400 juvenile fishes for Iloilo River

(Photo by Iloilo City Agriculturist Office)

More than 400 juvenile fishes were dispersed to the Iloilo River by the Office of the City Agriculturist recently. These species included managat, danggit and lapu-lapu, among others.

A total of 20,000 fishes had been restocked in an effort to improve biodiversity of the waterway at the heart of the city. Fingerlings were originally used for restocking but have since been upgraded to juveniles to boost fish supply.

Acting City Agriculturist Iñigo Garingalao said the stock enhancement program is a big help to small fisherfolks. Several large species were caught by fishers using hook and line lately.

City Hall has also tapped private partners and public organizations for massive mangrove reforestation along the Esplanade at riverbanks. Mangroves are considered as fish sanctuary and home to other marine life. (Iloilo City PIO)