Saturday, December 2Food Security Matters

Aquaculture

Learn about raising bangus, tilapia, and other fish crops in the Philippines

Is Tilapia Farming Profitable in the Philippines?

Is Tilapia Farming Profitable in the Philippines?

Aquaculture
Dive into the depths of tilapia farming in the Philippines, where an aquatic treasure trove awaits! If you’ve ever wondered about the profitability of this fishy business venture, you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, we’ll explore the status of the tilapia market, delve into its supply and demand dynamics, uncover why it is considered an affordable fish for both consumers and farmers alike, and shed light on the ease of farming these finned wonders. But before we take a deep dive into these waters, let’s start by understanding why tilapia farming has become such a popular choice among aquaculture enthusiasts across the archipelago. Get ready to catch some fascinating insights as we navigate through this underwater world together! Status of Tilapia Market in the Philippines The tilap...
Dalagang Bukid: Yellow Tail Fusilier Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Dalagang Bukid: Yellow Tail Fusilier Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Aquaculture
Welcome to the vibrant world of seafood, where flavors dance on your palate and colors lure you into a culinary adventure. Today, we dive deep into the waters of the Philippines to explore a truly remarkable fish – Dalagang Bukid, also known as Yellow Tail Fusilier. With its striking appearance and delectable taste, this fish has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. So strap on your apron and get ready to discover everything there is to know about this underwater gem! What is Dalagang Bukid Dalagang Bukid, scientifically known as Caesio cuning is a species of fish belonging to the family Caesionidae. This vibrant beauty can also be recognized by other names such as Yellow Tail Fusilier or Philippine Fusilier. One of the most striking features of Dalagang Bukid is its colo...
Danggit Fish: Rabbitfish Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Danggit Fish: Rabbitfish Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Aquaculture
Have you ever heard of the Danggit fish? No, it’s not a typo or some made-up creature from a fantasy novel. Danggit fish, also known as Rabbitfish, is an incredibly delicious and nutritious seafood delicacy that has been capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of food lovers for centuries. With its unique flavor, delicate texture, and numerous health benefits, Danggit fish is worth learning more about. So grab your fishing nets and let’s dive deep into the world of this extraordinary marine marvel! What is Danggit Fish Danggit fish, also known as Rabbitfish, is a species that can be found in the coastal waters of Southeast Asia. It got its name from its rabbit-like appearance, with a round body and long fins resembling bunny ears. This small fish typically measures around 15 to 20 centimet...
Dilis: Anchovy Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Dilis: Anchovy Description, Characteristics, and Benefits

Aquaculture
Attention seafood lovers! Have you ever heard of Dilis fish? If not, prepare to be introduced to a tiny powerhouse packed with flavor and health benefits. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just looking for new ways to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your diet, Dilis fish is worth exploring. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of Dilis, uncovering its description, characteristics, and the many benefits it offers. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other as we uncover the secrets behind this delectable little fish! So grab your apron and let’s get cooking with Dilis! What is Dilis Fish What is Dilis fish? Scientifically known as Stolephorus waitei, Dilis is a small, silvery fish that belongs to the anchovy family. It goes by various names depending...
How to Build a Backyard Fishpond

How to Build a Backyard Fishpond

Aquaculture
The marketability of fish revolves around one crucial factor: freshness. For consumers, the appeal of fish lies in its taste and quality, and that depends on how fresh it is. Fish caught from distant locations and transported to market centers often undergo various preservation methods such as chilling, freezing, and icing. These practices, while necessary for distribution, can hardly be classified as truly "fresh" because they merely suspend the rate of decomposition. Real freshness is found in newly caught fish. It's no surprise that the demand for fresh fish remains high, and the supply can often fall short. But here's the good news: you can take matters into your own hands by building a backyard fishpond. Fresh fish can be made abundantly available in your locality through the c...
Tilapia Feeding Technique for Bigger Profits

Tilapia Feeding Technique for Bigger Profits

Aquaculture
Tilapia farming has become an integral part of the aquaculture industry, but its growth is not without its challenges, particularly in the realm of production costs. One major cost that tilapia farmers grapple with is the expenditure on commercial supplemental feed. Researchers at the Freshwater Aquaculture Center of the Central Luzon State University (FAC-CLSU) have found that the cost of supplemental feed constitutes a substantial portion, accounting for about 60 percent of the total production cost. In essence, for every 10 units of currency spent on producing tilapia, a staggering 6 units are allocated for feeds. However, hope is on the horizon. Studies conducted in collaboration with North Carolina State University and several other countries have unearthed innovative feeding strategi...
The Basics of Catfish Farming

The Basics of Catfish Farming

Aquaculture
Catfish farming in the Philippines has seen a significant surge in popularity, largely due to the demand for their tender and delicious meat. As more farmers and entrepreneurs are venturing into this industry, it's crucial to understand the fundamentals of catfish farming. Fortunately, scientists at the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center- Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC-AD) have provided valuable insights, making it easier for individuals to start and manage catfish farms. In this article, we will explore the basics of catfish farming, including the catfish species, feeding and breeding practices, and essential tips for success. The Asian Catfish The Asian catfish, scientifically known as Clarias macrocephalus, is a freshwater fish native to the Philippines, primarily found...
Profiting from Sea Urchin Farming: A Lucrative Opportunity in Aquaculture

Profiting from Sea Urchin Farming: A Lucrative Opportunity in Aquaculture

Aquaculture
For years, sea urchins were overlooked marine creatures, often dubbed "sea porcupines" in foreign countries. Their peculiar appearance, with moveable spines and tubular feet reminiscent of starfish, kept people at a distance. However, it was only when the demand for sea urchins in international markets surpassed that of traditional seafood like lobster that their unique value became apparent, and then sea urchin farming was discovered. The sought-after delicacy is the roe, also known as gonads or locally referred to as "alige," which is cherished for its sweet, tangy, and exquisite flavor. In Tokyo's wholesale markets, sea urchin gonads fetch prices ranging from US $58 to $160 per kilogram. Japan stands as the largest consumer of sea urchin gonads, followed closely by France and Korea. ...
Sex Reversal of Tilapia – Why and How

Sex Reversal of Tilapia – Why and How

Aquaculture
Tilapia aquaculture has faced a longstanding challenge of precocious breeding, particularly in pond systems, where fish can reach sexual maturity as small as 8 centimeters in length. This issue is primarily due to the significant difference in growth rates between male and female tilapia. Male tilapia tend to grow faster, as females allocate a considerable amount of their energy to the production of eggs and fry. Consequently, the production of all-male tilapia has become an essential strategy for the aquaculture industry. Initial attempts at producing all-male tilapia involved the use of closely related species, such as Oreochromis hornorum, O. niloticus, O. aureus, and O. mossambicus crosses. Some of these hybridizations yielded nearly 98% male fish. However, hatchery production o...
Farming Tropical Eel in the Philippines

Farming Tropical Eel in the Philippines

Aquaculture
Eel farming is a profitable and rewarding endeavor that requires careful planning and execution. In the Philippines, it has gained popularity as a lucrative industry, offering opportunities for both entrepreneurs and hobbyists. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of farming eel, or "Palos" as it is known in Tagalog, from breeding, growing, and feeding to harvesting. By the end of this article, you'll have a solid understanding of how to start your own eel farm and reap the rewards of this unique and thriving business. Introduction to Eel Farming Eels, referred to as "igat" or "palos" in Tagalog, are fascinating species of fish that thrive in both freshwater and saltwater environments. These elongated, snake-like fish are revered for their cu...