Milkfish R&D in the Philippines

Abstract

Culture of milkfish in brackish water ponds has been practiced for many years in the Philippines and recently its culture has expanded to fish cages in marine waters. Following the spontaneous spawning of milkfish in floating net cages in 1979, protocols for its seed production were developed. Studies to determine sustainable culture techniques in ponds and cages were conducted. Studies on nutritional requirements of milkfish at different developmental stages were done to reduce dependence on live prey organisms during hatchery operations and optimize feed formulations for nursery and grow-out cultures. In recent years, research geared towards the environmental impact of milkfish culture and ways to mitigate the negative effects of intensive farming practices. Prospects for the milkfish industry are discussed in light of the recent advances in milkfish R&D and Philippine government initiatives to increase fish production by mariculture.