Stakeholders Perception on Crab Lying-in Hatchery Technology as Resource Enhancement Strategy for Swimming Crabs in Selected Coastal Municipalities in Bicol

Publisher: Bicol University PDF

Abstract

This paper provides an analysis of the stakeholder’s perception about the crab-lying in technology as a resource enhancement strategy for swimming crabs. The study was implemented in collaboration with regional State Universities and Colleges. Data collection was carried out from a randomly selected 58 key informant-respondents. The interview consists of four major aspects, which include knowledge, attitude, practices and perception. All data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result obtained showed 72.41% and 53.50% of the informants have limited knowledge about crab lying-in technology and swimming crab fisheries management, respectively. Those who have knowledge are limited to the fisheries regulatory measures like mesh-size restriction (30%) and fishery law enforcement (12.50%); aquaculture (20%); close season (20%) and crab lying-in technology (17.50%). This could be attributed to the inadequate information dissemination. Blue crab (Portunus pelagicus); Christian crab (Charybdis feriata) and mangrove crab (Scylla serrata) are the most important species known. A decline in production coupled by smaller harvest sizes was noted, indicating signs of overfishing. Interestingly, stakeholders expressed positivity and willingness to support and participate in the protection of crab fishery and its ecosystems. A conflict between the protection of crab fishery and its ecosystems and waste management attitude and practices as an important factor influencing the possibility of potential risk to marine’s resources including crab fisheries due to pollution and environmental contamination was noted. At home and community, improper was disposal was common. Despite this, stakeholders’ perception is inclined to positively support in the resources management initiatives of the government and the crab lying-in technology is seen as a useful tool for resource enhancement. It should be noted however that difference in community knowledge, attitudes, and practices plays a significant role in influencing success or failure of these resource enhancement initiatives. In conclusion, the stakeholder’s positive outlook, willingness to support the crab lying-in technology as a resource enhancement strategy can make a difference. It is recommended that massive information, education and communication campaign about the technology and ecologically solid waste management be implemented.