UPV-CFOS and WPU collaboration on green mussel project kicks off

Researchers from the College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, UP Visayas (UPV-CFOS) visited the Western Philippines University (WPU) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan for a collaborative project on pilot testing of green mussel “tahong” hatchery and nursery production technology.

Dr.  Mary Jane Apines-Amar and Ms. Lily Anne Piñosa of the Institute of Aquaculture, UPV-CFOS, went for a 6-day official business trip to WPU for the project implementation and promotion of the green mussel spat production technology in Palawan.

UPV and WPU signed a memorandum of agreement last May 25, 2022 to cooperatively work together on this project. Dr. Amar spearheads the project on behalf of UPV-CFOS.

Dr. Amar, University Researcher and National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Career Scientist I, presented the project, “Pilot Testing of the Green Mussel, Perna viridis Hatchery and Nursery Technology” to WPU President Dr. Julie Hope Timotea P. Evina last June 27, 2022.

With funding from the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD), Amar developed the technology that can offer a consistent seed supply of quality “tahong” spats and increased grow-out production to make the commodity available all year long.

The presentation was attended by WPU Vice President for Research Development and Extension Dr. Allaine T. Baaco, WPU Director for Extension Services Dr. Romeo R. Lerom, and project collaborator Associate Prof. Arlene L. Avillanosa.

The team visited the project hatchery facility situated in Binduyan Marine Research Station (BMRS) of WPU and met with the local suppliers of green mussel broodstock.

Dr. Amar likewise presented to the fisheries sector of Taytay, Palawan their project plans and activities. She and her team also conducted a two-day hands-on training on the green mussel hatchery production techniques to the contractual project staff.

This collaborative undertaking is funded by the DOST. (Ms. Lenilyn B. Gallos; with sources from Dr. Mary Jane A. Amar)