buys abalone at a higher price of PhP190-200/kg. The Korean reportedly transferred to Balingasay, Bolinao and entrusted the buying E.C. Capinpin Jr. 61 of abalone to a local resident from Barangay Cabungan. However, this person would not pay cash upon delivery. Hence, some f ishers are forced to sell their catch to the local buyer in Carot at a much lower price in exchange for immediate cash. Thus, there is the need to f ind an alternative market for abalone collected in Anda, as abalone is an expensive food item in luxury restaurants. The f ishers stated that they sell their abalone catch live or fresh to the buyers. The buyer from Carot processes the abalone catch by salting and boiling them before these are delivered to Manila. The Korean sells live abalone directly to restaurants in nearby Dagupan City, Angeles City, or Baguio City or directly to other Koreans. Abalone has a traditional place in Asian societies particularly China, Japan, and Korea as an item of prestige, and is considered customary in banquets and traditional feasts (Oakes and Ponte 1996). Growth and Survival of Cultured Abalone First Trial The f irst batch of small wild abalone was stocked on April 8, 2011 and the culture ended on July 8, 2011. Within three months of culture, the mean shell length increased from 42.74 ± 0.54 mm to 49.55 ± 0.30 mm (Table 3). On the other hand, the mean total weight increased from 16.60 ± 0.70 g to 24.78 ± 1.61 g. The harvest of the stocks was done after reaching an agreed size of about 50 mm. All of the harvested stocks were mature and had ripe gonads. Capinpin and others (1998) identif ied that sexual maturity of this species is reached at a size of 35 mm for both male and females and it is assumed they have spawned every 2 weeks following a lunar cycle. Thus, the cultured stocks had contributed to repopulating the Days Mean Shell Length Mean Weight Survival Rate (mm) (g) (%) 0 42.7±0.5 16.6 100.0±0.0 15 43.3±0.6 17.2 100.0±0.0 30 44.2±0.6 18.9 100.0±0.0 45 44.4±0.6 19.8 100.0±0.0 60 45.3±1.1 20.2 96.0±2.3 75 47.2±0.8 21.2 92.0±4.0 90 49.6±0.3 24.8 92.0±4.0 Mean of 3 replicates Mean±SE Table 3. Mean shell length (mm), mean weight (g) and survival rates (%) of the first batch of wild abalone cultured in net cages for 90 days (Trial 1) Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 62 surrounding areas. The survival rate of cultured abalone was high, ranging from 88- 100% with a mean of 92.0 ± 4.0 %. A total of about 1.7 kg was harvested from the 3 cages utilized in the f irst batch. The growth rates, however, were very low (Table 4) compared to the results obtained by Capinpin and others (1999), wherein the growth rates were above 100 µm d-1 in shell growth and above 0.20 g d-1 in weight for abalone stocked in sea cages with similar stocking densities. Likewise, the survival rates were lower at 92% in the present study compared to >95% in the previous study at similar stocking densities (Capinpin and others 1999). In contrast, the results of the present study were comparable to abalone cultured in tanks with limited water exchange (Capinpin and Corre 1996). In the latter, the researchers reported mean daily growth rates of 55.8 µm d-1 in shell length and 0.09 g d -1 in weight during the later part of the culture period when the abalone were larger. Further, they observed a decreasing trend in growth rates during the latter part of the feeding experiment. This reduction in growth rates of abalone was possibly due to the requirement for energy during gonad maturation. The slowing of growth rate following sexual maturity in abalone is well known and has been attributed to the channeling of energy into gonad development (Capinpin and Corre 1996, Mercer and others 1993). Similar results were observed by Estepa and Meñez (2001)in their study on sea cucumbers. They observed the slowing of growth of sea cucumbers during the latter part of their 8-month culture in pens in Pilar, Bolinao. They speculated that growth slowed down when the samples reached mean weights of over 240 g, possibly as an indication that the species had reached its maturity stage. Repl icate DGW (g d -1) DGSL (µm d -1) 1 0.12 79.44 2 0.11 88.89 3 0.04 58.67 Mean 0.09 75.67±8.93 Mean±SE Table 4. Mean growth rates in length (DGSL) and weight (DGw) of the first batch of wild abalone cultured for 90 days (Trial 1) E.C. Capinpin Jr. 63 Second trial Table 5 shows the mean growth in length, weight, and survival rates of small wild abalone cultured for 105 days. The second batch of abalone grew from 40.99 mm to 49.71 mm in shell length and from 14.39 g to 23.17 g in weight after 105 days. The culture period took a longer time to complete because of the smaller initial size of the second batch (40.99±0.80 mm) compared to the f irst batch (42.74±0.54 mm). The computed growth rate was 83.02 µm day-1 in terms of shell length and 0.084 g day-1 in terms of weight (Table 6). These were comparable to that observed in the f irst batch, but also lower than earlier results of Capinpin and others (1999). Trial 2 survival rates were also lower compared to the f irst batch due to prolonged heavy rains. It began after one month from stocking up to the end of the culture period. Repl icate DGW (g d -1) DGSL (µm d -1) 1 0.06 78.00 2 0.08 82.48 3 0.12 88.57 Mean 0.08 83.02±3.06 Mean±SE Table 6. Mean daily growth rates in terms of length (DGSL) and weight (DGw) of small wild abalone cultured in sea cages for 105 days (Trial 2) Days Mean Shell Length Mean Weight Survival Rate (mm) (g) (%) 0 41.0 ± 0.8 14.4 100.0 ± 0.0 15 41.4 ± 1.2 14.6 93.3 ± 4.7 30 41.7 ± 1.4 15.6 84.7 ± 3.7 45 43.3 ± 1.4 16.1 71.3 ± 2.4 60 45.4 ± 2.2 19.7 62.0 ± 7.0 75 46.0 ± 2.1 20.2 58.7 ± 8.7 90 48.8 ± 1.1 22.2 54.0 ± 10.1 105 49.7 ± 1.1 23.2 41.3 ± 15.5 Mean of 3 replicates Mean±SE Table 5. Mean shell length (mm), mean weight (g) and survival rates (%) of the second batch of wild abalone cultured in net cages for 105 days (Trial 2) Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 64 It is also a well-known fact that the growth of abalone and other shellf ish decreases as stocking density increases. Consequently, it takes a longer time to reach harvest size (Capinpin and others 1999). Similar mortalities were observed for sea urchins cultured in pens in Bolinao (Bangi and Meñez 2001). The death of balding sea urchins in cages was attributed partly to the occurrence of a phenomenon they called “kulaba” or water poisoning observed to occur annually during the rainy months, and partly due to high stocking density. Physico-chemical Properties of Water Water temperature and pH were in normal conditions and ranged from 29-33°C and from 8.0-8.6, respectively, throughout the culture period; whereas ammonia and nitrite were undetected and were always 0 mg/L and <0.3 mg/L, respectively, throughout the culture period. On the other hand, salinity ranged from 29.2 to 34.5 ppt (specif ic gravity, 1.022 to 1.026) during the whole of April up to June 14. It dropped to 23.9 from 26.6 ppt from June 29 to July 15 (specif ic gravity, 1.018 to 1.020) which corresponded to the time when typhoons Falcon and Goring ravaged northern Luzon. Even without typhoons, the continuous rain during this period lowered salinity levels that affected the cultured abalone. Normal seawater salinity is about 32-35 ppt. Salinity normalized from July 15 onwards until the end of the culture period, which allowed some of the abalone in Trial 2 to recover despite being exposed to prolonged heavy rains in an enclosed environment. Cost and Return Analysis Table 7 shows a simple cost and return analysis based on several assumptions such as the use of indigenous materials (e.g. bamboo) for the manufacture of cages and the increase of abalone price to PhP 400/kg, the current farm gate price for the species (Encena and Bayona 2010). Although a small net income was attained during the 3-month culture period, prof itability can be increased on a larger scale (Encena and Bayona 2010) by improving survival rates and searching for new market opportunities. Reseeding Into a Protected Area Thirty six (36) abalone from the f irst harvest were tagged for reseeding; the rest were processed and sold. The tagged abalone were released into the Panacalan MPA (N 16° 16’ 07.0" E 120° 01’ 42.7") in Macaleeng, Anda on July 11, 2011. Macaleeng is about an hour of boat-ride from Carot. E.C. Capinpin Jr. 65 Anda has f ive MPAs situated in Carot (13.3 ha), Cabungan (18 ha), Caniogan (9.8 ha), Magsaysay (14.8 ha), and Panacalan (48.59 ha). The MPAs in Carot and Cabungan were the earliest established (1998) while Panacalan was the most recent (2003) (Salmo and others 2005). However, according to the cooperators, the sanctuary in Carot is no longer operational. Even in 2004, Salmo and others (2005) reported that there had been problems in enforcement due to the weakening of people’s organizations (POs) in the area, which is attributed to changes in leadership of these POs. The Panacalan MPA was chosen as the reseeding site because it is the most well-enforced MPA to date in the area. The 36 tagged abalone reflect the commitment made by the cooperators at the start of the mariculture activity. The use of cut PVC pipes in reseeding minimizes handling stress and protects abalone from predation during and after their placement on the ocean floor. Tegner and Butler (1985) noted that abalone handled excessively produce mucus which then attracts predators. High mortalities often occur within hours of transplantation. Protection during the initial hours following placement allows the abalone to recover from handling and transport stress and become acclimated to the release site. In addition to providing a safe refuge during the initial acclimation period, the conf iguration of the planting module is such that one end can be lodged in crevices or between boulders. The abalone can thus avoid exposure and can exit safely. The site was revisited after one day and it was observed that all tagged abalone left the PVC pipes and took refuge in the surrounding crevices. A search for empty shells in the surrounding areas revealed no mortality due to reseeding and/or predation. It is assumed that the abalone were able to disperse into the surrounding areas safely. Production (kg) 1.7 Survival Rate (%) 92 Farm Gate Price (PhP/kg) 400 Cost of Seed (PhP 2/abalone X 75)* 150 Cost of cage (PhP 75 X 3 cages)** 225 Gross Revenue (PhP) 680 Net Income (PhP) 305 *Cost of small abalone weighing an average of 15 g at PhP 130/kg, the actual price f ishers sell their catch in the area **Cage made of bamboo frame covered with net Table 7. A simple cost and return analysis of abalone mariculture based on the results of Trial 1 using 3 cages with a stocking density of 25 abalone per cage and cultured for 90 days Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 66 Studies on the effect of abalone size at the time of release have indicated that, at least for some species, there is an optimal size for maximum survival. For instance, the survival of juvenile Madaka (H. gigantea) abalone after one year in the ocean increased from 10 to 70% as the size of the abalone planted was increased from 10 to 30 mm (Inoue 1976 as cited in McCormick and others 1994). In this study, though the number released was low (only 36), the abalone released was large (about 5 cm) and came previously from the wild, and had a strong chance to survive. Experiential Mariculture Activity The mariculture activity following the FFS concept was very interesting and meaningful to the local cooperators. It is because the FFS is particularly adapted to f ield study, where specif ic hands-on management skills are required (Gallagher 2003, Gallagher and others 2006). The cooperators were more comfortable in the f ield than in classrooms as there were no lectures and all activities were based on experiential, participatory, hands-on work. In the experiential activity/FFS, the f ield itself became the “teacher” as it provided most of the training materials such as the cultured animal, seaweeds as its food, its predators, pests and other real problems. The activities included in the experiential activity followed the natural cycle of their subjects. In this case, the cycle was from “abalone seed” to a “mature abalone” that contributed to the replenishment of its population. As much as possible, the approach allowed all aspects of the subject to be covered, in parallel with what was happening in the f ield. The lessons sharpened the cooperators’ skills in the areas of observation, problem-solving, and decision-making, and helped develop their critical thinking (Gallagher 2003, Gallagher and others 2006). It was ensured that the activities were participatory and hands-on so as to encourage learning. Being a hands-on activity, it was a new experience for the cooperators specif ically on how to address both their resource management and economic needs. This activity was envisioned to contribute in enhancing abalone populations while heightening the f isherfolk’s ecological knowledge of the life history of abalone and its culture. At the same time, it was viewed as a potential means to provide supplemental source of livelihood. The experimental activity helped the cooperators to understand the importance of choosing a suitable site for the cultured species. They learned that mariculture should be done during fair weather (i.e. November to April or May) and that the cages are best located further out in the sea to avoid the lowering of the salinity during heavy rains. The experiments, though limited, reinforced what they learned in their lecture. They learned the importance of monitoring the growth and survival E.C. Capinpin Jr. 67 of the organisms as well as water quality parameters. This gave them an idea about how long it would take to culture the abalone and to determine the optimal time to harvest. The activity heightened their environmental awareness and understanding of the ecological principles and the rationale for resource management (Capinpin 2 0 1 2 ) . In the experiential activity, the researcher became a facilitator who assisted the cooperators to learn from their experience towards sustainable practices and resource management. This is opposed to technology transfer wherein an extension staff is expected to be an expert conveying lessons from the research to farmers in a top-down approach, particularly when there are no hands-on activities. During the experiments, several problems arose such as the low survival of abalone in Trial 2, and the need to reevaluate task and time allotment of each member for the different maintenance activities. Using the FFS concept in mariculture, the learners advanced because they were given a free hand to learn and to decide which problem-solving steps they would to take during the mariculture activity. In the process, the cooperators participated in providing solutions as well as ref inements and adjustments to the techniques and time allotment schemes. They also suggested ways on how to grow the abalone faster based on their own observations and experiences. Thus, the activity provided them with a sense of ownership over the resource and responsibility towards their actions. CONCLUSION Mariculture is an excellent tool for the conservation of f ishery resources particularly abalone. It is also a sustainable supplemental source of livelihood. The viability of abalone mariculture is favored by the biological attributes of this species. Specif ically, the abalone has fast development and growth rates. Likewise, the use of cages entails low capital outlay and maintenance cost. The growing of small abalone in sea cages can increase their size and weight, which translate to better prices when they are sold. It is recommended to replicate the mariculture of abalone in other areas to create dense breeding populations which can help in enhancing the existing breeders and the periodic release of abalone in sanctuaries (Capinpin 2012). Through actually performing the culture of abalone in cages, the cooperators gained technical skills in selecting suitable sites for the culture of these organisms as well as in choosing cultured species that feed low in the food chain (e.g. abalone). The cooperators also gained capability in monitoring the development of stocked individuals, and improved their knowledge on the biology of the cultured organism. Status of Abalone Fishery and Experiential Mariculture 68 Overall, the experiential mariculture was considered as a successful activity in terms of providing experience to the cooperators in resource management and of providing a venue for the study of abalone mariculture as a supplemental source of livelihood. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS The author wishes to thank Ms. Elizabeth Tomas, the Municipal Agriculturist, and the Honorable Municipal Mayor Aldrin Cerdan for allowing the researcher to conduct this study in Anda, Pangasinan, for providing all the necessary documents, maps, unpublished reports, etc. , and for their whole-hearted support during the entire conduct of the study. The author also acknowledges the par ticipation of the two cooperators, Rudy Raquiem and Pepito Versoza; the advice of Dr. Ruth Guzman of the Rizal Technological University and Drs. Phares Parayno, Angelina Galang, Donna Paz Reyes, and Ma. Lourdes Baybay of Miriam College before and during the conduct of the study; the assistance of the author’s students during the transect surveys; and Prof. Ceferino Toledo of PSU and two anonymous reviewers for reviewing this manuscript. REFERENCES Bangi HGP, Juinio-Meñez MA. 2001. 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