The Philippines, a critical hub in global seafood trade, offers a variety of high-value species, including the spiny lobster or locally known as ulang. This prized seafood has long been a staple in both local and international markets, with prices reaching as high as P5,000 per kilogram. Despite its high cost, the demand for spiny lobsters continues to grow due to their delectable taste and significant economic potential.

In the Philippines, spiny lobsters are among the most sought-after crustaceans found primarily in the coral reefs and rocky seabeds, particularly in the Eastern Visayas. Six species have been identified in this region, including Panulirus penicillatus, locally known as aswang due to its dark and untidy appearance. Lobsters play a crucial role in the livelihoods of local fisherfolk, with lobster fishing being one of their major economic activities. Its high market demand prompted smallscale fishers to engage in aquaculture and collect seedstocks from the wild.

In 2019, the collection of spiny lobster seedstocks, or puerulus, began in Palawan and gained popularity in 2020 due to the high buying prices. However, the industry faces a significant challenge: juvenile lobsters are often harvested at high rates, sometimes before they reach sexual maturity, threatening the sustainability of lobster populations. Moreover, the population, particularly in Eastern Visayas, is increasingly threatened by overfishing and depletion of natural habitats.

The issuance of Fisheries Administrative Order (FAO) 265 series of 2020, has established the guidelines for lobster fishing and trade have, including prohibitions on catching undersized lobsters, to balance the demand for lobsters with the need for population conservation.

MFRDC’s Spiny lobster project

Recognizing the importance of conservation and sustainable aquaculture practices, the DA-NFRDI implemented research and development (R&D) initiatives to develop innovative solutions that protect spiny lobsters while expanding its aquaculture potential.

The Marine Fisheries Research and Development Center (MFRDC), a DA-NFRDI center based in Guian, Samar, has been at the forefront of this initiative focusing on spiny lobster aquaculture. In 2018, the Center began conducting stock assessments and aquaculture research on spiny lobsters in Eastern Visayas, concentrating on sustainable aquaculture practices to ensure the long-term survival and growth of lobster populations.

To enhance lobster aquaculture, DA-NFRDI partnered with Winrock International, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) Caraga and 8, and Dr. Clive Jones, a lobster expert from James Cook University. The collaboration centered on the use of formulated diets for lobster aquaculture.

Since 2019, DA-NFRDI, through MFRDC, has been conducting trials to evaluate the effectiveness of different feed types, including formulated pellets, dough, fresh and mixed seafood, and traditional diets like trash fish. The research aimed to assess the growth performance, survival rate, and cost-effectiveness of using formulated diets compared to conventional methods.

Initial results were promising, providing valuable baseline data on lobster growth and indicating that lobsters respond well to formulated feeds. If these trials continue to yield successful outcomes, it could significantly reduce the dependency on trash fish, offering a more sustainable and cost-effective method for farming spiny lobsters. “If this experiment proves successful, we can help our lobster farmers achieve success and further develop our spiny lobster industry. The development of commercial feeds is crucial to support our industry,” said Nonita Cabacaba, MFRDC chief.

Additionally, one of NFRDI’s ultimate goals is to support the local fishing community by introducing spiny lobster aquaculture as an alternative source of income. Through hands-on training, NFRDI equips local fisherfolk with the knowledge and skills needed for sustainable lobster farming. This initiative reduces fishing pressure on wild spiny lobster populations and contributes to the growth of the spiny lobster industry. Demonstration farms are established at MFRDC to showcase the potential of spiny lobster farming to fisherfolk and visitors.

Success stories and ways forward

Initiatives in spiny lobster aquaculture have already yielded promising results. Florencio Panerio, a fisherfolk from Guian, Samar, began farming spiny lobsters in 2019. With just one cage holding 50 lobsters, he was able to sell them for up to P3,500 per kilogram once they reached the appropriate size. Similarly, Roger Binasbas, from the same area, ventured into lobster farming and experienced substantial profits, with their highest earnings reaching P230,000 in a single year. The success allowed him to improve their living conditions and support their children’s education. These success stories highlight the economic opportunities spiny lobster aquaculture can provide to local fishing communities.

With NFRDI’s ongoing R&D projects, the future of spiny lobster aquaculture in the Philippines looks promising. The development of formulated feeds and sustainable farming practices will help reduce pressure on wild lobster populations while providing alternative livelihoods for local fisherfolk.

Through innovation, partnerships, and education, NFRDI is not only protecting this high-value marine resource but also empowering communities to embrace a new, sustainable form of aquaculture. By doing so, NFRDI is paving the way for the long-term growth of spiny lobster aquaculture, ultimately creating opportunities for a viable industry that benefits both the environment and the people who depend on it. ### (Vanessa Mae Escaño)