Two new projects on the DNA barcoding of marine fishes from the University of the Philippines Mindanao (UPMin) have undergone an inception meeting recently.
The meeting aimed to present the plan of activities, targets and strategies in the implementation of the projects.
These projects are funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD).
The project under DOST, “DNA Barcoding and Genetic Diversity of Selected Marine Fishes along the North Bifurcation of the North Equatorial Current (NEC)” will be implemented for 3 years with a Php3.8-M budget. Under this project, marine fishes for DNA barcoding will be collected from Isabela Province. This is to establish a database for commercially important species in the region. The project also aims to provide an understanding on the degree of connection of the reef fish populations in the northern waters of the country.
The PCAARRD-funded project, “DNA Barcoding of Selected Marine Fishes in Davao and Sulu Archipelago” with a Php4.9-M budget will also be implemented for 3 years. Species of marine fishes for DNA barcoding will be collected from the provinces of Davao, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. This will also establish a database of marine fishes and provide an understanding on the degree of connection of the reef fish populations in the southern Philippines.
Dr. Cleto L. Nañola, is the Project Leader of both projects.
Nañola explained that the results of the projects would provide new information and better understanding, particularly on the biodiversity profile, genetic diversity and population connectivity of marine fishes as affected by Kuroshio current in the Northwestern part of the Philippines, and the Mindanao current affecting the Southwestern Philippines.
The Kuroshio and Mindanao currents are branches of the North Equatorial Current (NEC) as a result of its bifurcation into northward and southward directions in the eastern part of the Philippines.
Nañola also explained that the projects would significantly describe the influence of the major prevailing currents to the distribution of marine fishes in the regions.
The Marine Resources Research Division (MRRD) of PCAARRD headed by its Director, Dr. Mari-Ann M. Acedera, led the discussion on the attainment of the objectives of the meeting.
The discussion focused on the roles of the project personnel, UPMin administrative staff, and PCAARRD in the implementation of the projects.
Administrative concerns relevant to the projects were also clarified with the presence of the officials/personnel from UPMin led by Dr. Antonio R. Obsioma, Vice Chancellor for Administration.