Home⇛Uswag Journal: Philippine Journal of Multidisciplinary Research⇛vol. 2 no. 2 (2024)

Species Composition and Reproductive Biology of Flying Fish (Exocoetidae) in Southern Catanduanes Island, Philippines

Ma. Cecilia T. Arcilla

Discipline: biology (non-specific)

 

Abstract:

Flying fish are extensively fished for food and as baitfish in Southern Catanduanes. This fishery has existed over time and supported the livelihood of municipal fishers in the area. However, no studies have been conducted in order to determine the species of flying fish and its reproductive biology which could be used as basis for its management and conservation. This study was conducted from March to May 2019 and February to June 2020 with the aim of identifying the species of flying fish and determine its reproductive biology. Species of flying fish were identified using morphological characteristics. Five species belonging to two genera (Cheilopogon and Cypselurus) were identified from the fishing ground. For the reproductive biology, gonad samples from Cheilopogon spilopterus were collected on a monthly basis and morphological and histological examinations were conducted. Results showed that the sex ratio of 1 M: 1.2 F is not significantly different from the expected ratio of 1:1 (df = 1; χ2 (0.05) = 3.841). Higher gonadosomatic index (GSI) was observed in March, April and May of both years. During this period, only three developmental stages were observed both morphologically and histologically, namely (1) maturing, (2) mature and (3) spent stages. Different stages of oocyte development were also observed. Mature individuals of this species are found from March to May which coincides with the peak fishing season in the area. Knowledge about the species of flying fish as well as its reproductive biology will aid fisheries managers to device management plan in order to avoid overexploitation and eventual depletion of this resource in the local waters.



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