Characteristics and Fishing Practices of Common Spider Conch (Lambis lambis) in Mantatao Island Calape, Bohol: Its Implication to Management of Small-scale Fishers

Abstract

The amount and formation of habitat can influence the faunal communities that encompass increasing habitat protection through good fisheries and conservation management. This study determines the characteristics and fishing practices of common spider conch as they relate to small-scale fisheries management. This study uses a mixed-methods research design that includes both qualitative and quantitative research. Specifically, the exploratory sequential design and data are enhanced by focused group discussion (FGD) and interviews. Results have shown that the daily catch ranges from 0.9–15.7 kg with an approximate number of 17–120 conchs per day, regardless of size. The conch sizes vary from small to large, including their length and width, which are mostly female. Some of the practices are gleaning, tangled nets, push nets, compressor diving, and scuba diving. The flow of the market originates from the gatherer, who either utilizes as food or sells it to middlemen, direct buyers, or even directly to the wet market. In general, there is a good potential for production; the island has a very rich and diverse ecosystem, considering that the catch is increasing as more females are recorded.