Geneve V. Norca1 , Anjim R. Comilang1,Lea L. Villarino1, James Kyle D. Visitacion1 ,Jecelle Lou F. Alajas1, Noraisa E. Salipada1,Anwar M. Lingga1'2 Floriefe M. Gonzaga-Torino1
1College of Fisheries, Mindanao State University – Buug, Datu Panas, Buug, Zamboanga Sibugay, 7009 Philippines., 2College of Fisheries, Mindanao State University-Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography, Sanga Sanga, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi 7500, Philippines.
Email: floriefe.torino@msubuug.edu.ph
ABSTRACT
This study assessed the species composition, abundance, fish biomass, and ecological status of Roseller T. Lim marine area in Zamboanga Sibugay, Philippines. Using the Underwater Fish Visual Census method, three 50-meter belt transects per station were surveyed in selected reef sites (inside and outside Marine Protected Areas) through a stratified stop-count approach. A total of 639 individual fishes were recorded, including 23 commercially important target species and 616 habitat indicator species across five families. Target species accounted for only 4% of the population, suggesting high fishing pressure and limited enforcement. In contrast, habitat indicators dominated, with Pomacentridae as the most abundant, reflecting relatively stable reef conditions. Estimated fish biomass was 45.2 metric tons per square kilometer, indicating productive reef habitats. However, low species diversity (Shannon-Wiener Index = 0.36) and evenness (0.21) pointed to ecological imbalance. To address these issues, the study recommends strengthening enforcement and monitoring, promoting sustainable fisheries management, and implementing coral reef restoration efforts. These actions are essential to improve MPA effectiveness, restore target species populations, and support long-term marine biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water).
Keywords: reef fish biomass, visual census, marine protected area, Sibuguey Bay, target species, habitat indicators.