ONE OF THE BEST IN THE WORLD. Fijians scanned the globe in search for an institution where they can learn the culture of sandfish, a prized commodity, only to find it in SEAFDEC Department. See full story in Page 7. PHOTO BY JF ALDON

aqdMarch-April 2019 mattersNewsletter of the SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department, Tigbauan, Iloilo, Philippines Matters inside AQD hosts back-to-back eel workshops AQD launches manual 3 on Nursery Culture of Tropical Anguillid Eels

Guidelines to efficiently 4 respond to aquatic outbreaks developed

Grouper studies win 6 big at 12AFAF

Neglected leaves 9 may revolutionize aquaculture

Incoming and outgoing 14 JIRCAS experts discuss their research PHOTO COURTESY OF MLC ARALAR OF MLC COURTESY PHOTO Participants from member countries gather during the back-to-back eel workshops last 23-25 April 2019 in Manila, Philippines

SEAFDEC/AQD hosted the Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao during the aquaculture back-to-back workshops PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, workshop. “Statistics of Tropical Thailand, Viet Nam, and The workshops aimed Anguillid Eel in Southeast the Philippines. Japanese at presenting the output of Asia” on 23 April 2019 and participants represented the first phase of the Japan- “Aquaculture of Tropical JANUS, a consulting firm ASEAN Integration Fund Anguillid Eel in Southeast involved in the project. (JAIF) supported project Asia” on 24-25 April 2019 Resource persons were also on “Enhancing Sustainable in Alabang, Metro Manila, invited to present on various Utilization and Management Philippines. topics. Eel farmers from scheme of Tropical Anguillid The workshop was Indonesia, Vietnam and the Eel Resources in Southeast attended by country Philippines were present Asia” which officially started representatives from in August 2017. www.seafdec.org.ph Continued on next page... Continued from previous page...

the status of anguillid eel particularly of the desired aquaculture in their respective species A. bicolor pacifica in countries. Dr. Maria Lourdes the Philippines was raised as Aralar, AQD retired scientist, one of the problems of the presented Observations and industry. Despite difficulty (as Perspectives on Anguillid Eel shown by Japan’s experience) Culture in Japan, based on in breeding the genus in a benchmarking and survey captivity, ASEAN member trip to Japan, specifically states that value the species farms, processing plant and were called to start investing

SEAFDEC deputy secretary-general Mr. Akito Sato [left] opens the workshop on research institutions involved in research on the breeding aquaculture of tropical anguillid eels and AQD chief Dan Baliao [right] shares the insights in Anguillid eel. of the species found in their he gained during the three-day workshop Dr. Aralar also presented country. the results of the Eel SEAFDEC/AQD Chief Mr. Aquaculture Survey in the Dan Baliao gave the closing Philippines; Dr. Frolan Aya, remarks for the workshop scientist, presented on the with some insights he gained Nursery Rearing Trials of from the back to back Philippines Anguillid Eels; workshops. Mr. Dan Joseph Logronio, On the last day of the senior technical assistant, workshop, Mr. Richard Sorita, presented on Diseases of an eel farmer and also an Eel in Aquaculture/Health attendee to the workshop, management; and Dr. Maria hosted the participants in a Participants from SEAFDEC/AQD present their studies. [Left-right] Dr. Aralar, Dr. Aya, Mr. Rowena R. Eguia, scientist, on field trip to his farm, SMO Longronio, and Dr. Eguia Morphometric and Genetic Pacific Trading in Calaca, Identification of Glass Eel Batangas. Statistics of Tropical Anguillid initiatives are needed for such Species Used in Aquaculture. These back to back Eel in Southeast Asia last 23 species: e.g. Anguilla bicolor The final activity of the workshops covered the first April 2019 pacifica, A. bicolor bicolor, and workshop was the launching phase of the JAIF project on A. marmorata. and distribution of AQD’s tropical anguillid eels and The first workshop included Aquaculture Extension is due to end July 2019. A presentations on the status, Aquaculture of Tropical Manual (No. 65) entitled second phase of the JAIF utilization, management, and Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia "Nursery Culture of Tropical project on tropical anguillid trade of tropical anguillid last 24 to 25 April 2019 Anguillid Eels in the eels is currently in preparation eels. The ecology of the Philippines" authored by Dr. with activities and tasks still eels’ inshore migration was The second workshop saw Aralar, Dr. Aya, Dr. Eguia and to be finalized, based on also presented as well as representatives from the Mr. Logronio. the outcome of the current the results of a study on the Philippines, Indonesia In the discussions, project. a genetic connectivity of eels in and Viet Nam present on scarcity of anguillid glass eels, - MLC ARALAR / RD DIANALA Southeast Asia. Based on the presentations ALL PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE COURTESY OF MLC ARALAR and discussions, a lot of work is still needed to fully capture the status of tropical anguillid eel and its utilizations. Harmonization of fisheries data, particularly on anguillid capture and trade is needed to fully understand the dynamics of tropical anguillid eels and to better conserve and manage remaining stocks. It is also important to determine if the populations of different species of anguillids common to some ASEAN countries belong to a single stock or not to determine if a joint Participants visit a private eel farm in Calaca, Batangas or separate management

2 MARCH - APRIL 2019 aqd matters AQD launches manual Genetic research in the on Nursery Culture of PH reported in Japan Tropical Anguillid Eels SENDAI, Japan – Dr. Maria of climate change and other Rowena Eguia, scientist environmental factors, of SEAFDEC Aquaculture diseases, and prohibitive cost Department, reported on the of aquaculture inputs such as genetic research initiatives feeds. being done in the Philippines Dr. Eguia cited that towards sustainable genetic researches in the aquaculture at the 16th Philippines were conducted, International Symposium mainly through local grants, on Integrated Field Science with the goal of addressing in Tohoku University last 22 these constraints. Such March 2019. initiatives focused on Her paper highlighted developing and applying the local genetic applications methods in selective breeding;

PHOTO COURTESY OF MLC ARALAR OF MLC COURTESY PHOTO for commodities such as marker-assisted genetic strain

[Left-right] Authors Mr. Logronio, Dr. Eguia, tilapia, mangrove , assessment for Dr. Aralar, and Dr. Aya pose with the newest shrimp, milkfish and . development and for addition to AQD's Aquaculture Extension Manual She likewise discussed monitoring of inbreeding in Series entitled Nursery Culture of Tropical Anguillid Eels [inset] the significance of genetic farmed stocks; and genomics interventions to boost to enhance on-farm stock and sustain aquaculture performance through the Rearing trials were also production. identification of genes that conducted at SEAFDEC/ According to her are responsible for nutrition, AQD to generate presentation, the production stress and immune responses, techniques to improve the of fish in recent years had among others. A 37-page manual on growth and survival of glass declined mainly due to lack Dr. Eguia was one of the Nursery Culture of eels. of quality seedstocks, limited seven speakers who presented Tropical Anguillid Eels was In his foreword, stocks of captive breeders during the symposium.a launched last 25 April 2019 SEAFDEC/AQD chief Dan or spawners, adverse effects - JM DELA CRUZ during the Workshop on Baliao said that he hopes Aquaculture of Tropical "that more efficient nursery PHOTO COURTESY OF MRR EGUIA Anguillid eel in Southeast practices will improve the Asia. The manual, income of local eel farmers published by SEAFDEC/ and ease some of the AQD, was written by Dr. pressure on wild stocks." Maria Lourdes Aralar, "Along with the proper Dr. Frolan Aya, Dr. Maria management of wild Rowena Romana-Eguia, anguillids, SEAFDEC/ and Mr. Dan Joseph AQD looks forward to the Logronio. further development of eel The manual documents aquaculture towards a truly the on-farm practices of sustainable industry," he eight anguillid eel farms added. surveyed in the Philippines. The manual will Species identification soon be available for sale Dr. Eguia receives a certificate of presentation from Dr. Minoru Ikeda, symposium host and and health management at the AQD Bookstore associate professor of Tohoku University approaches have also been ([email protected]) documented. or (63) 33-3307031. a - RD DIANALA / JM DELA CRUZ

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 3 Guidelines to efficiently respond to aquatic outbreaks developed

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SEAFDEC/SEC

Chiefs and Deputy Chiefs of all SEAFDEC Departments gather for the 51st Council Meeting in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia

SURABAYA, Indonesia – In Chief Dan mentioned order for stakeholders and that this will maximize the competent authorities to efficiency of response to respond more effectively to serious outbreaks of aquatic aquatic disease emergencies, animal diseases which may the Regional Technical affect the region's economy. Guidelines on Early Warning The 'guidelines' will have System for Aquatic Animal to pass through SEAFDEC Health Emergencies was Council Director and AQD Deputy Chief Dr. Koh-ichiro Mori and Chief Dan Baliao represent SEAFDEC/AQD during developed by ASEAN Fisheries Consultative Group the 51st Council Meeting Member States (AMSs), of the ASEAN-SEAFDEC SEAFDEC Aquaculture Strategic Partnership in Bangkok, Thailand. The of Aquaculture Centers in Department and other for endorsement which project was in partnership Asia-Pacific and was funded partner organizations. allows its presentation to with the Department of by Japan-ASEAN Integrated "These guidelines were higher ASEAN meetings. Fisheries – Thailand, ASEAN Fund. a developed in response to the This will eventually lead Network of Aquatic Animal - JM DE LA CRUZ ASEAN's need to develop a to its dissemination and Health Centers, and Network uniform early warning system distribution to AMSs. for aquatic diseases in the Contents of the guidelines region," said AQD Chief Dan were created through the Baliao during his presentation assessment of AMSs' existing AQD programs endorsed at the 51st Meeting of the laws, legislation, standard by the SEAFDEC Council SEAFDEC Council last 18-22 operating procedures, March 2019. The guidelines strategies, and other Activities, implemented research, verification were presented as part of initiatives pertinent to by AQD under its regional and demonstration of AQD's priority project for aquatic animal health and and departmental aquaculture technologies 2019. disease management. The programs, were reported in the priority areas of The scope of the guidelines drafting committee includes by SEAFDEC Secretary broodstock development includes proper actions to all participants who attended General Dr. Kom and seed production, be undertaken by AMSs in and contributed at the Silapajarn as part of his farming systems and case of the occurrence of ASEAN Regional Technical presentation containing ecology, nutrition and known, unknown, existing, Consultation on Aquatic all the accomplishments of feed development, fish emerging, and/or re-emerging Emergency Preparedness each department for 2018 health management, and diseases. Key players were and Response System for during the 51st Meeting of socioeconomics. also identified in aquatic Effective Management of the SEAFDEC Council in All progress including emergency preparedness Transboundary Disease Surabaya, Indonesia. AQD's plans for 2019 were and response system Outbreaks in Southeast Asia Dr. Silapajarn reported endorsed by the SEAFDEC including their roles and held last 20-22 August 2018 the progress of 47 studies Council Directors. a responsibilities. by AQD which involve - JM DE LA CRUZ

4 MARCH - APRIL 2019 aqd matters Chief attends NACA Governing Council meeting held in China

SEAFDEC/AQD Chief Dan Baliao and BFAR Director Eduardo Gongona (inset) attends the NACA's 30th Governing Council Meeting together with participants from other Asia-Pacific Region Countries

GUANGZHOU‏, China‏ of an early warning system. plans of other regional lead This was based on a Letter of - SEAFDEC/AQD Chief It was noted that the centers were also discussed. Agreement signed with FAO Dan Baliao attended the system has been useful in In terms of sustainable in 2017 to provide service Network Aquaculture Centres recognizing emerging and farming systems, the to address the implication in Asia Pacific's (NACA) re-emerging aquatic animal representative of Thailand of climate change on 30th Governing Council diseases in the region. The reported the result of aquaculture. Meeting to discuss the major World Organisation for their study on sustainable The topic of gender issues accomplishments of its Animal Health and Food and marine shrimp culture was given ample time for member countries for 2018 Agriculture Organization of using a recirculating system. discussion, as‏ there were last 26-28 March 2019. the United Nations (FAO) As a recommendation, eighteen proposals submitted. SEAFDEC/AQD's projects were mentioned for their a pilot study on its Only five were assessed to be and accomplishments, made contributed to the said commercialization using suitable for funding based in collaboration with NACA, project. Polyethylene Canvas Pond in on the criteria established. were reported by the Chief Bureau of Fisheries Thailand was proposed and to Countries involved were during the meeting. The and Aquatic Resources be funded by the Agricultural India, Maldives, Vietnam, department is one of NACA's Undersecretary Commodore Research and Development Cambodia, and Iran. Regional Lead Centers in Asia Eduardo Gongona was also Agency. Other relevant topics and the partnership between present during the meeting to With regards to the discussed were: food safety, the two organizations started represent the Philippines' and emerging global issues quality and certification; in 1980. show its continued support to on climate change, a new education and training; One of the most notable NACA and its projects. paradigm on planting genetics and biodiversity; collaborations is the thrust Aside from mangrove for integrated and information and on aquatic animal health SEAFDEC/AQD projects, multiple benefits was communication. a especially the development accomplishment and future proposed to the meeting. - MET ALDON / JM DE LA CRUZ

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 5 Grouper studies shine at 12AFAF

With the theme of transforming Asian fisheries and aquaculture for sustainable production and nutrition, the 12th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum (12AFAF) was conducted to update stakeholders on the recent trends in the industry at the Iloilo Convention Center in Iloilo City last 8-12 April 2019. Fisheries and aquaculture scientists, researchers, managers, and practitioners from around the world graced PHOTO COURTESY OF JL CHAN the international gathering including representatives Ms. Chan and Mr. Palma together with marine fish commodity leader Dr. Evelyn Grace Ayson during the 12AFAF at Iloilo City from SEAFDEC/AQD. lanceolatus.” Her study aims biological data and this study of effective captive breeding to verify the long-standing will provide information to technology as well as strategic Genetic biotechnology hypothesis which says that address this gap. population management of giant groupers follow the Findings, however, this economically important One of AQD’s representatives reproductive patterns of deviate from the previous and vulnerable species. Mr. Peter Palma, researcher, most Epinephelines that were hypothesis and rather The 12AFAF was presented his paper entitled characterized by protogynous suggests that giant grouper organized by Asian Fisheries “Studies towards Advancing hermaphroditism wherein is a diandric protogynous Society (AFS) in partnership Reproductive Development male maturation is attained hermaphrodite. This study with the University of the in Giant Grouper through sex reversal of a provides novel information Philippines Visayas and the Epinephelus lanceolatus using functional female. This on the reproductive biology University of the Philippines Recombinant Hormone hypothesis has not been of giant grouper which will Visayas Foundation, Inc. a Manipulations” during verified due to a lack of be useful in the development - JM DE LA CRUZ the session on genetics biotechnology. Mr. Palma’s research aims to use recombinant AFAF delegates visit SEAFDEC/AQD SEAFDEC/AQD was one hormone manipulation to of the field trip destinations induce groupers’ sexual visited by participants of maturation. This is to address the 12th Asian Fisheries the issue of low productivity and Aquaculture Forum of the animals caused by (12AFAF) last 12 April late sexual maturity. Results 2018. Delegates visited did not only show how AQD’s facilities including effective the hormone is to abalone and milkfish groupers’ sexual maturity but hatcheries. it modulated the process of AFAF is a conference sex reversal either through that showcases recent intermuscular or oral advances in fisheries and administration. aquaculture research Mr. Palma was one of and development the awardees of Best Student Delegates visit AQD’s milkfish in Asia. Scientists, Research Presentation (above) and abalone (right) researchers, managers, hatcheries (postgraduate level). and practitioners from different parts of the world biology attend the forum to discuss the industry’s regional Ms. Josielou Chan, technical priorities, common assistant, also presented her problems, and research research on “Reproductive findings.a PHOTOS BY DEVCOM / JF ALDON DEVCOM / JF BY PHOTOS Development of the - JM DE LA CRUZ Threatened Giant Grouper E. Partnership inked for coastal resource enhancement project at Lahuy Islands To rehabilitate the degraded AQD’s Tigbauan Main Station has been considered as a With SEAFDEC/AQD’s coastal resources and reduce in Iloilo, Philippines. replication site adopting the experience, it will be in- stress to the marine ecosystem The collaborative strategies of the successful charge of providing technical in Caramoan, Camarines research project will involve Community-Based Resource advice based on the CBRE Sur, the Partido State socioeconomic and resource Enhancement (CBRE) project project in Sagay. SEAFDEC/ University (PSU) partnered assessment; social and of SEAFDEC/AQD and the AQD’s researchers and with SEAFDEC/AQD for the biophysical preparation of the Government of Japan-Trust technical team in-charge implementation of a resource enhancement site; and stock Fund 6 in Molocaboc, Sagay of the project will also enhancement project at the enhancement of abalone and City, Negros Occidental. The participate in some field Lahuy Group of Islands. sandfish, if proven suitable in Caramoan site was evaluated activities at the site and The two institutions sealed the area. in a preliminary social in fisherfolk community their partnership on 11 April Prior to the agreement assessment conducted by PSU meetings in Lahuy Island. a 2019 through an agreement signing, the Lahuy Group and SEAFDEC/AQD in May - RH LEDESMA signing held at SEAFDEC/ of Islands in Caramoan 2017 together with the local stakeholders. PHOTO BY DEVCOM / JF ALDON

Representatives from Partido State University and SEAFDEC/AQD seal their partnership during a signing ceremony last 11 April 2019 AQD extends agreement with KESI for another 20 years

SEAFDEC/AQD inked an agreement with Kinaadman Elementary School, Inc. (KESI) on 6 March 2019 at SEAFDEC/AQD’s main station in Tigbauan, Iloilo which allows the school to continue its operation within the SEAFDEC/AQD compound for another 20 years beginning 1 June 2021. SEAFDEC/AQD was represented by its chief Mr. Dan Baliao and PHOTO BY DEVCOM / JF ALDON Administration and Finance Representatives of SEAFDEC/AQD and KESI seal the agreement with a handshake last 6 March 2019 Division Head Ms. Amelita Subosa while Kinaadman president of the KESI Board KESI Board of Trustees were Elementary School, Inc. of Trustees and Mr. Edmundo also present to witness the (KESI) was represented by Escobañez, principal of KESI. signing of the agreement. a Ms. Jennifer Hope Tueres, The other members of the - RH LEDESMA

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 7 Fijians choose SEAFDEC/AQD as training ground for sandfish culture

Aiming to start a small-scale institutions that can provide expectations they brought will The trainees from commercial sandfish hatchery, us the needed information be filled when they return to Fiji, together with other three Fijians searched the and the skills required for us their respective countries. participants from Papua world over and found the to succeed in our ventures. “Indeed, our baskets were New Guinea (1), and the platform they needed for So we selected to attend the full with the 16-day training. Philippines (2), attended learning the culture of SEAFDEC/AQD training Thank you so much [to] all SEAFDEC/AQD’s 16- the prized commodity at program…” said Solomoni the technical team for the day training course titled SEAFDEC/AQD in Iloilo, Suguta, one of the trainees practical skills, the lectures, “Sandfish (Holothuria scabra) Philippines. from Fiji. the theories… we are so Seed Production, Nursery “We scan around the He shared their high privileged to be attending the and Management” held at globe to see which among the hopes that the “baskets” of course,” said Suguta. Tigbauan Main Station in Iloilo, Philippines on 25 March-8 April 2019. The training course covered lectures and practical activities on natural food culture, sandfish spawning induction, and larval rearing. The course also included field tours to nursery culture sites and sandfish sea ranching sites. Grow-out culture and sandfish processing were taken up as well during the course. a - DEVCOM PHOTO BY DEVCOM / JF ALDON

Trainees learn to monitor sandfish in nursery pens at the Igang Marine Station

Philippine aquaculturists train on feeding management

In preparation for a national Dr. Lydia Morales, head feeds, particularly for milkfish SEAFDEC departments, feed development program of Fish Nutrition Section and tilapia. At present 50 to TD and MFRDMD, the which will be conducted of BFAR in Muñoz, Nueva 70% of the cost of aquaculture resource persons were very between AQD, the Bureau Ecija Province, said the is attributed to feeds. knowledgeable in the topics of Fisheries and Aquatic feed development project Meanwhile, Dr. Rayos said and the staff are experienced Resources (BFAR), and the is ultimately meant to help that just like the trainings in dealing with people and National Fisheries Research farmers lower their costs for they received from other handling visitors. a and Development Institute - DEVCOM (NFRDI), 21 aquaculturists from different Philippine regions attended a training course on Feeds and Feeding Management on 26 February to 5 March 2019. Dr. Joseph Christopher Rayos, OIC of the Fish and Nutrition Section of NFRDI said that the collaborative project will be conducted this year and next year and the training is meant to help them in the supervision and implementation of the project. Trainees at the AQD feed mill observing the feed preparation procedures PHOTO BY DEVCOM / RD DIANALA

8 MARCH - APRIL 2019 aqd matters Feature story Neglected leaves may revolutionize aquaculture

Terminalia catappa leaves hold promise to solve fundamental problems in aquaculture

Broad red leaves litter the and health of various aquatic soon became food for the “Aqueous extract of driveway at the Southeast species. ayungin larvae. It might have tropical almond leaves are Asian Fisheries Development Recently, SEAFDEC/ also been possible that the known to contain tannins Center (SEAFDEC) in AQD scientist Dr. Frolan Aya, accumulation of leaves at the known to enhance water Tigbauan, Iloilo during the demonstrated that simply tank bottom reduced water quality by reducing pH and dry season. Months earlier, littering hatchery tanks with motion and allowed the larvae TAN levels,” the paper said. the leaves were a brilliant talisay leaves significantly to conserve their energy Further, other studies have green before turning into improves the survival of the instead of going against the shown that talisay leaf extracts shades of yellow, orange and larvae of ayungin, or silver flow of current. also possess antimicrobial red before falling away from therapon, Leiopotherapon “The darkening of the and antifungal properties the tall talisay trees lined up plumbeus. rearing lake water may also due to the presence of an along the road. The leaves, which were provide a good background array of beneficial organic Groundsmen armed with simply added and allowed or contrast for the larvae compounds. a leaf blower and broomsticks to decompose in the culture to efficiently capture its Placing dried talisay leaves promptly gather the leaves for tanks, resulted in a 48% prey, thus contributing to in culture tanks appears to disposal early every morning. survival of ayungin larvae. better feeding success and provide both the physical Their office says the leaves are Meanwhile, those without the consequently significantly benefit of a leaf litter substrate dumped in one place if not leaf substrate only achieved a improved larval survival as well as the leaching of buried. Not too many people 27% survival rate. in the present study,” the desirable organic chemicals to know that these dried talisay Dr. Aya’s study is paper added, noting the the rearing water. While the leaves scattered around the published in the 66th volume decomposing leaves caused method seems simple, more Aquaculture Department of the journal Ichthyological the water to darken. study is still needed, especially of SEAFDEC hold almost Research published this 2019. Indeed, previous studies on new applications. magical properties that can His co-authors are Ms. Vicar have shown that the mere Perhaps, soon, the broad solve fundamental problems Stella Nillasca, Ms. Mary Jane presence of leaf litter in red leaves littering the in the aquaculture industry. Sayco and Dr. Luis Maria culture tanks presents some SEAFDEC driveway will be The leaves of the common Garcia. advantages to improve fish no more. They will all be talisay, also known as the The study supposed that survival. However, other stashed away in hatcheries Indian or tropical almond the presence of the leaf litter studies using only extracts of and laboratories, no longer tree, are rich in tannins and allowed small organisms, such the talisay leaf, without the neglected, because of their a host of organic compounds as zooplankton and insect litter, have shown significant almost magical properties. a that conditions the water larvae, to colonize the leaf improvements in the survival - RD DIANALA and improve the survival surfaces. These organisms of fish and even tiger shrimp, Penaeus monodon.

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 9 JICA Cambodia send MARDeC staff neighboring countries like to AQD for aquaculture training Thailand and Vietnam,” Ao Veasna said. Ao also shared that while MARDeC is already producing seabass fingerlings, they are aiming to extend work to other species such as grouper. Their training covered lectures and practical sessions on the biology, ecology, and culture of grouper, including seed production, natural food culture, feed preparation and Trainees from the Marine Aquaculture Research Development Center (Cambodia) who trained at AQD on grouper culture and fish health management feed management. Grouper broodstock sampling at the To boost the marine culture while Mey Sothea only started recently, in 1993, Igang Marine Station was also aquaculture industry in and Tey Teong trained on beginning with small net done. Cambodia, the Japan fish health management. cages. However, the lack of Meanwhile, Mey and Tey International Cooperation They are all from the technical information and underwent training on aquatic Agency (JICA) funded four Marine Aquaculture knowledge led them to seek diseases including necropsy, Cambodian technical staff to Research Development training. virology, bacteriology, train on the culture of grouper Center (MARDeC) in Preah “That’s why we are here, mycology, and parasitology. and fish health management Sihanouk, Cambodia which we try to boost our marine Histopathology and other at AQD from 4 February to 1 was established in 2012, also aquaculture techniques, microbiological techniques March 2019. with JICA assistance. do an extension to the were also covered by the Oem Ramana and Ao The trainees said marine farmers, and also try to training course. Veasna trained on grouper aquaculture in Cambodia eliminate importing from the Future plans

Aimeliik State Gov visits AQD’s mangrove crab hatchery With regards to fish disease, Ao Veasna shared their limitation on the techniques, materials, and equipment to diagnose, as well as process samples in MARDeC. He plans to propose to their superior and partners to support them in establishing a well-equipped laboratory. For seed production, their target is to expand to more fish species including pompano, siganid, milkfish and mullet. In addition, they plan to set up biosecurity measures in their hatchery PHOTO BY DEVCOM / JM DELA CRUZ and laboratory. Ms. Joana Joy Huervana, associate researcher and mangrove crab expert from SEAFDEC/AQD, shows a mangrove crab spawner to “Cambodia is also one of Governor Obak the members of SEAFDEC, SEAFDEC/AQD is one The governor expressed back to his State to help his but we still have limited of the stops visited by Mr. his interest on the farming constituents start their own capacity in the marine Demei Obak, governor of systems used by AQD to tank farms. hatchery, and also for the the State of Aimeliik, during culture mangrove and Aimeliik is a state of freshwater. We are looking his fisheries-related tour other fish commodities. The Republic of Palau, an island forward to collaborating around Iloilo last 8 April goal of his visit is to bring country located in the western with SEAFDEC and other 2019. the technical knowledge he Pacific Ocean. a development partners to learned from the experts - JM DE LA CRUZ implement a project, and also conduct research and share knowledge,” Ao said. a - DEVCOM Australian Deputy Head of Mission visits ACIAR-funded studies communities and the value chains,” said Kimberley after his tour. This year, ACIAR is supporting the study on “Breeding and seed production of giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus)” and “Increasing technical skills supporting community-based sea cucumber production in Vietnam and the Philippines.” “I think the partnership has stood the test of time and it has been going for quite a while. I think it shows what real positive can come from [deep] institutional and personal linkages, so Mr. Mat Kimberly (leftmost), deputy head of mission of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, interacts with a sandfish breeder shown to him by Dr. Jon Altamirano (third from left.) With them are Ms. Mai Alagcan (second from right), ACIAR Philippines country manager and Ms. a continuing partnership Jasmine Valcic (rightmost) of Austrade between Australia and the Philippines here is an example Mat Kimberley, deputy head Kimberley, with his leaders of the sandfish and of what the two countries can of mission of the Australian delegation from ACIAR and grouper studies. do,” he added. Embassy in the Philippines, the Australian Embassy, “Really, really impressive. Kimberley was with Ms. visited SEAFDEC/AQD toured the Igang Marine The research that’s going on Mai Alagcan, ACIAR country facilities to see the ongoing Station and the Tigbauan here across all aspects that manager (Philippines), Ms. studies on grouper and Main Station last 10 and 11 we’ve seen this afternoon Mariel Eduarte, media and sandfish which are funded April. They were briefed on shows what can be done public affairs manager of the by the Australian Centre for the research activities by with good cooperation and Australian Embassy in the International Agricultural Dr. Jon Altamirano and Dr. good research and with a Philippines, and Ms. Jasmine Research (ACIAR). Evelyn Grace Ayson, study good understanding of the Valcic of Austrade. a - DEVCOM ALL PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE BY DEVCOM / JF ALDON

Mr. Mat Kimberley (leftmost) closely inspects the grouper breeders in the Igang Marine Station floating cages

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 11 Chinese Universities pay a courtesy call on the AQD Chief PHOTO BY DEVCOM / FJ ALDON DEVCOM / FJ BY PHOTO Eighteen professors and researchers from the Ocean University of China, Sun Yat-sen University, and Shanghai University were at SEAFDEC/AQD’s Tigbauan Main Station in Iloilo, Philippines on 11 April 2019 to meet with SEAFDEC/AQD chief Dan Baliao. SEAFDEC/AQD’s Research Division head Dr. Leobert de la Peña and Training and Information Division head Dr. Edgar Amar were also present during the courtesy call. SSS orients employees University of Gothenburg eyes on its recent programs future collaboration with AQD

Mr. Casaquite, SSS account officer for VISMIN Large Account Department, receives a certificate from AFD head Ms. Amelita Subosa and HRMS head Ms. Sunshine Salonga To update the employees on mandatory social insurance recent developments and scheme for SEAFDEC/ programs of Social Security AQD employees. Benefits, PHOTO BY DEVCOM / FJ ALDON

System (SSS), an orientation contributions, payment The University of Gothenburg represented by Dr. Alyssa Joyce had an exploratory was conducted by SSS collections and other meeting with SEAFDEC/AQD for a possible research collaboration. The meeting was representative Mr. Rey Mark important matters were held at SEAFDEC/AQD’s Tigbauan Main Station in Iloilo, Philippines on 11 April 2019. SEAFDEC/AQD officers present during the meeting were the Chief Dan Baliao, Research Casaquite last 8 April 2018 discussed. Division head Dr. Leobert de la Peña, and Nutrition and Feed Development Section head at SEAFDEC/AQD’s Multi- This event was sponsored Dr. Roger Edward Mamauag purpose Hall. by the AQD’s Human The orientation covered Resource Management basic information about the Section. PHOTOS BY DEVCOM / RD DIANALA

AQD employees and the speaker, Mr. Casaquite, during the SSS seminar last 8 April 2019

12 MARCH - APRIL 2019 aqd matters Profiles

BORN TO BE A SCIENTIST: from Engineering to Fisheries

Coming from a family of scientists – from his grandfather, both parents and brother – Dr. Masashi Kodama, a researcher from Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), also became one. “When I was in high school, I thought I have no choice. I have to become a researcher in any field but I didn’t want to follow my family, they’re biologists, either in the academe or the medical field. I went to a different direction, I tried to Dr. Kodama during SEAFDEC/AQD Anniversary Main Program in July 2016 get far from my family and thought civil engineering is Interdisciplinary Graduate examined data collected from sediment quality to evaluate the farthest but turned out, School of Engineering his patients and then assessed the impact from the center of I am doing fisheries which Sciences, Kyushu University. the impact of atomic bomb to feed guard along a transect. belongs to biology, it’s funny, “My family’s origin human body in relationship I also did similar work in I realized you cannot fight is Hiroshima. In 1945, with the distance from the Fukushima from 2011 to 2013 blood,” he narrated. Hiroshima City was destroyed hypocenter.” after the Fukushima nuclear Dr. Kodama obtained by an atomic bomb, and since “I find it interesting, disaster. This was to assess his Ph.D. in Engineering in my grandfather (mother’s my first work here impact of radiation leakage February 2003 under the side) was a medical doctor, (SEAFDEC/ AQD) was about from the nuclear power plant, Department of Earth System he volunteered to do medical environmental impact of so it’s very similar work with Science and Technology, care. He’s also a scientist, so he milkfish culture. I plotted the Continued to next page...

SUGITA-SAN: I want you to remember me when eating takoyaki ALL PHOTOS ON THIS PAGE ARE FROM AQD ARCHIVE Dr. Tsuyoshi Sugita, a Senior Researcher of Japan International Research Center for Agricultural Sciences (JIRCAS), has been known as a friendly and funny Japanese scientist to his colleagues at SEAFDEC/AQD. Coming from Osaka, Japan, he introduced the original takoyaki, or Japanese balls, to his Filipino colleagues. Variants of this snack have become a favorite during small gatherings at his house. “I want you to remember me when eating takoyaki,” he One of Dr. Sugita's candid moments in the halls of SEAFDEC/AQD said. Continued to next page...

aqd matters MARCH - APRIL 2019 13 Continued from previos page He took over Dr. Watanabe’s work on Integrated Multi- Incoming and outgoing BORN TO BE A SCIENTIST Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) my grandfather. Maybe I was and established an on-farm JIRCAS experts discuss their born to be a scientist,” he experiment on the field, as a recollected. visiting scientist. research Not everybody knows “Some people call me that PHOTO BY CC PILOTON this, but Dr. Kodama worked I am Filipinized – Japanese with SEAFDEC for almost and I’m proud because it 10 years. He first visited the means that I have blended Philippines in the year 2010 to well with the Filipino culture” work as an external consultant he added. for an environmental study In April 2019, he will in SEAFDEC/AQD, working return to Japan and work as a with Dr. Satoshi Watanabe. research coordinator in FRA. Back then, he was still based “For my future, I’ll just in the Fisheries Research go with the flow. I am always Agency (FRA) in Japan joking that I’ll be director and was only visiting as a general after 15 years and consultant. then improve the situation Four years later, he worked of the research institution, as a Senior Researcher of the to contribute to the fisheries Japan International Research sector, and also to encourage Center for Agricultural young people, that’s half- Sciences (JIRCAS) based in serious,” he said. a SEAFDEC/AQD (2014-2019). - DEVCOM Incoming Visiting Scientist Dr. Ryogen Nambu receives his certificate of appreciation from Dr. Rolando Platon, culture systems specialist

Japan International Research Study on the relationships Center for Agricultural between artificial fisheries SUGITA-SAN Sciences (JIRCAS) has development and environment: He is quite a good He will transfer from appointed a new researcher to Case studies in Japan cook of Japanese dishes. In JIRCAS to Fisheries Research be based in SEAFDEC/AQD addition, he is also a good Agency (FRA) this April starting from April 2019. Dr. As a Senior Researcher eater of Filipino foods - he 2019 and will be based Ryogen Nambu will succeed at the National Research loves barbeque, isaw, lechon in Hiroshima, Japan for Dr. Masashi Kodama who Institute of Fisheries manok (which he calls rolling his next research venture. worked in AQD since 2014 as Engineering (NRIFE), chicken), and well, Philippine Coincidentally, this new a visiting scientist. Japan Fisheries Research beer. project will focus on the On 19 March, the two and Education Agency, Dr. Dr. Sugita, fondly called culture of octopus- the main Japanese experts gave a back- Nambu introduced two case Sugita-san in SEAFDEC, ingredient of his takoyaki to-back seminar held at the studies: (1) Evaluation of has officially returned to his snack. RD-AVR at the Tigbauan artificial reefs in increasing home country after five and “It’s not a joke, my study Main Station. Dr. Nambu primary production in the a half years of conducting is about octopus aquaculture. presented his two case studies Sea of Kashima; and (2) research in the Philippines as Now the octopus price in in Japan, focusing on the The mechanisms of Asari a visiting scientist. With his Japan is increasing. Most relationship between artificial shellfisheries ground expertise on fish nutrition Filipinos do not eat octopus, fisheries and environment, formation in Ise Bay, Central and , he had but now in Japan, the octopus while Dr. Kodama discussed Japan. successfully developed an is almost imported from the progress of his Integrated “The objective of the first alternative feed for Mauritania, while 10 or 20 Multi-Trophic Aquaculture study is to verify the bottom- milkfish. years ago, from Morocco. (IMTA) study in SEAFDEC/ up effect of artificial reefs in “I will miss everybody’s Octopus aquaculture is AQD. relation to chemical factors smile, beer, rolling chicken, very difficult, it’s not yet such as nutrients, suspended and isaw. I will never forget completely successful,” Sugita- your kindness. Thank you san humorously explained. a very much,” Sugita-san - DEVCOM exclaimed.

14 MARCH - APRIL 2019 aqd matters PHOTO BY CC PILOTON “One of the objectives of they know that we have good IMTA is to mitigate impact by milkfish in the pen, which diversifying nutrient flow, and means that our biological at the same time, diversifying experiment is still successful. yield and increasing income So that’s how I think what by secondary species,” Dr. happened positively,” he Kodama stated. added On his first year, Kodama The IMTA Project is a explored possible site location SEAFDEC/AQD – JIRCAS to conduct the on-farm collaborative study that experiment and decided to started in the year 2011. utilize the facility in Igang, Phase 1 (2011- 2016) is Guimaras. They put up their titled ‘Development of IMTA design in Barangay Integrated Multi-Trophic Outgoing Visiting Scientist Dr. Masashi Kodama receives his certificate of appreciation from Pandaraonan, near Igang Aquaculture Techniques for Dr. Rolando Platon, culture systems specialist Marine Station in the year Livelihood Improvement,’ 2015. while Phase 2 (2016- 2012) solids, and organic matter,” known. Hence, he determined The IMTA candidate is the ‘Demonstration and Dr. Nambu presented. the spatial distribution of species used are milkfish, Verification of Sustainable Artificial reefs have an these benthos organisms. sandfish, and seaweeds. and Efficient Aquaculture important role in increasing Nambu’s technical Their IMTA design was also Techniques by Combination fish stock, improving experience include population modified according to the of Multiple Organisms.’ the nursery grounds and ecology, biochemistry, challenges faced in the field. “I think we can divide this enhancing production in an fisheries engineering, and “This on-farm into three stages. First, there area. A study proved that biomineralization, among demonstration experiment was Dr. Watanabe’s time, that artificial reef area has higher others. He was awarded his is a collaboration with the was based on the laboratory, nutrients, thus, Dr. Nambu is Ph.D. degree on the year local fisherfolk in Brgy. then we brought it out to the expecting similar results for 2006 under the Department Pandaraonan, Guimaras. field, that’s phase two, that’s his study in Kashima Sea, East of Life Science, Faculty of It’s like a community-based my time. We extract the Japan. Bioresources, Mie University. activity with a research actual problems, what are the “For the 2nd case study, institution and the LGU. possible practical solution in the objective is to clarify the Overview and history of IMTA And it was quite interesting the field, and then summarize spatial-temporal distributions study, from ancient to modern to work with those local those problems and how to of the Manila clam and and the recent decade in fisherfolk, I was able to deal with it.’ the surf clam in relation to SEAFDEC/AQD experience their culture. That “After this, we will proceed the topographic features, was a really good experience to more extension [activities] sediment condition and wave According to Dr. Kodama, for me,” Dr. Kodama and explore possible location motions on the flat.” modern IMTA started in the recounted. for an additional case study or According to Dr. Nambu, 1970s. The practice used to be “Since this is a the possible adopter; maybe both Manila clam and surf called polyculture, integrated, community-based activity, the same IMTA design [can clam dominate tidal flats in or ecologically-engineered we also experienced, possibly, be adopted] in a certain Japan. While many previous aquaculture until the term poaching. That’s also a part location to create a map near studies focused on these two Integrated Multi-Trophic of socioeconomic data, for our pilot study. That’s phase , ecological and spatial Aquaculture (IMTA) was me, indicating that that thing three and that will be the task distribution aspects of their defined in 2004. can happen. Also what is for my successor, Dr. Nambu,” early life stage are not yet interesting, it happens after Dr. Kodama explained. a we have a good harvest, so - DEVCOM SEAFDEC/AQD’s thrusts gear towards addressing urgent concerns of the aquaculture industry

SEAFDEC/AQD Chief The program was launched pathogens," Baliao said during The first phase of Dan Baliao reported the in September 2017 in the his presentation. As of the JMANTTP has been Department's new thrusts wake of the devastating moment, the first batch of widely successful and the towards addressing urgent effect of the AHPND disease post-larvae produced has second phase will cover concerns of the aquaculture in Southeast Asia. Current been stocked in collaborating the full operationalization industry during the Network evidence, including shrimp farms. and implementation of of Aquaculture Centres farming success in Thailand Baliao also reported the technology demonstration, in Asia-Pacific's (NACA) in spite of present conditions, collaborative project with and training and information 30th Governing Council points to the more resistant the Bureau of Fisheries and dissemination on the Meetingheld in Guangzhou, nature of P. monodon to the Aquatic Resources (BFAR). various research done by the China. aforementioned disease. "We have also embarked Department. With the success Baliao reported "We have renovated on the second phase of the of the first phase, Baliao has SEAFDEC/AQD's effort to and prepared our facilities Joint Mission for Accelerated every reason to believe that revive black tiger shrimp for new bloodstock and Nationwide Technology the ongoing phase will yield (Peneaus monodon) farming spawners which undergone Transfer and Promotion achievements for the industry. industry through the banner a stringent screening process Program (JMANTTP)," he The development of program Oplan Balik Sugpo. and make them free from added. low-cost and quality diets for major species, which is initially for bloodstock, to support the BFAR's program on Bangus Fry Sufficiency now extends to grow-out. The construction of a BFAR Feed Mill to be hosted by SEAFDEC/AQD at Tigbauan Main Station is in the pipeline. Biosecurity measures in the milkfish hatchery facilities are strictly implemented to ensure a safe fry production. To hasten the production process, additional milkfish were also procured and kept at SEAFDEC/AQD's Integrated Complex. a - MET ALDON / JM DE LA CRUZ

Procured milkfish broodstocks were transported from Guimaras to igbauanT Main Station to hasten the production of fry as part of the BFAR's Bangus Fry Sufficiency Program

Publications Review Committee: Dr. LD de la Peña, Editor this issue: Dr. JP Altamirano, JM dela Cruz Dr. EC Amar, Ms. JJ Huervana, Dr. RE Mamauag, Dr. ND Salayo, Contributing writer-photographers: Dr. EA Tendencia MET Aldon, JF Aldon, JM dela Cruz, MRR Eguia, RD Dianala, RH Ledesma Circulation to friends of AQD: aqd matters SB Alayon is published bimonthly by the Development Communication Section, Editorial consultant: For contributions and feedback, kindly SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department, RD Dianala email: Tigbauan, Iloilo, Philippines [email protected]