In aquaculture, innovation often begins with small but significant changes, such as advancements in the use of microalgae. For decades, live phytoplankton has been the foundation of natural food production in Philippine milkfish hatcheries. Recently, however, algal paste has emerged as a promising alternative. Algal paste is a concentrated form of microalgae (such as Nannochloropsis) continue reading : FEATURE: Algae on demand: Evaluating the use of algal paste in modern hatcheries

The growing global demand for seafood as an affordable source of dietary protein has placed increasing pressure on wild fish stocks. Despite intensified efforts, capture fisheries continue to struggle in meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding population. Marine aquaculture, or mariculture, has emerged as a vital sector in the fisheries industry, offering livelihood opportunities continue reading : FEATURE: Assessing environmental and socioeconomic impacts of Philippine mariculture parks

The Philippines, recognized as the global center of marine biodiversity, is facing increasing threats to its diverse underwater ecosystems. Climate change, habitat degradation, destructive fishing practices, and overharvesting, particularly for the aquarium trade, have placed significant pressure on marine ornamental fish populations. Despite their ecological and economic importance, conservation initiatives focused on these species have continue reading : FEATURE: Safeguarding Philippine marine ornamental fishes through science-based conservation

Abalone (Haliotis asinina), locally known as lapas, may appear modest compared to oysters (talaba) or mussels (tahong), yet it is among the most valuable marine resources due to its flavorful meat and iridescent shell. In the Philippines, abalone commands the highest market price among shellfish, ranging from Php 300 to 600 per kilogram locally and continue reading : FEATURE: Caffeine and conservation: MFRDC researchers advance innovation in abalone aquaculture

Spiny lobsters (Panulirus spp.), regarded as a high-value commodity in the Philippines, are often associated with luxury cuisine. Beyond their culinary appeal, these crustaceans also serve as an important source of livelihood for small-scale fishers, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. Their conservation and sustainable management, therefore, are both economic and ecological imperatives. Despite continue reading : FEATURE: Bridging R&D and management: MFRDC’s pursuit of sustainable spiny lobster fisheries