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Abstract
The potential of sea ranching sandfish (Holothuria scabra) for production and stock restoration was investigated in the Philippines. A total of 14,300 fluorochrome-stained juvenile sandfish (>3 g) were released in 8 batches over a 15-month period in a 5-hectare pilot communal sea ranch. Abundance of sandfish increased from 416 to 5,562 individuals, with a corresponding increase in biomass from 7 to 221 kg ha−1 over the 19-month period. Apparent survival over the study period was estimated at 20–30%. Incidences of in situ spawning were observed in the sea ranch within a year, and estimated densities of reproductively mature sandfish increased from 37 ind ha−1 7 months after initial release to 249 ind ha−1 after 19 months. Average weight at onset of sexual maturity (∼185 g) is estimated to be attained 7–9 months after release. Juveniles without fluorochorome stained ossicles were found during most monitoring periods, indicating presence of wild recruits. A well-managed communal sea ranch has the potential to contribute to fisheries production and stock restoration objectives.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The establishment of the pilot sea ranching area for sandfish was funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR-FIS/2003/059) with complementary support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in the Philippines. This work would not have been possible without the active engagement and wisdom of primary research and development partners, the sea ranch managers (Samahan ng mga Maliliit na Mangingisda ng Victory, Inc. [SMMVI]), and the support of the local government of Bolinao, Pangasinan. The authors are grateful for the assistance of Tirso Catbagan and other members of the invertebrate laboratory at the Bolinao Marine Laboratory. This is the U. P. Marine Science Institute Contribution no. 420.