Profiles of endemic freshwater ecosystems in Abra [Philippines]

Abra is endowed with inland waters as habitats of freshwater endemic flora and fauna that are used as food. The Abra River has several tributaries that pass along the province and serve as the main source of livelihood of fisherfolks, and source of irrigation system of farmers. Baseline data on the profiles of fishing areas, endemic freshwater resources, and fisherfolks in Abra were gathered to promote and conserve environmental resources. The Abra River, creeks, streams, and rice fields teem with endemic freshwater resources. Thirty-eight fish species are present, of which the most common are 'bunog', 'karpa', 'palilleng', 'igat' and 'kampa'. The special endemic fish called 'ludong' is still common in the province. 'Agurong', 'bennek', 'bisukol', 'leddeg' and 'suso' are the common shells. 'Kuros' and crabs are crustaceans, and 'pakko' and 'baktel' are the aquatic plants mostly used as food. Most of the fisherfolks have been permanently residing in their barangays [villages] for more than 30 years, married, with 1-5 members in their households, and have obtained basic education. They have been in fishing for 10-20 years, but farming is still their main source of income. However, those in fishing have higher income. Few have attended training on fish growing and marketing. Majority have joined associations and some are barangay officials. Their catch is used for home consumption, sold or bartered either as fresh or grilled. Selling is done right in the river, local public market or house-to-house, mostly by housewives and middlemen. Freshwater resources are threatened by human-induced activities such as pollution, mining and other activities, as well as by heavy siltation. Hence, the endemic aquatic species are now at the brink of extinction. There is, therefore, a pressing need to protect, sustain and conserve these resources in situ and ex situ for more sustainable aquaculture.