Assessment of Marine Fish Diversity in the Coastal Waters of Divino

Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes: Implications for Conservation and

Sustainable Fisheries

Background of the Study

The Philippines is internationally acknowledged as one of the world’s 17

mega-biodiverse countries, owing largely to its strategic location within the
Coral Triangle an area often referred to as the “Amazon of the Seas.” This
region encompasses six Southeast Asian nations and is considered the global
epicenter of marine biodiversity, hosting 76% of the world’s coral species,
37% of reef fish species, and the greatest diversity of mangroves and
seagrasses (Veron et al., 2009; Coral Triangle Initiative, 2020). Among Coral
Triangle nations, the Philippines stands out with over 2,000 marine fish
species, more than 500 species of corals, and significant populations of
marine mammals, turtles, and invertebrates (Carpenter & Springer, 2005;
DENR-BMB, 2019).

The archipelagic nature of the Philippines, consisting of more than 7,641

islands and approximately 36,000 kilometers of coastline, has endowed it with
some of the richest coastal and marine ecosystems in the world, including
coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangroves, estuaries, and deep-sea habitats
(Gomez et al., 1994; BFAR, 2020). These ecosystems are critical not only for
ecological balance but also for sustaining the socioeconomic fabric of coastal
communities. Marine biodiversity supports key ecosystem services such as
shoreline stabilization, carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, and most
importantly, fisheries productivity.

The marine fisheries sector is a cornerstone of the Philippine economy and

food security. According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources
(BFAR, 2020), the sector provides direct employment to over 1.5 million
Filipinos, primarily in artisanal or small-scale coastal fisheries. These fisheries
contribute significantly to domestic fish consumption and local economies,
especially in rural barangays where marine resources often serve as the
primary, if not sole, livelihood option. Fish remains a staple in the Filipino diet,
with per capita consumption averaging 40 kilograms annually (Philippine
Statistics Authority, 2021).
 However, the country’s marine biodiversity and fishery resources are
increasingly under threat. Long-term scientific assessments and community-
based observations alike have documented alarming trends: overexploitation
of fish stocks, destruction of critical habitats, pollution, and climate-related
impacts have collectively driven a decline in marine productivity and
ecosystem health (Alcala & Russ, 2006; Licuanan et al., 2019). Destructive
fishing practices, including blast fishing, cyanide use, and unregulated gear,
continue to occur despite legal prohibitions. In addition, land-based sources of
pollution such as agricultural runoff, household waste, and sedimentation
degrade water quality and smother coral reefs and seagrass beds.

Climate change presents an additional layer of stress. The

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2022) highlights the
vulnerability of small island and coastal states to rising sea surface
temperatures, coral bleaching, ocean acidification, and the intensification of
typhoons all of which threaten marine ecosystems and the communities that
depend on them. Catanduanes, often referred to as the “Land of the Howling
Winds,” is among the most typhoon-prone provinces in the country, with an
average of four to five typhoons passing through or near the province annually
(Salvador et al., 2018). These extreme weather events regularly damage coral
reefs, uproot mangroves, and erode coastal zones, further reducing the
resilience of marine ecosystems and undermining recovery.

In response to these multifaceted threats, the Philippine government has

formulated several frameworks and action plans. The National Fisheries
Industry Development Plan (NFIDP) 2021–2025 promotes ecosystem-based
and sustainable fisheries management, while the Philippine Biodiversity
Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP) 2015–2028 emphasizes the need for
localized biodiversity assessments and community involvement in
conservation (DENR-BMB, 2015). Programs such as the Community-Based
Coastal Resource Management (CBCRM) model and the establishment of
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) have been promoted to engage local
stakeholders in the sustainable use of marine resources (White et al., 2006;
Pomeroy et al., 2007). However, these initiatives often suffer from limited
baseline data, inconsistent implementation, and weak enforcement at the
barangay level.

Barangay Divino Rostro in San Andres, Catanduanes, typifies the

challenges faced by many rural coastal communities in the Philippines. With
the majority of residents engaged in artisanal fishing and fish trading, the
barangay is heavily dependent on marine ecosystems for both sustenance
and income (Padayao & Galang, 2021). Government programs like the
Special Area for Agricultural Development (SAAD) have been implemented to
support fisherfolk in the area by providing equipment and training, yet
anecdotal reports indicate a persistent decline in fish catches and species
availability. Fishers report that trips are becoming longer, catch sizes smaller,
and once-abundant species are now rare or absent. These observations
suggest possible ecological degradation, but in the absence of scientific
validation, decision-makers lack the evidence needed to guide effective
interventions.

A critical gap exists in localized biodiversity monitoring and species

inventory studies. Without baseline data on species composition, richness,
and abundance, it is nearly impossible to assess the ecological condition of
coastal areas, track changes over time, or evaluate the success of existing
conservation efforts. Moreover, site-specific studies are essential for
developing adaptive and community-appropriate management strategies,
especially in vulnerable regions like Catanduanes. This study therefore aims
to conduct a comprehensive assessment of marine fish diversity in the coastal
waters of Barangay Divino Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes. By
documenting species composition, identifying dominant species and their
ecological roles, and analyzing patterns of diversity in relation to
environmental and anthropogenic stressors, the study seeks to provide
foundational data for science-based resource management. The findings will
not only support the objectives of national programs like PBSAP and NFIDP
but also contribute to global conservation goals, particularly the United
Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.

Ultimately, this research emphasizes the importance of local action in

addressing global environmental challenges. By generating localized
ecological data and involving community stakeholders, the study aims to
strengthen both conservation outcomes and the long-term socio-economic
resilience of Divino Rostro’s coastal population.
Statement of the Problem

Despite the ecological and socio-economic importance of marine

ecosystems in the Philippines, many coastal communities remain
underrepresented in scientific research, particularly when it comes to localized
assessments of marine biodiversity. Barangay Divino Rostro in San Andres,
Catanduanes, is one such community where residents heavily rely on small-
scale fishing for food security and livelihood. However, anecdotal accounts
from local fisherfolk indicate a noticeable decline in fish abundance and
diversity over recent years a trend that raises serious concerns about the
ecological health of the coastal environment.

This observed decline is compounded by a lack of baseline ecological data.

At present, there are no comprehensive scientific records detailing the current
status of marine fish populations in the coastal waters of Divino Rostro. This
absence of empirical data hinders the capacity of local leaders, environmental
managers, and government agencies to make informed decisions regarding
fisheries regulation, conservation planning, and climate resilience strategies.

Without reliable data on species composition, abundance, and diversity,

local governance units are unable to implement targeted interventions or
monitor the long-term impact of national conservation efforts such as the
National Fisheries Industry Development Plan (NFIDP), the Philippine
Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP), or the establishment of
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Moreover, climate-induced stressors such as
typhoon damage and ocean warming continue to affect the region, but their
ecological impacts remain undocumented at the community level.

Thus, this study seeks to fill the critical knowledge gap by conducting a site-
specific assessment of marine fish diversity in Barangay Divino Rostro. The
results will not only provide an essential ecological baseline but also support
evidence-based conservation and sustainable fisheries management efforts in
the locality.

Specifically, the study aims to answer the following research questions:

1. What is the current species composition of marine fish in the coastal

waters of Barangay Divino Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes?

2. What is the level of species richness, abundance, and diversity based

on the collected data?

3. Which fish species are dominant in the study area, and what
ecological roles do they fulfill within the marine ecosystem?

4. What observable trends or patterns in fish diversity may be associated

with human activities (e.g., fishing pressure, coastal development) or
environmental factors (e.g., typhoons, habitat degradation)?

5. What are the implications of the study’s findings for local marine
conservation planning and the implementation of sustainable fisheries
practices in Divino Rostro?

Scope and Delimitation

This study focuses on assessing marine fish diversity in the coastal waters
of Barangay Divino Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes. The assessment
covers parameters such as species composition, richness, abundance, and
ecological roles of fish species observed within the study area. Fieldwork will
be conducted during specific seasonal periods to ensure representative
sampling. The study is limited to marine fish and does not include other
marine organisms such as invertebrates, seaweeds, or plankton.
Environmental parameters and human activities will be qualitatively analyzed
based on field observations and interviews, but not quantitatively measured in
depth.

Importance of the Study

The results of this study will serve multiple stakeholders:

• Local Government Units (LGUs) and BFAR can use the findings to
guide local fisheries policies and conservation plans.

• Fisherfolk and coastal communities will benefit from improved

awareness and management of marine resources.

• Academics and researchers can use the data as a basis for future
ecological or socio-economic studies.
 • Environmental organizations and NGOs may use the results to
support marine conservation campaigns and project designs.

Overall, this study provides a much-needed ecological baseline and

contributes to both national and global efforts in biodiversity conservation and
sustainable fisheries.

Definition Of Terms

• Species Composition – The types and kinds of species found in a

particular area.

• Species Richness – The number of different species represented in

an ecological community.

• Species Abundance – The number of individuals per species within

the community.

• Biodiversity – The variety of life in all its forms, including genetic,

species, and ecosystem diversity.

• Dominant Species – Species that are most numerous or have the

highest biomass and play significant roles in structuring the ecosystem.

• Anthropogenic Stressors – Environmental pressures caused by

human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and coastal development.

• Marine Protected Area (MPA) – A designated zone in the ocean where

human activity is restricted to protect biodiversity.

• Baseline Data – Initial set of data collected to serve as a reference for

future comparisons.
 CHAPTER 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Literature

Global and Regional Marine Biodiversity

Marine ecosystems are among the most biologically diverse in the world.
According to the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity
and Ecosystem Services (IPBES, 2019), over 33% of reef-forming corals and
over a third of marine mammals are threatened with extinction. The Coral
Triangle, which includes the Philippines, is recognized as the global center of
marine biodiversity, hosting more than 2,000 species of reef fishes and over
500 species of corals (Veron et al., 2020).

The health of marine biodiversity in the Coral Triangle is threatened by

anthropogenic pressures and climate change. According to Chou et al. (2019),
increased sea surface temperatures and ocean acidification have intensified
coral bleaching events, affecting fish habitats and reducing biodiversity.

Marine Biodiversity and Fisheries in the Philippines

The Philippines is a vital contributor to global marine biodiversity. The

country’s marine ecosystems—including coral reefs, seagrass beds, and
mangroves—serve as breeding and feeding grounds for numerous fish
species (Licuanan et al., 2019). However, the overexploitation of fish stocks,
illegal fishing, and habitat degradation have led to the depletion of marine
resources.
 BFAR (2020) reported that municipal and artisanal fisheries are
responsible for over 50% of the country’s total fish production. Yet many
fishers report reduced catch sizes and longer fishing times, indicative of
declining fish stocks (Greenpeace Philippines, 2023). These trends have
prompted the integration of biodiversity assessments into local fishery
management plans (DENR-BMB, 2020).

Local Assessments and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)

Localized fish diversity studies are crucial for effective conservation.

According to Dela Cruz et al. (2021), marine biodiversity monitoring at the
barangay level helps identify priority conservation areas and evaluate the
effectiveness of MPAs. The establishment of MPAs in various Philippine
provinces has shown positive effects, including increases in fish biomass,
species richness, and reef recovery (Abesamis et al., 2019).

However, implementation in rural areas is inconsistent due to lack of

funding, data, and technical capacity. Villanoy et al. (2018) emphasized the
need for baseline ecological data to support evidence-based planning and
community engagement in MPAs.

Climate Change Impacts on Marine Biodiversity

Climate change exacerbates marine biodiversity loss through coral

bleaching, sea-level rise, and changes in ocean chemistry. A study by David
et al. (2020) noted that typhoon-prone areas such as Catanduanes are
especially vulnerable, with frequent storm surges damaging coral and
mangrove ecosystems.

Catanduanes’ exposure to 4–5 typhoons annually significantly affects

coastal ecosystems and fisheries (Salvador et al., 2018). Local fishers report
increasing difficulty in catching fish due to altered fish migration and
decreased reef health (WWF Philippines, 2021).

Synthesis of the Review of Related Literature

The literature underscores that the Philippines is both rich in marine

biodiversity and at high risk of degradation. Localized data on marine fish
diversity remains scarce, especially in areas like Divino Rostro, where small-
scale fishers rely on marine ecosystems. National policies emphasize
biodiversity protection, yet implementation at the local level often lacks the
necessary ecological evidence. Studies highlight the urgent need for
localized, science-based monitoring to guide adaptive, community-inclusive
resource management.

Gaps Bridged by the Study

1. Absence of localized baseline data for marine fish species composition,

abundance, and diversity in Divino Rostro.

2. Limited research on rural coastal ecosystems in climate-vulnerable

provinces like Catanduanes.

3. Lack of site-specific information to support barangay-level implementation

of national biodiversity and fisheries plans.

4. Insufficient integration of ecological and socioeconomic data for

sustainable fisheries policy formulation.

Conceptual Framework
 CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

Design of the Study

This study employed a descriptive ecological research design to assess the

diversity, abundance, and composition of marine fish species in the coastal
waters of Barangay Divino Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes. Descriptive
ecological studies are appropriate for documenting species presence,
analyzing ecological patterns, and identifying trends associated with
environmental stressors (David et al., 2020). The approach also supports non-
invasive methods of data collection suitable for community-involved resource
monitoring.

Source of Data

The primary data sources include:

• Field data collected through catch-based monitoring and visual

species identification;

• Secondary sources such as fish catch records from local fisherfolk

• Supplementary observational data on environmental conditions, such

as weather, sea state, and signs of habitat degradation.

Fisherfolk participants were selected based on their active engagement in

fishing within the study area and their familiarity with local marine resources.

Sampling Procedures

The study adopted purposive sampling to select participants and sampling

stations. This method is effective for ecological studies where specific
expertise and localized knowledge are crucial (Dela Cruz et al., 2021).
Selection criteria included:
 • Long-term residency in Divino Rostro;

• Regular fishing activity in identified coastal zones;

• Willingness to participate in catch documentation and interviews.

Sampling was conducted at multiple points along the coastline, representing

different habitat types (e.g., reef, seagrass, nearshore).

Instrumentation and Validation

Data collection utilized a standardized Fish Catch Monitoring Form (FCMF)

adapted from the BFAR template (BFAR, 2020). The form captured
information on:

• Species name (local and scientific),

• Number of individuals caught,

• Weight (kg),

• Fishing location and depth.

Fish species identification was validated using photographic references and

identification keys such as FishBase (Froese & Pauly, 2023). A marine
biologist was consulted to verify species data. The instrument underwent
expert validation by three fisheries and biodiversity specialists to ensure
content accuracy and reliability.

Research Design

This study utilizes a descriptive ecological research design to assess the

marine fish diversity in the coastal waters of Barangay Divino Rostro, San
Andres, Catanduanes. This design is appropriate for obtaining a systematic
description of species composition, abundance, and distribution patterns of
marine fish in the study area. The research aims to generate baseline
ecological data and analyze the implications of current biodiversity status for
conservation and sustainable fisheries management. This design also allows
for the integration of both quantitative and qualitative data derived from field
surveys, participatory observations, and stakeholder interviews.

Data Collection Methods

 1. Catch-Based Monitoring (CBM):

Catch-based monitoring will be conducted by recording daily fish landings

from local fishers at designated landing sites in Barangay Divino Rostro over
a period of two months. The data collected will include species name, number
of individuals, total weight, fishing method used, and the fishing location and
time. This method provides direct information on the types of fish species
being caught and their abundance, offering insights into the current state of
fishery resources in the area. Standard fish identification guides such as
FishBase and BFAR species charts will be used for verification.

2. Fishing Gear-Based Sampling (FGS):

To complement CBM and allow for controlled diversity assessments,

standardized fishing gear such as gill nets, fish traps (bubo), and hook-and-
line will be deployed in predefined coastal habitats (reef, seagrass, and sandy
bottom areas). Sampling will be done at consistent times of the day, during
both low and high tides, to maximize species detection. This method is
appropriate for shallow-water areas and helps target different fish species that
may not appear in commercial catches. The collected specimens will be
photographed, identified, and measured before being released or recorded,
depending on local ethical and conservation guidelines. Gear-based sampling
enables standardized effort, making diversity comparisons across habitats
more reliable.

3. Key Informant Interviews (KII):

Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with long-time fishers,

barangay officials, and local elders to gather qualitative data on fish
biodiversity trends. Topics will include observed changes in species
abundance, migratory patterns, seasonal variation in catches, and the impacts
of fishing practices and climate change. This local ecological knowledge adds
depth to the data and provides historical context that scientific monitoring
alone may not capture.

4. Habitat Profiling and Environmental Measurements:

The physical characteristics of the fishing areas will be assessed through

direct observation and simple environmental testing. Presence of coral,
seagrass, rocky or sandy substrate, and nearby mangrove cover will be
noted. Water temperature, salinity, and turbidity will be measured using
portable instruments. These habitat features and water quality parameters are
crucial in interpreting species distribution and diversity.

Data Analysis

The collected data were organized and analyzed to determine:

• Species Composition: Listing of all fish species identified.

• Species Richness (S): Total number of different species observed.

• Species Abundance (N): Total count of individuals per species.

• Species Diversity: Measured using the Shannon-Wiener Diversity

Index (H’):

H’ = -\sum (p_i \cdot \ln p_i)

where p_i is the proportion of individuals belonging to the i-th species.

The use of diversity indices is standard in biodiversity assessments and

allows for comparative analysis across ecosystems (Magurran, 2017).

Tools and Materials Used

The following tools and materials were used to aid in the identification and
measurement of fish species:

1. Fishing Gear

• Gill nets

• Hook and line

2. Species Identification Tools

• FishBase and BFAR Field Guides – Printed and digital resources

used for accurate identification of fish species.

• Measuring board/tape measure – For recording standard lengths or

total lengths (TL) of fish specimens.

• Weighing scale – To measure the weight of individual or grouped

catches during catch monitoring.

3. Recording and Documentation Materials

• Field notebooks and data sheets – Used for manually recording catch
data, interview responses, habitat observations, and measurements.

• Ballpens, pencils, clipboards – For use in the field during wet or

variable weather conditions.

• Smartphone or digital camera – For capturing clear images of fish

specimens and fishing activities. These were especially important for visual
documentation and later identification.

4. Interview and Survey Tools

• Audio recorder or smartphone – For recording key informant

interviews (with consent).

• Printed interview guide – A semi-structured questionnaire designed to

gather insights from local fishers and officials.

• Consent forms – To ensure ethical participation of informants in the

study.

Community Collaboration

The success of this study was made possible through active collaboration with the
local community of Barangay Divino Rostro, San Andres, Catanduanes. Local fishers
played a crucial role in providing access to fishing grounds, sharing indigenous
knowledge on fish species, and assisting in the collection of catch data. Their
participation ensured the accuracy and relevance of species records, as well as the
identification of key fishing areas. Barangay officials and municipal fisheries staff
supported the research by granting necessary permissions, facilitating meetings with
stakeholders, and offering logistical support. Community members also participated in
key informant interviews, providing valuable insights into historical fishing trends,
perceived changes in fish diversity, and local conservation practices.
 This collaborative approach fostered trust, strengthened the reliability of findings,
and highlighted the importance of involving local stakeholders in biodiversity assessment
and sustainable fisheries management.

Statistical Treatment of Data

Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and R statistical software for
the computation of ecological metrics:

• Descriptive Statistics: Mean, frequency, and percentage

distribution of species.

• Shannon-Wiener Index (H’): To assess diversity;

• Evenness Index (E): To evaluate the distribution of individuals

across species;

• Bar graphs and pie charts were generated to visually present

species distribution and dominance.

Results were interpreted in relation to environmental stressors and human

activities documented through observation and interviews. Statistical reliability
was enhanced through triplicate sampling and cross-verification.