Physico-Environmental and Temporal Parameters for Tuna Catch Using Different Fishing Gears

Abstract

      The study aimed to determine the Philippines’ annual catch of tuna from 1997- 2011using different fishing gears and its correlation to   temperature, rainfall, chlorophyll-a. Data obtained were subjected to cluster analysis to find out the similarities in the tuna catch. Regression analysis was applied to determine the significant relationships between the catch using different gear types and the physico-chemical factors. Results revealed that handline had relatively high catch compared to purse seine and ringnet.   The average rainfall was highest in 1999 and 2007 while lowest in 2005. The average temperature of 32°C was noted in 2005 and the lowest of 26°C in 1999. The high average chlorophyll-a of 0.48 mg/m³ was detected in 2011 while a low level of 0.26 mg/ m³ occurred in 1997. The annual tuna catch in cluster 1 was smaller than in cluster 2 and was highly obtained by handline. The computed t- values for temperature and rainfall showed negative correlation between tuna production. However, there was a positive correlation between tuna catch and chlorophyll-a level owing to the abundance of foods for tuna species. Fisher folks should continue using handline for fishing being a non-regulated gear . The LGU should formulate ban period for tunas and strictly impose regulations for fishing activities and the use of mesh nets.