Prawn fisheries of Lake Bato

Abstract

Lake Bato is one of the most important lakes in the Bicol Region in terms of economic benefits to lakeshore communities. It is considered a commercial fishing ground of endemic and indigenous fish species. However, fish production in the lake is declining and now under serious threat. This paper is the result of a preliminary survey on freshwater prawns conducted in July 2001 which could serve as a basis in policy formulation for management and conservation measures to attain sustainability. The fishing gears used in catching prawns in Lake Bato are prawn pot bubo , seine net, and prawn shelter. Two species of Palaemonid prawns were noted in the area but the dominant species was Macrobrachium idella, locally known as buyod . It was reported that M. idella is caught year-round but peak season is observed during summer. Based on samples measured, males of M. idella were larger than females. Fisherfolks reported that berried prawns are observed throughout the year but peak season is noted in March to April. The average prawn catch during the survey is 13 kg/fisherfolk/day with an estimated production of about 0.646 MT/day is sold in local and export markets. The average gross income is about P520.00 to P780.00/fisherfolk/day and an estimated total gross income of P26,000.00 to P32,000.00/day. Major issues/ problems related to capture fisheries in the lake are the following: deteriorating habitat, overfishing, and the absence of a management plan.