In the Philippines, mangrove crab, also known as “alimango” is a prized delicacy and a vital source of livelihood for coastal communities. However, due to increasing environmental degradation and detection of new diseases, sustainable growth for mangrove crab is threatened by disease outbreaks and poor health management.
Among the most pressing threats are loose shell syndrome, Vibrio infections, parasitic diseases, and environmental stressors, all of which contribute to high mortality rates. With no reliable disease management system in place, many farmers resort to repeatedly purchasing new seed crabs to sustain their production which are very expensive and an unsustainable solution.
Recognizing the urgency of the issue, a team of researchers from the University of the Philippines Visayas launched a groundbreaking initiative.
The “Molecular Detection of Pathogens in Mangrove Crab: A Step Towards Ensuring a Sustainable Mangrove Crab Aquaculture Industry.” project, funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) , aims to provide an effective early detection system to mitigate the impact of diseases before they spread. Led by Dr. Christopher Marlowe Caipang of the University of the Philippines Visayas, the project utilizes Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), a molecular technique capable of detecting pathogen DNA from crab samples. This method enables rapid intervention and better disease monitoring, reducing mortality and increasing farm productivity.
As part of the project’s mission to empower stakeholders, a training workshop was conducted at the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (NIMBB), UP Visayas, Miag-ao, Iloilo to equip local researchers and fisheries experts with the skills needed for pathogen detection in mangrove crabs.
Participants from Capiz State University, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 6, University of the Philippines Visayas, University of San Agustin, and the Department of Science and Technology Region VI took part in the intensive training.
The workshop covered every stage of the detection process, from sample processing and genomic DNA extraction to PCR assays and gel electrophoresis. Participants engaged in hands-on learning such as crab dissection for tissue sampling, rapid genomic DNA extraction, and PCR screening for pathogen identification. With this initiative, the project takes a step toward ensuring a sustainable mangrove crab aquaculture industry. By arming researchers and fisheries experts with advanced molecular tools, the industry moves closer to a future where early detection and disease management becomes a standard for farmers against disease outbreaks. (JMAbareles, GRMarcon/Capiz PSTO)