An Assessment of the Goby Fishery in Laguna de Bay, Philippines


Eliodora C. Mercene and Marvin P. Nasino

Abstract

A multi-stage sampling technique using proportional allocation was employed in the survey of fishing and catches of fisherman around Laguna de Bay. Moreover, the species and size composition, volume and value of the catch were also recorded.

The monthly catch data showed a varying seasonal trend in goby production in the lake. The highest production was registered in the months of March to July for all the types of fishing gear except the motorized pushnet which had its peak production from August to November.

The lake`s estimated annual production of goby or biya take by five major type of fishing gear was 2,279.8 mt valued at P124, 697,910.00. Goby production had increased from 612.4 mt in 1989 to 1167.4 mt in 1990. The gillnet or pante was the most efficient gear for catching the, contributing 50.4% to the total goby production. On the other hand, the drag seine or “pukot” contributed the least volume of the total goby catch with only 3.6%. Length-frequency analysis showed that 9.5 cm long goby comprised the greatest bulk of the catch. This indicated that gobies were being caught before they reach the sexual maturity size 12 cm.

Regulation on the mesh size of the suro nets and the use of high-powered motors are recommended for the motorized pushnets operators because of their destructive effect on the lake fisheries.


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Keywords: goby, fishing gear, catch composition, Laguna de Bay, Philippines


Department of Agriculture Region IV, Los Baños, Laguna