Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

The native giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) is an

economically important species widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions

such as Asia, the Pacific and Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, India, and Northern

Australia (Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO], 2018). They thrive in rivers, lakes,

and estuarine environments, playing a crucial ecological and economic role (Wickins &

Lee, 2002). Known for its large size and high market value, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

has become a significant target for both capture fisheries and aquaculture (New &

Valenti, 2000). Its cultivation has expanded due to increasing global demand for seafood,

making it a popular species in local and international markets (Naylor et al., 2000).

These species have been harvested for food for centuries (Valenti & Tidwell,

2006). Their farming began in earnest in the mid-20th century, benefiting from the

species' adaptability to a range of water conditions, and advancements in hatchery

technology which facilitated large-scale production (Barros & Valenti, 2003). While

aquaculture has been successful in supplementing market demand, it has also

inadvertently contributed to the decline of wild populations by increasing fishing pressure

and disrupting local ecosystems (Pillai & Menon, 2010).

Concerns about the sustainability of wild populations have emerged, primarily

due to overfishing, habitat degradation, and other anthropogenic activities. The primary

issue threatening the abundance of Macrobrachium rosenbergii populations is

overfishing, which has been driven by increasing demand in both domestic and

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international markets (Williams, 2009). Over the past few decades, intensified fishing has

significantly reduced wild stocks in many regions, with some areas reporting a sharp

decline in annual catch volumes (Rao, 2016

Another significant challenge is the competition between wild and farmed

populations. Aquaculture has increasingly relied on hatchery-produced stock to meet

demand, raising concerns about the potential loss of genetic diversity in native

populations and the transmission of diseases from farmed to wild prawns (Ponzoni et al.,

2010). The introduction of non-native prawn species into natural habitats has also placed

additional pressure on wild Macrobrachium rosenbergii, leading to competition for

resources and disrupting local ecosystems (Ghosh et al., 2010). Without effective

management and conservation efforts, the abundance of native macrobrachium

rosenbergii could continue to decline, with severe consequences for biodiversity and local

communities dependent on this species (Rao, 2016).

To mitigate the decline in Macrobrachium rosenbergii populations, integrated

conservation strategies are urgently needed (New & Valenti, 2000). One of the key

challenges is balancing the economic benefits of aquaculture with the preservation of

wild stocks. While aquaculture has helped meet market demand and relieve some

pressure on wild populations, it has also introduced new risks, such as genetic

homogenization and disease transmission (Ponzoni et al., 2010). Sustainable management

practices, such as controlled fishing regulations, habitat restoration, and improved

aquaculture techniques, are necessary to prevent further depletion of wild stocks

(Williams, 2009).
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This study seeks to assess the current abundance of Macrobrachium rosenbergii

populations. This is to raise awareness among local fishing communities and to provide

them with alternative livelihoods that could help reduce overfishing and promote

sustainable fishing practices (Barros & Valenti, 2003).

Objectives of the Study

This study aims to contribute to understanding the abundance of native giant

freshwater prawns. Specifically, this aims to:

1. Identify the native giant freshwater prawn in Ligawasan Marsh specifically in

Lower Taviran and Barangay Buterin.

2. Determine the abundance of native giant freshwater prawns in Ligawasan

Marsh

Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to contribute to the sustainable

management and conservation of the native giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium

rosenbergii), an economically vital species. First, it will provide local government units

(LGUs) with valuable data to guide policy-making and resource management initiatives

aimed at preserving this species and the ecosystems it inhabits. Second, fish farmers

stand to benefit from insights into sustainable aquaculture practices, helping to balance

economic gains with environmental stewardship. Third, vendors and those involved in

the prawn supply chain will gain an understanding of how sustainable fishing practices
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can protect their livelihoods in the long term by ensuring a steady supply of prawns.

Finally, this research will serve as a foundation for future researchers, offering data and

insights that can be expanded upon to further enhance conservation efforts and contribute

to sustainable fisheries management.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study

This study will focus on assessing the abundance of native giant freshwater prawn

(Macrobrachium rosenbergii) populations in the Ligawasan Marsh, located in Mindanao,

Philippines. Specifically, the research will be conducted in Lower Taviran and Barangay

Buterin both situated in the municipality of Kabuntalan, Maguindanao. The study will

include field sampling on the Macrobrachium rosenbergii species within these selected

locations, to determine their current population status and distribution.

The study is delimited to the Macrobrachium rosenbergii species in Ligawasan

Marsh and does not include non-native prawn species, those that were introduced, or

other aquatic organisms. Sampling will be conducted in specific areas of the marsh

known for prawn fishing, and the timeframe is limited to a single season to capture

relevant data on population dynamics. Factors such as seasonal variations in abundance

and long-term population trends will not be covered.

Operational Definition of Terms

To facilitate the understanding of the study, different terms are defined here:
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Abundance refers to the quantity or number of individuals of a particular species present

in a specific area. In this context, it relates to the population size of the native giant

freshwater prawn within Ligawasan Marsh.

Anthropogenic Pressures human activities that negatively impact the environment,

include overfishing, habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change. These pressures

can significantly affect the populations and habitats of aquatic species, such as the native

giant freshwater prawn, highlighting the need for effective management and conservation

strategies.

Investigate to carry out a systematic inquiry or examination to discover facts, gather

information, or understand a specific phenomenon. This study involves exploring the

population dynamics and environmental factors affecting the abundance of

Macrobrachium rosenbergii in Ligawasan Marsh, particularly in Lower Taviran and

Barangay Buterin.

Ligawasan Marsh is a large wetland area located in the Cotabato region of the

Philippines. This marsh serves as an important ecological habitat that supports diverse

aquatic and terrestrial species, and it is a critical area for the conservation of local

biodiversity, including the native giant freshwater prawn.

Native Giant Freshwater Prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) refers to a species that

is indigenous to a particular region or habitat, naturally occurring in areas such as rivers,

lakes, and marshes, rather than being introduced from other regions. Known for its large

size and economic importance in fisheries and aquaculture, Macrobrachium rosenbergii

is typically found in freshwater environments and plays a significant role in the

livelihoods of communities that depend on these ecosystems.