Philippine E-Journals

Performance of Seahorses in Glass Tanks Fed with Different Food Materials

Bernardita G. Quevedo | Joana Rose I. Salinas | Fabio Ruaza Jr.

 

Abstract:

Performance of seahorses in glass tanks fed with different food materials at Surigao del Sur State University-Lianga Campus,Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Eastern Mindanao, Philippines was conducted to determine the growth and survival rate of seahorses cultured in glass tanks condition with consideration on the food materials like artemia, fry and combination of both fry and artemia and the physico-chemical parameters. Due to high demand of the commodity and rampant gleaning is observable, thus this study is directed for sustainable supply. This experimental study has three set ups glass tanks with replicates done in one month. A 100% survival rate of seahorses was observed after four weeks culture fed with different food materials. Weight and length increment of seahorses with combined feeds; fry and artemia has better result compared with single feed provision. Seahorses fed with fry and artemia alone showed less weight and length increment. The potential impact of the study is to conserve, preserve and protect the seahorse species due to rampant collection and trading locally and outside the region for its economic, medicinal and ornamental importance. An intensified information education campaign on the resource should be initiated to enhance people’s awareness and encourage active participation in the proper stewardship on all existing coastal resources. A bigger project shall be conducted on seahorse species to sustain its species kind.