Philippines: Successful underwater research for the conservation of seagrass ecosystems

Seagrass meadows harbour a great diversity of species, store CO2 and secure the livelihoods of the local population. The IKI supports research work to protect these ecosystems.­­­ 

A recent study utilising Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) has provided valuable insights into fish assemblages and seagrass ecosystems in Marine Protected Areas and non-protected areas. The data was collected off the island of Busuanga and the coastal village of Roxas, both located in the province of Palawan.

The study is being conducted by Community Centred Conservation (C3) Philippines in partnership with local government units and is supported by the International Climate Initiative (IKI). The BRUV survey, which is being conducted across multiple sites, offers a non-intrusive method to observe marine life, providing crucial data on fish species composition, abundance, and the overall health of seagrass meadows in the region. The project aims to fill knowledge gaps in marine conservation and provides vital data for future marine management.

The key role of seagrass ecosystems

Seagrass ecosystems play a pivotal role in supporting marine biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. They provide habitat and nursery grounds for various fish species, contribute to carbon sequestration, and help protect coastlines from erosion. In Palawan, seagrass meadows are essential to the marine ecosystems of both Busuanga and Roxas, but comprehensive assessments of these habitats and the fish communities they support have been limited.

Solid data is a precondition for habitat conservation

The results of the study underscore the need for informed management strategies to protect these vital habitats:

The study deployed a total of 60 BRUV drops during both wet and dry seasons, supplemented by the analysis of 300 quadrats placed within seagrass beds. Video footage captured through the BRUV system allowed the team to document fish behaviour, identify species, and classify them into different trophic levels, revealing patterns of fish diversity and abundance across the different areas.

Preliminary findings showed that the BRUV technique was highly effective in sampling fish communities within seagrass habitats. A variety of species were recorded, including several economically valuable ones such as rabbitfish, emperors, groupers, and snappers, indicating potential hotspots for sustainable fishing activities. These results not only highlighted the ecological importance of seagrass meadows but also underscored the need for informed management strategies to protect these habitats.

Seagrass meadows ensure biodiversity and livelihoods for the local population

Seagrass ecosystems in the study areas were found to be diverse, with eight distinct species documented across Busuanga and Roxas such as Cymodocea rotundata, Halophila ovalis, Thalassia hemprichii, Halodule uninervis, Halodule pinifolia, Syringodium isoetifolium, Enhalus acoroides, and Cymodocea serrulate. 

The distribution of these species varied across the sites, driven by factors such as water depth, light availability, sediment type, and water quality. The study’s findings suggest that seagrass beds in both Marine Protected Areas and non-protected areas continue to provide critical ecological services, supporting both marine biodiversity and local livelihoods.

Use of BRUV technology contributes to the conservation of ecosystems

Despite some challenges, such as strong waves or fluctuating water quality affecting the video recordings, the BRUV technology proved to be adaptable and efficient for use in the region. It provides a non-invasive alternative to traditional survey methods. By capturing detailed underwater footage, the BRUV system allows for repeatable data collection without the need for divers or intrusive equipment, minimising human impact on marine life.

The data gathered through this study will contribute to ongoing conservation efforts in the area and help shape policies aimed at protecting seagrass ecosystems. Potential recommendations include enhancing Marine Protected Areas coverage in critical areas, enforcing existing regulations on sustainable fishing practices, and establishing long-term monitoring programmes to track the health of seagrass meadows and their associated fish populations.

Background information 

This research is part of the project “Conservation seagrass ecosystems – safeguarding food security and resilience in vulnerable coastal communities”. The project is funded by the IKI and led by the Convention on Migratory Species Office (CMS) of Abu Dhabi under the Dugong MOU. It is being implemented in six countries across the Asia-Pacific region, including the Philippines, where Community Centred Conservation (C3) Philippines, Inc. is one of the project partners.

Editorial Note: This article is an edited and shortened version of the article Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) Technique Enhances Seagrass and Fish Assemblage Assessments in Palawan’s MPAs

Priority field of action: Strengthening nature-based climate action