Farming Tropical Eel in the Philippines

November 6, 2023 by Lauro Braganza

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 culinary significance and are considered a delicacy in various cultures across the world. Eel farming offers a sustainable way to meet the growing demand for this delectable seafood.

In the Philippines, eel farming has gained significant traction, primarily focusing on the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), although other species like the Longfin eel (Anguilla reinhardtii) and the Shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) are also farmed in other regions such as Australia and New Zealand.

If you’re intrigued by the prospects of eel farming in the Philippines, read on to discover the intricacies of this endeavor.

Breeding Eel

Breeding eels is a meticulous process that demands attention and care. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started with eel breeding:

Opt for Captive Breeding: Breeding eels in captivity is the preferred method. This approach ensures that the young eels are shielded from natural predators and receive the necessary care and protection.
Determine Maturity: Eels typically reach sexual maturity at around two years of age. Males will develop distinctive white spots on their fins and bodies, while females will become plumper as they mature.
Create Ideal Conditions: To encourage breeding, provide eels with spacious tanks containing ample hiding places. The addition of aquatic plants can further enhance the breeding environment and offer shelter for the eggs.
Mating Process: During mating, the male wraps himself around the female to fertilize her eggs internally. Subsequently, the female will lay her eggs in a secure location, often amidst plants or in a concealed cave.
Egg Hatching: After approximately ten days, the eggs hatch, giving rise to young eels known as elvers. These elvers immediately begin feeding on small insects and crustaceans, setting the stage for their growth and development.
Feeding Elvers: As elvers grow, their dietary needs evolve. Start by feeding them small food items such as worms, small fish, and shrimp.

Spawning: An Intriguing Process

Eels have a fascinating spawning process. The female eel lays her eggs in a secluded, dark location in the water. Once the eggs are deposited, the male eel approaches to fertilize them. After fertilization, the eggs transform into leptocephali, a larval stage. These leptocephali drift in the ocean for several years, undergoing growth and maturation until they eventually transform into adult eels.

Rearing Eels

Eels have garnered popularity as a seafood item worldwide, making eel farming a potentially lucrative business. To embark on eel farming, follow these crucial steps:

Captive Breeding: Eels are typically bred in captivity, as they are challenging to capture in the wild. Create a suitable breeding environment with tanks or ponds featuring hiding spots and efficient filtration systems. Ensure that the water is well-oxygenated for optimal conditions.
Egg Incubation: After spawning, incubate the eggs at a temperature of around 22 degrees Celsius. Following hatching, maintain young eels (elvers) in freshwater tanks with a continuous flow of water. Elvers have voracious appetites, so frequent feeding is essential.
Transition to Larger Tanks: As elvers grow, transfer them to larger tanks to accommodate their increasing size. Proper care and attention during this phase are crucial for successful eel farming.

Eel farming is a rewarding business but requires dedication and meticulous management throughout the various growth stages.

Eel Farming: Growing Eels

Eels, whether of the Japanese, Longfin, or Shortfin species, are well-suited for farming. The farming process involves several key elements, starting with breeding, growing, and progressing to the feeding and harvesting stages. Below, we delve into the specifics of growing eels:

Captive Breeding: Eels are usually bred in controlled environments, such as man-made ponds or tanks. Once the fry reaches a suitable size, adult eels are transferred to larger growing facilities.
Maintaining Optimal Conditions: Ensure consistent water quality and temperature, as eels are sensitive to environmental changes. A stable and well-maintained aquatic environment is critical for their growth and well-being.
Diet: Eels are carnivorous and thrive on a diet rich in protein and fat. Live food sources like worms, insects, small fish, and crustaceans are ideal. While frozen or freeze-dried foods can serve as supplements, live food should remain a primary component of their diet.
Feeding: Eels are opportunistic feeders and will consume food whenever it’s available. Establish a regular feeding schedule to help them anticipate meals, feeding them once or twice a day based on their appetite. Avoid overfeeding, a common problem in eel farming, by monitoring their consumption closely.
Tank Size and Environmental Requirements: Selecting the appropriate tank size and environment is paramount. Eels require ample space to swim and grow, typically about 10 gallons of water per eel. Maintain a water temperature between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit and provide hiding spots like driftwood, rocks, and live plants for their security and comfort.

Harvesting Eel

Harvesting eels is a critical phase in eel farming. Eels are renowned for their delectable meat, making them a prized catch. The most common harvesting method involves using eel traps, although hand-harvesting is also an option:

Eel Traps: Baited with live baitfish, eel traps entice eels into their confines. Once the trap is full, it is lifted from the water, and the eels are safely retrieved.
Hand-Harvesting: This method is less common but involves a fisherman using a hook and line to catch the eel. The eel is then pulled from the water and humanely dispatched.

Post-harvest, it is essential to process eels properly to prevent spoilage. The steps involve bleeding, gutting, scaling, and washing the eel before it is ready for cooking or freezing for storage.

Conclusion

Eel farming is a dynamic and potentially lucrative industry that offers opportunities for entrepreneurs and enthusiasts in the Philippines. By following the step-by-step guide presented in this article, you can embark on a successful eel farming venture, reaping the rewards of this unique and thriving business. Whether you aim to start a commercial eel farm or explore eel farming as a rewarding hobby that provides additional income.

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