ACIAR FISHERIES PROGRAM PROJECT PROFILES 2014

ACIAR FISHERIES PROGRAM PROJECT PROFILES

2014

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction to the ACIAR Fisheries Program .................................................................................. 4 INDONESIA ........................................................................................................................................ 7

ACTIVE PROJECTS ..................................................................................................................... 7 FIS/2007/124: Diversification of smallholder coastal aquaculture in Indonesia ............................. 7 SMAR/2008/021: Spiny lobster aquaculture development in Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia ... 16 FIS/2009/059: Developing research capacity for management of Indonesia’s pelagic fisheries

resources................................................................................................................ 23 FIS/2011/030: Strategic plan for ACIAR engagement in developing Indonesia’s capture fisheries

research and management capacity ...................................................................... 28 FIS/2011/038: Scoping study for fish health-mariculture in Indonesia, and rabbitfish aquaculture

development ........................................................................................................... 31 FIS/2010/101: Improving fish health management and production protocols in marine finfish

aquaculture in Indonesia and Australia ................................................................ 37 FIS/2010/097: Exploring options for improving livelihoods and resource management in Timor-

Leste’s coastal communities .................................................................................. 43

RECENTLY CONCLUDED ........................................................................................................ 48 FIS/2011/068: Strategy for investment in fisheries in East Timor .................................................. 48

MEKONG ...................................................................................................................................... 53 ACTIVE PROJECTS ................................................................................................................... 53 FIS/2009/041: Development of fish passage technology to increase fisheries production on

floodplains in the lower Mekong and Murray-Darling River basins ..................... 53 FIS/2010/058: Assessing economic and welfare values of fish in the Lower Mekong Basin ......... 60 FIS/2011/013: Culture-based Fisheries Development in Lao PDR and Cambodia ....................... 64 FIS/2011/052 Improving research and development of Myanmar's inland and coastal fisheries

(MYFish) ................................................................................................................ 70 FIS/2012/100: Improving the design of irrigation infrastructure to increase fisheries production in

floodplain wetlands of the Lower Mekong and Murray-Darling Basins ............... 74 SMCN/2010/083: Improving the sustainability of rice-shrimp farming systems in the Mekong

Delta, Vietnam ....................................................................................................... 78 FIS/2010/100: Enhancing bivalve production in northern Vietnam & Australia ........................... 83

RECENTLY CONCLUDED ........................................................................................................ 88 FIS/2012/037: Preliminary trials on giant grouper maturation, spawning and juvenile production

in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia ............................................................. 88 FIS/2011/072: Pilot study for development of fish friendly irrigation and mini hydro design

criteria for application in the Mekong and Murray-Darling Basins ..................... 91 FIS/2006/141: Improving feed sustainability for marine aquaculture in Vietnam and Australia .. 96

PAPUA NEW GUINEA .................................................................................................................... 101

ACTIVE PROJECTS ................................................................................................................. 101 FIS/2013/015: Sustainable Management of Sport Fisheries for Communities in Papua New

Guinea ................................................................................................................. 101 FIS/2008/023: Increasing production from inland aquaculture in Papua New Guinea for food and

income security .................................................................................................... 104 FIS/2010/054: Mariculture development in New Ireland, Papua New Guinea ............................ 109 FIS/2012/102: Sustainable management of the shark resources of Papua New Guinea:

socioeconomic and biological characteristics of the fishery ............................... 115 FIS/2010/055: Building research and project management skills in fisheries staff in PNG ........ 119

RECENTLY CONCLUDED ...................................................................................................... 123 FIS/2011/071: Scoping potential livelihood benefits and costs of sport fisheries in PNG ........... 123

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FIS/2011/049: Evaluation of the potential for commercial aquaculture of the freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii in Papua New Guinea ............................................ 125

PACIFIC ISLANDS .......................................................................................................................... 128 ACTIVE PROJECTS ................................................................................................................. 128 FIS/2010/056: Scaling-out community-based marine resource governance in Solomon Islands,

Kiribati and Vanuatu ........................................................................................... 128 FIS/2010/057: Developing inland aquaculture in the Solomon Islands ....................................... 134 FIS/2012/074: Improving Community-based Fisheries Management in Pacific Countries ......... 138 FIS/2009/057: Pearl industry development in the western Pacific .............................................. 143 FIS/2010/096: Evaluating the impacts of improving postharvest processing of sea cucumbers in

the Western Pacific .............................................................................................. 149 FIS/2014/018: Understanding Pearl Oyster Mortality in Fiji ...................................................... 155 FIS/2010/098: Diversification of Seaweed Industries in Pacific Island Countries ...................... 159 FIS/2012/076: Improving community-based aquaculture in Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa and Vanuatu . 164

PHILIPPINES .................................................................................................................................... 167 ACTIVE PROJECTS ....................................................................................................................... 167 FIS/2010/042: Expansion and Diversification of Production and Management Systems for Sea

Cucumbers in the Philippines, Vietnam and northern Australia ......................... 167 FIS/2011/031: Coral reef restoration using mass coral larval reseeding .................................... 174 FIS/2012/101: Developing technologies for giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) aquaculture

in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia ........................................................... 179

AFRICA .................................................................................................................................... 184

ACTIVE PROJECTS ................................................................................................................. 184 FIS/2011/069: Technical support for pearl culture in coastal Tanzania...................................... 184

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Introduction to the ACIAR Fisheries Program ACIAR's R & D programs are broadly clustered around the areas of crops, livestock, fisheries, forestry, natural resources, and economics. The Fisheries Program, through research partnerships, assists collaborating agencies to build and sustain their capacity to manage capture fisheries and aquaculture industries for improved incomes and food security. The 2014 portfolio of 30 active projects covers issues related to the management of capture fisheries and aquaculture, including the development of innovative resource management approaches; the elimination of serious adverse environmental impacts arising from fishing or farming practices; better utilisation of existing harvests; and the development of improved technologies and sustainable aquatic farming systems. ACIAR is committed to active engagement with local communities, resource managers, extension agencies and policy makers in project design and execution to promote informed local ownership and effective engagement. The geographic focus of the program is in South-East Asia (Indonesia, Timor Leste, the Philippines and Mekong countries), Papua New Guinea and Pacific island countries. There is an approximately 50:50 split of the portfolio across aquaculture and wild harvest. Aquaculture Aquaculture is an important element in meeting the escalating demand for aquatic food and in livelihood development in partner countries. The program aims to develop and promote the application of technologies to increase production efficiency, while better understanding and managing production and market-related risks. Particular attention is given to areas where there is complementarity of interests and scientific skills between Australian and overseas partners. The primary areas of ACIAR's involvement in aquaculture include:

• Improved nutrition, the better use of on-farm feed sources, and the development of cost-effective feed formulations;

• Integration of aquaculture into existing small-scale farming systems; • Diagnosis, control and management of aquatic diseases; • Developing fisheries in inland water bodies, based on stocking of hatchery-produced

juvenile fish; • Domestication and breed improvement of promising new species; • Mariculture and sea-ranching options; • Production of pearls and related products, and seaweeds, in Pacific countries.

Fisheries and aquatic resource management ACIAR's research in capture fisheries focuses on development of quantitative assessment methods, resource and habitat rehabilitation issues, and innovative management approaches. Current research areas include:

• Assessments of stock status and the impacts of fishing and other factors on multi-species fisheries;

• Development of innovative management strategies that successfully accommodate and integrate resource, environment and community concerns for sustainability and equity of access;

• Evaluation of artificial stocking; • Pre- and post-harvest interventions to improve utilisation of existing harvests, reduce waste

and eliminate undesirable or destructive harvest technologies; • Rehabilitation of coral reefs, including facilitating coral spawning and settlement; • Management (including stocking of hatchery-reared juveniles) and post-harvest processing

of sea cucumber.

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Snapshot of the Fisheries Program 2014 There are currently 30 active projects, of which 5 are small research activities (less than $150,000). The budget summary is below, along with the regional break up in the graphic. Financial Year 2011-12 2012-13 2013-14 2014-15 2015-16 Total FIS spend $000s 5,042 5,744 8,626 8,237 8,198

The split of funding across capture fisheries and aquaculture for the 3 financial years 2013-14 to 2015-16 is roughly 50:50, as can be seen in the graphic below. The “shared” category is for six projects which work across both capture fisheries and aquaculture.

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Further information More information on all ACIAR activities is available at www.aciar.gov.au, and in the current ACIAR Operational Plan and Annual Report. FISHERIES PROGRAM STAFF CONTACT DETAILS Dr Chris Barlow Research Program Manager

+61-2-6217-0508 [email protected]

Ms Tanya Green Program Support Officer


Dr Jes Sammut Program Consultant (PNG)


http://www.aciar.gov.au/�

mailto:[email protected]�


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INDONESIA

ACTIVE PROJECTS

FIS/2007/124: Diversification of smallholder coastal aquaculture in Indonesia Partner Countries Indonesia

Australian Project Leader Professor Richard Whittington

University of Sydney

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Mike Rimmer, Makassar, Indonesia Mr Sugeng Raharjo, Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Centre Takalar, Indonesia Mr Abidin Nur, Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Centre Ujung Batee, Indonesia Dr Andi Parenrengi, Research Institute for Coastal Aquaculture, Indonesia Dr Projo Danoedoro. Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia

Project Budget $1,995,695

Project Duration 01/03/2010 to 30/06/2015

Project Outline/Background While brackishwater pond (tambak) aquaculture in Indonesia is an important livelihood activity in coastal areas, many small-scale farmers are struggling to continue farming shrimp. Viral diseases are causing crop losses, input costs (particularly for feed) are rising, and commodity prices for shrimp are declining due to strong competition in a global marketplace. As a result, many farms are out of production or are producing limited quantities of shrimp; recent ACIAR-funded research has revealed that while small-scale shrimp farms predominate in South Sulawesi, they only contribute about 5% of total provincial shrimp production. While some farms have successfully adopted Better Management Practices (BMPs) for shrimp farming to overcome production constraints, successful implementation depends on specific site-related, socio-economic and logistical criteria being met. A large proportion of farms will not be able to meet the criteria required for shrimp BMP implementation; consequently, these farms must be provided with alternative production strategies if they are to remain (or become) viable. This project will test and evaluate the economic viability of alternative commodities for brackishwater pond culture such as tilapia, milkfish, grouper, crabs and sea cucumbers. Evaluation trials will be undertaken in South Sulawesi and Aceh provinces to build on the outcomes of previous and ongoing ACIAR projects, including FIS/2002/076, FIS/2005/169 and FIS/2006/002. The project will also incorporate support for mariculture development on offshore islands of Aceh province, particularly Pulau Simeulue. Trials on lobster puerulus collection and grow-out will be undertaken with support from ACIAR project SMAR/2008/021 ‘Spiny lobster aquaculture development in eastern Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia’. Additionally, grow-out trials with grouper will be undertaken in collaboration with the fish seed production centre (BBIP) on Pulau Simeulue to promote the use of more sustainable culture practices developed under FIS/2002/077. The main expected impact of this project will be to increase the income of tambak farmers in South Sulawesi and Aceh provinces who, for a range of reasons, are unable to farm shrimp. Socio-

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economic survey data from South Sulawesi survey indicate that 53% of tambak farming households have a total monthly income less than AUD 60. In Aceh, about 50% of people involved in tambak farming fall below the poverty threshold. Social benefits will accrue from increased social stability due to increased employment opportunities in rural areas and increased access to seafood, with resultant health benefits.

Objectives The project goal is: To improve the productivity and profitability of small-holder coastal aquaculture and mariculture in South Sulawesi and Aceh provinces of Indonesia through diversification of production and the identification and evaluation of advisory systems to support implementation. The project objectives are:

• To develop and bio-economically evaluate simple production diversification options for small-scale pond farmers in South Sulawesi and Aceh;

• To develop finfish and lobster mariculture development as livelihood options on offshore islands in Aceh;

• To identify information requirements and approaches to enhance technology adoption and adaptation for smallholder aquaculture systems

Achievements Tilapia Trials in Aceh and South Sulawesi have demonstrated that tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) is a viable production alternative to shrimp culture in coastal ponds at low salinities. At salinities <20 ppt tilapia perform well but at higher salinities they exhibit slow growth and a high incidence of disease associated with bacterial (Streptococcus) infection. Trials co-culturing tilapia with milkfish (Chanos chanos) demonstrated that milkfish is a better option at salinities >20 ppt. A key element of our research is evaluating the profitability of alternative production options. For this we are using a reference value for the profitability of shrimp culture of IDR 1–5 million per hectare per crop cycle (two crop cycles per year). From a total of 95 tilapia trial ponds, 50 (53%) were ‘profitable’, i.e. gave a positive financial return. Thirty-five ponds (37%) were ‘successful’, i.e. gave a return greater than our reference value of IDR 1 million per hectare per crop cycle. The major problems experienced with tilapia culture have been:

• Flooding of ponds during the rainy season, leading to crop losses. • High salinities during the dry season causing outbreaks of Streptococcus and reduced

growth in the tilapia. • Poor pond preparation by farmers, leading to ‘contamination’ of trial ponds with mujaer

(Oreochromis mossambicus). To evaluate some of the various selectively-bred strains of tilapia now available in Indonesia, a comparison of 4 tilapia strains was undertaken in South Sulawesi by Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Centre (BADC) Takalar. The experiment showed that the best production from a traditional pond was from a ‘Red’ strain of tilapia. However, ‘red’ tilapia are less favoured in markets in both South Sulawesi and Aceh where they bring lower prices than ‘black’ strains. Consequently, the best economic performance was obtained from a GESIT×GIFT cross. A second tilapia strain evaluation was carried out with the local (South Sulawesi) ‘Jabir’ strain of O. niloticus crossed with ‘Sultana’ and ‘GIFT’ strains. While this trial showed differential growth

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and survival of the various crosses, another trial will be undertaken in 2014 to compare these results directly using GIFT as the reference strain. Because feed is a major component of production costs, the project has evaluated the aquatic weed Ceratophyllum as a cheap (effectively free) feed for tilapia in brackishwater ponds. Tilapia fed Ceratophyllum grew faster than unfed control fish and at harvest were almost 30% larger (average body weight) than the control group. Farmers in both Aceh and South Sulawesi are generally positive about tilapia culture, particularly during the rainy season when salinities are low and there is a greater risk of shrimp mortality due to white-spot disease. A socio-economic survey of tilapia farmers in Aceh (including project participants and non-participants) showed that farmers were generally positive about tilapia culture and listed positive attributes as: easy to grow, low risk, and more profitable than milkfish. Some farmers pointed out that tilapia could be polycultured with other species or alternated with shrimp crops (wet season tilapia, dry season shrimp). Tilapia is not only a cash crop for traditional farmers. Farmers in Aceh report that their households consume 1–5 kg of tilapia per week, indicating that tilapia production is an important contributor to food security and an important source of protein for low-income rural families. Swimming crab Trials with swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus) grow-out in ponds have been disappointing. Out of a total of 18 pond trials, only 3 have been successful, giving success and profitabilty rates of only 17%. Two major problems have affected the swimming crab trials. Firstly, flooding (associated with heavy rain and spring tides) has caused loss of the stocked crabs. Secondly, it is very difficult to harvest the crabs efficiently from traditional brackishwater ponds which lack functional drainage systems. Polyculture of crabs with seaweed (see below) reduces the risk of crop loss to the farmer, but most income is generated by sale of seaweed. More recent (2013) trials by a single farmer demonstrated more positive results but overall swimming crab grow-out shows limited application to brackishwater pond farmers. Seaweed Another commodity providing a diversification option for coastal aquaculture farmers is the edible seaweed Caulerpa, known locally as ‘lawi-lawi’. Seaweed culture trials in Laikang, Takalar district, were undertaken by BADC Takalar, with support for the local farmer group provided by UNHAS and BADC Takalar. Twenty of the 24 ponds involved in this trial were profitable, with many generating profit far in excess of our reference revenue of IDR 1–5 million per hectare per crop (Fig. 1). One farmer generated revenue in excess of IDR 60 million in the period February – October 2012, and used the money to build a new house. However, by late 2012 the success of Caulerpa culture had caused over-supply in the local market, and prices paid to farmers decreased. This caused some farmers to cease culturing seaweed. However, the revenue obtained by the farmers who continued in 2013 was still comparable with, or better than, returns from shrimp farming.

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To address aspects of the food safety of Caulerpa consumption, a range of samples of Caulerpa from production ponds and from island sites were analysed to check the levels of metals in the tissue. Levels of arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead and tin were all below the limits set by the Indonesian National Standardisation Agency (BSN ICS 67.220.20). Lobster Assessment of lobster puerulus resources in Aceh is being carried out in collaboration with SMAR/2008/021 ‘Spiny lobster aquaculture development in Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia’. Puerulus collectors were established at three locations on Pulau Simeulue, which has an existing lobster fishery and established market linkages. No puerulus were found on the collectors located close to the main centre (Sinabang) which could easily be monitored. Villages in the north-western part of the island report good puerulus settlement, but it is difficult to monitor these remote locations effectively. In 2012, the project moved the research site to Pulau Breueh, near Banda Aceh. Catches from Pulau Breueh have been small, but reasonably consistent (Fig. 2). In late 2013 the project also established puerulus collectors at Lamno district, Aceh Jaya.

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Rabbitfish Rabbitfish (Siganus spp.) are popular in South Sulawesi where they bring good prices in the local market and consequently have potential as a commodity for tambak grow-out. The project is undertaking several research and development activities to evaluate the aquaculture potential of rabbitfish:

Figure 2: Number of lobster puerulus collected using three different settlement substrates on collectors at Pulau Breueh, near Banda Aceh.

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Constraints to hatchery production of rabbitfish are being addressed in collaboration with Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi and BADC Takalar, to isolate and culture very small rotifers as an initial feed for rabbitfish larvae (see project profile for SRA FIS/2011/038 for additional information). The Institute for Brackishwater Aquaculture Research and Development at Maros, South Sulawesi, is undertaking digestibility and feeding trials with rabbitfish to support feed development. The ACIAR project, in collaboration with the South Sulawesi NGO Sea Conservation Foundation (Yayasan Konservasi Laut – YKL) is undertaking a grow-out trial with wild-caught rabbitfish at Pulau Tanakeke, near Takalar. Technology adoption The project is close to meeting (South Sulawesi) or has exceeded (Aceh) its targets for farmer adoption of alternative commodities for production in brackishwater ponds, i.e. 100 farmers in South Sulawesi and 50 farmers in Aceh. Province District No. active adopters Commodities

South Sulawesi Target: 100 farms

Maros 28 Tilapia Pangkep 16 Tilapia Takalar 29 Seaweed, swimming crab Pulau Tanakeke 17 Rabbitfish

Total South Sulawesi 90

Aceh Target: 50 farms

Aceh Tamiang 19 Tilapia Kota Langsa 3 Tilapia Aceh Timur 2 Tilapia Bireuen 40 Tilapia Pidie 5 Tilapia Aceh Jaya 6 Tilapia Aceh Barat 4 Tilapia

Total Aceh 79 Two different approaches are being used to support farmer adoption in the two provinces. In South Sulawesi a traditional model of farmer group development is being used. BADC Takalar in collaboration with Hasanuddin University, Makassar, has established farmer groups in Pangkep (2 groups), Maros (5 groups) and Takalar (4 groups) districts. In Aceh, BADC Ujung Batee has established farmer-operated nurseries that supply seedstock to surrounding farms. To date, the project has established nurseries in Langsa (Aceh Timur), Samalanga and Pulau Naleung (Bireuen), Calang (Aceh Jaya) and Nagan Raya, and there is ongoing demand for development of these small nursery operations to support growing interest in tilapia farming. Project staff are tracking the purchasers of seedstock from these nurseries to assess farmer response to trialling new commodities (Fig. 4). Pond suitability mapping The project also includes a research component of land / pond suitability mapping to develop advisory materials for local government and farmer groups. The mapping research is limited to the project field sites in South Sulawesi, to evaluate the application of fine-scale survey and mapping for suitability maps for the commodities being evaluated.

Future Plans and Activities The project has largely concluded production evaluations of commodities, with the exception of rabbitfish. The research focus for the final year of the project will shift to documenting approaches

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to technology adoption in both Aceh and South Sulawesi. The project is evaluating two different models of technology adoption: a formal farmer group approach in South Sulawesi, and the grow-out by farmers of tilapia purchased from the farmer-managed nurseries in Aceh. Assessment of these two different approaches to technology adoption will provide valuable information on how to ‘scale-out’ new technologies for smallholder coastal aquaculture farmers in Indonesia.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Richard Whittington University of Sydney, Australia

+61 2 9351-1619 [email protected]

Dr Mike Rimmer University of Sydney

+62 (0411) 420-850 [email protected]

Mr Imran Lapong Counterpart Technical Officer

+62 (0411) 420-850 [email protected]

Assoc. Prof. Jesmond Sammut University of New South Wales

+61 (02) 9385-8281 [email protected]

Dr Joanne Millar Charles Sturt University

+61 (02)6051-9859 [email protected]

Mr Sugeng Raharjo BBAP Takalar


Mr Abidin Nur BBAP Ujung Batee


Dr Andi Parenrengi Research Institute for Coastal Aquaculture, Maros

+62 (0411) 371-544 [email protected]

Dr Projo Danoedoro Gadjah Mada University

+62 (0274) 521-459 [email protected]

Dr Ageng Herianto Gadjah Mada University

+62 (0274) 516-656 [email protected]

Dr Mardiana E. Fachri Hasanuddin University


Ms Irna Sari University of Technology Sydney


Other Collaborators Dr Clive Jones James Cook University


Mr Ujang Komarudin BBL Lombok

+62 (370) 655-467


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Figure 3: Farmers at Arongan village, Bireuen district, Aceh, harvesting tilapia from hapas used to evaluate the effect of feeding the aquatic week Ceratophyllum. Ceratophyllum grows abundantly in ponds in this area, and is effectively a free feed source for tilapia culture.

Figure 4: Map showing the distribution of tilapia fingerlings purchased from the farmer-operated nursery in Aceh Tamiang, to grow-out ponds in the surrounding area. The green marker is the site of the tilapia nursery. The orange markers show the ponds into which the fingerlings have been stocked for grow-out.

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Figure 5: 'Lawi-lawi' (Caulerpa spp.) is cultured in high salinity ponds in Laikang district. Caulerpa is used as a vegetable in South Sulawesi, eaten either raw or cooked.

Figure 6: Rabbitfish (Siganus spp.) are popular in South Sulawesi. The ACIAR project is undertaking a trial growing out rabbitfish in ponds at Pulau Tanakeke, near Takalar. This species is Siganus guttatus, known locally as baronang lada, which is one of the higher-priced rabbitfish.

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Figure 7: Community response to the introduction of tilapia for brackishwater pond farming has been generally positive. Here village women from Kanaungan village sort and process tilapia harvested from a project trial.

Figure 8: The project is assessing the impact of our R&D activities on farmers through socio-economic studies. Here Dr Mardiana E. Fachry (Hasanuddin University, Makassar) leads a focus group discussion amongst brackishwater pond farmers in Bontolempangan village, Maros, South Sulawesi.

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SMAR/2008/021: Spiny lobster aquaculture development in Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia Partner Countries Indonesia, Vietnam

Australian Project Leader Dr Clive Jones, Principal Research Fellow, James

Cook University, Cairns

Partner Country Project Leader Coco Kokarkin, Directorate General Aquaculture, Indonesia Mrs Le Lan Huong, Institute of Oceanography, Vietnam

Project Budget $1,920,357, $140,000, $150,000


Project Outline/Background These projects support research for the development and sustainability of lobster farming in Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia. The primary goal is to adapt lobster farming technologies developed in Vietnam for application in Indonesia to establish a village-based industry which will generate significant economic and social benefits to impoverished coastal communities. Indonesia is in a strong position to establish a lobster farming industry based on capture of wild lobster seed and growout in sea cages. To facilitate this development, existing technology can be adapted from the successful industry in Vietnam. The on-growing of the ornate lobster, Panulirus ornatus, has been a successful village-based industry in Vietnam where an abundance of naturally settling lobster seed has facilitated the establishment of more than 45,000 lobster sea cages. Production of cultured lobsters in 2013 was estimated to be about 1,500 tonnes, worth AUD$70 M. Lobster farming is a particularly attractive opportunity for Indonesia because capture of seed lobsters and their growout involves simple technology, minimal capital and is ideally suited to village based enterprises. It will provide significant benefit to the economic and social fabric of impoverished communities throughout Indonesia. The puerulus captured in Indonesia are primarily Panulirus homarus, also a valuable product in Chinese markets. The project will adapt existing technology from Vietnam, apply it in Indonesia where lobster seed resources have been identified and assist in its further expansion throughout Indonesia. Lobster seed resources have been identified in Lombok and a small growout industry is established. Exploitable seed resources are likely to exist elsewhere in the archipelago, upon which a significant lobster farming industry can be developed. The project will provide quantified assessment of lobster seed resources at a range of sites throughout Indonesia (NTB, NTT, South Sulawesi and Aceh). In sites where seed availability has been confirmed, 'best management practice' demonstration grow-out farms have been established to extend the technology to local communities and to stimulate farming activity. The Indonesian Directorate General for Aquaculture has a core role in lobster farming development planning to ensure carrying capacity of proposed farm areas is not exceeded and local environments are sustained. The Marine Aquaculture Development Centre in Lombok has the primary role of seed assessment, demonstration farms and extension, and in providing research support for lobster nursery husbandry and feeds development. A small component of project work is performed in Vietnam in response to issues and problems identified from FIS/2001/058, primarily disease related. Linkage to Vietnam will provide

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significant benefit to the Indonesian activities by facilitating on-going adaptation of Vietnam lobster farming technologies for Indonesia. The Vietnam-based work will consist of environmental assessments to gauge the impact of lobster sea cage farming and specifically the relative contribution from traditional 'trash-fish' feeding practices as compared with use of manufactured pelleted feeds. The output of this work will be a measure of carrying capacity for lobster sea-cage farming, of particular value to the developing Indonesian industry. An assessment of land-based farming systems for lobsters has been performed by Nha Trang University as a possible alternative to sea-cage systems. Results will have application in Vietnam, Indonesia and particularly Australia. The Australian component of the project will assess commercial-scale, land-based growout systems to prepare the Australian aquaculture sector for the likely availability of hatchery-reared lobster seed. CSIRO will contribute in the area of manufactured feeds development, which will have application in all three countries. A Small Research Activity project, FIS/2011/008 ‘Development of land-based lobster production systems in Vietnam and Australia’, linked to the SMAR/2008/021, was completed at end of 2012. It specifically examined tank-based production of lobsters, which were evaluated as a viable alternative to sea-caged based farming. A second SRA project FIS/2014/019 was recently approved to maintain the research activities already established to increase puerulus catch in Indonesia and improve survival of seed through the nursery phase. This one year project will also enable development of a follow-on large project to further expand lobster farming in Indonesia.

Objectives The aim of these projects is to develop sustainable production of tropical spiny lobster in Indonesia; to assist in consolidating production in Vietnam, and to facilitate commercial growout production in Australia. The projects comprises three major objectives and their respective activities as outlined below: Objective 1:Improve the sustainability of lobster seed collection in Indonesia and Vietnam

• Continue compilation and analysis of annual lobster seed catch data throughout Indonesia and southern Vietnam

• Identify sustainable lobster seed collecting areas throughout eastern Indonesia • Develop improved puerulus collecting methods and handling to increase survival rates • Investigate genetic stock structure to identify sources and sinks for the settling seed as far

as this proves possible Objective 2: Development of sustainable growout production systems

• Optimise holding, transport and nursery conditions for newly caught post-pueruli and juveniles.

• Define environmental impact of lobster sea cage farming and the comparative contribution of pelleted feeds and trash fish

• Establish 'best management practice' demonstration lobster grow-out facilities in strategic sites throughout eastern Indonesia and pond-based alternatives in Vietnam

• Lobster growout demonstration farms • Comparative assessment of pond-based growout • Lobster growout field trials • Practical diet formulation and feeding strategies • Scoping lobster growout opportunities in indigenous communities • Develop economic models of farmed lobster in Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia

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• Review current status of lobster disease threats and related ongoing investigations in Vietnam with a view to developing an appropriate project response which complements active National and industry supported programs

Objective 3: Improve capacity to assess sustainable industry development practices and improve adaptive research process

• Develop understanding of sustainability indicators that affect the successful development of the lobster industry in eastern Indonesia and Vietnam

• Deliver community-based training courses/workshops to assist communities to establish lobster grow-out and adapt best management practices

• Develop science-based training in experimentation at Balai Budidiya Laut Lombok (BBLL) with BBLL staff and students from University of Mataram (UNRAM) that develop their skills and address knowledge gaps in lobster feeding and husbandry

• Develop and trial innovative extension and technology transfer practices that assist communities to consider lobster grow-out as a new enterprise.

• Deliver an international lobster aquaculture symposium in Indonesia, representing an end-of-project meeting to collate all findings from the project, and to provide a forum for other research and development in lobster farming relevant to the region.

• Conduct a lobster farming industry study tour of Indonesians to Vietnam, comprising a small group of small-holder farmers from various locations.

• Publish a lobster farming production manual in Indonesian, Vietnamese and English.

Achievements Vietnam Disease information audit completed. Disease continues to have significant impact on lobster production in Vietnam, and in particular milky haemolymph disease. MARD have indicated they will provide a targeted response Lobster production in Vietnam remains steady at around 1,500 tonnes per year. Eight years of puerulus catch data have now been compiled. Catch has varied between 1 and 3 million pieces per year over recent years, with 70% of catch Panulirus ornatus and 25% P. homarus. Lobster farmers continue to use trash fish as the preferred source of food. Pelleted feeds are perceived to be less effective and more expensive. Further demonstration and improved formulations will be necessary to promote uptake of pellet feeding. Production of lobsters in ponds is not recommended due to significant impact that variable salinity has. Profitable tank-based lobster production has been demonstrated (FIS/2011/008) and results and technology are being disseminated. Indonesia Puerulus catch in Lombok has increased dramatically from 600,000 pieces per year (2007-2012) to 1.5 million in 2013, 90% of which is P. homarus. The increase is attributed to improved catch techniques emanating from the study tour of Indonesian farmers to Vietnam in March 2103. Puerulus resources have been identified in Aceh, South Sulawesi and North Sulawesi, although none are yet being significantly exploited for farming purposes.

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Growout farmers in Lombok are marginally profitable due to high cost of finance and feed. They grow lobsters over 9 to 12 months to a harvest size of 100 to 250g each for which they receive around $US35 per kg. Eleven Indonesians took part in a study tour of lobster farming in Vietnam from March 1 to 11, 2013. Transfer of detailed practical technology appeared to be very effective and impact on lobster farming development in Indonesia will continue to be assessed. Australia Pond based production has been deemed unviable due to significant impact of variable salinity. Tank-based production is being investigated. Proposal to establish pilot land-based lobster growout at Aboriginal community of Yarrabah has progressed to a Business Case, although environmental compliance issues have precluded further progress. Economic assessments and modelling of lobster farming have been completed for Vietnam, Indonesia and Australia Population genetics studies of P. ornatus and P. homarus suggest the populations from Vietnam through to Australia are homogeneous.

Future Plans and Activities The SMAR/2008/021 project will be completed at 30 June 2014, with the last substantial activity the lobster aquaculture symposium, scheduled for April 22-25. Project experimentation and field studies will be continued to June 2015, although at a reduced level, with support from SRA FIS/2014/019. Preparation of a follow-on large project is well advanced, planned for starting in July 2015.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Clive Jones James Cook University, Cairns, Australia

+617 407655506 [email protected]

Mr Samsul Bahrawi Marine Aquaculture Development Centre, Lombok Indonesia

+62 819 73906473 [email protected]

Mrs Le Lan Huong Institute of Oceanography, Vietnam

+84905103802 [email protected]

Other Collaborators Dr Le Anh Tuan Nha Trang University, Vietnam FIS/2011/008

+84 91 3429 198 [email protected]

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Figure 1: Study tour March 2013. Indonesian lobster farmers and project staff in Nha Trang Vietnam.

Figure 2: Study tour March 2013. Indonesian farmers learning about puerulus catch directly from the Vietnam fishers.

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Figure 3: Study tour March 2013. Indonesian lobster farmer ‘Werry’ learning growout techniques from Vietnam farmer.

Figure 4: Study tour March 2013. Group discussion with Vietnam lobster farmers.

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Figure 5: Study tour March 2013. Indonesians attending lecture on lobster disease.

Figure 6: Study tour March 2013. Indonesian lobster farmer Pak Pamit receiving certificate of participation from project leader Clive Jones.

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FIS/2009/059: Developing research capacity for management of Indonesia’s pelagic fisheries resources Partner Countries Indonesia

Australian Project Leader Mr Craig Proctor (CSIRO)

Partner Country Project Leader Prof. Dr Hari Eko Irianto, Director, Research Centre

for Fisheries Management and Conservation (RCFMC)



Project Outline/Background Indonesia’s pelagic fisheries resources are of high importance to the nation’s economy and as a domestic food resource. Two species of critical importance to Indonesia and to country neighbours in the Indian Ocean and Western Pacific Ocean regions are yellowfin tuna (YFT) and bigeye tuna (BET). Current stock assessments suggest both species are fully exploited and possibly overfished in some areas of their geographic ranges. Uncertainties in these assessments for the Indian and Western Pacific Oceans largely result from assumptions that the Regional Fisheries Management Organisations (RFMOs) have to make because of insufficient high-quality, validated information on the true scale of the catch of these tunas (juveniles in particular) by Indonesian and Philippine surface fishing fleets. Current assessments and management strategies are also based on possibly erroneous assumptions of broadly distributed, well-mixed stocks of both these species. High concern also centres on the ever-increasing number of fish aggregating devices (FADs) in Indonesian waters, the associated impacts of increased fishing pressure on stocks of juvenile tunas, and likelihood of unsustainable fishing practices. As a priority for a next phase of cooperation with Australia on pelagic fisheries research, Indonesia identified the need to address information gaps surrounding these two species and the fisheries based on them. There is recognition of the benefits that will accrue from building on the achievements of earlier ACIAR project collaborations (FIS/2001/079 and FIS/2002/074) on Indonesia’s tuna fisheries and the need to further expand the research capabilities within Indonesia’s Agency of Marine and Fisheries Research and Development.

Objectives Primary goal The overall aim of the project is to improve Indonesia’s capacity to assess and manage its tuna fisheries by addressing key information gaps with particular reference to YFT and BET and, in the course of doing so, to improve Indonesia’s pelagic fisheries research capacity. The project will comprise three primary components with the following objectives: 1. Population structure study:

• Using three independent, but potentially complementary techniques (analyses for genetics, otolith chemistry and parasite loads), determine the degree of population structure and

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connectivity of YFT and BET in Indonesian archipelagic waters and populations in adjacent oceans;

• Advise, in consultation with the relevant RFMOs, on the implications of the results of the above investigation for approaches to assessment and management of fisheries harvesting these stocks.

2. FAD fisheries study:

• Assess the number, type and distribution of tuna fishery FADs across the Indonesian archipelago;

• Characterise the catch on FADs by gear, species and size of fish, for target tunas and bycatch species;

• Establish, through trial programs at four ports, improved port-based monitoring procedures for obtaining high-quality, long-term data on the FAD fishery operations;

• Use the information gathered above to develop an improved monitoring program and fisheries statistics system for the FAD-based fisheries

• Draw on data and information obtained through the above to do preliminary assessments of bioeconomic, socioeconomic, fishing capacity and risk aspects of the fisheries for each major gear type;

• In association with key stakeholders, advise on the development of a draft management plan for the FAD-based fisheries.

3. Communication of project’s findings and recommendations

• Through a combination of local stakeholder meetings, brochures, posters, and dvd’s, to disseminate to fishing industry and community groups the objectives of the project, its findings and recommendations, and the benefits that would flow from sustainable fisheries;

• Through papers and presentations presented to Scientific Committee meetings of the relevant RFMOs, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), and Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), and at relevant conferences (e.g. biannual International FADs Conference), to disseminate the objectives of the project, its findings and recommendations, to reach the higher levels of policy making and policy adoption.

Achievements Main achievements of the project to date:

• A series of key development and planning meetings at RCFMC in early September , late November 2012, late February 2013, June 2013, late Nov 2013, and mid-February 2014;

• Two training courses (25 – 28 Nov 2012 and 26 Feb – 1 Mar 2013) delivered by project member, Dr Robert Lester (University of Queensland), on dissection and identification of parasites of gills, viscera and liver in juvenile YFT and BET. Participants included project member and key parasites trainee, Ms Pratiwi Lestari of Research Institute for Marine Fisheries (RIMF) and three other scientists; one from RIMF and two from Research Institute for Fisheries Enhancement and Conservation (Jatiluhur);

• Biological sampling of juvenile (0+) YFT and BET at 9 locations across the Indonesian archipelago and at two outlier sites (Maldives and Solomon Islands) for the population structure study; muscle tissue samples for genetics analyses, otoliths for microchemistry and isotopes analyses, and gills, liver and viscera for parasites analyses;

• Establishment of enumerator teams during October – November 2013 at our 4 focus ports for the FAD fisheries study: Padang (West Sumatera), Palabuhanratu (West Java), Kendari (SE Sulawesi), and Sorong (West Papua);

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• Development of a dedicated internet-interface database for the FAD fisheries study and commencement of data entry from the data collection sheets, submitted to RCFMC by the enumerator teams:

• A 6 week visit to CSIRO Hobart, during February - March 2014, by two Indonesian project members, Mr Muhammad Taufik (RIMF) and Mr Arief Wujdi (Research Institute for Tuna Fisheries, Bali). Mr Taufik received training and participated in analyses for the genetics component of the YFT and BET population structure study and Mr Wujdi received training and participated in analyses for the otolith chemistry component, including working with staff at Central Science Laboratory, University of Tasmania.

Primary impacts of the project: The project is at too early a stage to have seen any impacts yet.

Future Plans and Activities

• The project’s 1st Project Coordination Meeting (PCM) is scheduled for 29 – 30 April 2014 in Puncak (south of Jakarta). At this meeting, Indonesian and Australian teams will jointly assess the early picture emerging from the genetics, otolith chemistry, and parasite investigations of the population structure study for YFT and BET, and make key decisions on future sampling and a second round of analyses for Phase 2 of the project;

• Progress of the FAD study will also be assessed at the PCM and planning done for the remaining activity, including the socio-economic components and the completion of the bibliographic review of earlier studies with links to FAD-based fisheries in Indonesia waters;

• The communications objective will become a key focus area in the next phase of the project, including stakeholder meetings and production of extension materials (brochures, posters, dvd) to disseminate the project’s activities and importance of sustainable fisheries.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Australia: Mr Craig Proctor +61-3-62325376 [email protected] Dr Peter Grewe +61-3-62325012 [email protected] Ms Naomi Clear +61-3-62325073 [email protected] Dr Campbell Davies +61-3-62325044 [email protected] Dr Mark Bravington +61-3-62325118 [email protected] Mr Matt Lansdell +61-3-62325447 [email protected] Ms Peta Hill +61-3-62325222 [email protected] Mr Scott Cooper +61-3-62325222 [email protected] Dr Robert Lester School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland


Indonesia: Prof. Dr Hari Eko Irianto (Director)

+62-21-64700928 [email protected]


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Prof. Dr Wudianto Research Centre for Fisheries Management and Conservation, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries


Dr Ali Suman (Director) Research Institute for Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries


Mr Budi Nugraha (Director) Tuna Fisheries Research Institute (Benoa, Bali), Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries


Figure 1: Mr Mahiswara (left), scientist from RIMF, providing training to newly recruited enumerator, Mr Didi Putra (centre) on techniques and protocol for interviewing fishing vessel skippers in Padang, West Sumatra.

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Figure 2: Newly recruited enumerators, Mr Robi Hermawan (left) and Mr Didi Putra, during training on sampling protocols at fish landing centre, Muara Padang, West Sumatra. Figure 3: Mr Arief Wujdi at CSIRO Hobart during training for otolith chemistry analyses. Figure 4: Mr Muhammad Taufik receiving training from Matt Lansdell (CSIRO) on genetic analytical techniques

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FIS/2011/030: Strategic plan for ACIAR engagement in developing Indonesia’s capture fisheries research and management capacity Partner Countries Indonesia

Australian Project Leader Dr Ilona Stobutzki, Assistant Secretary Fisheries,

Fisheries & Quantitative Sciences Branch, ABARES

Partner Country Project Leader Prof. Hari Eko Irianto, Research Center for Fisheries Management and Conservation (RCFMC), Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development, Indonesian Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.

Project Budget $174,600


Project Outline/Background Capture (or wild) fisheries are a critical part of Indonesia's seafood production and fisheries livelihoods. Seafood contributes over 53% of animal protein consumed in Indonesia and demand is increasing with population growth. However, there is concern over the state of these fisheries with ongoing overfishing and overcapitalisation. The Government of Indonesia has recognised the country's limited fisheries research and management capacity. The aim of this small research and development activity is to produce a 10-year strategic plan for research into capture fisheries. Activities will include reviewing past fisheries research and consultations with key Indonesian agencies to identify and prioritise research and capacity building needs. The project will also provide some capacity development in research planning and priority setting. The main output will be a 10-year research strategy for Indonesia's capture fisheries. Objectives Aim: To improve Indonesia’s capture fisheries management by providing a strategic and planned approach to capture fisheries research and capacity building. This will contribute to maintaining and enhancing the role of capture fisheries in economic growth, food security and livelihoods. Objective: To develop a 10 year strategic plan for ACIAR's Fisheries Program engagement in capture fisheries research and associated institutional capacity development in Indonesia. The strategic plan will recognise ACIAR's primary mandate of research, but be cognisant that multi-faceted capacity development and institutional support that are necessary to deliver the benefits and impacts of the research. The plan will extend the Net Returns: a human capacity development framework for marine capture fisheries management in South East Asia1

in the Indonesian context.

The approach and timeline of the project was changed in response to challenges with continuity and capacity in RCFMC. The capacity building previously planned was not regarded as a priority at this

1 http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0011/2005787/net-returns.pdf . The framework was developed under the RPOA to Promote Responsible Fishing Practices including Combating Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) Fishing in the Region (2007).

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time. However, the process of developing the strategic priorities provides some capacity development in research planning and prioritization.

Achievements A priority identification workshop was held in Bogor, Indonesia 11 & 12th March 2014. The workshop had strong engagement from the Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development (AMAFRAD), in particular RCFMC. Representatives from the Directorate General of Capture Fisheries and the Directorate General of Marine, Coasts and Small Island Affairs participated, providing input on the priorities from the management and policy agencies. The acting Chairman of the AMAFRAD opened the workshop. The workshop objectives were to:

• Identify the priority drivers for capture fisheries research and capacity building; • Agree the relative priority of relevant elements of the capacity development framework for

capture fisheries; and • Draft initial priority research and capacity building themes.

The workshop benefited from well prepared and substantial contributions from the Indonesian partners. These provided perspectives from the research, management and policy agencies and a strong basis for discussions. The workshop elaborated the relevant components of the capacity development framework in the Indonesian context. This provides a description of the relative importance of the components and additional activities and deliverables that are relevant to Indonesia. The framework was considered in the context of both marine and freshwater/inland fisheries. Initial research and capacity building themes were discussed in terms of specific fisheries, regions and locations and research and management approaches. The workshop considered how to build on the achievements of previous ACIAR projects and enhance the capacity to integrate scientific advice into management and decision making. These will be finalized at the follow-up meeting in May 2014. Background documents provided for the workshop included:

• A draft review of Australian – Indonesian partnerships on capture fisheries research. This focused primarily on previous ACIAR projects, the drivers for these and the outcomes. The outcomes were categorized with respect capacity development framework. The document also summarized other research and capacity building initiatives underway.

• An overview of Indonesia’s capture fisheries, summarising trends in production, trade, demand and supply. This included information on projected global trends in seafood demand and supply.

Input has been sought from Australian researchers on the background documents and draft priorities identified by the workshop. This will contribute to the follow-up meeting at RCFMC to finalize the priorities. Project updates have been provided to the Indonesian - Australian Working Group on Marine Affairs and Fisheries meetings.

Future Plans and Activities A follow-up meeting to the March workshop is scheduled at RCFMC, 2nd May 2014, to finalise the priorities for the strategic plan.

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A second meeting of the Australian Advisory Committee (ACIAR, AFMA, DFAT, CSIRO, DA) is planned for May 2014. This meeting will update the key Australian Government agencies on the priorities that have been identified and facilitate discussion on linkages with other initiatives. The draft strategic plan will be finalized for ACIAR review by June. It is planned that the final version will be produced in Bahasa Indonesia and English. The plan will be published as a stand-alone document and in an ACIAR publication that includes the background documents discussed above.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Ilona Stobutzki ABARES

+61-2-6272 4277 [email protected]

Prof. Hari Eko Irianto RCFMC

[email protected]

Dr Campbell Davies CSIRO MAR

[email protected]

Other Collaborators Dr Meryl Williams [email protected]

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FIS/2011/038: Scoping study for fish health-mariculture in Indonesia, and rabbitfish aquaculture development Partner Countries Indonesia

Australian Project Leader Prof. Richard Whittington, University of Sydney

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Stenly Wullur, Sam Ratulangi University, Manado


Project Duration 1/10/2011 to 30/09/2012; extended to 30/09/2013

Project Outline/Background This SRA addresses two short-term needs relating to new and existing aquaculture projects in Indonesia: A scoping study to develop a detailed research plan for a project on fish health-mariculture in Indonesia (ACIAR project FIS/2010/101) Discussions with Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) staff and farmers, including the Indonesian Mariculture Association (Asosiasi Budidaya Ikan Laut Indonesia – ABILINDO) have confirmed that fish diseases are a major cause of production losses in marine finfish aquaculture in Indonesia. FIS/2010/101 is being developed to identify the major disease issues and possible interventions to improve survival and consequently improve the profitability of finfish mariculture in Indonesia. This SRA will support a scoping study to Indonesia to develop a detailed research proposal for submission to ACIAR. Preliminary discussions have been held with the Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development (AMAFRAD) within MMAF which have indicated that the agency is very supportive of the proposed project. AMAFRAD has nominated the Fish Health Laboratory at the Centre for Aquaculture Research and Development (Pasar Minggu, Jakarta) and the Research Institute for Mariculture Gondol (Bali) as the main laboratories to be involved in the project, and have proposed that the research focus on grouper aquaculture. Development of small-strain rotifers to improve hatchery production of rabbitfish (Siganus spp.) in support of FIS/2007/124 Separately, ACIAR project FIS/2007/124 has identified potential for grow-out of rabbitfish (Siganus spp.) in coastal ponds (tambak) in Indonesia. However, production of rabbitfish juveniles is currently constrained by hatchery technology – the larvae have very small mouths and require extremely small prey during the early phase of larval rearing. Dr Stenly Wullur (Sam Ratulangi University, Manado, North Sulawesi) has previously isolated and cultured a very small rotifer (Proales similis) as part of his PhD studies in Japan. The SRA will fund Dr Wullur and his colleagues and students at UNSRAT to isolate and culture Proales or a similar small rotifer, and to undertake larval rearing trials with rabbitfish at the Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Centre (BADC) Takalar, South Sulawesi, using the new rotifer strain.

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Objectives

• Scoping study for FIS/2010/101 • Undertake visit to potential partner laboratories and field sites in Indonesia. • Based on the outcomes of the project visit, develop a detailed project proposal and research

plan for FIS/2010/101. • Improve rabbitfish hatchery production in Sulawesi • Isolate and culture new small rotifer (UNSRAT). • Develop small-scale culture techniques at UNSRAT. • Expand rotifer culture to hatchery production scale at BADC Takalar. • Trial small rotifer as first feed for rabbitfish in hatchery (BADC Takalar). • Achievements

Achievements Scoping study for FIS/2010/101 University of Sydney Faculty of Veterinary Science staff Professor Richard Whittington, Dr Joy Becker, Dr Navneet Dhand and Dr Mike Rimmer, visited hatcheries, grow-out sites and potential collaborating laboratories in October – November 2011. Part of this visit was accompanied by Mr Wajan Sudja, Secretary-General of the Indonesian Mariculture Association (ABILINDO). Four hatcheries were visited in Bali. Hatchery operators report losses from various diseases, most of which are not diagnosed and are poorly understood. For example, a syndrome called ‘black fish’ is a common cause of mortalities in grouper hatcheries in Bali, but the causative organism appears to be unknown. Two grow-out farms (owned and operated by ABILINDO members) were visited in Sumbawa. Both farms reported similar problems with fin rot, ‘black parasite’ and possibly iridovirus. Visits were made to potential cooperating laboratories to identify their capacity to be involved in FIS/2010/101. That project will likely involve:

• Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries • Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development • Fish Health Laboratory, Pasar Minggu, Jakarta (PCR testing, coordination) • Research Institute for Mariculture Gondol (epidemiological study of hatcheries) • Directorate-General of Aquaculture • Central Fish Health Laboratory Serang (PCR calibration and ring-testing with government

and commercial laboratories) • Gadjah Mada University, Yogyakarta • Department of Fisheries (epidemiological study of grow-out farms) • Indonesian Mariculture Association (provision of grow-out farm samples, extension of

results to industry) • ACIAR project FIS/2010/101 commenced in July 2013. Please refer to the Project Profile

for FIS/2010/101 for details. Improved hatchery technology for rabbitfish UNSRAT staff successfully isolated four rotifer species with body size smaller than B. rotundiformis from estuaries and brackishwater ponds around Manado Bay. The species isolated belong to the genera Monostyla (1 species) and Lecane (2 species). One species remains unidentified.

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Adult females of each small-strain species were successfully cultured individually in multiwell plates (6×4 wells) and proved able to produce clone descendents in culture. The clonal descendents were than grown as stock rotifers. From the stock culture, individuals of each species were used for species identification and further work on body size measurements and growth analysis. Measurement of lorica length and body width for Monostyla sp. and Lecane sp.1 showed that both these species are significantly smaller in size than B. rotundiformis (Figure 1).

Figure 1. Distributions of body width (the main determinant of prey ingestibility) for Monostyla sp. and Lecane sp.1 isolated from estuaries and brackishwater ponds in the Manado area, compared with body width of Brachionus rotundiformis.

In September 2012, UNSRAT staff transferred the small rotifer cultures to BADC Takalar for large-scale culture. Unfortunately, these cultures did not do well and the cultures rapidly died out. A second introduction of Lecane was undertaken by UNSRAT staff in March 2013. These cultures performed well in the plankton culture laboratory at BADC Takalar, reaching densities of >3,500 /mL. Unfortunately, these cultures were accidentally contaminated with B. rotundiformis which resulted in Brachionus-dominated cultures. A third introduction of Lecane was made in December 2013 but these cultures were at very low density and contaminated with protozoans. BADC Takalar staff have re-isolated Lecane from these cultures but are having difficulty in scaling up the cultures. In preparation for the planned feeding trials with rabbitfish larvae, we have developed techniques to standardise biomass for feeding Brachionus and Lecane, using packed cell volume.

Future Plans and Activities Improved hatchery technology for rabbitfish BADC Takalar will continue to trial Lecane for intermediate and mass culture. Following successful establishment of reliable cultures, larval feeding trials with rabbitfish (Siganus guttatus) will be undertaken.

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Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Richard Whittington University of Sydney

(02) 9351-1619 [email protected]


+62 (0411) 420-850 [email protected]

Dr Joy Becker University of Sydney


Dr Navneet Dhand University of Sydney


Dr N.A. Giri Centre for Aquaculture Research and Development, Jakarta

+62 (021) 780-5052 [email protected]

Dr Stenly Wullur Sam Ratulangi University, Manado


Other Collaborators Mr Wajan Sudja ABILINDO

+62 (021) 831-3322

[email protected]

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Figure 1: Hatcheries in northern Bali are an important source of local employment. Here women from the local village grade and count grouper fingerlings.

Figure 2: A typical Indonesian grouper farm, this one in Sumbawa. Farms such as this will be sampled as part of the longitudinal epidemiological surveys to be undertaken in FIS/2010/101.

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Figure 3: Fin rot, as seen in these tiger grouper, is reportedly a common disease problem in Indonesian grouper farms.

Figure 4: Photomicrograph showing the comparative size of Brachionus rotundiformis (‘Small strain’) at right, and the newly-isolated brackishwater rotifer Lecane sp, at left.

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FIS/2010/101: Improving fish health management and production protocols in marine finfish aquaculture in Indonesia and Australia Partner Countries Indonesia

Australian Project Leader Prof. Richard Whittington, University of Sydney

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Rudhy Gustiano, IMRAD Gondol, Bali

Dr Murwantoko, Gadjah Mada Univ., Yogyakarta



Project Outline/Background Half the fish stocked into sea cages in Indonesia will die before they are harvested – a mortality rate unacceptable in any other animal production industry. While many losses can be attributed to disease, the actual diseases that are responsible for these production losses, and the factors that contribute to disease outbreaks, are not clear. ACIAR project FIS/2010/101 will determine the cause and extent of disease-related production losses in marine finfish aquaculture in Indonesia through structured epidemiological and diagnostic studies. This information will be used to prioritise and test improved fish health management approaches for both the hatchery and grow-out sub-sectors. These results will be integrated with ‘best practices’ such as improved larval nutrition and adoption of pellet diets instead of ‘trash’ fish feed. The project will utilise expertise within the Agency for Marine and Fisheries Research and Development (AMAFRAD) and Gadjah Mada University, and provide training and development opportunities for fish health professionals in these agencies to enhance Indonesia’s capacity to investigate and control fish disease. The project will hold training and development workshops in Indonesia and in Australia to improve skills and knowledge in epidemiology, histopathology and PCR analysis, leading to improved disease control and increased productivity of Indonesian farms. Research and implementation will be undertaken in collaboration with the relevant industry association, Indonesian Mariculture Association (Asosiasi Budidaya Ikan Laut Indonesia – ABILINDO), to support adoption by marine finfish farmers in Indonesia. Related components of research will evaluate the use of ‘best practice’ in marine finfish hatcheries, and extend these results to Indonesian hatcheries. Currently, many farms have identified fingerling quality as a major problem emanating from hatcheries in Bali, and there is a danger that Indonesia will lose its competitive advantage as a major regional seedstock supplier unless fingerling quality is improved.

Objectives

• To identify key diseases through longitudinal epidemiological studies on hatcheries and grow-out farms

• Determine the key diseases responsible for production losses in marine finfish aquaculture; • Plan and, where appropriate, trial interventions to reduce production losses. • To develop and test improved management protocols for hatcheries and grow-out farms

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• Test and implement improved hatchery practices, including biosecurity and improved larval nutrition;

• Improve farm productivity and market access through the adoption of compounded diets. • Evaluate socio-economic aspects of practice changes • To build capacity in fish health management in Indonesia • Provide training in epidemiology and disease diagnosis for Indonesian fish health

professionals; • Provide improved fish health education services at university level; • Support ‘ring-testing’ / validation studies for PCR laboratories in Indonesia.

Achievements Longitudinal survey of hatcheries and farms The project undertook its first sampling of hatcheries and farms in March 2014. Hatcheries A total of 10 populations were sampled from 7 hatcheries. Species sampled were: tiger grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus), hybrid grouper ‘cantik’ (E. fuscoguttatus × E. polyphekadion), hybrid grouper ‘cantang’ (E. fuscoguttatus × E. lanceolatus) and coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus). Sea-cage farms Five populations were sampled from 3 sea cage farms. Most fish sampled were tiger grouper and the hybrid ‘cantik’, as well as a small number of mouse grouper (Cromileptes altivelis). In addition, targeted sampling was undertaken of ‘sick’ fish that farmers had placed in quarantine cages. In general the sampling was successful. However, the first sampling also revealed some practical difficulties in obtaining fish appropriate to the project objectives. This is particularly the case with sampling grouper hatcheries, which restrict access to fish in the tanks and make them available only at grading. Project staff are revising the sampling approach to target fingerlings at first grading (usually 30–35 DAH) and expand sampling of disease outbreaks in hatcheries. Training and capacity-building A project launch workshop at the Institute for Mariculture Research and Development, Gondol, Bali, in September 2013 was integrated with training in epidemiological approaches to aquatic animal health investigation. The training was also used to test and refine sampling approaches for the longitudinal study. Response to the training by IMRAD Gondol and UGM staff was very positive. Trial sampling of sea cages and hatcheries demonstrated appropriate sampling techniques for sea cages. Sampling fish from hatcheries was found to be problematic due to lack of access to larvae in the larval rearing tanks. In response, it was agreed that this can be worked around by sampling fish during grading. PCR proficiency workshop and ring-testing A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) proficiency testing program was undertaken in conjunction with the Directorate General of Aquaculture (DGA), Indonesia. The objective of the program was to demonstrate the capacity of Indonesian fish health laboratories to use PCR tests reliably and competently, and to identify opportunities to improve this capacity. The program was composed of a workshop hosted by DGA’s Centre for Fish Disease and Environment Investigation (Loka Pemeriksaan Penyakit Ikan dan Lingkungan – LP2IL) Serang, and a follow-up ring-test where 20 participating laboratories were invited to anonymously undertake blind PCR testing on a panel of well characterised control samples for two fish viruses.

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The intensive 3 day workshop program consisted of a combination of formal presentations, informal discussions and practical demonstration of a real-time PCR assay for nervous necrosis virus (NNV). There was enthusiastic engagement in the workshop from all 23 participants, representing 20 laboratories including Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (MMAF) Quarantine, university, private sector, MMAF Centre for Aquaculture Research and Development as well as all DGA Technical Implementation Unit (TIU) laboratories. There was immense interest in the training based on an acknowledgment of the growing demand for PCR diagnostic and certification testing with accreditation according to international standards. For the follow-on ring-testing, two panels of very well characterised samples were prepared from virus and fish tissues to mimic real diagnostic samples. The target viruses were nervous necrosis virus (NNV), a nodavirus, and Epizootic Haematopoietic virus (EHNV), an iridovirus. Each panel contained 5 positive samples containing a range from 103 to 105 copies of the viral target and 1 negative sample. The samples were freeze-dried to enhance stability and enable the wide distribution to laboratories through Indonesia. Quality control testing at University of Sydney confirmed the expected quantity of virus was present in the positive samples after storage as well as the consistency across samples. The laboratories were not told the panel composition and a random coding was used so that laboratories could not compare the status of samples by identification number. The panel of samples was distributed to 20 Indonesian laboratories (18 government laboratories, 1 university and 1 private laboratory). The ring test performed as an excellent diagnostic tool to identify the areas in which support to capacity development should be targeted. The combination of challenging samples and unfamiliar tests supported by a team with bilingual skills enabled sufficient data about the methods to be collated. This identified the need for technical training, familiarity with test procedures, knowledge of the purpose of testing as more important than the use of new technology.

Future Plans and Activities Longitudinal survey of hatcheries and farms The second sampling for the longitudinal study will take place in the second half of June 2014. Subsequent sampling will be done at roughly 3-monthly intervals. Training and capacity-building Project participants from IMRAD Gondol, Gadjah Mada University, and the Mariculture Development Centre Lombok will travel to Australia for training in real-time PCR techniques in early June 2014. The training will utilise samples from the longitudinal study.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Richard Whittington University of Sydney



+62 (0411) 420-850 [email protected]

Dr Joy Becker University of Sydney


Dr Navneet Dhand University of Sydney


Dr Paul Hick University of Sydney


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Dr Rudy Gustiano IMRAD Gondol

+62 (0362) 92278 [email protected]

Dr Murwantoko Gadjah Mada University

+62 (274) 51218 [email protected]

Other Collaborators Dr Maskur DGA


Mr Wajan Sudja ABILINDO

+62 (021) 831-3322 [email protected]

Figure 1: Because hatchery operators won’t allow fish to be sampled directly from the rearing tanks, the project is sampling fish at grading. Fish are sampled at set times throughout the grading to provide a representative sample.

Figure 2: Back in the laboratory, the IMRAD Gondol team springs into action. At left and centre, fish are being examined for parasites. At right, samples are being prepared for later PCR analysis. Out of photo, fish are being fixed for later histopathology.

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Figure 3: A typical Indonesian sea-cage farm focussing mainly on grow-out of groupers (Family Serranidae, Sub-family Epinephelinae) which is being sampled for the ACIAR project. The project samples fish randomly from all cages, and also undertakes targeted sampling of fish in quarantine cages.

Figure 4: University of Sydney and Gadjah Mada University teams processing fish samples from sea-cage farms in Bali.

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Figure 5: Participants in the project launch and aquatic animal epidemiology training workshop held at IMRAD Bali in September 2013. The project gratefully acknowledges APEC for fashion inspiration.

Figure 6: Paul Hick, Zafran, Joy Becker and Ketut Mahardika examine fish sampled from local hatcheries for parasites during the project launch and aquatic animal epidemiology training workshop at IMRAD Gondol.

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FIS/2010/097: Exploring options for improving livelihoods and resource management in Timor-Leste’s coastal communities Partner Countries East Timor

Project Leader, WorldFish Center Dr David Mills, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Joni Freitas

Mr Augusto Fernandes National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture


Project Duration 01/12/2013 to 30/11/2016 Project Outline/Background Timor-Leste ranks amongst the world’s poorest countries, with ongoing and acute malnutrition problems. Notably, childhood stunting has, in recent year, increased from 53% to 58% - the third highest rate of stunting in the world after Afganistan and Yemen. The primary sector has a central role to play in nation-building, livelihood provision and improving nutrition. Yet insufficient human capacity and inadequate and poorly focused investment have held back the potential of this sector. The fisheries and aquaculture sectors currently fall well short of their potential to contribute to improving livelihoods and food security. In stark contrast to neighbouring nations and small island states globally, Timor-Leste makes limited use of its living marine resources. Fish consumption is low, estimated at 4-6kg/capita/yr (c.f. Indonesia: 21.3; Solomon Islands: 33.0; Kiribati: 62.2), and fishing fleets comprise small vessels employing a few very simple gear types. It appears there is significant potential to improve food security through the promotion of sustainable marine resource use. WorldFish will partner with communities, the National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NDFA), local NGOs and international agencies, to develop and test strategies that improve livelihood resilience in coastal communities, increase food security, and provide for sustainable exploitation of nearshore marine resources. The project is designed around diagnosis workshops conducted by WorldFish and the National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NDFA) in selected fishing communities in 2012. Increasing the resilience of diverse coastal livelihoods, as encountered in these communities, requires tailored solutions that move beyond the classic sectoral approach to fisheries interventions. Project partners will work with communities to develop and pilot-test interventions designed at addressing identified vulnerabilities. Taking a livelihoods perspective, interventions will focus on fisheries and agricultural systems addressing vulnerabilities over multiple timescales with particular emphasis on solutions that will also build resilience to climate change. Developing participatory systems for sustainable management of reef resources and increasing the capacity of the NDFA to monitor and manage changes in resource status are critical components in increasing system resilience.

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Objectives The broad objectives of the project are:

1. Work with three pilot communities to understand livelihoods, vulnerabilities and pathways to improved resilience and food security.

2. With communities, design and test approaches to community-based management of reef and coastal resources that where appropriate integrate customary rule-making and resource management systems.

3. Conduct participatory action research with communities and partners to test interventions designed to increase livelihood resilience and food security.

4. Build capacity within the NDFA for monitoring and adaptive management of coastal resources.

Achievements

• The project inception meeting was held with National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture in January 2014, and was attended by 33 staff members from NDFA.

• Focus sites selected in collaboration with NDFA • Project staff in Timor-Leste employed, including project officer (shared with other

projects) and a field officer based on Atauro Island • Community meetings held in 3 communities on Atauro Island to discuss local fishing rules,

FAD deployments and arrangements for community-based rule-making on FAD fishing • Collective meeting of senior administrators from Atauro Island villages held to agree on the

location of FADs for trial development and discuss issues such as resource sharing and safety precautions while FAD fishing

• Bathymetric surveys conducted with technical assistance from SPC to determine suitable sites for FAD deployment in close proximity to areas selected as favourable at the meeting on senior village administrators

• A first set of 3 FADs was built at a 3-day workshop held collaboratively with SPC. Training was provided by SPC staff and consultants in the construction of FAD systems and anchors. Four NDFA staff and 2 WorldFish staff attended the training.

• First set of 3 FADs deployed with funding and technical assistance from SPC. NDFA officers were trained in safe deployment of FADs as part of this process

• Post-deployment monitoring showed FAD anchors to be inadequate for the extreme current and/or bathymetry on Atauro Island. Discussions with communities also suggest that while FADs were placed in areas well away from the reef and in appropriate depths (about 600m), most fishermen considered them to be too far offshore, and said that they would be unlikely to use these FADs

• New FAD anchors have been designed and built, and a new set of FADs will be deployed in collaboration with communities in June/July 2014

Future Plans and Activities One of the focus communities, Beloi, on Atauro Island, has indicated a desire to declare a protected area of reef adjacent to the community. This is due to the presence of an eco-resort that provides significant income and employment for the community, and a conviction that a protected area of reef will improve the experience for tourists. Tourists would pay a levy to the community when they snorkel or dive this reef, to support the ongoing protection of the area. The community has indicated that if the FADs provide increased access to pelagic resources, as anticipated, they will be

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keen to move ahead with formalizing a set of rules for the reef area using their customary ‘tara bandu’ system of rule-making. The project will work with the community on formalising this arrangement, and having the rules recognised under formal law. As per the ‘phased’ approach to this project, once the new set of 5 FADs are deployed around Atauro Island, we will initiate similar work at the second site - Batugade, on the western border with West Timor (Indonesia). A rapidly growing complement of WorldFish projects in Timor-Leste has lead to the establishment of an office within the NDFA, and improved infrastructure and support for this project.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr David Mills WorldFish/Australia


Mr Joni Freitas NDFA/Timor Leste Mr Augusto Fernandes Director of Fisheries – NDFA Timor Leste

Other Collaborators Ms Shwu Jiau Teoh (WorldFish) Dr Philippa Cohen (WorldFish)

Figure 1: Loading FAD equipment onto local transport vessel chartered for deploying FADs in 500-700m of water off Atauro Island, Timor Leste

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Figure 2: Staff of the Timor-Leste National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture participating in FAD construction workshops facilitated by project partner SPC

Figure 3: Community meeting on FADs and local traditional law systems (tara bandu) with the Beloi community, Atauro Island, Timor-Leste

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Figure 4: Staff of the Timor-Leste National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture learning the finer points of making knots that last in FAD construction workshops facilitated by project partner SPC

Figure 5: New design of FAD anchor blocks for use in high current, steep bathymetry areas. Up to 4 of these blocks will be chained together with a grapnel anchor for each FAD (Field staff assured the project leader that they would not cheer too loudly as they deployed the anchor block into which they had etched his name!)

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RECENTLY CONCLUDED

FIS/2011/068: Strategy for investment in fisheries in East Timor Partner Countries East Timor

Project Leader, WorldFish Center Dr David Mills, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Joni Freitas

National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture


Project Duration 30/04/2012 to 31/01/2013 Extended to 30/06/2013

Project Outline/Background East Timor ranks amongst the poorest countries in the world, and as a new, post-conflict nation faces multiple challenges in fostering economic development and improving food security. The primary sector as a whole has a central role to play in nation-building processes, yet issues of insufficient human capacity as well as investment that is both inadequate and at times poorly focused, have held back this potential. The fisheries and aquaculture sectors are currently falling well short of their potential to contribute in a substantive way to improving livelihoods and food security. While rudimentary aquaculture facilities exist, production at these is sub-optimal, and the sector as a whole is largely undeveloped. There is little information regarding agro-ecological suitability of land and coasts for brackish aquaculture or mariculture, and the human capacity to build the sector is inadequate. Similarly, whilst wild fisheries are critical for livelihoods and food security in some coastal villages, the sector is functioning well below its potential. It is likely that the pelagic sector in particular has significant potential for increased production, yet current legislation and enforcement capacities are insufficient to ensure sustainable outcomes. A strategic approach to fisheries and aquaculture development is required to best serve the aspirations of Timor-Leste that avoids the mistakes that come from a series of ad hoc initiatives whilst learning from international experiences. This project is one facet of a WorldFish initiative to establish an ongoing presence in East Timor to support the government in the development of the sector to a point where it contributes substantially to the food security and sovereignty aspirations of the nation.

Objectives The broad objectives of the project are:

• with the National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture (NDFA) further refine aquaculture policy and implementation plans

• with the Agriculture and Land Use Geographical Information System (ALGIS) group map aquaculture potential and fishery dependence

• with NDFA, active NGOs and international organisations, identify priorities and develop implementation plans for key components of small-scale fisheries policy

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• to produce a plan for future research and development investment in the fishery and aquaculture sectors in East Timor

Achievements The assessment of available information on livelihoods, fish production, seasonality and food/nutrition security in East Timor provided a strong basis for designing interventions, setting realistic project targets, and evaluating project outcomes. Analysis of available data (largely from FAO sources) shows that fish is consumed at moderate levels by coastal communities, but at very low levels by inland communities. Poor health outcomes, particularly in the first 1000 days of life highlight that high-quality, nutrient and essential fatty acid rich fish have a strong role to play in improving nutrition and food security outcomes. Livelihood data from various national surveys and census confirms that while agriculture dominates inland communities, mixed fisher/farmer livelihoods are prominent on the coasts. Interventions in coastal communities will need to operate at a system level, addressing a broad conceptualisation of livelihoods. Seasonality in fishing varies over small spatial scales in East Timor, and this will need to be considered in project design and priority setting. In common with many developing nations, consultations with stakeholders highlighted largely ineffective fisheries governance systems. In highly fish-dependent areas this has led to overexploitation of nearshore resources, putting livelihoods and food security at risk. Interventions that promote sustainable increases in the exploitation of pelagic and offshore resources while protecting reefs were a priority for both government and fishing communities. An investment and business plan for rehabilitating existing hatchery infrastructure shows that for a relative modest investment, the output of these hatcheries can be massively increased over a short timeline. The business model suggests that the hatcheries could be returning a profit within three years of initiating rehabilitation projects Despite significant encouragement of seaweed aquaculture development by the government, the industry has largely failed and currently only services the modest domestic market. A series of recommendations around establishing standards, market alignment, co-operative marketing, industry planning and capacity building provide a roadmap for the rejuvenation of what could be a productive export industry and supplemental livelihood for coastal communities. Ground validation and refinement of agro-ecological suitability maps for aquaculture focused on areas of high aquaculture development potential, were carried out jointly by ALGIS and WorldFish. The major activities included collection and analyses of additional bio-physical and socio-economic data, visual observation and consultations with the key stakeholders in these districts and Dili. Capacity building activities included a ‘train the trainers’ program on sustainable aquaculture and small-scale fish seed production. This was organized incollaboration with NDFA, CARE, Mercy Corps, Hivos and FAO. A total of 30 participants attended this training. Mapping of existing mariculture (particularly, seaweed) sites in Atauro Island was carried out based on data set and GPS points made available by Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Program of the FAO. Competed analysis of existing fisheries law and related consultant reports (synergistic output with other WorldFish projects in Timor-Leste).

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Future Plans and Activities Fisheries outputs from the project fed directly into the development of a full ACIAR proposal (‘Exploring options to improving livelihoods and resource management in Timor-Leste’s coastal communities’) in collaboration with NDFA, local NGOs and communities. The proposal addresses food security and livelihood issues by piloting the synergistic use of FADs and traditional NRM practices (tara bandu) to moderate exploitation of reef resources while providing increased access to underutilised pelagic resources. The project also builds on efforts by the recent Regional Fisheries Livelihoods Program (FAO) to support and build capacity in the NDFA for fisheries data collection and use for management. Aquaculture outputs from the project have fed into a more formalised process of designing an implementation and investment plan for the National Aquaculture Development Strategy. These outputs have also fed directly into the design of a number of successful donor-funded proposals. Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr David Mills WorldFish/Australia


Dr Jharendu Pant WorldFish/Malaysia


Mr Joni Freitas NDFA/Timor Leste Mr Julio da Cruz NDFA/Timor Leste

Other Collaborators Ms Shwu Jiau Teoh (WorldFish) Dr Mike Phillips (WorldFish) Dr Shakuntala Thilstead (WorldFish)

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Figure 1: Working with National Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture staff to fit a depth sounder to a local vessel to undertake bathymetry surveys. This was a component of feasibility analysis for deploying fish aggregating devices (D.Mills)

Figure 2: Fishing fleet pulled up onshore at Makili, Atauro Island, Timor Leste. The vast majority of the national fishing fleet of around 4000 vessels are this size or smaller (D.Mills)

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Figure 3: Fish consumption in inland areas of Timor Leste is very low because distribution infrastructure is poor. Ice in not readily available, and most fish are sold fresh resulting in high spoilage rates if fish are transported too far (J. Pant)

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MEKONG

ACTIVE PROJECTS

FIS/2009/041: Development of fish passage technology to increase fisheries production on floodplains in the lower Mekong and Murray-Darling River basins Partner Countries Lao P.D.R.

Australian Project Leader Dr Lee Baumgartner, NSW DPI

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Douangkham Singhanouvong, Living Aquatic

Resources Research Centre Dr Oudom Phonekhampeng, National University of Laos


Project Duration 01/10/2010 to 1/10/2015 Project Outline/Background The Murray-Darling Basin and the Mekong are two of the world’s major catchment systems. They drain similar catchment areas, are both over 4,000km in total length and support over 2 and 60 million people respectively. Both systems contain unique fish communities which are important sources of biodiversity, food security and recreational opportunities. The Murray-Darling Basin has an active recreational fishery estimated to be worth between $AUD750K – 1,000K annually. The current annual production from the capture fishery in the LMB is about two million tonnes, which is approximately 2% of the total world marine and freshwater catch. The fishery has a first-sale value between US$2,000-4,000 million per year. Irrigation development in Australia and Lao PDR. has led to construction of numerous water regulation devices (over 10,000 in both countries) which limit migratory fish movement. Movements of fish (and other aquatic animals) between rivers and floodplains is subsequently restricted, or may be entirely prevented, and this has led to severe declines in fish production in many areas. Fisheries agencies in both countries are interested in increasing capacity to design manage and operate fish passage facilities on new and existing low-level water control structures in order to ensure the long-term sustainability of fish resources in each country. Objectives

1. Identify and prioritize water infrastructure that creates migration barriers to lateral fish migrations between the Mekong River, its tributaries and floodplain habitat

2. Research the effectiveness of low-cost fishways for widespread application at floodplain

barriers in the lower Mekong and Murray-Darling basins

3. Quantify the biological, ecological and socio-economic benefits of floodplain rehabilitation using fish passage technology to increase awareness and uptake of low-cost mitigation measures.

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Achievements This project commenced in September 2010 and is now well underway. Works have commenced in both Australia and Lao PDR. Australia: The construction of an experimental small fish, fish lock has been completed at Lock 15 (funded by Murray-Darling Basin Authority, but research on effectiveness to be done by the ACIAR team). A fishway assessment trap has been designed and constructed to assess the experimental fish lock at Lock 15. Preliminary testing is completed and work will commence in September 2014. Dr Jo Millar has given a presentation to the Yea Wetland Group on the Pak Peung Wetland and Fishway Project (FIS/2009/041). The Yea Wetland Group have offered to donate funds via the International Landcare program to support revegetation in parts of the Pak Peung wetland. Communication is underway with LARReC and WWF to facilitate information exchange between the two groups. Dialogue has been initiated between the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and Lao collaborators to help progress fish passage outcomes in both countries. Creation of a successful partnership with AUSAID's Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development (AYAD) volunteer program. Leonid Bronfentrinker is on a 12 month volunteer assignment working as an environmental engineer with project stakeholder, National University of Lao. Volunteers have made and continue to make a sustainable contribution to the delivery of project outcomes through a range of capacity building initiatives. Narrandera Fisheries Centre hosted John Dillon Fellowship recipients from the Asia Pacific Region. Dr Malavanh Chittavong represented Lao PDR and project partner, National University of Lao. Dr Malavanh benefited greatly as she now has an enhanced appreciation for research technology and methods which can be applied to future projects in Lao PDR. Lao PDR: Objective 1 Detailed mapping of fish migration barriers in the Xe Bang Hieng, Xe Champone and Nam Ngum catchments have been completed. Over 4,000 fish migration barriers were identified from the three catchments. The project team engaged closely with local villagers and government officials to perform fieldwork Reports have been produced outlining the prioritisation of barriers within Xe Bang Hieng and Xe Champone and the rehabilitation options available for the highest priority barriers. The team completed barrier prioritization in the Nam Ngum catchment and is in the final stages of producing a report on the priority and rehabilitation options available . The World Bank and Mekong River Commission have funded extensions of the projects barrier mapping methods to other catchments including the Xe Bang Fei (Laos) and Stung Chinut (Cambodia). This is a direct result of mapping work conducted from this project. The prioritisation within the Xe Bang Fei has been completed. A draft report outlining the prioritisation and remediation options has been produced.

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Objective 2 Successfully completed necessary repair work of the demonstration fishway at Pak Peung regulator (Bolikhamsay province). The fishway will be operated next year (2014/15) to pass fish into the wetland for the first time. The project team will use fishway assessments to estimate increases in fisheries production. The first fishway assessment has been completed at Pak Peung regulator. The fishway was assessed for a total of six weeks during the 2013 wet season. The fishway assessment catch data is currently being entered and analysed. Narrandera Fisheries Centre hosted John Dillon Fellowship recipient Dr Malavanh Chittavong from the National University of Laos. Dr Malavanh spent a total of 3 weeks at Narrandera Fisheries Centre. Dr Malavanh benefited greatly as she now has an enhanced appreciation for research technology and methods which can be applied to future projects in Lao PDR. Consultants from GIZ (German Institute for International Collaboration) met with the project team in January. They have used the results of the project to progress fishway construction projects in Southern Lao PDR and also in Cambodia. They plan to work with the project team to identify suitable fishway designs over the next 12 months. Objective 3 The socio-economic baseline survey results from 2011 were combined with the additional 2012 results and presented at the annual project meeting in Vientiane, August 2013. The following publication was produced, ‘Socio-economic study of fish harvesting and use at Pak Peung wetland in Lao PDR Report 2013. Authors: Joanne Millar and Wayne Robinson, Charles Sturt University, Australia. Douangkham Singhanouvong and Khampeng Homsombath, LARReC. Thonglom Pommavong and Oudom Phonekhampeng, NUOL. Community members in the vicinity of the wetland are now reporting catches of species that were not seen for many years until the fishway was completed. The next survey is scheduled for November 2014. Future Plans and Activities Create an accessible database and generate priority list of fish migration barriers. Distribute the barrier list to NGOs and donor bodies to help plan opportunities for future fish passage construction. Work with the Mekong River Commission to extend the results of this work to other Mekong countries. The World Bank has provided funding for two fishways to be constructed in the Xe Champhone and Xe Bang Fei. The project team will work closely with providers to ensure the designs are suitable for Mekong species. The Savannakhet Irrigation Department has commenced planning for the construction of two fishways within the Xe Champhone catchment. The Agriculture Biodiversity Initiative of the Luang Prabang Irrigation Department has commenced planning for two fishways in the Nam Pa catchment.

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The Mekong River Commission has funded the development of guidelines for prioritisation and fish friendly irrigation infrastructure. The project team has been engaged to assist with this initiative. Data from 2012 experimental fishway assessments is to be analyzed and reported A second round of fishway assessment (2014 wet season) of the demonstration fishway at Pak Peung regulator (Bolikhamsay province) is planned. Assessment data from 2013 and 2014 is to be analyzed to quantify fishway effectiveness Socio-economic surveys to be repeated post demonstration fishway construction in 2014 and 2015 to determine differences in fish migration, species abundance, and quantity or quality of fish sold and used by villagers Conduct a series of fishway experiments and assessment at the newly constructed Lock 15 small fish, fish lock on the Murray River. Create an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development (AYAD) position based at the National University of Laos Report on achievements and outcomes. Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Lee Baumgartner New South Wales Department of Primary Industries


Mr Tim Marsden Australasian Fish Passage Services

+ 61 419 724 462 [email protected]

Mr Garry Thorncraft National University of Lao

+ 856 2055 646 376 [email protected]

Mr Douangkham Singhanouvong Living Aquatic Resources Research Centre


Dr Oudom Phonekhampheng National University of Lao


Dr Jo Millar Charles Sturt University


Other Collaborators Dr Wayne Robinson Charles Sturt University


Dr Ivor Stuart Kingfisher Consulting


Mr Matthew Barwick Greenfish Consulting


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Figure 1: National University of Laos Students conducting fisherman socio-economic survey

Figure 2: Local village staff removing fish trap from experimental fishway

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Figure 3: Fish catch from experimental fishway

Figure 4: Fishway assessment trap being checked during the 2013 fishway assessment at Pak Peung

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Figure 5: Assessment fish trap in operation and fishway entrance below Pak Peung Regulator

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FIS/2010/058: Assessing economic and welfare values of fish in the Lower Mekong Basin Partner Countries Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Vietnam

Project Leader Dr Eric Baran

WorldFish Center

Project Budget AUD 1,150,024

Project Duration 01/12/2011 to 30/11/2015 Project Outline/Background Freshwater capture fisheries in the Lower Mekong Basin provide 47 to 80% of the animal protein consumed, as well as livelihood opportunities on a large scale. However in absence of a solid estimate of the total economic value of these fisheries, their importance remains very poorly recognized by institutions and in development plans, which hampers rural development. Furthermore the relative role of fish resources in rural livelihoods and welfare has never been quantified. This project focuses on the assessment of economic and welfare values of fish in the Mekong Basin, more specifically in Cambodia. The regional relevance of this project results from: i) a sampling framework based on representative agro-ecological zones (Mekong mainstream, floodplains, lowlands), found in all riparian countries, and ii) a monitoring framework based on 4 universities in the 4 LMB countries. A special emphasis is put on linking project results to the policy environment. Objectives The overall aim of the project is to improve welfare among rural households of the Mekong Basin. The objectives of the project are to:

• assess the relative contribution of fisheries to welfare in diversified farming systems, with a focus on poor and vulnerable social groups;

• assess the economic value of capture fisheries in Cambodia (number of tons produced in the different agro-ecological zones; price of a ton of fish);

• improve national statistics about fisheries resources and demonstrate a methodology for other Asian countries

• identify strategies that increase the welfare and livelihood value of fish; • -establish a coordinated monitoring of fish resources through a network of universities; • actively inform a large range of stakeholders about the actual role of fisheries in national

economy and livelihoods. The expected outcomes of the project are i) policy changes reflecting project results at the national level and ii) development interventions reflecting project recommendations. Achievements Project implementation started early 2012. A detailed and transparent sampling methodology was designed in consultation with the National Institute of Statistics. A welfare assessment questionnaire was designed and tested; it includes 265 questions in 13 modules: Personal Information, Household assets, Farming, Livestock, Fishing, Aquaculture, Floodplain natural

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resources, Terrestrial natural resources, Environment-independent economics, Borrowing and lending money, Income and expenditure shocks, Food and nutrition, and Health (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Issues surveyed in the welfare assessment; fish symbols indicate where the specific role of fish will be detailed and quantified. Each round of surveys covers 747 households in 37 villages countrywide, in three agro-ecozones: Tonle Sap, mainstream Mekong and Lowlands. The first round of surveys was completed in April 2013, the second one in December 2013, and a third one is due in September 2014. Data are collected using digital tablets and a Back Office system for daily remote compilation, so that information become available for preliminary analyses immediately after the last survey (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Interviews done using digital tablets for immediate data availability

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This successful approach resulted in a peer-reviewed publication (“A digital approach to surveys in developing countries”. WIT Transactions on Engineering Sciences. Accepted, in press) and was replicated in another ACIAR-funded project (FIS/2011/052 Improving research and development of Myanmar's inland and coastal fisheries). This project also produced the first nationwide assessment of fish dependency per commune (Figure 3), which is now reflected in the Atlas of Cambodia 2014.

Figure 3: Fishing dependency by commune in Cambodia. SCW 2014, Atlas of Cambodia Future Plans and Activities 2014 is a year of field work and data analysis and will produce preliminary results about:

• average role of fish in the welfare of rural households (details by wealth group, agro-ecozone and gender will be produced in 2015);

• identification of the main changes and trends in the contribution of fish to welfare; • fish market price by kilogram, per species, quality, season and region (assessment never

done before) and evolution of price along the trade chain; • fish productivity per habitat type and corresponding production nationwide; • development of a standardized protocol for monitoring of Mekong fish by university

students. In 2014 one more round of survey nationwide will consolidate the results already obtained while better reflecting the interannual variability. This project has already generated detailed and transparent information (see the project Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MekongFishValue) about its methodology, its study sites and its data analysis approach, in order to allow similar surveys in the future and monitoring of trends over years. Findings and results will be used to generate communication products (briefs in 2014, briefs, radio interviews and press articles in 2015). The targeted audience will progressively expand from line agencies to donors, the public and the National Assembly by the end of the project.

http://www.facebook.com/MekongFishValue�

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The final round of analyses will result in publications, starting early 2015. Importantly, academic publications will be coupled with a substantial communication effort at the national level, in order to see the findings better reflected in local decision-making and national policies. Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Eric Baran WorldFish Center + 855 012 449 703 [email protected]

Dr Seng Vang Cambodian Agricultural Research and Development Institute


Dr. So Nam / Mr Chheng Phen Inland Fisheries Research and Development Institute


Mr. Phauk Sophany Royal University of Phnom Penh + 85516 941 231 [email protected]

Dr. Duong Van Ni Cantho University [email protected]

Dr. Kanjana Payooha Ubon Ratchathani University +66 81 879 3400 [email protected]

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FIS/2011/013: Culture-based Fisheries Development in Lao PDR and Cambodia Partner Countries Australia, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Thailand

Commissioned Organization Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia Pacific

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Bounthong Saphakdy (Lao PDR)

Mr Srun Limsong (Cambodia)


Project Duration 1 March 2012-31 Dec 2014

Project Outline/Background Culture-based fisheries (CBF) have been accepted as a significant development strategy, needing minimal capital outlay, for increasing food fish production and improving rural community wellbeing by most countries in Asia and also globally to increase inland fish production. CBF is attractive as it is low-cost, mobilises dryland farming communities (e.g. rice farmers) to use existing water bodies for the secondary purpose of food fish production and, when adopted, CBF brings about communal harmony and synergies within farming communities. The strategies to optimise benefits from CBF, however, vary in detail from country to country and across climatic regimes. CBF has been successfully adopted in Sri Lanka and Vietnam through previous ACIAR-funded projects (FIS/2001/030 and FIS/2001/013, respectively). The results from these studies also generated a significant quantum of basic scientific information, published in international journals, which is being used by many groups, on, for instance, the use of geographical information systems (GISs) and related modelling aspects to choose water bodies for CBF, and yield–limnological parameter relationships. In Lao PDR, the main research questions revolve around: (i) how can the economic viability of CBF practices be improved; (ii) can a communication system that would encourage exchange of information among communities be utilised effectively for improving CBF management practices and marketing issues confronting rural communities; and (iii) developing protocols for artificial propagation and larva-to-fingerling rearing and science-based broodstock management plans for indigenous species, with a long-term view (regionally) to encourage a shift to aquaculture of indigenous species. In Cambodia, where CBF is not currently practised, the research entails: (i) identifying the suitability of water bodies in four districts for CBF; (ii) developing suitable yield-prediction models for estimation of potential yields in small water bodies in relation to limnological and catchment parameters; and (iii) determining the most suitable species combinations and management procedures for CBF through growth trials over two cycles.

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Objectives Lao PDR The overall objective of the Lao component is to further consolidate the benefits gained from adoption of culture-based practices through organising community groups and ensuring the application of broodstock management plans for indigenous species. Cambodia The overall objective of the Cambodian component is to introduce culture-based fisheries through community management in selected water bodies in four provinces. Achievements The project has made the following achievements to date: In Lao PDR 12 additional reservoirs have selected for CBF trials, building on a previous project, and these have been stocked and monitored. Fish production has increased and communities are utilising their stock in different ways; some are selling the entire harvest for income at the end of the culture cycle, while others are allowing community members to fish for daily household needs throughout the cycle and selling “fishing rights” for the remainder to locals at the end of cycle. Funds generated are used to purchase seed for the next cycle and to improve community facilities such as connecting a local school to the power grid, improving community halls and temple. For more information see http://www.enaca.org/modules/news/article.php?article_id=2009 In Cambodia 16 small reservoirs in four provinces were selected for CBF trials, based on consultations with villagers and on the report “Use of ‘catchment land use pattern data’, based on GIS analysis, to determine the potential stocking densities for reservoirs in Cambodia” prepared under the project. Fish production in all reservoirs has increased considerably and participating communities have expressed their satisfaction with the outcomes thus far. Fisheries Victoria, which has expressed interest in using such an approach for stocking of inland water bodies for recreational fishery purposes. In Lao PDR communication Centres have been established at eight locations to facilitate the provision of technical support and extension services to farmers from surrounding communes, as well as exchange of experience between farming communities involved in CBF practices. An exchange visit of Cambodian farmers and researchers to Lao PDR was held from 8-12 May 2013. The purpose of the visit was to allow the Cambodian team to observe CBF activitie that have been on-going in Lao PDR for five years, including aspects of community-based management of common water bodies. The exhcnage visit included field trips to reservoirs practicing CBF, lectures from Lao project team members and interaction with community leaders. For details please see http://www.enaca.org/modules/news/article.php?article_id=2000. Mr Akhane Phomsouvanh, a Lao PDR team member from the Department of Livestock and Fisheries has been accepted for a Masters Degree programme at Udornrachathani University, Thailand, using data from the project for his study. Induced breeding and hatchery rearing protocols for an important indigenous species Labeo chrysophekadion have been developed, and a manual has been prepared and is being translated into Laotian currently.

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A study of the genetic diversity and population structure of this species has been completed and the findings published in international journals. The following publications have resulted from the work: Akhane Phomsouvanh, Bounthong Saphakdy, Sena S. De Silva (submitted to Ambio, April 2014). Production trends, monetary returns and benefit sharing protocols from culture-based fisheries in rural communities in Lao PDR Limsong Srun, Hort, Sary Ou, Vutha Ouch, Mohan, C.V., De Silva Sena S., 2013. Introduction of culture based fishery practices in small water bodies in Cambodia: issues and strategies. Aquaculture Asia Magazine, XVIII (4), 12-17. Culture based fisheries development in Lao PDR and Cambodia proceeding well. NACA Newsletter XVIII, No.4, Oct.- Dec. 2013. Nguyen, T. T. T. & Sunnucks, P. (2012). Strong population genetic structure and its management implications in the mud carp, an indigenous freshwater species subject to aquaculture and culture-based fishery. Journal of Fish Biology 80, 651-668. Saphakdy, B., Phomsouvanh, A. Davy, B., Nguyen, T.T.T., De Silva, S.S., 2009. Contrasting community management and revenue sharing practices of culture-based fisheries in Lao PDR. Aquaculture Asia Magazine, XIV (3), 2-6. Future Plans and Activities Remaining activities for the project include: An exchange visit of Lao researchers and farmers to Cambodia will be conducted 24-29 May 2014. The objective of the visit is to allow Lao personnel involved in the project to observe CBF practices and management in the Cambodian context and to share lessons learned with the Cambodian team. A final regional policy workshop will be held in Siem Reap, Cambodia in October 2014. The workshop will bring together participating farmer communities, researchers, governmental authorities (district, provincial and central), relevant NGOs and policy makers of Mekong riparian countries. The workshop will discuss the research findings, identify policies relevant to successful CBF operations and strategies for popularising it as a means to increase the food fish production and income of rural communities. The workshop programme is in development, participation is estimated at around 60 people. A hatchery manual detailing artificial breeding protocols for silver barb is in final stages of preparation and will be published in Lao and English in 2014. A technical manual “Better Management Practices for Culture-based Fisheries, Lao PDR) is in preparation, with the practices undergoing trial and refinement in 2014. Key personnel Dr Cherdsak Virapat Dr Yuan Derun Simon Wilkinson

Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia–Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand

Prof. Sena S. De Silva Lead Consultant to Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia–Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand

Dr Brett A. Ingram Fisheries Victoria, Department of Primary Industries, Australia

Dr Thuy T.T. Nguyen Deakin University, Victoria, Australia

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Bounthong Saphakdy Department of Livestock and Fisheries, Vientiane, Lao PDR

Srun Limsong Fisheries Administration, Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Figure 1 and 2: Some villages allow families to fish for their daily needs during the culture cycle, and hold a 'fishing day' at the end of the culture cycle where tickets are sold to locals for the right to fish for the remainder. The proceeds are used to buy seed to stock the reservoir for the next cycle.

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Figure 3, 4 and 5: Profits from the culture-based fisheries activities are used to improve community facilities. This village school in Laos was connected to the power grid for the first time using proceeds from the CBF harvest.

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Figure 6: A clarias catfish caught in the final harvest

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FIS/2011/052 Improving research and development of Myanmar's inland and coastal fisheries (MYFish) Partner Countries Myanmar

Australian Project Leader Dr Gareth Johnstone, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leader Director General Department of Fisheries, Ministry of

Livestock and Fisheries


Project Duration 2012 to 2016

Project Outline/Background The fisheries sector in Myanmar is vital for national food security, income generation and export earnings. In 2010, production from Myanmar’s fisheries was estimated at 3.9 million tonnes, 70% of which was for national consumption. Aquaculture production accounts for 25% of the total fish production volume and has grown significantly in the past decade, reaching 900,000 tonnes in 2010, and valued at US$950 million at farm gate prices. It is estimated that fisheries (marine, inland and aquaculture) directly employs more than 3 million people and between 12 and 15 million people benefit from the fisheries sector. Fish products are the most important sources of animal protein with national per capita fish consumption estimated at 46kg/person/year. Fisheries development in Myanmar faces three clear constraints: the lack of a comprehensive information base on fisheries; the lack of proven management approaches and technologies; and the limited technical capacity to implement fisheries projects. The MYFish project aims to address these challenges by focusing on capture and culture fisheries. It is contributing to better understanding fishery management systems to meet increasing demands for sustainable and equitable use of natural resources. It is supporting small-scale aquaculture to emerge as an alternative source of fish for poorer households. WorldFish is supporting this through two R&D mechanisms: (1) directly with the Department of Fisheries through vertically integrated activity working groups and; (2) via the fishery R&D network (FRDN) that involves government, private sector, universities and NGO interests, and rea used to facilitate the development of innovative, sustainable and equitable ways forward for Myanmar’s fisheries sector.

Objectives The aim of the project is to improve the capacity for management of Myanmar’s inland capture and culture fisheries and facilitate the emergence of co management of fisheries and small-scale aquaculture as cornerstones of rural food security and livelihoods. Three objectives have been identified:

• To characterize the fisheries sector in the Ayeyarwady Delta and to assess the scope for fisheries development in the Central Dry Zone

• To identify, test and then demonstrate new approaches to increase productivity, efficiency, sustainability and equity in fisheries production systems in the Ayeyarwady Delta and the Central Dry Zone.

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• To strengthen the capacity of Government, private sector and non-government organizations to carry out appropriate research & development for the fisheries sector.

Achievements Communications – regular monthly meetings with DoF in Yangon and Nay Pyi Taw; 2nd edition of the bi-annual MYFish Newsletter produced in November 2013 (English and Myanmar) and distributed to all DoF offices in the CDZ and Delta; two-posters produced on size (length) at maturity of commercially important inland fish species and on endangered fish species to raise local awareness on the fish species diversity in country; R&D - multi-disciplinary scoping exercises to the CDZ (July 2013) and Delta (Dec 2012) involving DoF, NGOs and Myanmar Fishery Federation; Completion of DoF’s first research survey of small-scale aquaculture households (men and women) in the Delta across three agro-ecological zones (freshwater; seasonally brackish; and year-round brackish); Capacity – Two national symposiums convened; one on the ‘Potential for fisheries in the CDZ’ (Dec 2013) and second was on the “Fisheries of the Ayeyarwady Delta’(March 2013) and both used to identify and prioritize research themes and partners Two calls have been made for mini-research projects in the Delta and CDZ through the Fishery Research & Development Network (FRDN) that comprises of DoF, Food Security Working Group (FSWG), nine universities from the CDZ and Delta and MFF. Over 30 projects were proposed and the FRDN approved 20 mini-research projects. First mini-research project study was completed by the Myanmar Marketing Research & Development (MMRD) and was an assessment of the livelihoods in three fishing communities in the Delta; Activity working groups have been set up within the DoF on aquaculture and capture and have carried out research on SSA and leaseholds and have received training and capacity building in identifying, prioritizing and designing research including FishBase specialists from the Philippines provided training to create a node for FishBase in-country. Future Plans and Activities During this period the following activities will be undertaken

• Leasable Fisheries Survey in the Ayeyarwady Delta: the study will be covering 12 townships and will be looking at the existing management practices in the leasable fisheries in the Delta.

• Migration Study of freshwater fish species: the study is based on the systematic and

structured gathering of local knowledge and will help to identify the migration patterns and breeding sites of selected target freshwater fish species of commercial interest (e.g. Hilsa). This activity has received additional funding from FAO/BOBLME

• Research trials in the Delta based on the findings of the SSA Survey and training of DoF

researchers in Bangladesh (Small Indigenous Species Workshop – March 2014) pilots will be developed on rice-fish, SIS integrated with carps in small ponds; and eel culture

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• CDZ Small-scale Aquaculture (SSA) Survey will adopt the same approach as the Delta and extend the survey to the CDZ.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Gareth Johnstone Project Leader WorldFish,Greater Mekong Regional Office Cambodia

[email protected]

Xavier Tezzo Technical Support Officer, WorldFish Yangon

[email protected]

U. Khin Maung Maw Director General Department of Fisheries (DoF) under the Ministry of Livestock, Fisheries & Rural Development

Dr Ohnmar Khaing The Food Security Working Group (FSWG)

[email protected]

Other Collaborators

Win Kyaing Secretary General The Myanmar Fisheries Federation (MFF)

[email protected]





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Figure 1: Women play a key role in the marketing of fish in Yangon market

Figure 2: Access to fisheries is controlled by a leaseholder who sub-lets fishing areas to local communities in Maubin

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FIS/2012/100: Improving the design of irrigation infrastructure to increase fisheries production in floodplain wetlands of the Lower Mekong and Murray-Darling Basins Partner Countries Lao P.D.R.

Australian Project Leader Dr Craig Boys, NSW Department of Primary

Industries, Fisheries

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Douangkham Singhanouvong, Living Aquatic Resources Research Centre Dr Oudom Phonekhampeng, National University of Laos

Project Budget $ 1,271,182


Project Outline/Background Irrigation infrastructure, including weirs and regulators, are important for securing water for agriculture. But their prevalence has also contributed to the decimation of freshwater ecosystems and led to a significant decline in the value of fisheries. The Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) sustains the largest freshwater fishery in the world and more than 80% of rural households are involved in capture fisheries. But as much as 70% of species in the fishery are at threat from the expansion of river infrastructure, because their survival is reliant on being able to migrate freely either within rivers and/or between rivers and floodplain wetlands. River infrastructures can interrupt important migrations of native fish and this has contributed to declining fish populations. Like in the LMB, in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), river infrastructure and the disruption of fish migrations is believed to contributing to a 90% reduction in native fish populations. Although wetland regulators facilitate irrigated cropping and can be used to generate electricity from mini-hydropower facilities, they need to be designed and operated to protect the fishery, by ensuring safe fish passage is provided. Recent ACIAR investment (FIS/2009/041) has demonstrated that substantial progress can be made in restoring upstream fish movements past these structures into floodplain wetlands using fishways. However, there has been far less focus on protecting fish during critical downstream migrations on their return to the Mekong River. A recently completed ACIAR SRA (FIS/2011/072) has raised significant concerns over the potential for fish injury and mortality (up to 90% in some cases) during downstream passage through weirs and regulators. Most importantly, however, that project demonstrated that improvements in fish survival may come from simple changes in the way a weir or regulator is designed or operated. The opportunity now exists to apply these findings to a ‘real-world’ wetland regulator structure in Lao P.D.R., to demonstrate the potential benefits that proper infrastructure design can have on the LMB fishery and the local economy. At the same time there is a need to better understand what hydraulic conditions contribute to injury and mortality of fish and how these differ between different infrastructure designs. Collectively these activities will allow the prioritisation of different irrigation structures for upgrade or replacement and provide practical design solutions for the protection of fisheries.

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Objectives It is our aim to assist farming communities and management authorities to adapt irrigation structures in ways that increase the value of the associated fisheries. This aim will be achieved by meeting the following objectives: To better understand the impact of irrigation infrastructure on the downstream passage of fish between wetlands and rivers; To install and assess the effectiveness of a fish friendly regulator for improving the survival of fish exiting wetland habitats; and To quantify to what extent improved fish passage survival at irrigation structures can return an economic benefit through improved capture fisheries.

Future Plans and Activities This project is set to begin in May 2014 and will involve research activities in both Lao P.D.R. and Australia: Downstream fish passage surveys at Pak Peung regulator (Lao P.D.R.) to establish what species, life stages and biomass of fish are passing downstream and are at risk when the wetland drains; Hydraulic surveys of different types of irrigation structures throughout the Murray-Darling Basin to determine the likelihood of exposure of downstream migrating fish to adverse hydraulic conditions. From this we can make better choices regarding the types of infrastructure that may be safer for fish; The installation and testing of various fish-friendly gate designs at Pak Peung regulator (Lao P.D.R.). Tests will involve live fish mortality trials. This site will be ideal for this purpose as it is adjacent to the site of the upstream fishway which was built as part of project FIS/2009/041. The Pak Peung wetland site will therefore become a prominent demonstration site of what can be achieved by using a holistic approach to fish passage restoration, dealing with both upstream and downstream fish passage in parallel; and A cost-benefit analysis to establish the relative economic benefit that can be gained (in terms of improved capture fisheries) from investing in the upgrading of irrigation infrastructure to improve fish passage.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Craig Boys NSW Department of Primary Industries – Fisheries




Dr Oudom Phonekhampeng National University of Lao



+ 856 2055 646 376 [email protected]

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Figure 1, 2 and 3: In 2013 we tested the feasibility of using hydraulic sensors (Sensorfish) at Pak Peung regulator to determine the hydraulic conditions experienced by fish as they pass downstream through the regulator gates. In the current project Sensorfish will also be used at a large number of irrigation structures in the Murray-Darling Basin to scope the hydraulic risk posed by different designs.

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Figure 4: In recent years more than 40 weirs and wetland regulators in south-eastern Australia have been built or upgraded with designs that offer greater protection to downstream migrating fish. Typically, this has involved using fish-friendly overshot weir designs with deep plunge pools (shown above at a Murray-Darling Basin wetland regulator), in preference to undershot weirs. We will explore the feasibility of different designs for the Lower Mekong Basin and will test the effectiveness of these at a regulator in Lao P.D.R. (photo credit: AWMA Water Control Structures).

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SMCN/2010/083: Improving the sustainability of rice-shrimp farming systems in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam Partner Countries Vietnam

Australian Project Leader A/Professor Jesmond Sammut

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Nguyen Van Hao


Project Duration 01/06/2013* to 31/05/17 * Launched October 2013

Project Outline/Background Rice and shrimp have been farmed in rotation in the Mekong Delta for 40 years. Rice is farmed in the wet season when water salinity is low. Shrimp is farmed extensively and semi-intensively during the dry season when water salinity is too high to continue with rice production. Rice farming is promoted by the Government of Vietnam to ensure demand for rice is met locally and to maintain an export market. Rice production is also considered to be an important component of the sustainability of the rice–shrimp system. Increasing salinity, as a result of changing environmental conditions and catchment-wide water management, has led to rice crop losses and reduced yields in the normally productive wet season. Shrimp yields have been affected by recurrent disease outbreaks exacerbated by stocking of poor-quality post-larvae and declining pond soil and water quality. Research is already underway to test redesigned rice–shrimp farming systems and new salt-resistant rice varieties (RIA2 & CLRRI, unpublished research), but the mechanisms underpinning the sustainability of rice–shrimp production systems are poorly understood. Further research is required on key factors, mechanisms and constraints that influence the productivity of new rice–shrimp farming systems. The research would enable scientifically validated modifications to the farming system to increase profitability and ensure sustainable practices are promoted. The following research questions will be addressed:

• What are the limiting factors and problems for rice–shrimp farming? What are the beneficial effects of growing rice and shrimp together?

• Can the pond and canal design and water management practices be improved? • How can biotic interactions be improved? • How can nutrients be managed in the system?

Objectives The overall aim of the project is to increase yields and profitability of rice–shrimp production systems, particularly of new designs, in the Mekong Delta and ensure these systems can adapt to environmental change and its impact on pond soil and water quality. The specific research objectives are:

• To better understand the key components of the sustainability of rice–shrimp farming systems;

• To determine the sustainability of the rice–shrimp farming system by testing the identified key risk factors and system components;

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• To determine, explain and quantify the benefits to productivity of integrating rice and shrimp farming; and

• To identify and promote better management strategies to improve productivity and sustainability of rice–shrimp farming systems.

Achievements The project was officially launched on 23 October 2013. Since the launch the projected has achieved the following:

• Completed the first stage of Bayesian Belief Network (BBN) training for staff of RIA2, Can Tho University and district extension agencies. The training involved class-based instruction on the BBN process followed by field-based training where Vietnamese team members conducted focus group discussions under supervision. Training and farmer focus groups were held in Ca Mau, Baclieu and Kien Giang in the Mekong Delta.

• Completed a prototype BBN to guide the research. The BBN is a living document that will be regularly revised during the project period.

• Designed trials for a variety of rice-shrimp farming models; these designs are based in farm models proposed by RIA2.

• RIA2 supervised the construction of ponds and rice growing platforms based on the agreed models for testing.

• Preliminary soil and water sampling was conducted to characterise soil and water at the study sites in Ca Mau.

• Soil and water quality assessment training was conducted in the field and also at the RIA2 and Can Tho University laboratories. Australian staff provided training in acid sulfate soil analysis, soil sampling, water sampling, isotope analysis, water chemistry and other key data generating activities.

• Formal agreements were made between RIA2 and farmers involved in the research to enable construction of new farm designs for the trials.

• A prototype BBN was produced for expert input and review. The BBN will guide the research by identifying key variables for experimental work and provide information on farming practices, risk factors and farm-level management issues.

• A comprehensive literature review was completed to guide research planning. • Equipment to measure sedimentation rates in ponds and canals were installed and

measurements have commenced alongside regular testing of soil and water quality, crop health, growth rates and nutrient cycling. The first trial is now underway.

Future Plans and Activities The second stage of BBN training will commence in June 2014. The BBN training will run in parallel with a second stage of farmer focus group discussions and expert input from the research team and external experts. Farmer workshops will be conducted in Ca Mau, Bac Lieu and Kien Giang. Review results of the first crop trials. Review of a BBN prototype through feedback and input from farmers and other stakeholders such as researchers, extension officers and decision makers. 15N trials will commence in June 2014. The 15N trials also involve one-on-one training of team members responsible for field trials.

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Calculate nutrient budgets, describe soil and water processes and assess crop performance under rice and shrimp farming scenarios. Trials will compare different farming models and assess risk factors for rice and shrimp production. Establish a team of trainers following BBN, field and laboratory training activities. The trainers will train extension officers and technicians in Ca Mau, Bac Lieu and Kien Giang. Continue training in soil and water analytical methods at RIA2 and Can Tho University. Training will be conducted with analytical and field staff. Produce technical notes and other dissemination materials; prepare publications on the research findings from the Year 1 trials. Design soil plot trials and fertiliser replacement trials based on outcomes of the first trial and soil characterisation results. Review outcomes of Year 1 trials to either 1) modify farm designs and management practices and/or 2) to revise experimental protocols.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) A/Professor Jesmond Sammut The University of New South Wales Australia

+61-403 154 863 [email protected]

Dr Nguyen Van Hao Research Institute for Aquaculture 2 Vietnam

+84 8 38226496

[email protected]

Professor Le Quang Tri Director, Dragon Research Institute Vietnam


Dr Cao Van Phung Cuu Long Rice Research Institute Vietnam


Professor Michele Burford Griffith University Australia


Dr Jason Condon Charles Sturt University Australia


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Figure 1: The project was launched in Ca Mau in October 2013. The team comprises researchers involved in agriculture, rice breeding, aquaculture and soil science.

Figure 2: A farmer focus group discussion being led by our Vietnamese team members following earlier training. The farmers and research team discussed the various risk factors for rice and shrimp farming and contributed to the development of a prototype BBN.

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Figure 3: The Australian team members in floral splendour: Jason Condon, Jes Sammut, Ben Stewart-Koster and Michele Burford.

Figure 4: A typical rice-shrimp farm showing the rice platform (centre) surrounded by a ditch. During the wet season the salinity of the water is often still too high (> 4ppt) for rice cultivation. The project is testing different farm designs, water management, soil treatments, rice varieties and cultivation practices to determine the best farm models and farm practices for the Mekong Delta.

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FIS/2010/100: Enhancing bivalve production in northern Vietnam & Australia Partner Countries Vietnam

Australian Project Leader Dr Wayne O’Connor

NSW Department of Primary Industries

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Phan Thi Van Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 1



Project Outline/Background While Asia is a world powerhouse for bivalve industries, Vietnam trails its near neighbors in production. Despite approximately 3,260 km of coastline and many native species with excellent potential, it produces only about 190,000 t of mostly clams each year, with only one third coming from aquaculture. Production in Vietnam was limited by seed supply, particularly in poorer northern Vietnam, where farmers were reliant on a limited and unreliable supply of wild caught seed from the south. Attempts to establish hatcheries to increase seed supply had been largely unsuccessful due to limited expertise and poor design. Beginning in 2007, as a result of FIS/2005/114, oyster hatcheries were established in the north. Now more than 100 million oyster seed are being produced annually. Oyster production has grown to exceed 7,000 t/annum and over 1,500 poor coastal villagers are employed in managing some 2,200 oyster rafts. The demand for oysters and other bivalves continues to expand and the scope for bivalve industry growth is phenomenal. Domestic demand for oysters alone has been estimated at >20,000 t/annum and strong export potential exists to the north in China. However, to increase capacity and further develop markets, hatchery reliability and output must be increased, the quality of harvested oysters must be improved, and basic health and biosecurity standards for bivalve production need to be developed. Within Australia, where industries such as the Sydney rock and Pacific oyster aquaculture are well developed, a program of research is needed to capture potential for new or emerging bivalve species; specifically, flat oysters, pipis and clams.

Objectives The overarching aim of this project is to increase hatchery-based bivalve production in Vietnam and New South Wales, Australia, to expand opportunities for coastal communities to rear bivalve molluscs. Our objectives are to:

• improve hatchery reliability (algal and larval systems in government and private facilities) for the production of oysters and clams to increase seed outputs

• improve oyster broodstock management and establish the basis for bivalve breeding programs to improve seed quality

• develop the basis for cultivation systems designed to increase oyster marketability • develop a bivalve health and environmental management program • develop the capacity for researchers, technicians, managers and farmers to safely and

sustainably regulate the development of the bivalve industry

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• extend the scientific, social and economic benefits of improved bivalve culture technology to other areas of Vietnam

• investigate three species (flat oysters, pipis and razor clams) that show potential for successful aquaculture in Australia.

Achievements Although the program has only officially just begun, significant progress has been made. Vietnam Two RIA1 staff members involved with the previous ACIAR project were accepted as John Allwright fellows to study in Australia. The First, Mr Vu Van In, has begun PhD studies on oyster genetics at the University of the Sunshine Coast and has now undertaken a survey of oyster broodstock available to this program for breeding in Vietnam. This survey has confirmed expectations that the species being farmed is Crassotrea angulata, and is being used to assess the genetic diversity of locals stocks to aid the development of a breeding program. The program supported travel by two RIA staff members to attend the 5th International Oyster Symposium in Ho Chi Minh in 2013, which show-cased the progress of the Vietnamese oyster industry and highlighted developments in the oyster industry internationally. A week long mollusc health workshop has been arranged for March 2013 at RIA1, Hanoi. The workshop will see five specialist health staff (4 RIA1 and 1 RIA3) receive molluscan pathology training. The exercise will also involve an assessment of current molluscan health diagnostic capacity, which will be used to guide future training exercises for Vietnamese staff in Australia. Australia Through the ongoing JAF (Vu Van In), diversity in Sydney rock oyster breeding lines has been assessed and has provided valuable feed back to SRO breeding programs. The microsatellite suite used for diversity assessment is being expanded and will be available to other SRO research programs. An archive of flat oyster samples collected from four locations across NSW has now been processed to provide greater insight into reproductive behaviour in the species. The results of this assessment are being prepared for publication and will assist hatcheries in planning future production schedules. Wild stock of razor clams have been indentified in Lake Macquarie and Port Stephens (NSW) and samples have been collected and placed in hatchery systems ready for experimentation. These clams have now been maintained in the hatchery for a month without adverse effects (growing well), which is a first to our knowledge and prepares the path for ongoing evaluations.

Future Plans and Activities Recent high mortality in clams throughout central and northern Vietnam has highlighted the need for enhanced molluscan disease diagnostic capacity and increased the importance of the Molluscan Health Diagnostic Capacity Review. RIA1 staff capability assessments have been undertaken and as soon as the review is received, we will commence health training to increase capacity to deal with current disease challenges. Samples from the outbreaks were assessed at the Health Workshop and ongoing advice is being provided. Arrangements have also been made to ensure access for RIA1 staff to a Workshop on Applied microbiology in Aquaculture to be run by the University of Ghent at RIA3.

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Following on from preliminary assessments of diversity in oyster stocks, a breeding population will be soon be established at RIA1 and a small scale, highly replicated breeding system for the production of mollusc family lines will be constructed at the RIA1, National Marine Broodstock Center. A trial run of the system will be undertaken and the oyster families produced will be used to assess the potential for an oyster selective breeding program. Concurrent with the construction of the physical systems (and their operating protocols), we will also work toward the establishment of guidelines for trait assessment and a database for data collection and analysis.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Wayne O’Connor NSW Department of Primary Industries

+61-249-163906 wayne.o’[email protected]

Dr Phan Thi Van, Director, Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 1,

+84 4 3878 0938 [email protected],

Other Collaborators MR Tran The Muu Director National Marine Broodstock Centre (NMBC), Cat Ba


Dr Michael Dove NSW Department of Primary Industries

+61-249-163906 [email protected]. au

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Figure 1 and 2 : Dr John Humphrey leading a ACIAR workshop on mollusc pathology for Vietnamese veterinary staff from RIA1 & 3 at Bac Ninh, Vietnam.

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Figure 3 and 4: Dr John Humphrey examining mollusc specimens during a ACIAR workshop on mollusc pathology for RIA 1 & 3 staff held a Bac Ninh Vietnam.

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RECENTLY CONCLUDED

FIS/2012/037: Preliminary trials on giant grouper maturation, spawning and juvenile production in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia Partner Countries Vietnam, Philippines

Australian Project Leader Prof. Abigail Elizur, University of the Sunshine Coast

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Tran Dinh Luan, Research Institute for Aquaculture

No. 1 (RIA1), Vietnam. Dr Felix Ayson, Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD), Philippines.



Project Outline/Background Groupers form the basis of the Live Reef Food-Fish trade in the SE Asian region. To meet market demand, grouper aquaculture has developed to a point where Tiger grouper (Epinephelus fuscogutattus) culture is now well established. Giant grouper (E. lanceolatus), another mid-tier value grouper but with a faster growth rate, has great aquaculture potential but very few regional facilities have achieved production of juveniles. This limitation is occurring because of a lack of knowledge on their maturation and spawning behaviour and also low larval survival. Currently, only Taiwan produces significant numbers of giant grouper juveniles, yet it is a priority species for many countries that currently culture grouper. Improving the success rate of spawning for giant grouper is a priority for Australia as well as India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Vietnam. In the Philippines, previous, extensive research on other grouper species means that they can transfer and test their existing techniques of broodstock handling and larval rearing on giant grouper. However, they currently lack a significant broodstock population, which will take time to secure and condition. In Vietnam, they already have a large number of giant grouper broodstock, but have been unable to achieve spawning while maintaining them under conditions successfully used for other grouper species. This project builds on previous research and address current limitations to the culture of giant grouper, which are a recent priority as the grouper aquaculture industry has matured. Research is currently hampered due to the high level of investment required to hold and maintain giant grouper broodstock. Combining resources within a cooperative, multinational project is the best option to address the current bottlenecks.

Objectives The overall project aim is to achieve a more complete understanding/investigate approaches to obtain consistent and controlled maturation and spawning of giant grouper that will enable successful larval rearing of captive grouper in tanks and cage systems. The specific objectives of the SRA are:

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• To learn from the experience in Taiwan through a study tour of giant grouper operations • Analyse the genetics of the giant grouper broodstock in Vietnam to avoid inbreeding • To participate in the 2012 breeding season of giant grouper in Vietnam • To collect giant grouper broodstock in the Philippines

Achievements A study tour to Taiwan was undertaken in June 2012 with 2 participants from each partner country. Farms that breed and grow giant groupers were visited and issues around giant grouper aquaculture discussed. Universities that undertake research on giant grouper were visited and collaborations established. Australia DNA markers for pedigree assignment of giant grouper broodstock were optimized and analysis of the genetic structure of the giant broodstock in the Northern Fisheries Centre in Cairns and RIA 1 in Cat Ba Island undertaken. The Australian broodstock is composed primarily of wild caught fish while the Vietnamese broodstock are primarily captive bred fish from Taiwan. Slow release hormone implants were prepared and successfully used for spawning induction of giant grouper broodstock in Cairns and Cat Ba. Giant grouper at the NFC have all been sampled for genetic analysis and parentage determined on a number of spawning events. Samples are being archived from each spawning to continue to determine parentage. Mature broodstock are being held in four, 60 T tanks with a separate tank of immature fish. A staggered program of methyl testosterone implants was successful in producing males in three of the tanks with the fourth tank to follow. Successful spawning and larval rearing was achieved in July with the production of 5500 juveniles that were sent to two farms for grow-out. Spawning has now occurred across all populations of giant grouper and has continued monthly since June 2012. So far 24 000 juvenile grouper have been sent to three farms, two of which are tank based, RAS. Fertilisation rate and egg volume have been variable but large volumes of eggs have been produced over each spawning event that typically lasts for 4 to 5 days. Vietnam Facilities on shore were renovated including 2 broodstock tanks (90 m3/tank), 3 live feed culture tanks (24 m3/tank), 40 nursing tanks (2-8 m3/tank). All the Giant grouper broodstock were fin clipped and samples sent to Australia for genetic analysis. Once analysis was completed, fish showing the least genetic relatedness were put in each tank and induced to spawn using slow release LHRHa implants. Spawning was successfully obtained and larval rearing carried out. USC student David Bright came to Cat Ba to assist with the collection of the fin clips for the genetic analysis. Richard Knuckey and Adam Reynolds came to Cat Ba to assist with the spawning induction and larval rearing. Five out of 22 broodstock were dead after spawning in 2012. Total of 18,050,000 eggs were spawned with mean of 59.4% fertilization rate, 36.6% hatching rate and 6,620,000 larvae. At present, 187 fingerlings spawned in 2012 are left and being raised in a cage, which includes 96 individuals of 10.5 cm/fish & 18.8 g/fish, 91 individuals of 7.5 cm/fish & 10.6 g/fish. There are 58 broodstock under good management condition and ready for spawning in 2013. Philippines New broodstock cages are built in Igang Marine Station for holding the new giant groupers that are being acquired. Concrete broodstock tanks in Tigbauan Main Station are also available for actual breeding/spawning experiments. The old giant grouper spawners in the station weigh about 50-100 kg now. Smaller-sized giant groupers (10-30 kg size range) are acquired from the wild from Palawan (southern Philippines) and Samar (western Philippines) Islands. These are ideal sizes for the experiments to determine the earliest size or age for sexual maturation and for sex change to occur.

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Future Plans and Activities This project has acted as the proof-of-concept and stepping stone to a Phase 2 investigation into the effective establishment of sustainable giant grouper aquaculture in Vietnam and the Philippines. The activities of the Phase 2 project aim to:

• Develop reliable giant grouper captive-breeding technologies in order to close its lifecycle • Explore the potential of germ-cell transplantation and surrogate technologies as alternative

approaches to giant grouper seed production • Develop reliable larval-rearing technologies for giant grouper • Apply genetic approaches to broodstock management • Build capacity in the form of knowledge transfer and training in larval rearing, genetics and

biotechnology as it applies to giant grouper aquaculture The expected outputs include sustainable technologies for giant grouper breeding and larval rearing, adaptation of alternative approaches to seed production, capacity building of staff in the partner countries, and initiation of the giant grouper aquaculture industry in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia. These outputs will be of immediate benefit to aquaculture farmers in Vietnam and the Philippines.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Abigail Elizur University of the Sunshine Coast


Dr Richard Knuckey Northern Fisheries Centre

+61-7-4057-3709

[email protected]

Dr Nguyen Huu Ninh Research Institute for Aquaculture No.1 (RIA1), Vietnam

+84-43-8780-408

[email protected]

Dr Felix Ayson Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center, Aquaculture Department, Philippines (SEAFDEC/AQD)






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FIS/2011/072: Pilot study for development of fish friendly irrigation and mini hydro design criteria for application in the Mekong and Murray-Darling Basins Partner Countries Lao P.D.R.

Australian Project Leader Dr Craig Boys, NSW Department of Primary

Industries, Fisheries

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Douangkham Singhanouvong, Living Aquatic Resources Research Centre Dr Oudom Phonekhampeng, National University of Laos



Project Outline/Background For many fish species, downstream migration is required to satisfy important life history requirements, such as feeding and breeding. However, river infrastructure (e.g. dams, weirs, hydropower turbines) can block these migrations. The provision of safe downstream passage of fish at these structures is therefore a significant challenge worldwide. The Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) sustains the largest freshwater fishery in the world and more than 80% of rural households are involved in capture fisheries. But as much as 70% of species in the fishery are at threat from new and existing river infrastructure, largely because the health of their populations is reliant on individuals migrating freely within rivers and the floodplain. Within the Murray-Darling Basin, river infrastructure and the disruption of fish migrations is believed to have contributed significantly to a 90% reduction in native fish populations. Fish need only a fraction of a second to pass through a weir, dam or hydropower turbine. But, even this short time can be dangerous, and is sometimes fatal. Research from Australia has shown that significant numbers of larvae and small-bodied fish can potentially die if they pass weirs where water is discharged underneath a gate (‘undershot’ weir design). Far fewer fish die when they pass structures that discharge water over a crest (‘overshot’ design) – particularly if a deep plunge pool is maintained below the weir. Being able to demonstrate differences in fish mortality between different weir designs has already provoked a response from those who own and operate river infrastructure in south-eastern Australia. As of 2014, more than 40 weirs and wetland regulators in this region have been built or upgraded with designs that offer greater protection to downstream migrating fish. Typically, this has involved using fish-friendly overshot weir designs with deep plunge pools, in preference to undershot weirs. It is believed that similar improvements in downstream fish passage could be achieved in the LMB, thus providing direct improvements to the fishery that is so important to the health and well-being of local communities. However, as in Australia the first step will be to demonstrate a link between infrastructure design and fish wellbeing in the LMB.

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Objectives The purpose of this project was to carry out a pilot experiment in Lao P.D.R. to determine whether different weir designs lead to differences in injury and mortality of downstream migrating fish, and begin laboratory experiments to determine what may be responsible for these differences. More specifically, the objective was to answer the following three research questions:

1. What are the mortality rates of different LMB species when they pass downstream through different kinds of river infrastructure?

2. What are the hydraulic conditions likely to be responsible for this mortality? and, 3. What are the hydraulic thresholds required for safe passage of LMB and MDB species?

Achievements This project commenced in March 2012 and is now complete. The project achieved the following: A fish passage study completed at an experimental weir at the Nongteng fish hatchery (Vientiane) provided the first evidence that fish in the LMB may be injured or killed during downstream passage through irrigation weirs. In particular, significant numbers of larvae died (up to 90%) when passing a weir where water was discharged underneath a gate (‘undershot’ weir design). Far fewer fish died when they passed a weir that discharged water over a crest (‘overshot’ design) Data obtained by Sensorfish at the experimental weir identified three possible mechanisms for fish injury during weir passage, rapid decompression, fluid shear or turbulence, and collision with bottom of the channel downstream of the weir. The relative contribution of these impacts differed between undershot and overshot design weirs. Specially designed barotrauma chambers were used to simulate the effects of rapid decompression on larval Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii) and juvenile carp (Cyprinus carp). The experiments showed that larval fish were not very susceptible to barotrauma injury. However, once decompression exceeds a certain level (~ a ratio of pressure change of 2-4), juvenile carp frequently suffered barotrauma injury. The injuries included over-expansion and rupture of the swim bladder. This occurs because as the surrounding pressure falls, the volume of gas in the swim bladder rises. In turn, this can cause the eyes to dislodge from their sockets, or bleeding from internal organs and blood vessels. The gas released from a damaged swim bladder can also become trapped internally, or dissolved gas can sometimes come out of blood and body fluids, causing blockages in the heart and gills. This can happen because blood and other fluids cannot hold as much dissolved gas at lower pressures. Ratio pressure changes of this magnitude may be unlikely to occur at irrigation weirs, but could be experienced at mini-hydropower plants. The project has substantially improved the capacity of both Lao and Australian scientists to undertake research specific to downstream fish passage. A barotrauma training course completed in Port Stephens and attended by Lao, Australian and U.S. researchers covered the theory and practice of hydraulic Sensorfish research, barotrauma research and fish necropsy. Not only were these skills applied during the experimental work in the current project, but the Lao researchers have subsequently obtained a grant from CGIAR under the Challenge Program on Water and Food to construct their own barotrauma chambers and begin follow-up experiments, as well as procure and begin using Sensorfish technology. Collaborations established during this project between Laos and U.S. researchers have lead to USAid funding that will facilitate projects between Laos and U.S. scientists on fish and hydropower issues over upcoming years.

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Future Plans and Opportunities This project has provided a ‘proof-of-concept’ that by altering the design of irrigation structures there is potential to improve the survival of downstream migrating fish. The opportunity now exists to apply these findings to a ‘real-world’ wetland regulator structure in Lao P.D.R. to demonstrate the potential benefits that proper infrastructure design can have on the LMB fishery and the local economy.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Craig Boys NSW Department of Primary Industries - Fisheries




Dr Oudom Phonekhampeng National University of Lao



+ 856 2055 646 376 [email protected]

Dr Lee Baumgartner NSW Department of Primary Industries - Fisheries


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Experimental drop-board weir structure constructed at Nong

Teng Fish Hatchery

‘Undershot’ configuration

Quantifying mortality rates in larval fish after experimentation

Autonomous sensor (Sensorfish) used to determine hydraulic

conditions during weir passage

‘Overshot’ configuration

Collecting fish downstream of experimental weir

Experimental drop-board weir structure constructed at Nong

Teng Fish Hatchery

‘Undershot’ configuration

Quantifying mortality rates in larval fish after experimentation

Autonomous sensor (Sensorfish) used to determine hydraulic

conditions during weir passage

‘Overshot’ configuration

Collecting fish downstream of experimental weir

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FIS/2006/141: Improving feed sustainability for marine aquaculture in Vietnam and Australia Partner Countries Vietnam

Australian Project Leader Brett Glencross – CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric

Partner Country Project Leader Tran Dinh Luan – RIA-1



Project Outline/Background This project aims to identify the extent of feed ingredient resource risks and the barriers (perceived and real) to adoption of manufactured feed by marine aquaculture sectors in Vietnam and Australia. By understanding the risks (scientific, social, economic and environmental), strategies can be designed to address them and improve the adoption of manufactured feed in Vietnam and improved use of alternative raw materials in both Vietnam and Australia. By working in collaboration with local Vietnamese researchers and industry partners, feeds will be developed to optimise nutrient and energy delivery to a range of marine aquaculture species. This will entail the definition of key nutrient and energy requirements followed by laboratory and farm-based development and validation of new feed technologies. The social and economic impacts of the new feed technologies will be evaluated. This project will also aim to improve the capacity for nutritional research and feed manufacturing in Vietnam and will also consolidate nutritional research capacity in Australia where we will optimise nutritional models to better account for growth prediction and nutrient and raw material utilisation.

Objectives The aim of the project is to bring the basic nutritional technology for five key marine aquaculture species to a level suitable for formulating and manufacturing effective feeds and developing appropriate feeding strategies. Specific objectives are to:

• Determine the barriers to adoption of manufactured feed • Model the optimal dietary nutrient and energy specifications • Measure the digestibility of diets and specific ingredients • Benchmark optimal feed specifications and feed management strategies • Improve the capacity for feed manufacturing technology • Improve the capacity in Vietnam to undertake industry applicable research • Explore the mechanistic elements of fish models for barramundi

Achievements Vietnam

• First project planning and implementation workshop – NhaTrang, Vietnam, August 2009. • First Regional Aquaculture Nutrition Forum - NhaTrang, Vietnam, August 2009.

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• Development of socio-economic models for each of the five marine species from data collected in Vietnam.

• First Feed Extrusion Technology Masterclass – Hanoi, Vietnam, July 2010. • Second project planning workshop – Hanoi, Vietnam, July 2010. • Second Regional Aquaculture Nutrition Forum - Hanoi, Vietnam, July 2010. • Second Feed Extrusion Technology Masterclass – CaiBe, Vietnam, June 2011. • Third project planning workshop – HoChiMinh City, Vietnam, July 2011. • Third Regional Aquaculture Nutrition Forum - HoChiMinh City, Vietnam, July 2011. • Fourth project planning workshop – NhaTrang, Vietnam, April 2012. • Fourth Regional Aquaculture Nutrition Forum - NhaTrang, Vietnam, April 2012. • Fifth project planning workshop – NhaTrang, Vietnam, June 2013. • Fifth Regional Aquaculture Nutrition Forum - VungTau, Vietnam, December 2013. • First Nutrition Masterclass – NhaTrang, Vietnam, March 2014. • Determination of key growth parameters (Live-weight x temperature x Growth rate) of

each of the five marine aquaculture species. • Determination of composition parameters with size variation of each of the five marine

aquaculture species. • Determination of the maintenance energy demands of cobia and grouper using nutritional

energetics methods. • Development of preliminary growth models of each of the five marine aquaculture species. • Progression of bioenergetic models for barramundi, cobia, grouper, lobsters and mudcrabs

from Vietnamese data. • Characterization of the nutritional value of a range of Vietnamese ingredients via

digestibility studies with each of the five marine aquaculture species. • Close industry engagement with the project by three feed companies and a major

barramundi farmer and a major cobia farmer in Vietnam. • Completion of an interlaboratory benchmarking exercise in Vietnam. • Standardization of key methodologies for nutritional research in Vietnam. • Completion of the laboratory benchmarking of new feed designs in Vietnam for some

species. • Scientific exchange visits by five Vietnamese scientists to Australia.

Australia

• Completed the characterization of nutritional quality variability of more than 40 Australian raw materials and 60 diets when fed to barramundi.

• Completed preliminary experiments to underpin a nutritional model for cobia. • Establishment of a nutrigenomics capability and have already used this to define changes in

gene expression on a temporal basis after feeding in barramundi. • Developed a preliminary nutrient-flux mechanistic growth model based on barramundi. • Identified key constraints to adoption of fish meal replacement technology by Australian

aquaculture producers. • Identified key constraints to adoption of fish meal replacement technology by Australian

feed industry. • Examined the role of key macronutrients in energy partitioning in barramundi. • Identified key transcriptional changes involved in nutrient partitioning during growth of

barramundi when fed diets skewed in energy supply from different macronutrients. • Determination of the discrete and interactive effects between temperature and photoperiod

in affecting growth in large barramundi. • Determination of the discrete and interactive effects between temperature and salinity in

affecting growth in large barramundi. • Benchmarking of new feed designs in barramundi laboratory trial in Australia. • Farm-based extension of barramundi benchmarking trial in Australia.

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• Final project meeting with Vietnamese partners in Australia (May 2014). • Attendance of Vietnamese partners at a major international congress (May 2014). • Assessment of prototype extruded diets for barramundi in Vietnam. • Assessment of prototype diets for lobster in Vietnam. • Assessment of prototype extruded diets for Cobia in Vietnam. • Definition of the role of photoperiod and salinity in mid-crop slow growth syndrome in

barramundi. Key Personnel (by Country/Institution) Dr Brett Glencross Australia CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research Mr David Smith Australia AquaNutrition Services Pty Ltd

Dr Elizabeth Peterson Australia Advanced Choice Economics Pty Ltd

Tran Dinh Luan Vietnam Research Institute for Aquaculture – 1

Dr Vu Anh Tuan Vietnam Research Institute for Aquaculture – 2

Dr Truong Ha Phuong Vietnam Research Institute for Aquaculture – 3

Dr Le Anh Tuan Vietnam University of NhaTrang

Figure 1: Cage farm site at CatBa Island

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Figure 2: Project collaborators feed cobia at the research farm

Figure 3: Farmed barramundi and grouper in Vietnamese market

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Figure 4: Participants at the Nutrition Masterclass held in NhaTrang in March 2014

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PAPUA NEW GUINEA

ACTIVE PROJECTS

FIS/2013/015: Sustainable Management of Sport Fisheries for Communities in Papua New Guinea Partner Countries Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader Prof. Marcus Sheaves, James Cook University

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Jacob Wani, National Fisheries Authority, Papua

New Guinea

Project Budget $ 400,002 (with cash contribution of $1,880,000 from National Fisheries Authority)


Project Outline/Background Rapid population growth is placing increasing pressure on PNG’s coastal, estuarine and freshwater resources which often provide the principal source of protein for the largely subsistence population. In addition, local people are increasingly turning to small-scale commercialisation of local fish stocks which are often the highest contributors to incomes in many isolated villages. The joint pressures for increasing extraction of fish as a key subsistence resource, and small-scale commercialism, set the scene for a looming food security crisis as fish stocks are rapidly depleted. Resolving the problem will require a complex mix of initiatives, with one key component being the development of alternative ways of utilising fish stocks that both preserve them and provide new income streams. The project aims to carry out the research to underpin development of a sustainable and resilient locally based sport-fishing industry as a major initiative to provide stable alternative livelihoods for PNG’s coastal villages. As well as providing a new income stream for involved communities, this development will provide the additional benefits to PNG of: (i) conserving vital fisheries resources, by converting a number of unsustainable capture fisheries into viable release fisheries; (ii) providing the incentive and knowledge for local communities to support ecosystem health and resilience; (iii) promoting the ideal of sustainable resource use; and (iv) supporting extensive capacity building across fisheries research, business and tourism. Locally based sport-fisheries can provide one component of a suite of initiatives aimed at bolstering livelihoods and will complement other options, such as small-scale aquaculture. As well as highlighting the needs for habitat conservation the initiative will provide a new dimension to the mixture of ecotourism possibilities helping to provide an additional throughput of visitors enhancing opportunities for developing ventures such as bird watching and the sale of locally produced artefacts.

Objectives The overall aim of the study is to empower NFA, TPA, and business and community groups to sustainably develop, grow and manage an expanded sport fishery in PNG through a scientific understanding of key social, economic and environmental issues that support a sustainable and resilient sport-fishing industry.

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The objectives are to: 1. develop an understanding of relevant aspects of the ecology and biology of Black Bass

sport-fish resources of PNG; 2. devise protocols for the appropriate conduct of a sport fishery in a PNG context to

maximise its resilience and long-term viability; 3. develop an understanding of potential livelihood costs and benefits, and how to manage

them; and 4. determine the commercialisation needs of a sport-fishing industry in a PNG context.

Future Plans The first year of the project will involve:

• A project initiation meeting; • A familiarisation trip for key personnel to the first study site ‘Galley Reach’; • One on one interaction with key stakeholders; • Establishment of a consultative committee of key stakeholders from National, Provincial

and village levels; • Initiation of fisheries studies at Galley Reach including – identification of habitats used by

different Black Bass life-history stages, tagging of adult Black Bass (conventional and acoustic) to enable studies of movement, migration, home range etc., collection of dietary data, collection of otoliths and tissue for micro-chemical and stable isotope studies, collection of prey species, side-scan sonar and intertidal habitat profiling, validation of side-scan habitat classifications using video and conventional grab techniques;

• Initiation of social studies to investigate social and cultural implications of sport fisheries, and livelihood cost-benefits;

• Initiate business and tourism studies to determine the attributes of sustainable sport fisheries, commercialisation needs, capacity building needs and preliminary business plans;

• Development of a web site and high quality video communications material; • Work to attract additional funding.

Key personnel Prof. Marcus Sheaves James Cook University


Mr Jacob Wani Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority

+675-3090410 [email protected]

Other Collaborators Mr Leban Gisawa Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority





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Figure 1: The current trajectory: Traditional fishers harvest the bounty of PNGs rivers and estuaries – a resource that is becoming more fragile as populations increase.

Figure 2: The future: A 15kg Papuan Black Bass from a small estuary – the basis of a high value catch-and-release fishery to support local livelihoods.

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FIS/2008/023: Increasing production from inland aquaculture in Papua New Guinea for food and income security Partner Countries Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader A/Professor Jesmond Sammut

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Jacob Wani


Project Duration 01/04/2010* to 31/03/2014**

*launched August 2010; **2-year extension to 03/2016

Project Outline/background Fish farming has the potential to improve access to locally produced protein and increase the income generating capacity of rural communities in PNG. Fish-based protein is also important to the efficacy of HIV/AIDS treatments and to prolong the lives of people affected by a number of health and dietary problems in PNG. At present there is a dependency on protein from canned fish, processed meat, chicken and poor quality imported lamb flaps that have a high fat content. Interest in aquaculture is growing rapidly and the PNG Government has given high priority to aquaculture development in recognition of its potential contribution to achieving food security, particularly in the inland areas. However, current fish production levels are low when compared to yields from Southeast Asian systems. Significant constraints on fish production include a lack of capability within management agencies to identify appropriate sites for pond development, inadequate supply and poor quality of fingerlings, limited availability and high cost of pond fertilisers and suitable feeds, and a general lack of knowledge and training on aquaculture husbandry skills. The specific research questions that are being addressed by the project include:

• What are the key environmental and social variables and soil characteristics that need to be incorporated into aquaculture site selection processes?

• What are appropriate broodstock management and grow-out procedures for the different target species; what are the best processes for supplying high-quality, suitably-sized fingerlings to farmers in remote regions; is the reduced performance from current tilapia stocks a consequence of poor genetics or inadequate husbandry?

• What are the best strategies for providing nutrition for fish in different production systems (i.e. what combination of fertilisation, farm-made feeds or commercial pellets works best in different areas for tilapia)?

• What are appropriate extension materials for fish farmers in PNG, and how are these best delivered?

The research approach involves three sequential steps. Firstly, information has been evaluated from related activities (past and present) to generate hypotheses for experimental work. The second involves on-station research to identify best approaches for on-farm trials. This stage is in progress. The final step is validation and extension of results using action-learning from on-farm trials. At all stages feedback loops involving technical staff, farmers and extension personnel will be incorporated into the overall approach, as will capacity building (developing research capability) and testing of extension materials and delivery mechanisms.

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Objectives The overall aim of the proposed project is to improve fish production for food security and income based on scientifically tested technologies that are validated under farm conditions. The specific objectives of the project include:

• To improve site selection for aquaculture for improved productivity; • To improve broodstock management and availability of quality fingerlings; • To improve access to and knowledge of feeds and fertilisers; and • To refine, compare, validate and document different production and husbandry packages

for different farming systems.

Achievements

• Broodstock for two families of Genetically Improved Farmed Tilapia (GIFT), which were re-established in the previous year, have been successfully maintained despite continued theft of fish from HAQDEC.

• Justin Narimbi was awarded a postgraduate scholarship (Australia Award) to conduct research on pond soils and fertiliser response. He is undertaking his research through UNSW.

• Havini Vira commenced his JAF program at UNSW and will be undertaking a SWOT analysis of inland aquaculture in PNG.

• Billy Kerowa participated in a broodstock training program in Thailand and has transferred technology to HAQDEC were he has designed and started construction of an incubation system and broodstock management infrastructure.

• Growth and reproductive performance trials were undertaken to refine methods. Trials have been redesigned and are now in progress.

• Ponds and infrastructure at HAQDEC have entered a second stage of renovation. Delays were experienced due to tribal fighting in the area.

• NFA has secured PGK 4,000,000 of Government funding and allocated PGK 400,000 of NFA funds to continue the upgrade of HAQDEC as well as restore research facilities at Yonki Reservoir. The project is managing the redevelopment of the facility.

• A security plan for the second stage of the HAQDEC redevelopment was completed with the intention of reducing fish thefts that have, to date, affected broodstock management and field trials.

• A survey of feed ingredients for Eastern Highlands Province and Morobe Province was extended to address growing problems with access to feed ingredients and to improve feed formulations.

• Capacity building of fish farmers in highland communities has continued and there is further evidence of reduction in crime, tribal fighting and unemployment.

• The Maria Kwin Centre has expanded an extension and training program for women in the highlands.

• The Fish for Schools Program has been strengthened and expanded by the project. The Fish for Schools program involves using fish farming as a basis for teaching economics, environmental science, agriculture and biology to secondary school students. The project team has helped to design and build ponds, create teaching materials and mentor teachers.

• The Fish for Prisons Program has been temporarily suspended at Bihute Prison but strengthened at six other prisons in PNG. Project team members are building the capacity of prisoners and prison officers to farm fish. Ponds at the prisons are used for training and also supply fish for meals ensuring prisoners have protein in their diet. The project is monitoring and assisting eight former prisoners who have established fish farms. Former prisoners have not reoffended and have become leaders in the community.

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• Mapping models to classify land suitability for Western Province were developed. This models are based on sub-models for flow accumulation, inundation, soil quality, and other physical factors that are constraints or beneficial to fish farming. Remote sensing methods have been used to generate additional spatial data. Thematic maps supplied by OTML or created by the project, have been integrated into a mapping model for site suitability.

• Capacity building of NGOs and government agencies has continued. The project has also conducted training for Urban Youth programs, The PNG military, HIV/AIDS programs, the Maria Kwin Centre, mining companies and Christian ministries who are involved in fish farming programs.

• The project ran a stall at the Nari Field Day and the Goroka Show. Posters and technical notes were distributed to farmers. Fingerlings were also supplied.

• The project team has continued to develop draft extension materials and manuals on broodstock management, site selection, feed formulation and fingerling production.

Future Plans and Activities Baseline surveys for inland fish farming will be expanded to continue building baseline data for PNG. The survey results will underpin decisions on NFA interventions in PNG and guide existing and future research. Havini Vira will process the baseline data under his JAF program at UNSW. Trials on fingerling production and transport will follow on from the growth and reproductive performance trials. Different methods of fingerling production (eg pond-based, hapas) will be compared. Methods of transporting fingerlings across large distances will be investigated. Pond-based trials on fertiliser rates, alternative feed ingredients and feed formulations. Isotopic work will be undertaken along with standard methods to identify which ingredients are metabolized by tilapia. Once on-station trials are completed at HAQDEC the project will conduct on-farm trials with lead farmers and farmer groups that were trained by project staff. The mapping program will ground truth the mapping boundaries and mapping units of a draft land classification map for Western Province. Mapping will commence in Morobe Province in late 2014 once new staff appointments are made by NFA. An overseas research manager will be appointed under the project to supervise technicians conducting trials at HAQDEC and to improve overall project management. NFA and the project team will continue with the upgrade of the facilities at HAQDEC with funding from NFA. The team has drafted manuals for broodstock management, fingerling production, feed production, feed and fertilizer strategies and site selection. The manuals will be finalised at the completion of the trials and released as a farming package. Additional teaching materials for the Fish for Schools program will be produced based on the National Education Curriculum. The project team will produce concise technical information in brochures and booklets to meet the immediate needs of farmers, and then finalise a more detailed farming package once all trials are completed. The project funded a second training workshop on Experimental Design and Statistics for Aquaculture and has produced a training manual (Portelli, 2013).

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Key Personnel A/Professor Jesmond Sammut The University of New South Wales


Mr Jacob Wani National Fisheries Authority

+67 5 3212 643

[email protected]

Other Collaborators Mr Ian Middleton CEO, OTFRDP


Mr Bubia Nuhuju Department of Agriculture and Livestock


A/Prof Samson Akoitai Department of Applied Science, University of Technology, Lae


Mr Silas Kiafuli EHP HAQDEC

+67 5 7373 513 NA

Figure 1: The core project team members at HAQDEC. The project has been building research capacity to enable technicians based at HAQDEC and Erap to conduct research normally expected of researchers with higher academic qualifications.

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Figure 2: Fish farmers learning how to produce fish feed using basic, low cost equipment. Joe Alois, Matthew Ten and Sister Pauline regularly conduct feed production training in the Highlands and other localities in PNG.

Figure 3: The project team has assisted farmers to design and build ponds in terrain that can be normally challenging for pond-based fish culture.

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FIS/2010/054: Mariculture development in New Ireland, Papua New Guinea Partner Country Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader Prof. Paul Southgate, James Cook University


New Guinea.



Project Outline/Background The vast coastline of PNG supports numerous communities that depend primarily on marine resources for their livelihoods. The coastal environment and fish stocks are comparatively healthy, but beyond the immediate resource, communities do not maximise the potential economic and livelihood opportunities provided by this environment. There has been depletion of some fishery resources, including the collapse of the sea cucumber fishery, which was the main village-based fishery generating significant export income. In response, the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) implemented a nationwide moratorium. There is an immediate need for economic activities, as alternatives to the sea cucumber fishery, to provide livelihood opportunities for coastal communities in PNG, and the NFA is under political pressure in this regard. There is no tradition of mariculture in the coastal communities of PNG, so awareness of possibilities is low. However, development of mariculture opportunities in PNG can now be supported by the recently completed NFA Nago Island marine hatchery and training facility at Kavieng, New Ireland. The role of the facility is to develop marine aquaculture based livelihood opportunities for PNG and to become a training centre for students from the National Fisheries College (NFC). The NFC is located in Kavieng and is affiliated with the University of Natural Resources and Environment (UNRE). For the Nago Island facility to achieve its desired impacts there is an immediate need for capacity building, and for identification of local species which have potential to support viable, sustainable mariculture industries for coastal communities in PNG. This project partners with NFA and NFC-UNRE to address this, and to develop a strategy for long-term strengthening of institutional mariculture training capacity in PNG.

Objectives The overall aim of this project is to provide a sustainable basis for development of a mariculture sector in PNG and to build capacity within country partner organisations to support this development. The major research questions that this project addresses are:

• Can techniques for sea cucumber culture developed in the Pacific and SE Asia be applied in PNG to support sustainable livelihoods?

• Can edible oyster culture be developed as a food source in PNG with potential income generation?

• PNG has a number of endemic reef fish species in high demand by the aquarium trade and an established (though small) aquarium export industry based on wild catch. Can

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sustainability be built in to this industry through identification of high value species and development of techniques supporting captive breeding?

Additionally, this project will develop a mechanism for strengthening institutional capacity for mariculture training in PNG, and support development of mariculture capacity within NFA, NGOs and local communities a basis for sustainable development of mariculture, supporting livelihoods and export earnings. The project builds on outcomes from other ACIAR projects (FIS/2006/138 and FIS/2010/017) which included initial scoping studies with potential mariculture species in PNG.

Achievements

• Three successful sandfish (Holothuria scabra) hatchery runs have been conducted at NIMRF since mid 2013.

• Small scale larval culture experiments focused on larval nutrition have been conducted at NIMRF by Duy Nguyen, a John Allright Scholarship holder and PhD student at JCU. Results are assisting development of improved hatchery methods for H. scabra.

• Hatchery produced juveniles have been used to develop more appropriate land-based nursery culture methods, while experiments examining the influence of site characteristics, cage design, stocking density and juvenile size have been conducted to improve ocean nursery culture systems.

• The project has established strong partnerships with three local communities; two of which have suitable sheltered habitat for grow-out of small juveniles (5-20 mm) in ocean nursery systems. All three communities have suitable habitat for larger juvenile (> 3 g) releases into sea grass meadows for sea ranching of sandfish to commercial size.

• Pen experiments to monitor survival and growth of released juvenile sandfish have been established to be correlated with physico-chemical habitat variables. This is part of a broader study that includes similar research in the Philippines and northern Australia (within FIS/2010/042).

• Sites in the Kavieng area where edible oyster recruit onto spat collectors have been identified and a study of temporal variation in recruitment is underway. Oyster spat have been used to establish basket culture experiments to determine growth rates, survival and seasonal variation in condition. The species is provisionally identified as Saccostrea cucculata (Born, 1778).

• A survey of local coral reef fishes in the Kavieng area was completed by international aquarium trade experts. Data were used to identify species of value to the aquarium trade that may have mariculture potential.

• A survey of local invertebrates with potential value to the aquarium trade was completed by Thane Militz, a PhD student from JCU. He is working within the project to assess the mariculture potential of local species with aquarium trade potential.

• Breeding pairs of various species of clown fishes have been established at NIMRF and some have begun producing eggs. A key species for project research is the whitebonnet clownfish (Amphiprion leucokranos), a highly sought regional endemic.

• Initial assessment of the requirements for mariculture curriculum development at the National Fisheries College and University of Natural Resources and Environment.

Future Plans and Activities Ocean nursery systems for sandfish (H. scabra) will be fine-tuned to enable maximum production of release-sized juveniles.

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An earthen sea water pond will be built within the NIMRF to provide a secure H. scabra broodstock source and for research into juvenile grow-out. Pen experiments with juvenile H. scabra will be extended to two more communities. On-going sea ranching of sea cucumbers at different sites will allow identification of key physico-chemical factors influencing the success of sea cucumber culture and to support capacity building and extension activities. The edible oyster spat collection program will be extended and larger experiments conducted to determine growth rates and meat yield and to further develop culture methods for this species. Species identification will be confirmed. Ongoing aquarium breeding trials with clownfish will support development of appropriate husbandry methods and generate growth, survival and production data for brood stock, larvae and juveniles. The latter will be used to assess the feasibility of mariculture-based aquarium trade supply. Field and NIMRF-based culture trials will begin with other ornamental species such as corals, crustaceans and giant clams.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Paul Southgate James Cook University


Mr. Jacob Wani National Fisheries Authority Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea


Mr. Jeff Kinch National Fisheries College Kavieng, Papua New Guinea


Other Collaborators Ms. Ruth Garcia-Gomez Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Noumea, New Caledonia

+687-263 818 [email protected]

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Figure 1: NFA Research Technician at NIMRF Ester Leini weighs hatchery-produced juvenile sea cucumbers to assess their growth rate during nursery culture

Figure 2: Hatchery culture of sea cucumbers (sandfish) at the NIMRF in Kavieng involves training of staff from the National Fisheries Authority as well as key members of local communities.

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Figure 3: Part of the tank system established at NIMRF for captive breeding research with clownfish.

Figure 4: Community involvement in sea ranching of hatchery produced sea cucumbers is a key component of this project.

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Figure 5: Culture of local corals of high value in the marine aquarium trade will begin at NIMRF in 2014.

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FIS/2012/102: Sustainable management of the shark resources of Papua New Guinea: socioeconomic and biological characteristics of the fishery Partner Countries Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader Dr William White, CSIRO Marine & Atmospheric

Research, Hobart

Partner Country Project Leader Mr Ludwig Kumoru, National Fisheries Authority



Project Outline/Background The shark fishery in PNG is the country’s 5th most important export fishery and is worth about K8 million annually. Sharks are also important to the artisanal fishery and are a potential resource for ecotourism. However, there is no detailed information on the sustainability of the fishery and the shark and ray resources of PNG are in general poorly understood. It is also highly likely that the shark resources of PNG are shared with neighbouring countries, e.g. Australia, Indonesia, and adjacent South Pacific island nations such as the Solomon Islands. Sharks and rays are particularly vulnerable to over-exploitation due to their life history characteristics, and population declines - localised extinctions have been reported for a number of species worldwide. In addition, population declines can affect livelihoods of communities reliant on those resources, e.g. artisanal fishers or ecotourism operators, thereby having important economic ramifications. The PNG National Fisheries Authority (NFA) has identified a need to develop better fisheries management practices, underpinned by an assessment of the shark and ray fisheries, to ensure economic sustainability, intergenerational equity and conserve cultural significance, and to meet international conservation obligations. Further to this, PNG has an obligation to actively manage its shark fishery in line with the FAO’s International Plan of Action for Sharks. This project will provide the necessary information and capacity building to allow PNG to manage its shark and ray resources more sustainably into the future.

Objectives This project aims to provide sufficient information to enable PNG to manage its shark and ray resources on a sustainable basis. The key elements of project are:

• describe the biological, economic, social, catch and gear characteristics of the fisheries exploiting shark and ray resources;

• assess the status of the stocks of key species and determine the extent to which they are or could be shared with Australia and Indonesia

• advise on necessary changes to current management plans; • develop a well-maintained biological collection and technical tools to facilitate

management and conservation of shark and ray resources; • develop a guide to the shark and ray species of PNG • Achievements • Project started January 2014; launch planned for mid February.

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Future Plans and Activities 2014

• Develop a data collection protocol for the fishery observers; • Undertake 1st socioeconomic data collection trip; • Provide training to observers to be used through the first 2 years of the project; • Select key shark species for the age and growth and population genetic components of the

project; • Undertake 1st field trip to PNG to survey the artisanal shark and ray catches; • Establish contacts throughout the PNG dive industry regarding shark and ray sightings; • Provide taxonomic and genetic training for an NFA staff member at the CSIRO laboratories

in Hobart through a 3 week workshop; • Hold annual meeting late in the year in Hobart.

2015 and 2016

• Continue with fish collection and artisanal survey field trips; • Continue collating socioeconomic data from relevant sectors and stakeholders; • Undertake age and growth analysis using shark vertebrae for the selected species; • Undertake population genetic analysis for one or two key species selected in year 1; • Continue upgrade of fish collection and establish a good quality and representative shark

and ray sub-collection within the main collection; • Develop an NFA staff member further as a potential ‘curator’ for the fish collection and

establish this person as an active participant of the Barcode of Life Initiative; • Hold first stock assessment workshop collating the data gained from the other aspects of

the project for at least the key species/fisheries; • Provide basic training on population genetic analyses (either one-on-one, a workshop or a

protocol guide); • Develop a guide to the sharks and rays of PNG.

2017

• Hold final stock assessment workshop and assist with developing management guidelines for PNG to manage its shark and ray resources into the future;

• Prepare papers and final reports; • Finalise the guide to sharks and rays through ACIAR Publishing;

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr William White, CSIRO Marine & Atmospheric Research, Australia


Mr Ludwig Kumoru National Fisheries Authority, Papua New Guinea


Other Collaborators Mr Simon Vieira, Independent Economist, Australia

[email protected]

Dr Colin Simpfendorfer, James Cook University, Australia

[email protected]





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Figure 1: Sawfish rostrum at the UNPNG fish collection in Port Moresby. Specimens and parts from endangered species such as sawfish are extremely important to preserve long into the future.

Figure 2: The vertebrae of sharks and rays can be sectioned to highlight growth rings which can often be used to provide accurate estimates of age. This information is critical for stock assessment analyses and demographic modeling.

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Figure 3: Sharks can be an extremely valuable ecotourism resource and the value of an individual shark alive far outweighs the value of a dead shark. The fine balance between fishing and ecotourism is reflected in this image of an adult bull shark at a popular dive location in Fiji with a hook in its mouth.

Figure 4: Endemic species are an important component of the biodiversity within a country and it is important to know the ranges of such species. This is the Merauke Stingray which was described from Merauke in West Papua in 2013 and possibly also occurs in PNG waters.

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FIS/2010/055: Building research and project management skills in fisheries staff in PNG Partner Countries Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader Prof. Janelle Allison, University of Tasmania


New Guinea



Project Outline/Background Scientific and technical staff members in Papua New Guinea (PNG) generally commence their employment in aquaculture and fisheries with limited research qualifications and skills, and with limited opportunities for program-based training within the department, especially for research. Subsequent training can be so tightly linked to the activities of specific projects that long-term institutional benefits and personal development are not fully realised. Research is proposed to identify and implement research training through developing and testing a capacity building program for up to 45-50 fisheries researchers and technicians. The research focus of the project is to evaluate the methodology employed to deliver both direct benefits to participants and spill-overs to the broader stakeholder community. In parallel with the research objectives, this project will also build capacity in course participants and offer an opportunity to obtain formal academic qualifications. The degree of capacity change will be a measure of the effectiveness of the methods under investigation.

Objectives The project will investigate methods to build research and project management capacity in Port Moresby and regional areas, and will engage National Fisheries Authority (NFA) staff involved in ACIAR and other projects, including those in Head Office, as project participants. The following research questions will be addressed:

• How can effective research and project management training be delivered to local scientists and technicians?

• What are the benefits of integrating research training with workplace practices (i.e. in current projects) and participatory approaches?

• Does working towards a formal qualification facilitate the capacity building process? • The research objectives are: • to determine research training and project management needs for scientists and technicians; • to design, deliver and validate a formally accredited training program integrating

participatory approaches with research skills; • to evaluate the benefits of integrated capacity building to stakeholders of the research

process; • to identify better management strategies to embed integrated capacity building in

development of the local scientific workforce in fisheries in PNG.

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Future Plans and Activities Year 1

• Design/refine evaluation program in consultation with NFA staff • Interview ACIAR Fisheries project leaders and NFA managers to identify skills needs and

gaps • Desktop analysis of current in-house project training and professional development

programs for capacity building • Design and develop 4 Integrated Capability Building Program (ICBP) units to be delivered

in Year 1 • Select participants for ICBP cohorts • Participants will be asked as part of their activities in the first unit to reflect on current

research skills and capabilities as a critical part of reflective practice in the unit of study • Deliver all units to ICBP cohorts • Conduct end- and post-course evaluation with first cohort participants and with project

leaders and NFA project supervisors • Prepare and circulate report on findings and recommendations including publications

Years 2 and 3

• Review all units for the ICBP based on the first year evaluations • Design/refine evaluation program in consultation with NFA staff • Select participants for ICBP second year cohort • Participants will be asked as part of their activities in the first unit to reflect on current

research skills and capabilities as a critical part of reflective practice in the unit of study • Deliver all units to ICBP cohorts • Conduct end- and post-course evaluation with each cohort • Conduct impact evaluation with external stakeholders • Refine training and evaluation programs - drawing on the outputs from all other objectives • Prepare and circulate report on findings and recommendations including publications

Year 4

• Prepare and circulate publications and reports on findings and refined programs with NFA • Conduct workshop regarding findings and refined program with NFA • Conduct end- and post-course evaluation with each cohort • Conduct impact evaluation with external stakeholders • Prepare and circulate report on findings and recommendations including publications • Prepare report and publications • Prepare final project report and recommendations and publications

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Mr. Jacob Wani National Fisheries Authority, PNG


Prof. Janelle Allison University of Tasmania


Prof. Peter Frappell University of Tasmania


Dr Joy Rathjen University of Tasmania

[email protected]

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Other Collaborators Dr Danielle Campbell, RDS Partners Hobart, Tasmania


Dr Tom Lewis, RDS Partners Hobart, Tasmania


Figure 1 and 2: PNG capacity building launch

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Figure 3: PNG capacity building launch

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RECENTLY CONCLUDED

FIS/2011/071: Scoping potential livelihood benefits and costs of sport fisheries in PNG Partner Countries Papua New Guinea

Australian Project Leader Prof. Marcus Sheaves, James Cook University


New Guinea



Project Outline/Background Nature-based tourism, such as sport fishing, has been regarded as a potential panacea for creating sustainable livelihoods in developing countries, because it creates value from biodiversity, thus generating an incentive to preserve and manage natural assets. Testing of this ‘biodiversity linkage’ alternative livelihoods model has shown that eco-tourism can provide strong ‘win-win’ linkages and enterprise longevity compared to more harvest-based initiatives. However, there has not been any structured assessment of the livelihood costs, benefits or commercial potential of sport fishing enterprises in PNG, despite the presence of unique, world-renowned sport fish such as the endemic Black Bass, Lutjanus goldiei. If successful this form of enterprise could generate significant environmental benefits by creating an incentive to conserve the target species' key habitat, and has the potential to diversify rural livelihoods, building resilience to external impacts such as world prices for primary products and climate change. Experience from sport fishing in other parts of the world has shown that remote indigenous communities can derive livelihood benefits from fisheries. However, there are limitations and costs that need to be managed. These include training, inexperience of business commercialization, fluctuating tourism markets, social networks and inter-community friction and territoriality. Importantly, the planning and development of any enterprise has to be participatory in order to ensure culturally-appropriate goals values and goals. Additionally, the success of community-based eco-tourism depends on initially identifying concrete socio-economic goals, and site-specific market analysis and research on the linkages between those goals and community actions and incentives.

Objectives The project aimed to explore the potential of developing local-based coastal sport fishing ventures in PNG to enhance livelihoods from smallholder fisheries. To do so, this study investigated existing sport fishing enterprises for Black Bass and similar species in Papua New Guinea to develop an understanding of pertinent management issues and identify gaps and research needs. Work focussed on developing understanding of:

• the livelihood costs and benefits of existing sport fisheries for local communities, • the key attributes of commercially and environmentally sustainable sport fishing

enterprises,

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• the ecology of the fisheries resources that will be exploited to identify key gaps in the information needed for effective management,

• key capacity building needs and resources needed to address those needs.

Achievements The study found:

• There are great opportunities for the development of a local sport fishing industry in PNG, with long term benefits to livelihoods, environments and resource sustainability.

• However, there is a lack of even the most basic information across all areas meaning extensive knowledge development will be necessary, in particular:

• Fisheries Ecology: including life-history details, habitat requirements, movement patterns and biological details

• Fishing Operational Issues: including identification of prospective sport fishing locations, patterns of mortality relative to different fishing equipment and protocols for handing captured fish

• Threats and Impacts to Habitat and Water Quality: including the extent of habitat and water quality degradation, and options for mitigation and/or remediation of problems

• Specific Cost-benefit Analysis of different Business Models • Social Impacts and Potential Problems: including resource allocation, ownership and

recompense issues, impacts on societies and cultural values, and the development of associated ventures

• There was substantial need for capacity building across all areas: including running a sport fishing business, promotional activities, working with international customers, conducting sport fishing operations, developing and implementing management, increasing awareness about the need to develop ecosystem resilience and sustainability, and understanding the long term trade-offs implicit in developing a long-term sport fishing venture.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof. Marcus Sheaves James Cook University


Mr Jacob Wani Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority

+675-3090410

[email protected]

Dr James Butler CSIRO



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FIS/2011/049: Evaluation of the potential for commercial aquaculture of the freshwater prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii in Papua New Guinea Partner Countries Papua New Guinea Project Leader Dr Timothy Pickering, SPC Partner Country Project Leader Mr Jacob Wani, NFA Project Budget $233,032 Project Duration 01/01/2012 to 31/12/2013

Project Outline/Background Freshwater prawns have never yet been commercially farmed in PNG, despite the fact that the FW prawn species deemed most suitable for aquaculture, the Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii, is a species indigenous to PNG. The reason is that technical expertise in PNG to culture prawns through the hatchery phase, and scientific knowledge about husbandry of PNG’s own local lineage of “eastern” M. rosenbergii (which has never yet been farmed), has been lacking. This project will for the first time evaluate the indigenous PNG lineage of the Giant Freshwater Prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii for its potential in commercial aquaculture in PNG. It will be achieved by breeding and rearing local prawns through the larval phases in a pilot-scale hatchery, and through grow-out in ponds to marketable size. Culture characteristics of the PNG variety will be assessed, hatchery capacity will be transferred to PNG counterparts in NFA, and any researchable technical constraints will be identified. If reliable hatchery production can be demonstrated, then the information collected about culture characteristics will be combined with market information and expert advice and, led by an Eminent Person in consultation with a small contact group of key specialists, a PNG Freshwater Prawn Aquaculture Industry Development Plan will be prepared. This part of the project will work through all of the issues pertinent to freshwater prawn aquaculture, to identify both potentials and key constraints, and thereby lay the groundwork for this activity to be taken up on a commercial scale in PNG. The main outcome of the project will be to place private-sector investors and the Government of PNG in a position to determine whether, how, and where FW prawn farming can be a suitable basis for establishment of new aquaculture businesses in PNG.

Objectives The aim of this project is to evaluate the potential for a viable freshwater prawn aquaculture industry in PNG, by meeting four objectives:

1. Determine the performance in hatchery culture of the indigenous PNG lineage of Macrobrachium rosenbergii through its larval and nursery phases, and identify any researchable technical constraints

2. Determine the performance in culture of adults in a pond grow-out trial, and identify any researchable technical constraints

3. Establish capacity in PNG to breed and rear Giant Freshwater Prawn through the hatchery and nursery phases of culture, and to marketable size through grow-out in ponds.

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4. Facilitate an Industry Development Plan for freshwater prawn aquaculture in PNG.

Achievements To date the project has achieved the following:

• Evaluated sites in and near Port Moresby for hatchery sites, and sites for obtaining seawater for a prawn hatchery

• Completed construction of a freshwater prawn hatchery in the UPNG Biological Sciences wetlab building. It is now fully equipped and ready for operation.

• Electrical works commissioned to overcome faults in UPNG’s ageing wiring has been completed and is now working satisfactorily.

• Conducted surveys in Central Province to find sources of prawn broodstock, and identified Aigevaru River as a place where broodstock can be captured in deep pools using baited crab traps.

• The target species here in Central Province of PNG is confirmed to be Macrobrachium spinipes, not rosenbergii, consistent with the recent revision of nomenclature for eastern vs. western lineages of M. “rosenbergii”, in which the eastern lineage has been re-named as spinipes).


• Capture broodstock and obtain gravid females for spawning • Conduct a hatchery run of M. spinipes in the UPNG wetlab hatchery • Conduct training in hatchery techniques for NFA counterpart staff, and for UPNG students

(via work experience attachments) • Stock ponds of participating farmers in Central Province with prawns and condust grow-out

and marketing trials • Analyse technical and economic information • Conduct a workshop to impart trial results to stakeholders, and collaborate to develop an

Industry Development Plan of information forpotential investors in prawn farming in PNG.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Timothy Pickering SPC Inland Aquaculture Specialist

+679 3370733 ext 35342

[email protected]

Mr Avinash Singh SPC IACT Aquaculture Officer

+679 3370733 ext 35342

[email protected]

Jacob Aruma Wani NFA Executive Manager

675 309 0444 [email protected]

Gideon Pama NFA Fisheries Management Officer





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Other Collaborators Dr Ralph Mana School of Biological Sciences, UPNG Mr Jonah Bobogi Tilapia farmer, Lake Sirinumu

Figure 1: Freshwater prawn hatchery established at UPNG Science Department, by Avinash Singh SPC (left), Tim Pickering SPC (right), and Gideon pama NFA (centre)

Figure 2: Gravid female of M. spinipes captured in Aigevaru River (PNG Central Province) using crab traps during the broodstock survey for this project

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PACIFIC ISLANDS

ACTIVE PROJECTS

FIS/2010/056: Scaling-out community-based marine resource governance in Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Vanuatu Partner Countries Solomon Islands, Kiribati and Vanuatu

Project Leader IARC Dr Anne-Maree Schwarz, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leader Mr James Teri, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine

Resources, Solomon Islands

Project Budget A$1.15 million

Project Duration Four years

Project Outline/Background The issue Inshore fisheries and marine resources play a critical and unique role in the rural economy and livelihood status of Solomon Islands, supplying daily protein and serving as one of the few sources of cash for coastal people. Some broad threats that face the country, such as climate change and rapid population growth, are particularly relevant to the future of inshore fisheries. A major and recognized threat is simply catching too many fish. A crucial plank in the Government’s strategy to bridge the predicted shortfall in fish supply is to build up sustainable inshore fisheries. Although it is improbable that inshore catches can increase significantly, continued degradation of fisheries will have severe consequences for food security and political stability in the country. No other production sector can fill the shortfall in supply in the foreseeable future. The response This project is a key component in a broad program of work that seeks to transform the coastal fisheries of Solomon Islands and, beyond that, initiate a process to do the same in Vanuatu and Kiribati. The Solomon Islands Government has a National strategy for the management of inshore fisheries and marine resources (2010). A transformed coastal fishery sector, centered on community-based co-management of marine resources (CBRM), will enable the Government to achieve its stated ambition of sustainable and secure inshore fisheries and aquatic resources by 2020. Partnerships In this project WorldFish is partnering with national agencies, NGOs and Secretariat for the Pacific Community (SPC), also with two universities bringing specialist skills and access to research networks beyond WorldFish and national partners (expertise in marine governance from ANCORS, University of Wollongong, and social network analysis from Stockholm Resilience Centre, University of Stockholm). The team has also developed partnerships with conservation and development NGOs working in Solomon Islands.

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Objectives The project seeks to achieve maximum impact by moving beyond the linear production model that has dominated much agricultural and fisheries research and embracing a more integrated, innovative view of how research can accelerate development in agricultural systems. The research project aims to do this by taking an action research approach, supported by a comprehensive M&E system which enables regular reflection and learning with partners, including communities, about the successes and barriers to implementation and sustainability of CBRM. The research team is developing skills and processes in participatory action research and a partnership-driven approach to development and learning. This project is central to small scale fisheries research within the global CGIAR Research Program Aquatic Agricultural Systems (www.aas.cgiar.org) and aims to develop the structures, processes and capacity to implement and sustain a national program of community-based marine resource management in Solomon Islands, and to initiate the same process in Kiribati and Vanuatu. The project has built on ACIAR projects FIS/2003/051 and FIS/2007/116, which have worked with communities to design and implement marine resource management plans in clusters of more than 30 villages in three provinces in Solomon Islands. The research is designed to find answers to five important research questions:

1. What is the most effective model of CBRM for Solomon Islands (including processes of engagement, institutions and indicators of success)?

2. What is the most effective model to scale-out innovations in CBRM to new areas, to ensure development impact beyond the direct beneficiaries of the project?

3. How do innovations spread among local and larger-scale formal and informal social networks (including an analysis of barriers and successes)?

4. What are appropriate indicators of success for national CBRM programs and what does an impact assessment program ‘look like’?

5. How can a successful program in Solomon Islands be transferred to the contexts of other places (e.g. Kiribati and Vanuatu)?

Achievements Outputs and outcomes The outcomes of this project will be achieved by meeting the following five objectives:

1. Design and implement processes for scale-out of CBRM in Solomon Islands coastal communities in collaboration with provincial and national agencies

2. Understand the spread of innovation among communities and provinces, and use that understanding to accelerate the spread of CBRM

3. Strengthen capacity of Solomon Islands Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) to implement community-based marine resource management

4. Design and implement an impact assessment program 5. Capture lessons learned from Solomon Islands and make them available to practitioners in

Vanuatu and Kiribati. Key activities by objective to date Progress has been made toward implementing scale out of CBRM through building on work in Western Province and expanding into Malaita Province. The outcomes of a community learning event held for community members from eight villages on Vella Lavella in Western Province have been compiled into a Solomon Islands CBRM lessons learned document (II) to be published in April 2014. A participatory theory of change and action plan for CBRM scale-out in Malaita Province has been articulated and is being implemented; in Western Province where the greatest number of NGO’s are actively involved in CBRM in Solomon Islands a CBRM workshop was

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convened to gain a stakeholder perspective on how to co-ordinate the scale-out of CBRM in Western Province. National and provincial agency representatives were participants in both meetings. In partnership with national ministries, MFMR and MECDM, a manual for facilitating the implementation of CBRM based on Solomon Islands experience has been produced, based on experiences and action research findings to date. http://aas.cgiar.org/publications/community-based-marine-resource-management-solomon-islands-facilitators-guide#.U0zInPmSyFk In 2013, in partnership with the Stockholm Resilience Center, an analysis of factors determining the success or failure of CBRM was completed in communities that have implemented CBRM with the assistance of WorldFish since 2009 and communities that have implemented some form of CBRM with little or no outside assistance from an NGO. This included communities that are sustaining CBRM as well as those who have tried and not managed to succeed. The first of at three scientific publications on this topic has been submitted to a journal for publication. Key findings were that community-based marine resource management institutionalization processes have been non-linear and different in each community. In communities that have successfully sustained CBRM, specific strategies have been required to move from one phase of ‘innovation’ to the next for institutionalization of CBRM. Most activities within communities that have resulted in a transformation towards CBRM have been in governance rather than management (i.e. rules), and findings suggest that communities may need to invest more in management innovations to be resilient in the long run There has been ongoing dialogue with MFMR to ensure that the project’s activities best meet MFMR’s needs. It has become increasingly clear the that the greatest contribution to the Community Fisheries Group in MFMR at his stage could be made by (i) focusing on implementation of CBRM work at the community level and (ii) testing protocols and systems for MFMR province-level support in Malaita and Western Provinces by providing information and contributing to training of PFOs in CBRM. Provincial fisheries officers in Malaita and Western Province are involved in CBRM implementation and monitoring in the project communities. A number of scientific publications are now complete and these are also synthesized into partner targeted communications and presentations in country; to inform provincial and national level implementation have been published in international journals. All publications are open access and available on line http://www.worldfishcenter.org/worldfish-publications#.U02b8PmSyFk An impact assessment process for the Aquatic Agricultural Systems Program has now been implemented in the Solomon Islands Program. Based around a theory of change for CBRM that was developed in the early stages of this program, M&E processes for performance, outcomes and learning were all implemented in 2013. Consultation was completed with government officials in Tarawa in Kiribati identifying potential entry points, key management and development challenges, governance responses, capacity gaps, and initial approaches for engagement with island councils and local communities. A background paper and context analysis is complete and will be published by SPC in 2014. Ongoing participatory action research and the resultant scientific publications will contribute practical experiences to the body of information on adaptive co-management and resilient small scale fisheries. Others will describe how to disseminate effective models of CBRM to new geographic areas and achieve impact at scale, thus leading to improved fisheries governance. Project members will share lessons learnt in Solomon Islands with practitioners in Vanuatu and Kiribati, and assist in forming ‘alliances for learning’ to aid future initiatives.

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http://www.worldfishcenter.org/worldfish-publications#.U02b8PmSyFk�

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Future Plans and Activities WorldFish has strong links established with communities; implementation includes activities involving those with existing links plus new communities, where the prime task will be to support and establish management plans and learn how to more effectively work with communities to integrate marine resource management into other community development priorities. As well, the team will work at the provincial and national fisheries governance level to increase the capacity to integrate community activities into workplans and budgets. These approaches are central to and strongly supported by the Research in Development approach of, and learning from, the CGIAR Program Aquatic Agricultural Systems. Although the primary focus of scale-up is within Solomon Islands, there is also an explicit focus on identifying mechanisms and pathways to transfer lessons learned to Kiribati and Vanuatu. This will primarily be achieved through identification of suitable entry points, compiling lessons learned and preparing a funding proposal in partnership with Vanuatu and Kiribati fisheries agencies.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Anne-Maree Schwarz Country Manager Solomon Islands

The WorldFish Center [email protected]

Mr James Teri Director Inshore Fisheries Solomon Islands

Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources

[email protected]

Dr Neil Andrew Regional Director, Pacific

The WorldFish Center [email protected]

Quentin Hanich Senior Research Fellow Australia

ANCORS, University of Wollongong

[email protected]

Dr Per Olsson Scientist and Theme Leader, Sweden

Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University

[email protected]






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Figure 1: Stakeholder workshop CBRM Western Province, Solomon Islands (photo Worldfish-Solomon Islands)

Figure 2: Reviewing community management plans, Solomon Islands (Photo Worldfish-Solomon Islands)

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Figure 3: Reviewing implementation history of CBRM, Solomon Islands (Photo Worldfish-Solomon Islands)

Figure 4: Rural market Malaita Province, Solomon Islands (Photo Worldfish-Solomon Islands)

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FIS/2010/057: Developing inland aquaculture in the Solomon Islands Partner Countries Solomon Islands

Project Leader Dr Michael Phillips, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Reuben Sulu, WorldFish Solomon Islands

Dr Anne-Maree Schwarz, WorldFish Solomon Islands Mr Alex Meloty, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Solomon Islands Dr Tim Pickering, Secretariat for the Pacific Community, Fiji



Project Outline/Background Like other Pacific Island Countries and Territories, Solomon Islands has a great reliance on fish for food and income. In a total population of just over half a million people, some 75% of Solomon Islanders are subsistence-oriented, small-holder farmers and fishers; and fish accounts for 73% of total expenditure on food that is sourced from animals. Many PICTs recognize that there is an increasing gap between fish supply and demand; this is due to growing populations, combined with the impacts of climate change and overfishing on the health of inshore reef fisheries. With future shortfalls in food fish production in Solomon Islands projected to be between 6,000 and 20,000 tonnes per year by 2030 (Weeratunge et al. 2011), inland aquaculture development has been identified as a potential contribution to meeting the future demand for fish. Currently, aquaculture operations in Solomon Islands produce small quantities of Mozambique tilapia for household consumption. However, existing farming systems for this species are considered inadequate to meet future domestic fish demand. Farming of an indigenous food fish or an improved strain of Nile tilapia will likely be necessary. Earlier research has identified the indigenous milkfish (Chanos chanos) as a promising option for Solomon Islands aquaculture. The Solomon Islands National Aquaculture Development Strategy (2009-2014) identifies farming of both tilapia and milkfish as options for future supply of domestic fish markets. This project is intended to assist Solomon Islands in addressing research questions and implementing promising directions for inland aquaculture in meeting domestic fish demand.

Objectives The aim of this project is to identify the best ways for the Solomon Islands Government to carry out an inland aquaculture programme which will contribute to the nation’s food and nutritional security. To do this, the project addresses a number of research questions:

• Which species, farming systems and production models can most competitively supply fish for domestic consumption?

• How can delivery of fish feed and fish seed and essential services such as extension and finance be efficiently and sustainably provided?

• How can aquaculture be developed to optimize food and nutritional benefits for those most in need?

• What are the ecological risks associated with the growth of aquaculture and how can they be managed and minimized?

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• What systems of communication and partnership will most effectively contribute to scaling

out of research findings within Solomon Islands and other PICTs facing similar future food-security scenarios?

The geographical focus of the project is primarily the islands of Malaita and Guadalcanal which have the highest concentration of existing tilapia household ponds/tanks and potential sites for new aquaculture investments. These islands also have two of the country’s largest demand centers for fish in Honiara (Guadalcanal) and Auki (Malaita). On both islands, there are poor rural households that do not have regular access to marine resources, and nutrition concerns among women and children due to low inclusion of fish and other animal source foods in diets. The project adopts a gendered approach that is sensitive to the requirements of men, women and children in the household, in accordance with principles of the CGIAR Research Program on Aquatic Agriculture Systems (AAS).

Achievements Since starting in October 2011, the project has made good progress. The initial focus of the project was on establishing the research team and building partnerships, followed by research on milkfish farming, and husbandry and management systems for improving existing tilapia pond systems. Major achievements are summarised below:

• On-farm research to test productivity-enhancing management systems for Mozambique tilapia farming has revealed a number of management options for improving pond productivity. Results have been positively received by farmers, and the simple methods are now being adapted and adopted by a growing network of farmers on Malaita.

• Studies on the feasibility for milkfish farming have progressed well. Milkfish fry have been successful collected in Guadalcanal and Western Province, with seasonal patterns established. Fry transport and nursing methods have been developed and milkfish grow out trials started. On-station trials of a feed formulated from locally available ingredients have been initiated. Two project staff received training in milkfish aquaculture in Fiji which has prepared for the research and there is growing interest and skills for milkfish farming in Solomon Islands.

• Information was provided in support to the ecological risk analysis of introducing Nile tilapia to Solomon Islands which has been completed. A decision is pending by government over whether to introduce this tilapia species.

• An island-wide review of human nutrition has been published, and a household nutrition survey conducted in selected regions of Malaita. Results are currently being analysed, and a working paper under preparation.

• A survey of rural extension systems was completed, revealing significant constraints with existing systems. Research is presently focused on farmer networks in Malaita to understand current informal knowledge sharing mechanisms, and how these might be enhanced for future sharing of aquaculture knowledge and skills.

• Two Solomon Islands USP Master students were assigned to the project in cooperation with University of South Pacific (USP) and Secretariat for the Pacific Community (SPC) and research on various aspects of milkfish aquaculture completed in 2013. One student is scheduled to present thesis research at the 2014 World Aquaculture Society conference. Research results were also presented by one Solomon Island scientist (Daykin Harohau) to the session on “Sustainable Aquaculture in the Pacific Islands” at the Pacific Science Inter-Congress in Fiji in July 2013.

• A wide array of communication products have been published and disseminated, from journal articles to simple fact sheets and posters for farmers.

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• WorldFish is implementing the project in partnership with the Solomon Islands Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) and the Secretariat for the Pacific Community (SPC), the latter providing technical advice and a focal point for link to students at the University of South Pacific (USP) and helping facilitate two-way sharing of experiences with other Pacific nations facing fish deficits and looking towards aquaculture as a source of future fish supply. These partnerships have developed well during the project, with regular communications and joint activities now ongoing among the partners.

Future Plans and Activities The milkfish and tilapia research has progressed well, with increased understanding of systems for improving productivity of existing tilapia farming systems, and some promising developments with milkfish farming. A decision by government over whether to introduce the Nile tilapia will provide some clarity over future directions for aquaculture within the country. As the project progresses during 2014 and 2015, we expect an increasing number of outputs and outcomes, covering science, capacity and community development outcomes. Scientific products that cover three key areas, productive and competitive aquaculture system, food and nutrition security and innovation systems and achieving impact ‘at scale’. Capacity development among government, households, private sector, Masters students from the University of the South Pacific (USP) and more broadly regional capacity. Households and private sector remain key targets within Solomon Islands. Community impacts will include nutritional and economic impacts at national and household level. Impacts at these two levels are being studied through establishment of baseline surveys and monitoring and evaluation processes being embedded in the project activities. Preparation and dissemination of various communication products and partnership building will be used to enhance development outcomes and impact arising from the research. Handbooks and training materials for fish farmers, lessons learned and policy documents for government officials, scientific publications, and a range of communication materials for community, provincial and national audiences, including private investors, have been released or are being prepared, for audiences within Solomon islands, and through SPC for wider sharing across other PICTs facing future fish supply shortfalls. Partnerships and knowledge products are being pursued in ways that contribute to the longer-term goal of developing a viable aquaculture industry which contributes at scale to the country’s future fish needs. Identification and nurturing of productive partners from government, civil society organisations and private sector is a part of the implementation process. Over its lifetime, the project will be at the forefront of fisheries and aquaculture research through being aligned with the global CGIAR Research Program Aquatic Agricultural Systems.

http://www.aas.cgiar.org/�

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Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Michael Phillips WorldFish Center


Dr Anne-Marie Schwarz Honiara, Solomon Islands


Dr Reuben Sulu Honiara, Solomon Islands


Mr Daykin Harohau +677-40633 [email protected] Mr Alex Meloty Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Solomon Islands


Dr Tim Pickering Secretariat for the Pacific Community, Fiji


Figure 1: Harvesting of tilapia by family (photo by Daykin Harohau 2013)

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Figure 2: Milkfish farmers harvesting a milkfish pond for assessment (photo by Daykin Harohau 2013)

Figure 3: Milkfish expert helping with assessment of milkfish in growout pond (photo by Daykin Harohau 2013)

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FIS/2012/074: Improving Community-based Fisheries Management in Pacific Countries Partner Countries Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu

Australian Project Leader Neil Andrew, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leaders Kautoa Tonganibeia, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine

Resources Development (MFMRD), Kiribati James Teri, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Solomon Islands Graham Nimoho, Fisheries Department, Vanuatu.



Project Outline/Background Inshore fisheries and marine resources are central to the rural economies and food supply of Pacific Island Countries (PICs), supplying daily protein and serving as one of the few sources of cash for villagers and coastal people. These fisheries are crucial elements in filling the shortfall in fish supply predicted to confront many PICs in the coming decades. The broad threats facing PICs such as climate change and rapid population growth are particularly relevant to the future of inshore fisheries. Although it is improbable that inshore catches will increase significantly, their continued degradation will have severe consequences for food security and social stability. No other production sector can fill the shortfall in supply in the medium term so securing a sustainable supply of fish from nearshore fisheries is crucial. This project is a key component in a broad programme of research in development that seeks to transform the coastal fisheries of PICs. Transformation of fisheries will come from the alignment of many strands of endeavour including better local management and linking local and national scale governance. A transformed coastal fishery sector will enable governments to achieve their ambition of sustainable and secure inshore fisheries and aquatic resources. This project seeks to improve rural lives through the vehicle of community-based fisheries management (CBFM).

Objectives The aim of this project is to develop and nurture the structures, processes and capacity to implement and sustain national programmes of CBFM in Kiribati, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. The outcomes of this project will be achieved through the following six specific objectives:

• Use critical analyses of CBFM and related interventions, and their contribution to broader development outcomes, to improve the efficacy and sustainability of CBFM in the region.

• Design and implement CBFM in Kiribati communities in collaboration with Island Councils and national agencies.

• Strengthen and enhance CBFM in Western Province of Solomon Islands in collaboration with provincial government and national agencies.

• Design and implement CBFM in Vanuatu coastal communities in collaboration with provincial government and national agencies.

• Enhance understanding and mechanisms to accelerate scaling-out of CBFM in the Pacific region

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• Design and implement an impact assessment programme to evaluate progress against AusAID and ACIAR indicators

Achievements The project had a slow start with delays in contracting but is gathering momentum. Achievements thus far include:

• Partner subcontracts are now in place with ANCORS, SPC, JCU and national agencies in Vanuatu and Kiribati. Work in Solomon Islands will proceed under existing partnerships led by WorldFish.

• ANCORS and WorldFish recruitments have been completed and the SPC recruitments for four in-country staff are in process. Interviews have been completed and positions offered to four strong candidates. Staff will be in-post in April (assuming they accept the offers).

• A project inception meeting was held successfully in the first week of February. This meeting clarified roles and accountabilities and brought the project partners to a shared understanding of the project’s approach to CBFM.

• A scientific article on The contribution of locally managed marine areas to small-scale fisheries and food security has been published and one on Diversifying the benefits of tuna for food security has been submitted for publication.

• In Solomon Islands, much the scoping and diagnostic phases of the community engagement process have been completed, with meetings with the Provincial Government and other agencies to be completed.

• In Kiribati, MFMRD staff have completed a similar scoping process and community engagement has begun.

• In Vanuatu, Fisheries Department Staff have completed a preliminary round of consultations as part of the scoping phase.

Future Plans and Activities We anticipate recruitments will be completed in March 2014 and then in-country work with communities will accelerate. Planned activities in the near future include:

• Design workshop for scaling pathways and M&E (Obj 1 and 5) at James Cook University in June

• Community scoping in North Tarawa and Butaritari (Kiribati) in March (Obj 2) • Completion of scoping and diagnostic reports for Western Province, Solomon Islands in

March (Obj 3) In all three countries the community selection process has begun. Experience indicates this can be slow but the process is important and so will run on national timetables. In-country inception meeting Vanuatu to integrate current CBFM initiatives with planned work in this project (Obj 4)

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Neil Andrew WorldFish +612 4252 8921 [email protected] Kautoa Tonganibeia, Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources Development (MFMRD), Kiribati

+686 22 010

[email protected]



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James Teri Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR), Solomon Islands


Graham Nimoho Fisheries Department, Vanuatu

+687 533 3340

[email protected]

Quentin Hanich ANCORS, University of Wollongong


Other Collaborators Moses Amos and Ian Bertram Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Noumea, New Caledonia

+687 26 20 00 [email protected], [email protected]

Figure 1: Kiribati Artisanal Tuna Fishers – Betio, Tarawa. 2011 (Quentin Hanich)





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Figure 2: Kiribati Streetside Fish Market – South Tarawa. 2013 (Quentin Hanich)

Figure 3: Fish caught in an afternoon of spear fishing from a periodic closure opened for harvesting in North Vella Lavella islands in Western Province (Pip Cohen)

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FIS/2009/057: Pearl industry development in the western Pacific Partner Countries Tonga, Fiji, Papua New Guinea


Partner Country Project Leaders Mr. Poasi Ngaluafe, Ministry of Agriculture and Food,

Forests and Fisheries (MAFFF), Tonga. Mr Jacob Wani, National Fisheries Authority, Papua New Guinea. Mr John Vonokula Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, Fiji Islands



Project Outline/Background Cultured pearls are the Pacific region’s most valuable and highest priority aquaculture commodity. Pearl culture is compatible with traditional lifestyles and provides opportunities for income generation at a number of levels. Individuals may catch spat (juvenile oysters) to sell to pearl farms, they may grow pearl oysters to produce mother-of-pearl, half-pearls or round pearls, they may be directly employed by pearls farms or associated ventures, or they may be involved in pearl shell/pearl handicraft and jewellery production. Pearl culture is environmentally benign and the product is small, lightweight and non-perishable and of high value; ideal as an export commodity from Pacific island countries. However, the potential economic and livelihood opportunities provided by pearl culture are under-developed in the western Pacific which contributes less than 1.5% of the estimated regional value of the industry of US$170 million per annum. There is a sound basis for further development of the pearl culture industry in the western Pacific, addressing regional aquaculture priorities and bringing about much broader impacts in coastal communities. The Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) has identified three major objectives for the future development of pearl culture in the Pacific region. They are: (1) improved economic return; (2) maximised participation and benefits; and (3) sustainable production. These key regional objectives are addressed in this project.

Objectives The overall aim of this project is to provide a sustainable basis for the continued development of cultured pearl industries in Fiji and Tonga and to determine the feasibility of half-pearl culture in PNG based on methods developed in Tonga. Specific objectives are to:

• develop more effective hatchery culture methods for the black-lip pearl oyster (Pinctada margaritifera) and winged pearl oyster (Pteria penguin);

• enhance sustainable development of the cultured pearl industries in Fiji and Tonga; and • undertake baseline studies for the development of pearl culture in Kavieng, PNG.

The project builds on outcomes from other ACIAR projects (FIS/2006/172 and FIS/2006/138) and, reflecting the different stages of development of their industries, the two oyster species involved, and their different products, research activities vary in collaborating counties. Project activities have been implemented in Vanua Levu (Savusavu) and Taveuni in Fiji, Vava’u and Tongatapu in Tonga, and in the Kavieng area of New Ireland, Papua New Guinea.

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Achievements A full-time Project Scientist was appointed and took up his position in Tonga in 2013. Three successful hatchery runs with Pteria penguin were completed in 2013 and another in Feb/March 2014 to continue spat production for pearl farmers in Tonga. Successful hatchery production using only commercially available micro-algae pastes continues, greatly simplifying the hatchery process. A half-pearl training workshop for Tongan pearl farmers was completed in late 2013 to provide a basis for improved pearl yield and quality as well as product diversification and innovation. An application for an Australian Volunteers for International Development (AVID) position has been made for the September 2014 intake to assist with project activities in Tonga – particularly establishment of a demonstration peal farm at Tongatapu. Two volunteer positions through NZAid have been sought to work with the project assisting pearl and pearl shell handicraft development in Tonga and marketing and branding of products from this sector. A John Allright Fellowship holder from Fiji has finalized collection of blacklip pearl oyster samples from throughout Fiji to investigate the population genetics of this species. Analysis of sample has begun but will not be complete until late 2014. A spat collection program for Pteria penguin was initiated in Kavieng PNG. However, recruitment has been relatively low at sites tested so far. Adult Pteria penguin were collected from the wild for trial mabé pearl production but were killed by predators (presumably large fish) prior to pearl seeding. More oysters will continue to be collected for a pearl seeding trial in 2014. A culture system that prevents similar predation of oysters has now been developed. Training of a local community in mother-of-pearl handicraft production occurred via two workshops and a questionnaire for cruise-ship tourists visiting Kavieng and Rabaul has been developed with University of Adelaide to inform MOP product developing and marketing.

Future Plans and Activities Continued hatchery production of Pteria penguin to support Tongan pearl farmers and to optimise hatchery culture methods (particularly larval settlement) and early nursery culture. Begin a series of nursery culture experiments to fine-tune nursery methods and improve survival of hatchery produced oyster spat. Assist the Tongan government in implementing a recently approved ‘stimulus package’ for the Tongan pearl industry relating particularly to infrastructure development and farmer training. Continue support of pearl and MOP product development and marketing in Tonga. Assess the potential for the development and use of triploid Pincatda margaritifera for pearl production in Fiji.

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Complete genetic analysis of P. margaritifera populations in Fiji to determine relatedness and, on the basis of this information, make recommendations to the industry regarding translocation of adult and juvenile oysters. Continue the pearl oyster spat collection program in the Kavieng area of PNG; new sites will be added to the program to improve oyster recruitment and to identify sites with high recruitment. Trial production of half-pearls from wild-collected P. penguin in Kavieng to assess quality, assess handicraft potential and markets for handicraft products. Hatchery production of Pteria penguin is planned at the Nago Island Hatchery facility later in 2014.



Mr. Jacob Wani National Fisheries Authority Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea


Mr. Poasi Ngaluafe Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Forests and Fisheries, Tonga

+676-21399

[email protected]

Mr John Vonokula Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, Fiji Islands


Other Collaborators Ms. Ruth Garcia-Gomez Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Noumea, New Caledonia




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Figure 1: Hatchery production of Pteria penguin in Tonga.

Figure 2: Successful hatchery production of pearl oysters in Tonga occurs routinely (and uniquely for pearl oysters) without the use of cultured live micro-algae.

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Figure 3: Optimising nursery culture methods for pearl oysters in Pacific island countries is a priority for pearl farmers. Tongan pearl farmers rely on hatchery production of Pteria penguin juveniles. Three to four hatchery runs are now completed per year.

Figure 4: Community members receive training in shell cutting and mother-of-pearl handicraft production in Kavieng, PNG.

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Figure 5: Winged pearl oysters (Pteria penguin) are now cultured in protective plastic mesh cylinders in Kavieng, PNG to protect from predators.

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FIS/2010/096: Evaluating the impacts of improving postharvest processing of sea cucumbers in the Western Pacific Partner Countries Kiribati, Fiji, Tonga

Australian Project Leader Dr. Steven Purcell, Southern Cross University

Partner Country Project Leaders Mr Karibanang Tamuera, Ministry of Natural

Resources Development, Kiribati Mr Watisoni Lalavanua, Partners in Community Development Fiji Mr Poasi Ngaluafe, Ministry of Food, Fisheries & Forests, Tonga.



Project Outline/Background Sea cucumbers are worth $20–50 million/year in exports from Pacific island countries (PICs) and wild harvest has provided income to over 300,000 small-scale fishers in the western Pacific in recent years. Main issues facing sea cucumber fisheries are the poor quality of postharvest processing by fishers, inadequate or ineffective management frameworks, enforcement and governance. Several recent initiatives have started to improve fisheries management but need to progress in tandem with improved processing methods if fishers are expected to harvest less yet still earn sufficient income for their families. This study will work in Fiji, Tonga and Kiribati following on from an ACIAR–PARDI (Pacific Agribusiness Research for Development Initiative) Scoping Study on processing of sea cucumbers. It therefore has representation from Melanesia, Polynesia and Micronesia. The researchable issues concern the lack of information available to village fishers in postharvest processing of sea cucumbers. The researchable questions concern evidence of economic and sociological impacts to small-scale fishers. The research will provide proof-of-concept of impacts for future investments in similar interventions in PICs and other countries across South-East Asia and the Indian Ocean. The impact testing will also show whether such support to fishers results in them spending more time on value-adding of wild captures and less time fishing – thus, indirect impacts on resource sustainability. At least 3,000 households are expected to be financially boosted by the project as a primary impact. The project will be led by Southern Cross University in collaboration with fisheries departments in Kiribati, Tonga and Fiji. Partnerships with researchers at James Cook University (JCU) will support a complementary study on the nutritional content of processed sea cucumbers and bolster the research and analysis on socio-economic impacts to fishers. The SPC will provide advice on implementation strategies and directly support the production of the processing manual. We will partner with expert processors in Fiji to train fisheries officers to be processing trainers.

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Objectives The overall aim of this project is to improve the income of village fishers in Kiribati, Tonga and Fiji through support to improve the quality of post-harvest processing of sea cucumbers. The project objectives are to:

• assess current processing, sale prices and fishing practices of sea cucumber fishers in Fiji, • improve postharvest processing methods of fishers in Kiribati, Tonga and Fiji, and • evaluate the socio-economic impacts of the project’s interventions.

The project will take 4 years to complete. The primary outputs comprise:

• a village-level manual and training DVD on processing methods, which will be translated into local languages

• training workshops for fisheries officers and village fishers in postharvest processing • a quantitative analysis of economic and livelihood impacts.

Achievements Project-wide:

• The village-level manual on processing sea cucumbers was prepared. • Graphics for the manual were prepared by SPC graphic artist and the manual was prepared

for printing. Printing expected in early April 2014. • Some footage was taken at a commercial processor of processing sea cucumbers to make

the project’s DVD. This task has been slow in development because none of the fishers visited in Fiji have been doing processing to allow the project team to take footage. More footage will be taken at other processors, including New Caledonia.

• Several scientific articles were published using data from the PARDI Scoping Study that was a precursor to this project. The articles appear in the following journals: Aquaculture, Proceedings of the Royal Society B, PLoS ONE (in press). An article about sea cucumber product forms was prepared and is in-press in the SPC Beche-de-mer Information Bulletin.

Fiji:

• The on-ground coordination of work in Fiji was shifted from the Department of Fisheries to Partners in Community Development Fiji (PCDF).

• Agreements with PCDF were prepared and finalized. • Translation of village-level processing manual into Fijian. • PCDF staff were trained by the Project Leader in performing the socio-economic surveys,

data management and use of GPS technology. • The first baseline surveys were conducted at three villages in the Ra Province and five

villages at Kadavu Island. • Several surveys were conducted of processor/exporters to add to the four that were done in

the Scoping Study. Kiribati:

• Translation of village-level processing manual into Kiribati (Gilbertese). • A process of recruitment to get a junior fishery officer assigned to the project was initiated. • A junior fishery officer was recruited to the project in March 2014.

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Tonga: • Translation of village-level processing manual into Tongan. • A process of recruitment to get a junior fishery officer assigned to the project was initiated. • A junior fishery officer was recruited to the project in March 2014.

Future Plans and Activities The next year, in particular the coming 6 months, will be a busy period to achieve the following outputs:

• Printing of village-level manual on processing sea cucumbers (April 2014). • Continue and finish baseline socio-economic surveys of fishers and more processors in Fiji

(August 2014). • Filming of processing of sea cucumbers at villages and commercial processing stations.

Production of training DVD and distribution (Sept. 2014). • Report on baseline survey results from Fiji. • Hold a ‘train-the-trainer’ workshop for project team members in Lautoka, Fiji, at a

commercial processing station (April 2014). • Conduct first village-based training workshops in all three partner countries to train fishers

in processing sea cucumbers. • Hold a project team meeting in Nadi, Fiji, in April 2014 to cover operational matters,

sampling and site selection, data collection and achieving impact.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Steven Purcell James Cook University

+687 466808; +687 748882

[email protected]

Mr Karibanang Tamuera, Ministry of Natural Resources Development, Kiribati

+686 28095; +686 62071

[email protected]

Mr Watisoni Lalavanua, Partners in Community Development Fiji

+679 3300392; +679 8342096

[email protected]

Mr Poasi Ngaluafe, Ministry of Food, Fisheries & Forests, Tonga

+676 21399; +676 7762539

[email protected]

Dr Simon Foale +61 7 4781 6785 [email protected] Prof. Paul Southgate James Cook University


Other Collaborators Mr Ian Bertram Coastal Fisheries Science and Management Adviser, Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Noumea, New Caledonia


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Figure 1: High-value beche-de-mer on sale in jars in Hong Kong. Photo: SW Purcell Figure 2: Artisanal processing. A sea cucumber fisher and his family cooking a day’s catch of sea cucumbers at Kiritimati Island, Kiribati. Photo: SW Purcell Figure 3: The good and the ugly. Left: a well-processed Leopardfish sea cucumber. Right: a poorly cut and poorly processed sea cucumber. Photo: SW Purcell

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Figure 4: An i-Kiribati fisher showing off his carefully processed sea cucumbers. Photo: SW Purcell Figure 5: Collaborating researcher Poasi Ngaluafe conducting an interview-based socio-economic survey of a cucumber fisher in Tonga. Photo: SW Purcell Figure 6: Collaborating researcher Karibanang Tamuera conducting an interview-based socio-economic survey of a cucumber fisher in Kiribati. Photo: SW Purcell

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Figure 7: Team Leader training the Fijian collaborating researcher, Watisoni Lalavanua, on conducting the socio-economic surveys of a fisher in the Ra Province, Fiji. Photo: SW Purcell Figure 8: Woman fisher in Kadavu, Fiji, with sea cucumbers that she had fished and processed herself for sale to middlemen. Postharvest processing must be improved in Fiji if fishers are to reap the full economic benefits from the resource. Photo: SW Purcell

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FIS/2014/018: Understanding Pearl Oyster Mortality in Fiji Partner Country Fiji


Partner Country Project Leader Dr. Ruth Garcia-Gomez, SPC



Project Outline/Background The past decade has seen Fiji become a noted producer of cultured 'black' pearls with an export industry valued at around $6 million per annum. However, continued development of Fiji's cultured pearl industry has stalled because of poor condition and mortality of oysters at the main farming sites around Savusavu, Vanua Levu. This has resulted in a 60-70% decline in production over the past 3-4 years, farm closures, and loss of local jobs and livelihood activities in this economically depressed area of Fiji. Preliminary assessment of pearl oyster health by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) identified bacterial infection but could not determine whether this was a primary infection or an opportunistic infection resulting from another cause - potentially nutritional stress. Although mortality of cultured pearl oysters in atoll-based pearl farming environments in Polynesia has been linked to poor husbandry practices and environmental factors, these research findings have limited relevance to high-island environments like Fiji because of hydrographic and environmental differences. The main aim of this project is to determine the factor(s) causing loss of condition and mortality of black-lip pearl oysters in Fiji. It will determine relationships between biological factors (oyster age, growth rates, survival, health status and condition) and environmental factors (e.g. micro-algae availability and composition, water temperature, turbidity, bacterial load and composition, dissolved oxygen, current, flushing rate, pH, site and depth) to identify key factors affecting oyster health. The major outputs will be greater understanding of (1) factors causing poor condition and mortality of pearl oysters in Fiji and (2) the pearl farming environment in Fiji. Results will assist with pearl farm site selection, provide a basis for more appropriate husbandry programs to be developed, and support consolidation and then expansion of the Fijian pearl industry. The main beneficiaries of this research will be current and future pearl farmers in Fiji who will benefit from more informed site selection, development of husbandry protocols for pearl oysters that are more appropriate for conditions in Fiji, and greater capacity for troubleshooting based on diagnosis of conditions or factors that trigger declining oyster health. Overall these benefits will support improved health of farmed oysters in Fiji and increased pearl production.

Objectives The overall objective of this research is to determine the factor(s) causing loss of condition and mortality of black-lip pearl oysters in Fiji. Our approach will be to determine the growth rates, survival, health status and condition of different ages of oysters held at different depths at different sites over a two year period, and to correlate these results with changes in environmental variables such as micro-algae availability and composition, water temperature, turbidity, bacterial load and composition, dissolved oxygen, current, flushing rate and pH. Water quality parameters will be logged for the duration of the study using site specific loggers and the SOPAC (Applied Geoscience

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and Technology Division of SPC) water quality monitoring buoy deployed to Savusavu Bay. This approach will allow identification of key factors affecting oyster health and the influences of age, site and depth.

Achievements This project began very recently (April 2014) and activities so far have related primarily to project planning. Arrangements have been made for final calibration and testing of the SOPAC water quality monitoring buoy prior to deployment to Savusavu Bay. Samples of water and oysters have been collected from pearl culture sites in Savusavu Bay to establish baseline information relating to water quality and oyster condition.

Future Plans and Activities The SOPAC water quality monitoring buoy will be deployed into Savusavu Bay during May 2014. Small site specific loggers will also be deployed. Three experimental sites for pearl culture will be established in Savusavu Bay during June 2014 to accommodate different sizes (ages) of oysters held at three depths. This project has considerable scope for inclusion of students. This possibility will be examined with emphasis on the potential involvement of an ACIAR/USP Scholarship student from University of the South Pacific A similar (‘twin’) water quality monitoring buoy to that used in this study was recently deployed by SOPAC into the lagoon of Manihiki to assist pearl farmers in the Cook Islands. This provides a unique opportunity to generated data comparing water quality and pearl oyster performance between high island (Fiji) and atoll (Cook Islands) pearl farming areas. Collaboration will be sought with MMR, Cook Islands in this regard.


+61-7-3400-2055

[email protected]

Dr. Ruth Garcia-Gomez Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC)

+687 26 20 00

[email protected]

Mr. Justin Hunter J. Hunter Pearls (Fiji)

+679 8850 821

[email protected]



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Figure 1: Fiji pearls are well known for their high quality and distinct and unique range of colours (Photo from J. Hunter Pearls)

Figure 2: The SOPAC water quality monitoring buoy will be deployed in Savusavu Bay Fiji to assist in defining factors influencing pearl oyster growth and condition.

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Figure 3: Pearl oyster culture in Savusavu Bay, Fiji. Project research will help define physio-chemical factors affecting oyster condition and performance (Photo from J. Hunter Pearls)

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FIS/2010/098: Diversification of Seaweed Industries in Pacific Island Countries Partner Countries Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati

Australian Project Leader Dr Nicholas Paul, James Cook University

Partner Country Project Leaders Ms Cherie Morris, Institute of Marine Resources,

University of South Pacific, Fiji Ms Sapeti Tiitii, Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries, Samoa Mr Karibanang Tamuera Aram, Ministry of Fisheries Marine Resources Development, Kiribati



Project Background Seaweed farming is one of the few industries in Pacific Island Countries (PICs) which is potentially export-oriented, culturally and technologically appropriate, and able to provide substantial livelihood benefits to men and women in remote communities. Seaweed is ranked one of the highest priority commodities for aquaculture by the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) in the SPC Aquaculture Plan 2007. However, there is a need to diversify and reinvigorate seaweed production in PICs to stimulate the industry. Diversification is feasible because seaweeds are a multi-species resource with a broad range of commercial applications, from food products to gelling agents, as fertilisers and in feeds, as bioenergy, and for functional ingredients such as nutraceuticals. There are three priority R&D areas that ACIAR and regional reviews, and the scoping mission, identified as technical constraints critical to revitalise the industry. These are:

1. productivity of the major seaweed crop in PICs, Kappaphycus alvarezii, produced for its carrageenan gel;

2. production and post-harvest processing of the main edible seaweed, Caulerpa spp. or “sea grapes”;

3. new seaweed bioproducts as value-adding opportunities for diversification.

We translated the R&D priorities of the governments and industry into the following objectives for the three partner countries, Fiji, Samoa and Kiribati.

Objectives The overall aim of this project is to provide the technological basis for diversification and revitalisation of seaweed industries in Pacific Island Countries.

Specific objectives related to research questions identified in a scoping study are to:

1. improve production levels and post-harvest quality of Kappaphycus in Fiji and Kiribati;

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2. consolidate production and post-harvest strategies for sea grapes in Samoa and Fiji;

3. assess opportunities for new seaweed bioproducts in PICs.

Project activities will focus on Viti Levu, Kadavu, Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands in Fiji, on Tarawa and Fanning Islands in Kiribati, and on Upolu and Savai’i Islands in Samoa.

Achievements This project has only recently started (October 2013) and since then a series of initiation meetings and training sessions in-country have been conducted. All partner countries have now been equipped with the materials and infrastructure required for seaweed research and development, freighted from Australian suppliers. Village-based production of sea grapes in Samoa has begun at two villages on Upolu Island (Savaia, Faleula), one village on Manono Island (Salua) and three villages on Savai’i Island (Vaisala, Salelologa, Asaga). These training and experimental activities will be replicated in Fiji in coming months. Two ACIAR funded students of the University of the South Pacific, Fiji, have recently begun on ACIAR-USP Scholarships for MSc Marine Science program: i) Mr Tomasi Delana has begun work on his masters thesis entitled “Aquaculture production of local sea grapes (Caulerpa racemosa) in Fiji”. His USP Supervisor is Dr Colin Shelley, with Ms Cherie Morris and Dr Nicholas Paul as co-supervisors; ii) Mr Albert Whippy has begun work on the thesis entitled “Comparing different farming and drying methods for seaweed strain “tambalang’ in Ravitaki District and Galoa, Kadavu, Fiji Island”. His USP supervisor is Professor William Aalbersberg, with Dr Ruth Gracia-Gomez and Dr Nicholas Paul as co-supervisors.

Future plans and activities The key research plans and activities for the remainder of 2014, related to each objective, are for Objective 1: define the state of the Kappaphycus industry in Fiji and Kiribati, and, develop methods for analysing the chemical and physical traits of Kappaphycus; for Objective 2 – complete production trials of different sea grape varieties in Samoa, and, develop preparation and packaging options for transport to reduce spoilage in Fiji, and for Objective 3 – to identify target biomass sources for seaweed bioproducts.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr Nicholas Paul James Cook University


Mr Ian Tuart, James Cook University,

+61 7 4781 5545, [email protected]

Prof Paul Southgate, James Cook University,

+61 7 3400 2055, [email protected]

Dr Tim Pickering Secretariat of the Pacific Community – SPC

+679 337 0733

Ms Cherie Morris University of South Pacific, Fiji

Ms Sapeti Tiitii Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries Samoa

Mr Karibanang Tamuera Aram Ministry of Fisheries Marine Resources Development, Kiribati




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Other Collaborators Dr Ruth Garcia-Gomez, Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), Noumea, New Caledonia


Mr Tomasi Delana, MSc Student, ACIAR-USP Scholarship aligned with FIS/2010/098 (Principal supervisor: Dr Colin Shelley, University of the South Pacific, Fiji)

[email protected]

Mr Albert Whippy, MSc Student, ACIAR-USP Scholarship ACIAR-USP Scholarship aligned with FIS/2010/098 (Principal supervisor: Professor William Aalbersberg, University of the South Pacific, Fiji)

[email protected]

Figure 1: Line cultivation of the red seaweed Kappaphycus alvarezii (“tambalang” variety) in Fiji (January 2014). Mr Albert Whippy (USP MSc student) is inspecting the lines from a recent transfer of seedstock from Gau Islands by Fijian Fisheries to the island of Kadavu. New temperature-tolerant strains of Kappaphycus (“maumere” variety) are being evaluated in Fiji and Kiribati as part of the project in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community.




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Figure 2: Village-based production trials and training of sea grape aquaculture in Samoa (April 2014). This photo shows the local women’s group at Vaisala village on the island of Savai’i assessing sea grapes that have been cultured with support from Samoan Fisheries and James Cook University staff members. Sea grapes are being re-stocked for a 6-week culture period.

Figure 3: Site selection and preparation for culture of sea grapes on sandy reefs in the shallow subtidal in Samoa (March 2014). This photo shows the experimental set up at Vaisala village on Savai’i island, with a fisheries staff member securing the posts for cultivation. Aquatrays containing 10kg of sea grapes have been deployed and will be monitored for growth and environmental conditions over a 6 week period.

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Figure 4: Edible sea grapes (Caulerpa racemosa, front and centre) and the agar-producing red seaweed Gracilaria edulis (top and rear) growing together at the Mamanuca islands, Fiji (January 2014). The same species of sea grapes is found in the nearby Yasawa Islands, which is the key fishery production site for sea grapes in Fiji. This village-based industry is the focus for preparation and packaging options for transport to reduce spoilage.

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FIS/2012/076: Improving community-based aquaculture in Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa and Vanuatu Partner Countries Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa and Vanuatu

Australian Project Leader Robert Jimmy & Dr Timothy Pickering, SPC

Partner Country Project Leaders Mr Suresh Chand, Ministry of Fisheries & Forest

(Fiji) Mr Raikaon Tumoa, Ministry of Fisheries & Marine Resources (Kiribati) Mrs Joyce Samuelu, Ministry of Agriculture & Fisheries (Samoa) Mr William Naviti, Department of Fisheries (Vanuatu).



Project Outline/Background Demand for fish by increasing populations in the Pacific islands is projected to outstrip the ability of several island nations’ coastal fisheries to supply fish needed. The need to strengthen coastal fisheries management systems to maintain fish supply is important but this may not be sufficient. Therefore the need to provide additional production from aquaculture is essential to meet anticipated fish supply shortfalls. But addressing constraints in aquaculture such as capacity, feed and seed supply are challenging particularly in remote-coastal and inland communities. This project will address capacity constraints related to scaling up of promising aquaculture industry sectors and the factors relating to greater uptake of aquaculture among communities. It will involve working with species that are already being produced. The project will focus on tilapia culture in Fiji, Samoa and Vanuatu, freshwater prawn culture in Fiji and Vanuatu, and sea cucumber (sandfish) culture in Kiribati. The main outcome of the project will be: more freshwater fish available to communities that most needed it; more marine and freshwater aquaculture enterprises that are profitable and sustainable, and which yield income for households; improved community aquaculture and community based fisheries management as a result of mutually supporting linkages; and a better understanding of how aquaculture can improve status of women and children in the community.

Objectives The aim of this project is to develop profitable aquaculture systems which results in improvement in value of aquaculture production in formal and non-formal economies and improved nutrition and livelihood for people in marginalized per-urban or remote rural communities through access to aquaculture technologies and management systems that would deliver meaningful benefits. This will be addressed through meeting the following four objectives:

1. Address technical and capacity constraints in community aquaculture through interventions in four countries.

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2. Apply and evaluate community based approaches to strengthen community impacts of small scale aquaculture.

3. Ascertain the impacts that community aquaculture can have on household income, nutrition, and the status of women and children in these four countries.

4. Integrate community sea cucumber aquaculture with coastal fisheries management to strengthen community based fisheries management (CBFM) approaches in one country (Kiribati) and review experiences in another country (Fiji).

Achievements To date the project has achieved the following: National Project Inception Workshops in the four countries (Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa & Vanuatu) to initiate the project through reviewing the project objectives and finalizing national activities.

• Recruitment of a project officer to be based at the SPC Office in Suva Fiji and be responsible for the day to day management of the project.

Future Plans and Activities for 2014

• Project Initiation Meeting for SPC and project collaborating partners (Queensland University of Technology, James Cook University, University of the South Pacific-Institute of Marine Resources, Worldfish Centre) in Suva, Fiji

Fiji • Improve capacity for three existing hatcheries/nurseries to improve supply of quality tilapia

fingerlings to farmers • Identify tilapia lead farmers to be involved in on-farm fingerling production. • Undertake efficiency comparison of two nursing methods for tilapia (incubator versus

knock-down-tank method) • Draw up a broodstock management protocol for tilapia • Undertake on farm trial of best-bet feed formulations using local ingredients to compare

with local and imported commercial feeds. • Undertake trials and trainings in green-water versus clear water techniques to increase

efficiency of hatchery output for prawn post larvae • Identify a hatchery that would undertake seed production of sea cucumber (sandfish)

Kiribati • Undertake an inventory and stock take of the existing hatcheries (one public, one private)

and upgrade the existing hatchery with the necessary equipments for sea cucumber (sandfish) culture.

• Establish and MOU between the existing hatcheries and Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources.

• Identify hatchery training needs required within the existing staff and initiate necessary hatchery trainings required.

• Produce hatchery protocols/guidelines for sandfish culture • Develop standard operational protocols for participating hatcheries in sandfish culture • Undertake a desktop review of sandfish grow-out techniques applied in other countries that

have relevance to Kiribati. Samoa

• Identify lead farmers to be involved in tilapia fingerling supply. • Improve technical capacity and small equipment inventories of selected tilapia hatcheries to

enhance efficiency in supply. • Increase capacity of the National Broodstock Centre (Ministry of Fisheries) to maintain

tilapia broodstock and provide tilapia fingerlings that meets standards required.

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• Prepare and implement a tilapia broodstock management plan. • Evaluate status of tilapia as a food item through involvement in two cooking competitions

to selected chefs and tilapia farmers. • Pilot cage trial culture of tilapia

Vanuatu • Strengthen Vanuatu Fisheries hatcheries in Port Vila and Santo for tilapia fingerling

production. • Undertake refresher training on best aquaculture practice for tilapia hatchery staff. • Develop a hatchery production strategy for tilapia culture. • Develop minimum standards for a viable tilapia pond system in Vanuatu. • Develop a broodstock management plan for tilapia for Vanuatu hatcheries with the goal of

maintaining broodstock quality. • Undertake a review on possible tilapia re-introduction. • Undertake hatchery production of freshwater prawn post-larvae • Undertake an assessment of existing prawn grow-out capacity and provide assistance to

improve capacity. • Develop criteria for freshwater prawn culture suitability.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Robert Jimmy SPC +687 260166 [email protected] Dr Timothy Pickering

SPC +679 3370733 ext 35342

[email protected]

Mr Beero Tioti SPC +679 3370733

Suresh Chand MFF +679 336 2611 [email protected] Mr Raikaon Tumoa, Director

MFMRD +686 21099 [email protected]

Mrs Joyce Samuelu Ah Leong

Department of Fisheries


William Naviti, Acting Director

Department of Fisheries

+678 23621/ 23119

Other Collaborators Dr Simon Foale JCU +61 7 4681 4375 [email protected] Professor Peter Mather

QUT +61 7 3138 8822 [email protected]

Dr Satya Nandlal QUT +61 7 3138 8822 [email protected]







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PHILIPPINES

Active Projects

FIS/2010/042: Expansion and Diversification of Production and Management Systems for Sea Cucumbers in the Philippines, Vietnam and northern Australia Partner Countries Philippines, Vietnam, Australia


IARC Collaborating Scientist Dr David Mills, WorldFish

Partner Country Project Leaders Prof. Marie Antonette Juinio-Meñez, Philippines Mr Nguyen Dinh Quang Duy, Vietnam Dr Ann Fleming, Australia


Project Duration 01/04/2013 – 31/03/2017 (revised dates)

Project Outline/Background Sea cucumbers are a highly valued commodity consumed as food or medicine in China and elsewhere in Asia. Their harvest has for many years supported livelihoods in coastal communities throughout the Asia/Pacific region. Yet the sedentary nature, biological vulnerability, expanding market and high value of sea cucumbers have together resulted in widespread and precipitous depletion of wild resources. Ongoing efforts to develop simple low-technology approaches to culturing sandfish (Holothuria scabra), a high-value tropical sea cucumber species, have a broad range of potential benefits in restoring coastal livelihoods and ecological function. Previous ACIAR funded projects and national programs in the Philippines and Vietnam have highlighted both the potential and limitations of sandfish culture technology and demonstrated that significant impact is likely if systems and technologies applicable across a broad range of social, institutional and bio-physical settings can be developed. Sea cucumber ranching also potentially offers a culturally relevant livelihood activity for indigenous Australians in remote areas of northern Australia, the Arafura Sea and Torres Strait.

Objectives The aim of this project is to develop commercial-scale hatchery and grow-out technologies for sandfish, recognising the critical nature of adapting systems to social, institutional and bio-physical settings in participating communities. The project directly addresses several priority research areas identified during the February 2011 Asia-Pacific Symposium on Sea Cucumber Culture. Specific objectives arising from the research questions are to:

• Improve efficiency and adaptability of sandfish hatchery systems • Improve efficiency and adaptability of sandfish nursery and grow-out systems • Develop capacity to identify suitable sites for ranching using bio-physical indicators • Develop tools, technologies and capacities to engage and train communities in sandfish

culture and management.

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Achievements Philippines Hatchery production have continued at previous production nodes with the Bolinao Marine Laboratory (BML) produced 177,750 first stage juveniles from 3 spawning batches, which were reared to release size in floating hapas. Juveniles ( >3 g) were released at the Victory sea ranch (10,000 tetracycline stained) , Anda Sea ranch (3,000) and the Anda Restocking Site (1,225 ). SEAFDEC produced 229,100 first stage juveniles from 16 spawning batches. The BFAR-8 sandfish hatchery in Guiuan, E. Samar was expanded; 20,000 first stage larvae were produced of which 6, 266 were being reared in floating hapa initiated at Bagonbanua, Guiuan for release in sea pens in Lawaan. Unfortunately the hatchery and hapas were destroyed during typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in November 2013. Juveniles (1,046) in the hapas which survived the typhoon were released. Hatchery facilities at MSU-Naawan were upgraded by January 2014 with an estimated capacity of 3M eggs. The hatchery produced 6,300 first stage juveniles from 3 successful trials and released 700 juveniles of various stages in Laguindingan. Bio-physical surveys of 8 potential new ranching sites/management completed across the 4 dispersed project nodes within the Philippines Luzon In Anda Pangasinan, a 10-ha sandfish restocking/reserve has been established by the local government. The project trained community members to rear release-size juveniles in floating hapas to produce at least 6,000 juveniles this year. The LGU will buy the juvenile and release them in the restocking site. In addition the project will donate release-sized juveniles for the restocking site. 10,000 tetracycline stained juveniles ( > 3 g) were released in the sea ranch at Victory, Bolinao. Regular quarterly monitoring of the sandfish in the sea ranch was conducted with local partners. Landed catch monitoring and field monitoring of sandfish in two ‘non-intervention’ sites was initiated. Visayas In Concepcion, Iloilo, a memorandum of agreement among partners for the establishment of Polopinya Island as pilot sea ranch has been signed. Zoning and delineation of 5-ha ranch area, construction of perimeter markers and watch tower are ongoing. In Eastern Samar, the MoA among partners have been signed and baseline assessment of the sea ranch sites in Salcedo and Lawaan conducted. In pilot sea ranch in Maliwaliw 1, 200 juveniles (.3 g) were transferred to 6 100m2 pens @ 200 individuals/pen to determine growth and survival in relation to different substrate conditions. Mindanao In Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, a livelihood association (Balat Aquaculture and Livelihood Association of Tubajon) which comprised of mostly sea cucumber gatherers were organized to be the managers of the sea ranch. Village consultations have been completed and the establishment of the sea ranch endorsed to the municipal council for issuance of a municipal resolution /ordinance. Initial floating hapa nursery trials and experimental-scale juvenile grow-out in pens were also conducted with local partners. Initial discussions with local government units, and community consultations for the establishment of sandfish sea ranch are ongoing in Coron, Palawan; Igang, Guimaras.

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The first cross-site experiment to determine growth and survival of juveniles in floating hapas was conducted (13 November 2013 to 14 January 2014) in Brgy. Victory, Bolinao (ave wt: 3.2 g; 50% survival) and SEAFDEC (ave wt: 1.84 g; 71 % survival). SEAFDEC continued the experimental culture trials in ponds at Igang, Guimaras with an average growth rate of 0.8g/d and a survival of 90% for 30 days. Standardized protocols for biophysical monitoring agreed upon in October 2013 were field tested at the Anda Restocking Site and Concepcion sea ranch site Australia A juvenile release trial was conducted to improve the survival of juvenile sandfish during the first 24hr period post release. Prior releases resulted in poor survival (2.5%), thought to be due to very strong tidal flows during the first 24 hrs post release. In the current trial, 1200 2-5g stained juveniles (produced by Tasmanian Seafoods) were released at Wigu, South Goulburn Island, Northern Territory (August- December 2012) to test commercially viable, boat-based release methods conducted at neap tides. Releases were conducted via a plastic pipe that fed the juveniles from the boat to the open sea floor during slack tide (chute method) resulted in 19.1% recovery after 4 months. This method was simpler and more effective than animals released inside temporary protective cages deployed from the boat to the seafloor and removed after 24 hrs (10.4% recovery). Biophysical monitoring was conducted at 3 sites at South Goulburn Island (December 2013) and samples were processed according to the standardised protocols. Fourteen thousand juvenile sandfish (2-8g) were released at Wigu during April 2014. This stocking rate was recommended by the industry partner Tasmanian Seafoods as a commercial rate for this ranching area. Growth and recovery rate will be monitored during 2014 and adults will be harvested in 2015 at low tides in collaboration with the Warruwi community, Tasmanian Seafoods and the NT Government. Correlations with biophysical indicators will be analysed. Associated research to support sandfish ranching development in Aboriginal communities: The Yalama Clan of Goulburn Island formally signed an agreement in December 2013 to set up a trepang (sandfish) ranching business on their sea country. They and the community's governance body, Yagbani Aboriginal Corporation, will work with a hired business consultant in April -August 2014 to write a Business Plan for their trepang enterprise. This will be used to guide and support business development and source funds for finances, training and resources, including a sandfish processing facility on the island. Other support activities include VET training in aquaculture, aquaculture career transition programs in the local school, governance training and support for the community board and social research into appropriate communication and negotiation processes between Aboriginal people and external agents when developing aquaculture based businesses, including sandfish ranching. Vietnam Major delays in the signing of the project agreement with the Vietnam Government have meant that project activities are starting now Potential partners have been identified for trials of sea ranching Socio-economic survey of existing sandfish farmers undertaken to determine motivations, livelihood structure and level of economic return

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We note that both the success of pond culture and the current high price of shrimp on the global market make it difficult to find farmers willing to gamble with the concept of sea ranching. Of particular note, security and high mortality rates were seen as concerns for releasing

Future Plans and Activities First annual project meeting to be held at Mindanao State University, Naawan on 7-10 May 2014 Philippines The BFAR hatchery damaged in typhoon Haiyan is being rehabilitated and regular hatchery production is expected to resume by the second half of 2014. The second run of the floating hapa nursery cross-site experiment will be conducted on April - June 2014 together with UP-MSI, SEAFDEC and MSU-N. Protocols for monitoring sandfish populations and environmental parameters in the release sites will be standardized across sites. Production of juveniles for release in the established sea ranch sites will continue to meet the target of 10,000 juveniles per sea ranch. Baseline socio-economic and perception surveys in the newly established sites. Consultation with the community and respective LGUs will continue towards the establishment of the other sea ranch sites. Vietnam Implementation of trial ranches will get underway in the second half of 2014.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Dr David Mills WorldFish and James Cook University


Prof. Paul Southgate James Cook University


Prof. Annette Menez University of the Philippines


Dr Ann Fleming Darwin Aquaculture Centre (Australia)

+61-8- 8924-4268 [email protected]

Mr Nguyen Dinh Quang Duy Research Inst. for Aquaculture No. 3 (Vietnam)


Other Collaborators Ms Cathy Hair James Cook University (Australia)








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Figure 1: Naarwan (Mindanao) node leader Dr Wili Uy provides training in seagrass species identification at the project inception meeting, September 2013

Figure 2: Team members counting of H. scabra juveniles in Bagonbanua Island, Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

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Figure 3: Barangay (village) consultation about setting up a community sea ranch at Laguindingan on the central north coast of Mindanao, Philippines

Figure 4: Signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the Sea Cucumber Project between project partner GDFI, Maliwaliw Multi-purpose Association (MMA), Salcedo, Eastern Samar local government unit, and BFAR Region VIII, held at GDFI Environmental Training Center , Guiuan, Eastern Samar, October 28, 2013.

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Figure 5: Retrieving of hapa nets in Bagonbanua Island, Guiuan, Eastern Samar. During Super Typhoon Yolanda, the floating hapa nets in Bagonbanua , which served as ocean nursery for H. scabra juveniles, were completely destroyed. Some nets were nowhere to be found, while others were strewn in the island.

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FIS/2011/031: Coral reef restoration using mass coral larval reseeding Partner Countries Philippines

Australian Project Leader Professor Peter Harrison, Southern Cross University

Partner Country Project Leader Dr Ronald Villanueva, University of the Philippines



Project Outline/Background Coral reefs are among the most globally important marine ecosystems because they are highly productive ecosystems that supply fisheries and other essential food resources to millions of people living in coastal communities, they are centres of marine biodiversity, and they significantly influence carbon cycling and the chemistry of the world’s oceans. The problem is that coral reefs are declining globally, and it is estimated that 20% of the world’s reefs have been effectively destroyed, a further 24% are under intense human pressure and are at risk of collapse, while another 26% of coral reefs are seriously threatened. Scleractinian reef corals are critically important to coral reef survival because they build the primary reef framework, supply essential habitats for thousands of fish and other species, and provide direct energy and other nutrient inputs to the ecosystem. A key problem is that these reef-building corals are highly susceptible to disturbances and experience periodic mass mortality following severe mass bleaching events, crown of thorns seastar outbreaks, and diseases. The loss of substantial live coral cover on reefs fundamentally alters their ecology and can lead to phase shifts from coral-dominated to algal-dominated systems where overfishing, eutrophication and other human disturbances have seriously disrupted their ecology. Continued human pressures on damaged reefs leads to further reef decline and ecosystem collapse, resulting in loss of ecological values and food resources for local human communities. Successful reproduction by reef corals is critically important to the maintenance and renewal of coral communities that build reefs, and can enable damaged reefs to recover through natural recruitment processes, but this natural recovery can take decades. However, reef restoration could be significantly enhanced by mass coral larval settlement to greatly increase coral recruitment and thereby initiate coral community regeneration over much shorter timescales. This process is the focus of this project. The aim of this project to quantify the effectiveness of mass larval reseeding to restore damaged coral communities on reefs in the Philippines, in order to assess its use in future global reef restoration management strategies. The outcomes from this collaborative research will include: enhanced recovery of damaged coral reefs in the Philippines through manipulative experiments to massively increase coral recruitment rates; training and capacity building in the partner Philippines research team for future reef restoration projects; improvements in techniques to mass rear coral larvae and enhance coral recruitment on damaged reefs; and a detailed assessment of the ecological and cost-effectiveness of mass larval reseeding for damaged coral reefs.

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Objectives The overall aim of this project is to quantify the effectiveness of mass larval reseeding to restore damaged coral communities on reefs in the Philippines, in order to assess its use in future global reef restoration management strategies. The specific objectives of this research are to:

• Determine peak coral spawning periods on study reefs in the Philippines (at Bolinao, in northern Luzon) and then capture coral spawn and rear millions of coral larvae in larval enclosures during their development period,

• Reseed replicate areas of damaged reefs by facilitating mass settlement of coral larvae from the rearing enclosures,

• Quantify patterns of coral larval settlement and early recruitment in replicate reseeded reef areas versus natural areas of similar reef habitat to determine the enhanced recruitment rates,

• Quantify rates of settled juvenile coral growth and survival to assess the ecological and cost-effectiveness of mass larval reseeding in reef restoration,

• Use the results of this research to develop guidelines and technical training reports and peer-reviewed publications in high-ranking international refereed journals to enhance restoration of damaged coral reef around the world in future.

Achievements Philippines:

• Research at Bolinao, northern Luzon, has demonstrated that significant periods of coral spawning occur at night around full or new moon periods from February-March through June-July, which greatly extends the known period over which mass coral larval rearing for reseeding can occur for this project.

• Following coral spawning periods, millions of egg and sperm bundles have been collected and bundles from multiple spawning colonies were mixed in species-specific rearing tubs to increase fertilization rates and genetic diversity among offspring for each species.

• Coral larvae were grown in large larval rearing tubs at Bolinao Marine Laboratory (BML) until they were competent to settle, then larvae were either added to larval settlement tubs for rearing at BML or transferred to field enclosures for mass settlement.

• New types of coral settlement tiles were trialled to determine whether tiles made from natural dead coral skeletons or artificial tile substrata affect settlement rates of these reared coral larvae.

• For the mass larval reseeding experiments, degraded reef sites were identified at Magsaysay reef, Anda (16o18’39.9” N, 120o01’47.5” E), where the coral community had been destroyed by Crown-of-thorns seastar outbreak, blast fishing and occasional typhoons. Eight 6 x 4 m plots were established and all coral colonies mapped, with four plots treated with added larvae and the other four were controls without added larvae.

• Large matting enclosures were used to retain ~400,000 coral larvae inside each of the larval plots for the 5 day settlement period and the experiment was highly successful.

• Analysis of coral recruitment on tiles inside the reseeded plots showed very high recruitment, with an average 27 ± 12 (mean ± s.d.) settled coral recruits per tile in the reseeded plots, in contrast to tiles in the four non-seeded control plots where no recruits were recorded.

• Extrapolating the average settlement of larvae on recruitment tiles to the estimated numbers of larvae settled in the reseeded plots gave an estimated 23,000 larvae potentially settled in each of the experimental larval reseeding plots.

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• Significantly different number of coral recruits settled on the different surfaces of the tiles: the side surfaces had higher numbers of recruits compared to bottom and top surfaces.

• Monitoring of coral recruit survival showed mortality of recruits in subsequent months after settlement as expected, but overall recruitment in the larval reseeded plots remained significantly higher than in non-seeded plots.

• Further larval reseeding experiments are currently underway and both sets of experiments will continue to be monitored during 2014 and beyond.

• A PhD candidate Dexter dela Cruz from the Philippines has joined the research team and was awarded a John Allwright Fellowship to support his higher degree research and is enrolled through Southern Cross University.

• In addition to research training for Dexter dela Cruz, a large team of research assistants and volunteers from the Philippines have been involved with the project work supporting the coral spawning, collection, rearing and larval settlement experiments, which has provided further training and capacity building.

Future Plans and Activities The project is ongoing in 2014 and work includes new research on coral spawning, fertilization rates, larval development and rearing techniques, comparisons of natural coral and artificial tiles surfaces, recruit survival in reef versus laboratory, and new field experiments with mass coral larval reseeding are all underway and the results will be monitored during 2014 and beyond. Results from the initial research are being analysed and will be prepared for reports and publications. Further research training and support is ongoing for the PhD candidate and additional capacity building is occurring for the research assistants and volunteers helping with the research at BML.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Professor Peter Harrison Southern Cross University


Dr Ronald Villanueva Bolinao Marine Laboratory University of the Philippines

[email protected]

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Figure 1: Acropora branching coral spawning in BML (Image: P. Harrison)

Figure 2: Collecting spawned Acropora gametes at BML (Image: D. dela Cruz)

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Figure 3: Rearing millions of Acropora larvae at BML (Image: D. dela Cruz)

Figure 4: A. Sample mesh matting used in retaining the larvae inside the plots. B. Lead weights inserted in the edge of the matting. C. Introduction of larvae inside the matting. D. Control plot with matting. (Images D. dela Cruz).

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FIS/2012/101: Developing technologies for giant grouper (Epinephelus lanceolatus) aquaculture in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia Partner Countries Vietnam, Philippines Australia Project Leader Professor Abigail Elizur

University of the Sunshine Coast Partner Country Project Leader Dr Nguyen Huu Ninh

Research Institute for Aquaculture No.1 (RIA1), Vietnam

Dr Felix Ayson Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD), Philippines

Project Budget $1,673,000 Project Duration 01/01/2014 to 31/12/2018

Project Outline/Background Groupers comprise a significant proportion of the live reef food fish trade in the Southeast Asian region. The giant grouper is one of the species that commands a high market price largely because of its cultural significance throughout many Asian countries where it connotes abundance. Due to high demand, there is considerable pressure on wild giant grouper populations, to the point where it is already difficult to source wild-caught giant grouper in some countries. In the Philippines and Vietnam, farming of giant grouper is being considered as a means to compensate for the diminishing catch from the wild and to meet market demand. Australia has been successful in breeding giant grouper through the work conducted at the former Northern Fisheries Centre of the Department of Primary Industries in Queensland. Vietnam has giant grouper broodstock, however has not yet been able to achieve spawning. The Philippines has extensive experience in the aquaculture of other grouper species, such as tiger grouper, orange-spotted grouper and mouse grouper, but has yet to establish a giant grouper breeding program. Knowledge of maturation, spawning behaviour and larval development of giant grouper are currently the limiting factors for giant grouper aquaculture aquaculture in Vietnam and the Philippines. There is also a lack of knowledge regarding the genetics of giant grouper which is important in establishing a breeding program. Research, and the grouper farming industry itself, is currently hampered by the high level of investment required to hold and maintain giant grouper broodstock. This proposed project addresses these bottlenecks by combining resources through a cooperative, multilateral approach. The partner countries and institutions are the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) and the giant grouper company, Finfish Enterprise (based at the Northern Fisheries Centre) in Australia, the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center’s Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD) in the Philippines and the Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 1 (RIA1), primarily the National Broodstock Center for Mariculture Species (NBC) in Vietnam. The expected outputs include sustainable technologies for giant grouper breeding and larval rearing, adaptation of alternative approaches to seed production, capacity building of staff in the partner countries, and initiation of the giant grouper aquaculture industry in Vietnam, the Philippines and Australia. These

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outputs will be of immediate benefit to aquaculture farmers in Vietnam and the Philippines and will support the giant grouper industry in Australia.

Objectives The development aim of this project is to establish a sustainable aquaculture industry for giant grouper in the Southeast Asian region. Specifically, the project will:

• develop reliable giant grouper captive-breeding technologies in order to close its lifecycle

• explore the potential of germ cell transplantation and surrogate technologies as alternative approaches to giant grouper seed production

• develop reliable larval rearing technologies for giant grouper • apply genetic approaches to broodstock management • build capacity in the form of knowledge transfer and training in larval rearing, genetics and

biotechnology as it applies to giant grouper aquaculture

Achievements In preparation for this project, a Small Research Activity was conducted in 2012/2013. Two representatives from each country went together on a study tour of giant grouper operations in Taiwan from 24 - 30 June 2012. The group was composed of Prof Abigail Elizur and Dr Richard Knuckey from Australia; Dr Felix Ayson and Dr Fiona Pedroso from Seafdec/AQD in the Philippines; and Dr Tran Dinh Luan and Mr Hoang Nhat Son from RIA1 in Vietnam. The visit to Taiwan provided an understanding of the giant grouper aquaculture practices and the realisation of issues, which highlighted the need to conduct a thorough understanding of giant grouper biology in order to establish a sustainable aquaculture for the species. Taiwan is currently the dominant producer of giant grouper in the SE Asian region. However, their culture techniques are highly variable even within a particular facility. Biosecurity is a major concern which is behind the widespread problem of viral diseases that cause major losses in grouper culture. Inbreeding is most likely a major issue as well, as there is no system for genetic management. Nevertheless, Taiwan has an active R & D for giant grouper. Areas of interests include hybridization to produce faster growing and disease-resistant grouper fry, identifying molecular markers for specific traits, use of probiotics (herbal materials) for improved health management, and strategies to control VNN occurrence in grouper farms. Yet, there is a big knowledge gap concerning giant grouper reproductive biology that remains to be investigated. Vietnam As part of the SRA activities, slow release hormone implants were prepared in USC and sent to Vietnam, where Dr Richard Knuckey and Mr Adam Reynolds supervised the hormonal implantation, which successfully induced spawning in all of the giant grouper treated broodstock. This was the first time giant grouper spawning was achieved in Vietnam. Optimal water temperature and salinity ranges for embryonic and larval development have been determined following the preliminary experiments on their rearing. Although massive mortalities, attributed to VNN infections and drop of salinities due to severe storms, have occurred, some giant grouper fingerlings have been produced, and many lessons learnt along the way in terms of handling, feeding and husbandry regimes. The existing giant grouper broodstock have been tagged and genotyped, which will facilitate genetic management. Infrastructure renovation (broodstock and spawning tanks) has been carried out at RIA1 to start the full project.

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Philippines Broodstock cages that measure 10 x 10 x 5 m (L x W x H) were constructed in Igang Marine Station (IMS) of SEAFDEC/AQD for holding the new giant groupers that are being acquired. Cages are divided into 4 units each of 5 x 5 x 5 m which will be used to hold only one size of breeders. Australia Relevant molecular and genetic tools were developed at USC. As a first step, a much cheaper DNA extraction method has been optimised. This is important in the context of developing affordable tools that are applicable in the Philippines and Vietnam, where cost of sample preparation is highly significant. A suite of giant grouper DNA markers has been identified that enabled high confidence parentage assignment. For instance, the genetic structure of the giant grouper population at NFC has been established. In conjunction with DNA microsatellite markers, Cox1 mitochondrial DNA sequence analysis was performed which enabled the proper identification of the grouper species from 4 locations, namely Australia, Vung Tau and Cat Ba Island in Vietnam, and Taiwan. A noteworthy finding was the identification of a species other than giant grouper (closely related to Epinephelus fuscogutattus or brown-marbled grouper) among the broodstock in Vung Tau, Vietnam, and samples collected from Taiwan. The use of DNA microsatellite makers in conjunction with cox1 mitochondrial DNA sequencing can assist in (a) the development of a pedigree for use in selective breeding programs; (b) management of inbreeding in captive populations; and (c) perhaps help to optimize the mating/sex composition and numbers in captive breeding tanks. The use of these markers will facilitate further research into the population dynamics of this species in the wild and culture industry. Additional DNA markers are currently being developed at USC. In the current phase 2 project, the application of DNA markers will be further expanded to identify associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes and traits of fast growth and possibly disease resistance. A planning project workshop organised at USC was conducted on 24-28 March 2014 at the University of the Sunshine Coast. 2 participants from each of the partner countries have attended and project milestones were discussed in detail as well as training needs.

Future Plans and Activities The following are the priority milestones for the first 2-3 years of the project:

• Determine earliest age for sex reversal in giant grouper. • Investigate nutritional requirements of giant grouper broodstock. • Determine age of larvae amenable to germ-cell transplantation. • Determine optimal stage for collecting germ cells. • Develop optimal larval feeding techniques. • Apply genetic markers to prevent inbreeding and to enable genetic selection.

Key Personnel (by Institution/Country) Prof Abigail Elizur University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia


Dr. Nguyen Huu Ninh, RIA1, Vietnam


Dr Felix Ayson +63 33 5119174 [email protected]




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Other Collaborators Dr Richard Knuckey FinFish Enterprise


A/Prof Wayne Knibb University of the Sunshine Coast


Dr Nguyen Nguyen University of the Sunshine Coast


Dr Josephine Nocillado University of the Sunshine Coast


Mr Tran The Muu Research Institute for Aquaculture No.1 (RIA1), Vietnam


Mr Hoang Nhat Son RIA1

+84 43 8780938

Mr Ngo Quang Thang RIA1

+84 43 8780938

Mr Vu Van Sang RIA1

+84 43 8780938

Mr Ngo Vinh Hanh RIA1

+84 43 8780938

Ms Luu Thi Ha Giang RIA1

+84 43 8780938

Dr Evelyn Ayson SEAFDEC/AQD


Figure 1: Monitoring and sampling of giant grouper broodstock at RIA1 in Vietnam in preparation for spawning induction. This activity was conducted as part of the SRA and was led by Dr Richard Knuckey and Mr Adam Reynolds.






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Figure 2: Development of giant grouper larvae until fingerling stage reared at RIA1. Fertilised eggs were obtained from broodstock that were induced to spawn using the hormonal treatment developed at USC.

Figure 3: ACIAR Giant grouper project meeting March 2014. Visiting a giant grouper farm on the Sunshine Coast.

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AFRICA

ACTIVE PROJECTS

FIS/2011/069: Technical support for pearl culture in coastal Tanzania Partner Country

Tanzania


Partner Country Project Leader Dr. Gasper Mahika, Director of Aquaculture, Ministry for Livestock and Fisheries Development, Tanzania


Project Duration 01/04/2012 to 31/03/2015 (with extension)

Project Outline/Background Coastal mariculture offers opportunity for improved living standards within coastal communities in Tanzania and pilot-scale research at two sites (Zanzibar and Mafia Island) has shown potential for income generation from pearl culture. Despite the promising results of pilot activities, key technical and strategic issues need to be addressed to maintain current momentum and for further development of pearl culture in a sustainable manner. A major consideration is oyster supply. Most oysters used for pearl production so far were wild collected adults. Collection of adult oysters is unsustainable as a basis for further development and establishment of a reliable spat collection program is a priority. The potential of hatchery production from existing facilities also needs investigating as a supply of oysters for culture. Assessment and adaption of existing culture methods (developed in the Pacific) for Tanzanian conditions is another key requirement for further development. The anticipated outcomes of the project include:

• Baseline information required for sustainable community-based pearl culture in Tanzania which will support further development and maintain momentum generated from pilot studies

• A greater understanding of the potential for pearl culture development in coastal Tanzania and identification of appropriate methods for sustainable harvest/production of juvenile pearl oysters to support this development

• Increased capacity within Fisheries Departments, academic institutions, NGO’s and partner communities, relating to pearl oyster collection and husbandry, and for support of community-based pearl culture activities

• Collaborative links between research partners that will provide a basis for a well coordinated and strategic development of pearl culture in Tanzania which maximises community involvement and community benefits.

• The major beneficiaries of this research will be coastal communities of Tanzania for which pearl culture offers an opportunity for income generation which is compatible with national fisheries/development policy and marine resource conservation efforts.

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Objectives The primary aims of this project are to assess culture methods developed for black-lip pearl oysters in the Pacific for their potential in Tanzania, to establish methods for supply of pearl oyster juveniles to support pearl culture development, and to develop baseline information that may support development of community pearl culture in the east African region. The specific objectives of the project are:

• To generate information on the seasonality of pearl oyster recruitment to spat collectors and optimise methods for spat collection

• To assess pearl oyster culture methods developed in the Pacific islands for nursery and grow-out culture in Tanzania.

• To assess current hatchery facilities (IMS Zanzibar and Mafia Island) for pearl oyster production and determine their capacity to support pearl culture in Tanzania

• To develop extension materials and international linkages This project involves Mr Ismail Saidi, an AusAID funded postgraduate student from Tanzania who recently completed his MSc (Aquaculture) at James Cook University (JCU). Prior to beginning his studies, he was the WWF Mariculture Officer in Tanzania and worked with the Project Leader on the pearl culture research project at Mafia Island. Mr Saidi returned to Tanzania in August 2013 to lead pearl culture developments in his country and in-country project coordination. Although this strategy delayed the start of field-based research it allowed time to fine-tune the initial research plan on the basis of significant input from stakeholders. This strategy also provides greater rigor to project research and will maximize research outputs.

Achievements

• A consultation visit to Tanzania took place in November/December 2012 to meet with project partners and plan research activities, assess facilities and collect data on current pearl farming activities and bottlenecks to development.

• Research sites and partner pearl farms were selected in Zanzibar, Mafia Island and Mtwara; these are the focus of project research activities.

• Hatchery and some farm facilities required for project research needed some improvements to become research ready and this was a focus of project activity during 2013.

• Production and operational data were gathered from current pearl farms and were used to develop economic decision making tools in consultation with Bill Johnston of DAFF Queensland. The tools will be used widely in extension activities.

• An MOU was completed between JCU and the University of Dar-es-Salaam (UDSM) to support the project. The arrangement includes some project administration through UDSM, an office and support facilities at UDSM for Mr Saidi and a mechanism for UDSM student involvement in Project activities.

• Pearl farmers in Mtwara and Zanzibar have been identified as significant partners for project research. Research to assess culture methods and factors affecting pearl quality has been established on their farms.

• Extension materials have been developed for pearl farm set-up and half-pearl production; they are being translated into Swahili for use in extension activities later in 2014/15.


• The first hatchery run will be done at Mafia Island in August 2014. It will produce spat to be used to assess nursery and grow-out culture methods developed for pearl oysters in the Pacific islands under Tanzanian conditions.

• Pearl oyster growth trials and pearl quality trials established at pearl farms in 2013 will be concluded and follow-on experiments planned and initiated.

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• Formal spat-collection programs will be established at Zanzibar, Mafia Island and Mtwara in the second half of 2014 and these activities will involve a postgraduate student from UDSM who has been identified.

• A workshop on half-pearl production and pearl handicrafts will be held later in the project to bring new skills to pearl farmers and artisans and enable them to maximize the value of their products.



Dr Gasper Mahika, Ministry for Livestock and Fisheries Development, Tanzania


Dr. Rashid Tamahtamah, University of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania


Dr. Narriman Jiddawi, IMS, University of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania


Other Collaborators Mr Jason Rubens, WWF, Tanzania +255 22 270 0077 [email protected]

Figure 1: Sometimes project research attracts the attention of interested passers-by


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Figure 2: Ismail Saidi working in the pearl oyster hatchery at Chole Bay, Mafia Island

Figure 3: Mabé pearls in Tanzania are produced from both black-lip and winged pearl oysters. Improvements in pearl quality and processing would result in significant increase in value and a broader market.

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Figure 4: Training for pearl farmers at Mtwara on raft making and deployment. All pearl farms in Tanzania use rafts, not longlines as commonly used in the Pacific.

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Figure 5: Pearl farmers in Tanzania produce some exceptional and uniquely coloured pearls with considerable market potential.

ACIAR FISHERIES PROGRAM PROJECT PROFILES 2014

Documents