Research Capstone

MELCHOR MEMORIAL SCHOOL, INC.
Purok 2, Laguinbanwa, Ibajay, Aklan

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Email: melchormemorialschool@rocketmail.com
Chapter 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Through the ages, fishing has been one of the
earliest occupations known to man. It has grown from
crude and simple beginning into a complex industry with
modern equipment and installations. The commodities that
man derived from the oceans, seas, lakes and rivers are
more numerous and varied than what is commonly known.
Philippines, an island-dwelling population of more
than 100 million Filipinos and more than 7, 100 islands,
is a major fishing nation and the world’s second largest
archipelagic state. Philippine seas supply food for over
one hundred million Filipinos, livelihood for millions of
people and foreign exchange. The fisheries sector is
divided into the municipal and commercial subsectors and
aquaculture subsector. With the growing population of the
Philippines, fisheries are one of the major industries
seen as a positive contributor to the developing economy.
As Philippines is located in the typhoon belt, the
country is usually affected by 15 and struck by five to
“In MMSI, we Mold and Maintain our Student with Integrity, Intelligence and Industry”
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six cyclonic storms per year with other natural hazards
such as landslides, active volcanoes, destructive
earthquakes and tsunamis. Major environmental issues
include uncontrolled deforestation especially in
watershed areas, soil erosion, air and water pollution in
major urban centers, coral reef degradation, and
increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps that are
important fish breeding grounds. (Food and Agriculture
Organization, 2004) The country is also on constant alert
for red tides and fish kills. Seemingly impossible just
20 years ago, protein deficiency among fishing
communities is now increasing at an alarming rate.
Aklan, one of Philippines’ provinces that has
aquaculture-based livelihood, is also seen affected by
this apparent issue in the fishing industry with
its total volume of fisheries production in 2016 was
declined by 1.90% due to the decrease in output across
all sub-sectors and species as reported by the Philippine
Statistics Authority-Aklan. The decline in commercial and
marine fishery production was attributed to lesser
fishing operations due to rough seas and strong winds
brought by northeast monsoon conditions, low volume of
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catch in swamps, creeks, estuaries and rivers and the
shift of some fishermen to other job such as construction
work.
With these emerging problems in the fishing
industry, people have begun to explore the factors that
affect the growth of species. One study by Utne-Palm et.
al (2018) revealed that most fishes and crustaceans
respond to light, and artificial light sources may
therefore be an efficient stimulus to manipulate
behaviors in aquatic animals. Light is an important
environmental factor regulating physiological processes
and ecological activities in fishes. (Meakin, 2011) The
role of light intensity in fish biology has been
documented in numerous fish species under experimental
conditions and in nature (Rickel & Genin 2005). Light has
been correlated with a variety of responses such as
growth, survival (Soderberg 1990; Cerqueira & Brugger
2001), swimming activity (Oppedal et al. 2001; Marchesan
et al. 2005; Johansson et al. 2006), cannibalism
(Appelbaum & Kamler 2000; Han et al. 2005), metabolism
(Appelbaum & Kamler 2000), metamorphosis (Puvanendran &
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Brown 2002), swim bladder inflation, and feeding
behaviour (Puvanendran & Brown 1998; Noble et al. 2005).
Realizing the need to address these emerging
problems in the fish industry, the researchers were
motivated to evaluate the effects of different colors of
water in weight gain, length, feed efficiency and
condition factor of the Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia).
Two fishes were subjected to the experiment and were
exposed to different water tanks for three weeks.
Comparisons were made for growth, length and behavioral
changes between treatments. This research paper aimed to
pinpoint the barriers surrounding the problem for the
future actions or recommendations to be proposed by the
researchers. This study offers a new insight into
understanding the impact of color on behavior and growth
of fish, which may contribute to the spatial
distribution, predator avoidance and recruitment of fish
in inshore coastal waters.
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STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Like the other vital resources such as forests,
Philippine fisheries are now considered on the verge of
collapsing – a victim of the almost unabated “plunder of
the commons” (Tacio, 2009) which poses a serious crisis
among fisher folks as fishing has been an important
source of livelihood for Filipinos.
In the middle of year 2010 and 2017, Philippine
fishery production declined which resulted to the
contribution of fishery to agriculture growth to be
negative (Dy, 2018). This decline in fishery production
is largely a result of the destruction of coral reefs,
which serve as habitat for marine organisms. Coral reefs
are suffering despite long-term measures outlawing
damaging fishing practices.
As an answer to the problem, the researchers
conducted a study to evaluate the effects of color of
water in weight gain, length, feed efficiency and
condition factor of the Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia)
wherein the results would be a basis to come up with a
solution to solve this crisis.
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Specifically, this study sought to answer the
following questions:
1. What are the changes on Oreochromis niloticus
(tilapia) brought about by the color of water in terms
of:
a) weight gain
b) length
c) feed efficiency
d) condition factor?
2. How does the condition of Oreochromis niloticus
(tilapia) differ when placed in uncolored water and
colored water?
3. Is there a significant relationship between the
water color and growth of Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia)
in terms of:
a) weight gain
b) length
c) feed efficiency
d) condition factor? (OMIT!!!)
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SCOPE AND DELIMITATION OF THE STUDY
Out of 2,824 marine fish species in Philippines,
Oreochromis niloticus, locally known as tilapia was
chosen to be subjected by the researchers to put under
experiment to test the effects of water color in terms of
growth and performance. This study was performed during a
3-week period from February 21, 2019 to March 13, 2019 at
Melchor Memorial School Inc., Laguinbanwa, Ibajay, Aklan.
Duplicate experimental fish were distributed and cultured
into separate tanks, which showed different water colors,
i.e. red and uncolored. This study covered the assessment
of changes on tilapia brought about by the colors of
water in terms of weight gain, length, feed efficiency
and condition factor. Its main purpose was to focus on
the condition of experimental subject during the
intervention. The findings and observations made from
this experiment would be a basis to formulate hypothesis,
which would eventually be an underlying principle to come
up with a solution to increase production in the fish
industry.
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SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
In conducting this study, researchers much inspired
because of the significant benefits to the following
individuals:
 Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The result of this study could be a basis for the
Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources in
conceptualizing, implementing and integrating
programs, facilities and projects that would be an
instrument to help easily enrich fishing production
in the industry.
 Scientific community. This study would give the
scientific community insight and new ideas into
understanding the impact of water color in the
behavior of fish which would lead them eventually
for further research and investigation.
 Community. This research is valuable to the
community for they may acquire ideas and incentives
about the emerging issue in the fish industry. This
would increase the awareness of the people in the
community, thus, encouraging them to take actions to
minimize this problem.

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 Teachers/Professors. This research will also aid
them their discussions regarding related lessons. It
will be easier for them to tackle related topics
about this research.
 Fisher folks. They would benefit from this study for
they could gain new ideas and knowledge that would
help them with their livelihood. The results would
be a helpful guide for them to meet the world’s
growing demand for fish, thus, make the life of
people more convenient.
 Future researchers. The results of the study can be
a basis for other researchers’ future references.
This would be a useful reference for the researchers
who would plan to make any related study regarding
this matter. They may also include other variables
to deepen the study to come up with alternative
solutions to minimize the problem.
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CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Control Subject
Feed Condition
efficiency factor
Weight gain
Weight gain
Weight gain Length
Uncolored Water
Oreochromis INTERVENTION Assessment

niloticus
Red-colored Water Independent Variable
Experimental Subject Dependent Variable
Fig. 1 Research Paradigm
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The main concept of this study is to evaluate the
effects of color of water in weight gain, length, feed
efficiency and condition factor of the Oreochromis
niloticus (tilapia).
This study embraced experimental research design
wherein the subjects placed under experiment were
randomly assigned for different levels of treatment. The
findings would be a basis for researchers to formulate
solution on the existing problem.
Figure 1 shows the paradigm of the study. The
subjects placed under observation are duplicate
Oreochromis niloticus distributed and cultured into
different tanks with different water colors (i.e. red and
uncolored). These variables are the independent variables
that will be needed in this study. These variables are
constant and observed.
It also included the assessment of changes on
Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia) brought about by the
color of water in terms of weight gain, length, feed
efficiency and condition factor. The output of the study
assessed the effects of water color among the subjects
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wherein the results would serve as a basis to come up
with a solution to minimize the existing problem.
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DEFINITION OF TERMS
For a better and clearer understanding of this
study, the researchers hereby provide the conceptual and
operational definition of the following terms:
 Assessment. It refers to the evaluation or
estimation of the nature, quality, or ability of
someone. (Oxford Dictionary, 2017).
 In this study, it means to evaluate the changes
made on the subject brought about by water
color in terms of weight gain, length, feed
efficiency and condition factor.
 Condition factor. It is defined as measurement of
the general health condition of fish as calculated
by the ratio of body weight to body length. (NAL
Thesaurus, 2014).
 In this study, it referred to the quantitative
relation between changes in body weight and
body length of the subject.
 Feed efficiency. It is defined as ratio or rate
measuring of the efficiency with which the bodies of
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livestock convert animal feed into the desired
output. (Wikipedia, 2018)
 In this study, it is defined as feed intake
divided by the weight gain of the fish.
 Fishery. It is an entity engaged in raising or
harvesting fish, also typically defined in terms of
the people involved, species or types of fish, area
of water or seabed, method of fishing, class of
boats, purpose of the activities or a combination of
the foregoing features. (Wikipedia, 2019).
 In this study, it referred to the sector of
industry chosen by the researchers to be the
main concept of this research.
 Growth. It is the process of increasing in physical
size and development. (Encyclopedia Brittanica,
2018).
 In this study, it means the change in size or
development made on the subject as a result of
intervention.
 Length. It is the measurement of extent of something
from end to end. (Collins Dictionary, 2016).
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 In this study, it means the change in
measurement made in the subject as a result of
intervention.
 Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia). It referred to the
common name for nearly a hundred species of cichlid
fish from the tilapiine cichlid tribe which are
mainly freshwater fish inhabiting shallow streams,
ponds, rivers and lakes and less commonly found
living in brackish water. (Wikipedia, 2019)
 In this study, it is defined as dependent
variable placed under observation to determine
the effects of water color in the subject’s
specific aspects.
 Water color. It is the property possessed by water
of producing different sensations on the eye as a
result of the way the object reflects or emits
light. (Oxford Dictionary, 2017)
 In this study, it is an independent variable
that is believed to affect the growth
performance of fish when distributed and
cultured into different tanks.
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Chapter 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter presents the review of related
literature and studies, both local and foreign, which
provides a background and a frame of reference upon which
the conceptual framework and other entries of this study
were formulated.
RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
The Philippines is a Southeast Asian country in the
Western Pacific comprising more than 7, 000 islands,
inhabited by over 100 million Filipinos. It is an
archipelagic state with total territorial water of
2,200,000 km2 and total land area of 299,735 km2 in which
102,984 km2 or 34% is agricultural. With the thousands of
islands endowing the Philippines, fishing has been the
importance source of livelihood for Filipinos since time
immemorial, with fish being the country’s second staple
food next to rice. On the average, every Filipino
consumes daily about 98.6 grams of fish and fish
products.
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Fisheries is a very important industry in the
Philippines. Its importance is underscored by the fact
that as of 1995, Philippines ranked twelfth among the
largest fish producer in the world and ranked fourth in
terms of aquaculture production based on figures from FAQ
Yearbook, 1995. In addition, Philippines has also one of
the highest per capita fish consumption in the world at
36 kg per year of fish and fishery products. (BFAR, 1997)
Not only fishing supplies source of food for
Filipinos, the fishing industry also provided employment
to about one million Filipinos or around 3% of the
country’s labor force in 1998. Being labor intensive,
municipal fishing generated 68% of the total employment,
followed by aquaculture with 26% and commercial fishing,
6%. In addition, 16,500 fishermen were also employed in
commercial fishing on large vessels that operate in the
Philippines waters and areas of the Pacific catching tuna
and other species.
However, as time goes by, productivity of marine
fisheries resources has been declining as a result of the
environmental degradation and ineffective natural
resources management, leading to the current condition of

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fisheries in the Philippines and worldwide in bleak.
Overfishing, illegal fishing and habitat destruction
combined with increased demand for fish and population
growth continue to drive fisheries production into a
deeper abyss. (Dalzell et. al, 1987)
PROBLEMS AND ISSUES IN THE FISHING INDUSTRY
According to the latest government figures, total
fisheries production in 2013 (including seaweed) reached
4.7 million metric tons (mt) worth PNP 244.6 billion.
In tonnage terms, total production fell 3.3% or
200,000 mt, down from 4.9 million mt in 2012. Part of the
reason for drop in fisheries output in 2013 was the
serious impact of Typhoon Haiyan, locally known as
Yolanda, on the aquaculture and municipal fisheries
sectors in the Central Visayas region after the storm
struck in November that year.
Damage caused by the storm continues to affect
fisheries and agricultural production in affected areas
as work continues to repair the damage and support
rebuilding of affected rural communities.

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Aquaculture, Philippines’ largest fisheries sector,
has production reached 2.37 million mt in 2013,
eventually fell down 6.6% from 2.54 million mt the
previous year.
Municipal fisheries consisting of small scale and
artisanal fishermen is the second largest fisheries
sector with total production of 1.26 million mt in 2013,
down 1.3% compared with the previous year.
Commercial fisheries, meanwhile was less affected by
the typhoon damage and recorded a 2.4% increase in
production in 2013, registering a total catch of 1.07
million mt, up from 1.04 million mt the previous year.
The decline in fishery production led to the faster
increase of caught fish retail prices in Metro Manila:
galunggong rose by 30% by 2010 to 2016 versus pork which
is increased by 22%, dressed chicken by 16% and bangus
and tilapia by 17% through 2017.
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FISHING PRODUCTION IN AKLAN AND ITS MAJOR SETBACKS
Aklan, one of Philippines’ provinces located in the
Western Visayas region, is also seen affected by the
emerging issue in the industry with its fisheries
production down 2% in 2016.
Fishing has been considered as a crucial source of
income for the people in Aklan as aquaculture constitutes
a significant component in the province’s fishing
industry. Furthermore, fishponds and offshore fishing are
also the major providers of huge employment for Aklanons.
During 2016, the province has suffered from a major
setback as its fisheries production declined by 1.90% due
to decrease in output across all sub-sectors and species,
based on the report of the Philippine Statistics
Authority (PSA)- Aklan. Data showed that the total
fisheries production in the province in 2016 was
estimated at 22,694.31 mt, lower by 440.19 mt compared to
23.134 mt in 2015.
With these emerging problems in the fishing
industry, people have begun to explore the factors that
affect the growth of species, specifically among fishes.
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One factor that is seen to be affecting the growth
performance of fishes is the enrichment of its
environment. Numerous researchers have tried altering
fishes’ environment through changing the light and color
intensity of its environment to test its effects among
the subjects.
Various designs and shapes of tanks are being used
in aquaculture facilities and the main attention is paid
to the hydrodynamic designs of the rearing systems.
However, water color, which may affect growth performance
and feed intake in fish, is mostly disregarded when
setting-up an aquaculture facility. Since different fish
species require diverse environmental characteristics
during their life stages, selection of the right water
color may offer the fish a less stressful culture
environment, which is different from the natural habitats
of the animal. Feeding activity, growth performance and
welfare of the fish may be negatively affected under
stressful conditions. (Kesbic et. al, 2016) Several
efforts have been made to investigate environmental
effects such as tank color or lighting conditions on
visual detection of prey in fish larvae.
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Considering the advantages brought about by color
and light intensity among fishes, the effects of colored
light and photoperiod on various aspects of fish
physiology have been investigated, including growth,
survival, the neuro-hormonal system, reproduction,
behavior, and the stress response (Volpato and Barreto
(2001), Bayarri et al. (2002), Naor et al. (2003), Ruchin
(2004), Karakatsouli et al. (2007), Bani et al. (2009),
Banan et al. (2011), Pourhosein Sarameh et. al (2012)
The role of color intensity in fish biology has been
documented in numerous fish species under experimental
conditions and in nature (Rickel & Genin, 2005). Color
has been correlated with a variety of responses such as
growth, survival (Cerqueira & Brugger, 2001), swimming
activity (Oppedal et al, 2001; Marchesan et al, 2005;
Johansson et al, 2006), cannibalism (Appelbaum & Kamler,
2000; Han et al, 2005), metabolism (Appelbaum & Kamler,
2000), metamorphosis (Puvanendran & Brown, 2002), swim
bladder inflation, and feeding behavior.
In the natural environment, color intensity and
background color affect the ability of fish to detect
food and hence, feeding success. Therefore, color can

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affect both fish growth and mortality. The impact of
light and background colors should, therefore, be
considered during fish culture; especially in
economically important species. In general, the highest
growth rate of fish larvae has been achieved when light
conditions and background color are optimized to contrast
feed from the background (Henne and Watanabe, 2003,
Jentoft et al, 2006, Strand et al, 2007). In aquaculture,
the positive influence of rearing light colour is
economically important because it may affect fish growth
and development and thereby lead to enhanced efficiency
of production.
The visual environments of fish are blue, green or
near infrared and fish have cone cells which enable them
to discriminate colors. Despite this, very few studies
have been devoted to understanding the effects of
background or light color on fish biology. Even so, some
interesting effects have been reported. In salmonids,
background color decreases egg development and increases
egg mortality. In other fish families, effects of
environmental color have also been described, such as
changes in schooling, fright reaction, and color
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attractiveness in Sardinops caerulea, Oplegnathus
fasciatus, Monocanthus cirrhifer, Cybium niphonium,
Spheroides niphobles, and Sphyraena japonica, and
increased survival and growth in the Eurasian perch
larvae, Perca fluviatilis. Also, in the study conducted
by Loukashkin et. al also showed that fish are attracted
to green and blue colors and avoid red color.
Additionally, a previous study of the characid fish,
Brycon cephalus, has suggested that these colors may
affect reaction to stressors.
One study revealed by Utne-Palm (2017), states that
most aquatic free-swimming organisms respond to light.
Behavioral responses such as vertical migration, diel
activity rhythm and schooling dynamics are considered to
be driven by ambient color intensity. Vision is an
important sensory modality and most fishes and
crustaceans react to visual stimuli when searching for
food, avoiding predators and mating. Most fish utilize
vision in order to orientate and perform activities such
as foraging, breeding and avoiding predators, making it
crucial for their survival. Fish behavior can be affected
even by artificial color stimuli. A common reaction of
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fish groups to the presence of artificial color is to
school and move towards the light source. Functional
explanations for such a reaction include predator
avoidance and enhancement of feeding efficiency. Thus,
artificial color plays as an efficient stimulus source to
manipulate behaviors in aquatic animals.
It has been reported also in 2016 by Kesbic et. al
that color can affect fish stress, influencing metabolism
of fish, and so the growth performance and feed
utilization. As in the nature, color intensity and
background color affects vision of fish for food detection
and the success in feeding that may influence fish growth
performance and survival rate
Another study conducted by Imanpoor et. al (2011)
stated artificial environments that are very different
from the natural habitats of fish may negatively affect
fish feeding activity, health, welfare and growth,
especially if conditions are stressful to the fish. One
environmental characteristic that affects fish physiology
is the background or light color. Some environmental
color effects on fish have been shown to modulate several
physiological and behavioral responses, such as feeding,
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growth, reproduction, sex determination aggression,
larval jaw malformation and stress response. Several fish
species prefer dark tank walls as they promote a suitable
contrast between the prey and the background color.
However, some studies have shown a preference by some
fish species for light tank colors. One study would be
from Imanpoor et. al (2011) revealed that growth function
obtained from light color treatments indicated that
growth indices of goldfish have a better performance in
white light than in red light. The effect of light color
on growth performance has been proved which is different
based on type of species and stage of life in fish. Fish
are capable of color vision (Cheng and Flamarique, 2004)
and the effects of light spectrum on several aspects of
fish physiology have been investigated. White light in
comparison with red light is said to be having
wavelengths similar to natural light, caused less stress
in the fish breed in artificial environments which
finally results in a better development. Also, it is
suggested that further investigations on intensity and
duration of music and color, in relation to other rearing
environment (tanks, water quality, etc.) and fish
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(species, life stage, feeding, rearing density, etc.)
origin factors affecting farmed fish quality and welfare,
would contribute to a very promising outcome in improving
understanding of fish physiology.
According to the experiment performed by Imanpoor
et. al (2011), fishes maintained in the black tanks
appeared more susceptible to disease. It shows that
rearing in black tanks should be considered stressful for
fishes and should be avoided in aquaculture practice.
As what reported also by Marchesal (2004), in
contrast to what is traditionally believed, exploiting
strong white lights may not necessarily be the most
effective way to attract and concentrate fish in the
illuminated area of the fishing grounds.
Same study was also conducted by Volpato (2001)
wherein the results showed that blue color was an
effective inhibitor of the stress-induced cortisol
response in the Nile tilapia.
Kesbic (2016) also found in his study that the color
of the culture tanks affects feed utilization and growth
performance in fish, hence, advising to consider the tank
colors when setting-up an aquaculture facility.

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Another study performed by Utne-Palm (2017)
demonstrated that Krill responded to the artificial light
sources, and their swimming activity and degree of
attraction were related to the wavelength of the emitted
light. Cod showed indifference or a weak avoidance
response to the tested light stimuli. Thus, artificial
light sources emitting light within the wavelength of
448–560 nm may be used to attract krill without causing
pronounced avoidance responses in cod.
Aly et. al (2017) also identified from their study
that the blue color represented the lowest growth
performance and it may due to the reduced vision, which
prevents fish to detect the feed well, while red color
has better growth performance in spite of the
insignificance between the tested colors. This result is
congruent with Volpato et al. who found that red color
stimulates feeding intake and improves growth performance
more than yellow, green, blue, and white colors. This is
attributed to that fish under stress environment such as
red color is more aggressive and grew almost many times
as much in the less stressful conditions (blue color).
Karakatsouli et al., (2007) also observed that rainbow
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trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) reared under red light had a
better food intake and growth than blue light. Also, they
found that red light can affect the growth indices and
survival rate of fish, such as rainbow trout. One of the
reasons which were mentioned for this phenomenon is the
existence of oil droplets in the eyes of such fish. These
oil droplet filter spectrums have a low wavelength and
let high wavelengths pass by. Therefore, fish culture in
red light causes the food to contrast better with the
environment and ease the process of feeding. Fishes
cultured in red tanks expressed the greatest weight
increase but the fish held in dark blue tanks performed
the poorest weight gain.
Another study of Villamizar et al., (2011) proved
that larvae (European sea bass and sole larvae) were
significantly affected by light characteristics. The
larvae achieved the best performance and showed fastest
development and lowest degree of deformity under a
light/dark cycle using blue light, conditions which were
closest to their natural aquatic environment. On the
other hand, Migaud et al., (2009) achieved maximum
survival rates of Cod (Gadus morhua) larvae in red light
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than white, green and blue light (Migaud et al. 2009;
Cited in: Villamizar et al., 2011).
Dadfar et. al (2017) also described in their study
that growth rate of rainbow trout was significantly
affected by light. The weight and length of fish reared
under yellow light were highest in the third month of the
experiment. Such results were probably connected to the
rainbow trout preference to the yellow color that does
not induce the stress in fish and saves the energy
required for growth. Papoutsoglou et al. (2000) also
added that the body weight of common carp maintained
under yellow-colored water was higher than fish held
under black and green color.
FEED CONVERSION RATIO AND CONDITION FACTOR IN AQUACULTURE
The efficiency with which animals turn feed into meat
and other food products, such as eggs or milk, varies by
species and production method. A common measure of this
efficiency is the feed conversion ratio (FCR), defined as
a unit of feed consumed divided by a unit of body mass
gain. FCR is a parameter depending on the life stage of
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fish that increases as fish size/age increases (Robinson
and Li, 2010).
Typical FCRs for animals raised using commercial
feeds and intensive production methods (i.e. not
extensive production like grazing) are as follows: beef
cattle: 6.0–10.0, pigs: 2.7–5.0, chickens: 1.7–2.0, and
farmed fish and shrimp: 1.0–2.4.
Aquatic animals have lower (more efficient) FCRs than
large terrestrial animals in part because they expend
less energy to move, stay upright, and regulate their
body temperatures due to buoyancy and because most are
ectothermic. (Fry et. al, 2018)
On the other hand, Fulton’s condition factor is
widely used in fisheries and general fish biology
studies. Condition factor compares the wellbeing of a
fish and is based on the hypothesis that heavier fish of
a given length are in better condition. Condition factor
has been used as an index of growth and feeding
intensity. Condition factor decreases with increase in
length and also influences the reproductive cycle in
fish.
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This factor is calculated from the relationship
between the weight of a fish and its length, with the
intention of describing the “condition” of that
W
individual. The formula is of the form: K = where K =
L
Fulton’s condition factor, W = the weight of the fish,
and L is the length (usually total length). A scaling
factor is usually applied to bring the factor close to 1.
The history of the search for a relationship to describe
fish condition and the development of a mathematical tool
for quantifying variations in fish populations is an
example of how rapidly the exchange of ideas can lead to
progress in understanding fundamental principles about
fish growth. (Nash et. al, 2006)
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CHAPTER 3
METHODS AND PROCEDURES
This chapter presents and discusses the method of
research instrument and the procedures used in this
study, the sources of data, sampling design and also the
statistical treatment of the data.
RESEARCH DESIGN
The study both employed quantitative and qualitative
approaches in obtaining data regarding the changes on
Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia) brought about by the
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color of water in terms of weight gain, length, feed
efficiency and condition factor. Researchers sought to
narrate what had transpired during the experiment of a
particular subject in their own words, simultaneously
emphasizing objective measurements and the statistical,
mathematical, or numerical analysis of data collected
from the observation.
To attain the objectives of the study, the
researchers chose experimental research design,
specifically posttest research design. Experimental
research design is conducted with a scientific approach,
where a set of variables are kept constant while the
other set of variables are being measured as the subject
of experiment. In addition to what had been said,
researchers used posttest only control design wherein the
experiment has two or more randomly assigned groups: an
experimental group and a control group. The treatment is
applied to the experimental group and the post-test is
carried out on both groups to assess the effect of the
treatment or manipulation. Researchers focused and
recorded the changes that have been observed throughout
the experiment for the purpose of rationalizing the
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effects of water color among the subjects. This method
enables the researchers to interpret the theoretical
meaning of the findings and hypothesis development for
further studies.
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LOCALE OF THE STUDY
In view of the researchers’ intention to contribute
to the furtherance of fishery as livelihood in their
community and their desire to look into the real status
of fishery to be able to solve emerging problems in the
fishing industry as STEM students, which guided them in
conducting an experiment, the researchers opted to
conduct their study at Melchor Memorial School Inc.
Melchor Memorial School Inc. is situated in sloping
topography with an approximate area of nine thousand six
square meters (9,006 m2 ) and one point five kilometers
(1.5 km) away from town proper. There are three (3)
buildings: Main Building, Annex 1 & 2 and Old Annex.
Consisting of one (1) Office of the Principal, two (2)
Admin Office, one (1) Science Laboratory, one (1)
Computer Laboratory, one (1) T.L.E room, one (1) Learning
Resource Center, three (3) faculty rooms, six (6) comfort
rooms and twenty-six (26) classrooms.
Melchor Memorial School Inc. was formally
established in 1949. In its first year of operation, the
school became the second home of secondary students. The
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school continued to grow, as such, a new grade level was
added every year and then became Melchor Memorial School
Inc. With the completion of the secondary department
(JHS), the next task was the need to put up the secondary
department (SHS). The school kept on growing by leaps and
bounds in terms of enrollment as well as the needed
manpower from junior high school up to senior high
school. The improvement of the school facilities seemed
to be a non-stop project of the school administrators.
Every year, there are new constructions which the school
could be proud of. Eventually, Melchor Memorial School
Inc. became known in the whole municipality of Ibajay.
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a.
(a) Map of the Philippines showing the location of the

Province of Aklan
b.
(b) Blueprint of the Melchor Memorial School Inc. (Main

and Old Annex Building)
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DATA GATHERING PROCEDURE
Duplicate tilapia fish were caught from lagoon
located at Tagbaya, Ibajay, Aklan, having the length
ranging from 4 inches. On February 21, 2019, the subjects
were distributed and cultured into different tanks, one
having colored water and another one having uncolored
water. Faint red tinge was used to tint the water of
experimental subject. Water quality was monitored daily
to ensure the well-being of subjects.
STATISTICAL TREATMENT OF DATA
The data gathered were analyzed and interpreted
using descriptive statistics such as feed efficiency and
condition factor.
To determine the growth performance of the subjects
during intervention, the formulas below were used:
𝐟𝐢
FCR =
𝐰𝐠
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where
fi = feed intake
wg = weight gain
𝐰
K =
𝐥
where
w = weight
l = length
Feed efficiency is a good indication of how
efficient a feed or a feeding strategy can be. The lower
the FCR (feed conversion ratio), the higher the weight
gain obtained from the feed.
On the other hand, condition factor is an indicator
of the general fish condition. It is used to assess the
status of the aquatic ecosystem in which fish live. When
the value of condition factor is higher, this means that
the fish has reared in a better condition, such as less

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stress, better water quality, availability of well-
balanced feeds, etc.
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Chapter 4
PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA
This chapter presents the gathered data which was
computed, analyzed and interpreted regarding the study in
assessing changes observed on subjects under experiment.
DAY-TO-DAY RECORD OF OBSERVATION
Day 1 – Feb. 21, 2019
The conduct of experiment began at around 8 AM.
Duplicate Oreochromis niloticus have length ranging from
4 inches, cultured in different tanks. Subjects were
placed under different water tanks – one having red-
colored water and one having uncolored water. A pinch of
food coloring was used to color the water. Subjects were
fed twice a day with crushed toasted bread.
The observations made from the experiment were the
following:
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 Subjects were perceived to be timid which looked
like they were still adapting to their environment.
 Subjects were found staying at the corner of the
tank for such a long period of time
 Subjects seemed afraid when approached by humans.
 Subject placed under uncolored water moved a lot as
compared to the subject under red water.
 Subject under red-colored water has the slightest
movements.
Day 2 – Feb. 22, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its second
day were the following:
 Subject under the red-colored water was stationary
relative to its position lying on the bottom of the
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tank which was an indication of stress and
uncomfortable water condition.
 Almost no body movement could be observed in the
subject under red-colored water and showed low
awareness to its surroundings.
 Subject under red-colored water had its gills
oscillate at low rate and it had its fins flopped at
slow motion.
 Subject under color-free water tank was very
different from the subject under colored water as it
was gasping at the surface of the water most of the
time which showed deficiency of oxygen in the tank.
It had its gills oscillates fast and its breathing
patterns was almost likely irregular.
 The awareness of the subject under color-free water
was present but seemed to be afraid when approached.
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Day 3 – Feb. 23, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its third
 Subject under color-free water was gasping for some
air, probably due to lack of oxygen in its area.
 Subject under color-free water had its movement been
observed to be irregular and it seemed like it was
uncomfortable in its habitat.
 Subject under red-colored water tank had begun to
move around the tank.
 As compared to the fish in the color-free water
tank, the fish oscillated much faster.
Day 4 – Feb. 24, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its fourth

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 Subject under red-colored water underwent some
changes. The fish became yellowish due to the change
of lighting on its environment.
 The subject under red-colored water also did not
move at all inside the tank. It just only stayed on
a certain position or area.
 The subject under uncolored water had more movements
as compared to the other one and somehow, it
constantly moved up to the surface of the water,
probably because the fish had to gasp some air due
to lack of oxygen available on the tank.
 Small bits of detritus could be found at the bottom
of subjects’ tanks which simply demonstrated the
normal appetite of subjects despite of different
environments.
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Day 5 – Feb. 25, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its fifth
 Subject under red-colored water tank had been
observed to be active when approached by humans.
 It also had been observed that subject under red-
colored water tank flopped its flippers faster as
compared to the other subject.
 Subject under color-free water tank demonstrated a
panic attack when approached by humans.
 Even though both tanks had been cleaned yesterday,
both tanks found to have small bits of detritus at
the bottom which exhibited normal appetite of the
subjects.
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Day 6 – Feb. 26, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its sixth
 Both subjects were in great condition and exhibited
normal appetite.
 Both water tanks were filled with small bits of
detritus.
 The subject under uncolored water was observed to be
more active as it moved around more as compared to
another subject.
Day 7 – Feb 27, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its
seventh day were the following:
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 The subject under colorless water had been observed
to be always staying at the bottom of the container.
 The subject under colorless water had its fins
flocking naturally in motion.
 The subject under red-colored water was a bit bigger
as compared to another subject.
 The subject under red-colored water was very active
as it kept on swimming around the tank and its fins
kept on flocking.
 The measured length of subjects was found to be
11.303 cm (under colored water) and 10.9982 cm
(under uncolored water) respectively.
Day 8 – Feb 28, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its eighth
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 The subject under red-colored water grew bigger as
compared to another subject.
 The subject under red-colored water just stayed in a
certain area, either on the left side or the right
side of the tank.
 There were no changes observed on the subject under
color-free water.
 The subject under color-free water exhibited
behavior similar to another subject, such as staying
in the same position for a long period of time.
Day 9 – Mar 1, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its ninth
 Subject under uncolored water was kind of active and
exhibited a lot of movements.
 Subject under uncolored water was attentive when you
began to feed it.
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 There were not changes observed on the subject under
uncolored water and it still stayed usually on the
left or right side of the tank.
 Subject under colored water was attentive when you
began to feed it.
 Subject under colored water still demonstrated
normal appetite.
Day 10 – Mar 2, 2019
The observations made from the experiment on its tenth
 Subject under colored water tend to have a minimal
movements as it only moved to the each side of the
tank.
 Subject under colored water tend to gasp most of the
time due to lack of oxygen.
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 Subject under uncolored water had its conditions
quite similar to another subject.
Day 11 – Mar 3, 2019
eleventh day were the following:
 Red color on water was slightly faded, making the
water a bit blurry and unclear.
 Subject under uncolored water showed a natural
movement as it kept on swimming around and its fins
flocked naturally.
 Subject under colored water exhibited strange
behaviors.
 Subject under colored water had its movement minimal
and it always stayed at one side of the tank.
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Day 12 – Mar 4, 2019
twelfth day were the following:
 Subject under colored water looked yellowish due to
change in lighting and tend to move around more.
 Subject under colored water was quite bigger as
 Their scales and features were different from each
other since some characteristics on the subject
under colored water were altered due to change in
environment.
Day 13 – Mar 5, 2019
thirteenth day were the following:

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 Subject under uncolored water demonstrated oxygen
deficiency in water as it kept gasping for air at
the surface most of the time
 Subject under uncolored water was settling on the
bottom for some short time.
 Subject under colored water settled on the bottom
most of the time, similar to another subject.
 Subject under colored water can swim the volume of
water at short time interval and quite healthier as
Day 14 – Mar 6, 2019
fourteenth day were the following:
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 Subject under uncolored water seemed fine and there
was no any weakness found in the movement of the
fish.
 Subject under uncolored water kept moving very well
most of the time.
 Subject under colored water was found to be weak as
it did not move a lot unlike another subject.
Day 15 – Mar 7, 2019
fifteenth day were the following:
 Both subjects exhibited active behavior throughout
the whole time.
 Both subjects kept swimming on their tank which was
completely different from the past few days that
they just stayed in the corner or bottom of the
tank.
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 More small bits of detritus could be found in the
tank of subject under colored-water as compared to
another subject’s tank.
Day 16 – Mar 8, 2019
sixteenth day were the following:
 There were no visible changes observed among the
subjects.
 Attentive behavior on subjects under experiment
could be observed.
 Subject under colored water was seen to be more
active as compared to another subject due to more
detritus found on the tank of the subject under
colored water.
Day 17 – Mar 9. 2019
seventeenth day were the following:
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 Subject under colored water looked very hungry as it
used to eat the food provided to it.
 Subject under colored water drank too much water and
it moved very lively.
 Subject under uncolored water acted normal and
seemed comfortable on its environment.
Day 18 – Mar 10, 2019
eighteenth day were the following:
 Subject under uncolored water was kind of active as
it used to move to each side of the tank.
 Subject under uncolored water also exhibited normal
appetite as it always eats the food provided to it.
 Subject under colored water was more active, as
compared to past few days. It did not stay in only
one side of the tank which was actually a good sign.
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Day 19 – Mar 11, 2019
eighteenth day were the following:
 Both subjects had been seen to be active throughout
the day.
 They both exhibited normal appetite as more detritus
could be found at the bottom of their tanks.
 Subject under colored water had more movements as
Day 20 – Mar 12, 2019
twentieth day were the following:
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 Subject under colored water does not always stay in
just one side as it used to have a lot of movements
throughout the whole day.
 However, subject under colored water did not
attentively eat the food given to it.
 Subject under uncolored water was active and used to
eat the food given to it.
Day 21 – Mar 13, 2019
twenty-first day were the following:
 Subject under uncolored water seemed to be normal as
it only stayed in the bottom of the tank.
 Subject under colored water had its fins kept
flocking but not changing its position most of the
time.
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 Both subjects were attentive when they were given
food.
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Table 1. Presentation of Length and Width of Subjects
Before and After
Subject Water color Initial Final Initial Final
length length Weight weight
1 Red 10.16 11.4808 10 g 15 g
cm cm
2 Uncolored 10.16 11.176 10 g 11 g
cm cm
Table 1 shows the presentation of length and width
of subjects before and after the intervention. Both
subjects had similar initial length and weight, 10.16 cm
and 10 grams respectively.
After the intervention, subject under colored water
had its length of 11.4808 cm wherein 1.3208 cm was
increased to its initial length. On the other hand,
subject under uncolored subject had length of 11.176 cm
wherein 1.016 cm was increased to its initial length.
With regards to its weight, subject under
colored water weighed 15 grams wherein 4 grams was
increased to its initial weight. However, subject under
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uncolored water weighed 11 grams wherein only 1 gram was
increased to its initial weight.
From the data presented above, it was apparent that
experimental subject weighed heavier and extensive as
Table 2. Effect of Tank Color on Feed Utilization and
Condition Factor for Oreochromis niloticus
Subject Water Weight gain Feed Condition
color efficiency factor
1 Red 4 g 0.4 1.30653
2 Uncolored 1 g 2 0.98425
Table 2 presents the effect of tank color on growth
and feed utilization for Oreochromis niloticus which
determines the growth performance of subjects throughout
the intervention.
Subject under colored water had 0.4 as the rate of
its feed efficiency while the control subject got 2. Both
subjects were only fed by toasted bread twice a day.
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Feed efficiency is a good indication of how
efficient a feed or a feeding strategy can be. The lower
the FCR (feed conversion ratio), the higher the weight
gain obtained from the feed.
In connection with the data presented above, the
experimental subject got the lowest FCR which means the
change in water color stimulates feeding motivation on
the subject.
On the other hand, condition factor is an indicator
of the general fish condition. It is used to assess the
status of the aquatic ecosystem in which fish live. When
the value of condition factor is higher, this means that
the fish has reared in a better condition, such as less
stress, better water quality, availability of well-
balanced feeds, etc.
As stated above, experimental subject had condition
factor of 1.30653 while the control subject got 0.98425.
Experimental subject had the highest condition factor
which means that it was healthier as compared to another
subject when it comes to overall aspects.
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Chapter 5
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
This chapter presents the summary of the findings
based on the gathered data relative to the problems cited
in Chapter 1 of this study.
This also includes the conclusions drawn derived
from the findings and the recommendations.
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS
Organized according to the specific questions of the
study, the following were the findings of the study.
1. In terms of length, experimental subject had its
length of 11.4808 cm wherein 1.3208 cm was added to its
initial length. On the other hand, control subject had
length of 11.176 cm wherein 1.016 cm was added to its
initial length.
On the other hand, with regards to the weight,
experimental subject weighed 15 grams wherein 4 grams was
added to its initial weight. However, the control subject
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weighed 11 grams wherein only 1 gram was added to its
initial weight.
Concerning to the feed efficiency of both subjects,
experimental subject had 0.4 as the rate of its feed
efficiency while the control subject got 2. On the other
hand, experimental subject had condition factor of
1.30653 while the control subject got 0.98425.
2. Experimental subject had been observed to be
active throughout the intervention as it kept flocking
its fins and moved around the tank. Its scales and some
parts of its body became yellowish and this was due to
the change of lighting in environment. However, it also
turned to its original color afterwards and did not last
long. After the intervention, its tail also became tinted
with red due to the food coloring used to tint the water.
It also demonstrated normal appetite as it always
had many pieces of detritus found at the bottom of the
tank. However, it was not attentive when you began to
feed it.
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With regards to the control subject, it usually
stayed on the bottom of the tank but also moved around
actively sometimes. It used to gasp every time at the
surface of the water. As compared to another subject, it
was attentive and quick to take the food given to it. It
also exhibited normal appetite as many pieces of detritus
were found at the bottom of the tank every time.
3. There is a significant relationship between the
water color and growth of Oreochromis niloticus
(tilapia). Data presented above showed the difference
between two subjects in terms of weight gain, length,
feed efficiency and condition factor. Experimental
subject was seen to be extensive and healthier as
compared to control subject. This means that water color
plays a vital role when it comes to growth and
performance of fish.
CONCLUSIONS:
Based on the findings of the study, the following
conclusions were drawn:

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1. Behavior and performance of fishes differ when
placed and cultured into tanks with different color.
2. Fishes placed and cultured in red-colored water
grow healthier and bigger as compared to fish maintained
in uncolored water.
3. Water color plays a vital role in growth and
performance of fishes. The importance of water color was
given emphasis by the results of feed efficiency and
condition factor of both subjects wherein it was
eventually found that experimental subject was healthier
and more extensive than control subject.
RECOMMENDATIONS
In view of the aforementioned conclusion, the
following recommendations are hereby offered.
1. Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources should
conceptualize, implement and integrate programs,
facilities and projects that would be an instrument
to help easily enrich fishing production in the
industry.
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2. Scientific community should continue working to
fully understand the impact of water color on the
behavior of fish which would give future researchers
insight and new ideas.
3. Community should take actions to minimize this
emerging problem in the fishing industry.
4. Fisher folks should develop and conceptualize
strategies that would aid growth and performance of
fishes. This would help them to completely
understand the nature of fishes and thus, helping
them develop solutions and further meet the world’s
growing demand for fish and make the life of people
more convenient.
5. Future researchers should dig deeper regarding this
study to enhance the problem faced by the fisher
folks.
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Oppedal F, Juell JE, Taranger GL, Hansen T. (2001).
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Marchesan M, Spoto M, Verginella L, Ferrero EA. (2005).
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factors on swimming depth preferences of Atlantic salmon
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oxygen levels in sea cages at a fjord site. Aquaculture
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Appelbaum S, Kamler E. (2000). Survival, growth,
metabolism and behaviour of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell
1822) early stages under different light conditions.
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Puvanendran V, Brown JA. (2002). Foraging, growth and
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ladder_inflation_in_larvae_of_cultured_sand_whiting_Silla
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Mangilog P. (2017). Aklan fisheries production declines
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Appendix A: LETTER OF REQUEST TO THE PRINCIPAL

January 30, 2019
HON. JULIO M. ESTOLLOSO

School Principal
Melchor Memorial School Inc.
Laguinbanua, Ibajay, Aklan
Dear Hon. Estolloso:
Greetings!
Research Capstone is the stepping stone of success in every student’s

life. It enables students to utilize their higher order thinking skills
in connecting their projects to community’s issues, helping students in
their next stage of life with the different skills and abilities they
learned throughout the process.
At present, Grade-12 Sapphire of Melchor Memorial School Inc is having

their capstone project in fulfillment of the requirements for Research
Capstone. On behalf of my groupmates, we are conducting an experimental
study with a title of “3-Week Assessment of Effectiveness of Water Color
in Growth and Performance of Oreochromis niloticus” that aims to
evaluate the effects of water color on fishes in terms of weight gain,
length, feed efficiency and condition factor. However, for this
experiment to be fully implemented and conducted, we need sufficient
amount of budget for the materials needed.
In view thereof, we would like to ask financial assistance from your

good office to hold the expenses for the following materials:
 2 Oreochromis niloticus or tilapia - ₱300.00

 Fish food/feeds - ₱100.00
 Dye/food coloring (i.e blue, green, red) - ₱30.00
 2 ream of short coupon bond - ₱400.00
Your immediate and positive response on the abovementioned request will

be highly appreciated.
Thank you very much and God bless.
Respectfully yours,
ANDREA A. IGUP
Researcher/Group Representative
Noted:
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MICHAELA ALEJANDREI SOLANO

Research Capstone Adviser
Approved by:
JULIO M. ESTOLLOSO
School Principal
77
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APPENDIX B: CURRICULUM VITAE
Curriculum Vitae
ANDREA A. IGUP
Aquino, Ibajay, Aklan
09303333126
_________________________________________________________
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Date of Birth: October 23, 2001
Place of Birth: Quezon City
Gender: Female
Civil Status: Single
Religion: Roman Catholic
Age: 17
Height: 4’9
Weight: 75 kg.
Father’s Name: Eduardo A. Igup
Occupation: Salesman
Mother’s Name: Salvacion A. Igup
Occupation: Housewife
Sibling’s Name: Angelica A. Igup
Abigail A. Igup
78
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_________________________________________________________
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT:
SECONDARY: Melchor Memorial School, Inc.
Laguinbanwa, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Solido Elementary School
Solido, Nabas, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
79
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Curriculum Vitae
ALLAYNA MARIE R. FERNANDEZ
09454807618
_________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: January 27, 2001
Place of Birth: Kalibo, Aklan
Gender: Female
Age: 18
Height: 5'1
Weight: 47 kg.
Father’s Name: Allan Jay M. Fernandez
Occupation: Deceased
Mother’s Name: Rafaela Rosemarie R. Fernandez
Occupation: Government Employee
Sibling’s Name: None
80
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S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Laguinbanwa Elementary School
S.Y 2012-2013
81
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Curriculum Vitae
DANICA L. ALAG
09070588902
Place of Birth: Laguinbanwa, Ibajay, Akln
Gender: Female
Age: 18
Height: 5'3
Weight: 51 kg.
Father’s Name: Rondio G. Alag
Occupation: Carpenter
Mother’s Name: Marites L. Alag
Sibling’s Name: Mary Joy L. Alag
Roselyn L. Alag
82
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Jhon Mark L. Alag
Rosie Ann L. Alag
_________________________________________________________
S.Y 2018-2019
S.Y 2012-2013
83
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Curriculum Vitae
JENO M. VILLANUEVA
Bagacay, Ibajay, Aklan
09101859564
_________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: December 7, 2000
Place of Birth: Ibajay District Hospital
Gender: Male
Age: 18
Height: 5'3
Weight: 47 kg.
Father’s Name: Noel S. Villanueva
Occupation: Laborer
Mother’s Name: Ellen M. Villanueva
Occupation: Teacher
Sibling’s Name: Jezebel M. Villanueva
84
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S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Unat-Bagacay Elementary School
Unat, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
85
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Curriculum Vitae
DANICA S. SAUS
09957222499
_________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: August 22, 2000
Gender: Female
Religion: Born Again Christian
Age: 18
Height: 5'2
Weight: 60 kg.
Father’s Name: Pedrito C. Saus
Occupation: Government Employee
Mother’s Name: Evangeline Saus
Siblings Name: James Ryan S. Saus
Jhon Raymund S. Saus
86
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Jade S. Saus
_________________________________________________________
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Ibajay Central School
Poblacion, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
87
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Curriculum Vitae
RALPH G. TRINIDAD
09063339721
_________________________________________________________
Gender: Male
Age: 18
Height: 5’3
Weight: 55 kg.
Father’s Name: Roger T. Trinidad
Mother’s Name: Marivic G. Trinidad
Occupation: Food Vendor
Siblings Name: Roselyn Mae Trinidad
Rovhic Chris Trinidad

_________________________________________________________
88
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S.Y 2018-2019
S.Y 2012-2013
89
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Curriculum Vitae
RAMIA C. JONGAY
Naile, Ibajay, Aklan
09091570042
Place of Birth: Naile, Ibajay, Aklan
Gender: Female
Religion: Assemblies of God
Age: 18
Height: 5'1
Weight: 50 kg.
Father’s Name: Reynaldo B. Jongay
Occupation: Farmer & Local Pastor
Mother’s Name: Regina C. Jongay
Sibling’s Name: Ricardo C. Jongay
Riza C. Jongay
90
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Rolly C. Jongay
Rachel Jongay
_________________________________________________________
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Naile Elementary School
Naile, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
91
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Curriculum Vitae
MAICAH MAE A. TAMBO-ONG
San Isidro, Ibajay, Aklan
09955168219
_________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: February.2,2000
Place of Birth: San Isidro,Ibajay,Aklan
Gender: Female
Age: 19
Height: 5'3
Weight: 48 kg.
Father’s Name: Reden Tambo-ong
Occupation: Fish Vendor
Mother’s Name: Dailen Tambo-ong
Sibling’s Name: Trixie Mae Tambo-ong
Kaye Ruzzel Tambo-ong
92
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Ashley Jean Tambo-ong
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: San Isidro Elementary School
San Isidro, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
93
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Curriculum Vitae
LEOBEN LYLE L. TEODOSIO
Regador, Ibajay, Aklan
09276410243
_________________________________________________________
Place of Birth: Kalibo, Aklan
Gender: Male
Age: 19
Height: 5’4
Weight: 45
Father’s Name: Lyle T. Teodosio
Mother’s Name: Lilibeth L. Teodosio
Occupation: Teacher
Sibling’s Name: Lexie Lhouise L. Teodosio
94
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Lyra Claire L. Teodosio
Llana Mae L. Teodosio
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Naisud Central School
Naisud, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2011-2012
95
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Curriculum Vitae
ANTHONY M. MAAGMA
Agbago, Ibajay, Aklan
09476533856
Place of Birth: Agbago, Ibajay, Aklan
Gender: Male
Religion: Seventh Day Adventist
Age: 19
Height: 5'8
Weight: 48 kg.
Father’s Name: Antonio S. Maagma Jr.
Occupation: Physician
Mother’s Name: Lilibeth M. Maagma
Sibling’s Name: Angel Lee M. Maagma
Andrew Louie M. Maagma
96
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Andrian Lloyd M. Maagma
_________________________________________________________
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Agbago Elementary School
Agbago, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
97
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Curriculum Vitae
JOHN PAUL NALANGAN
Aslum, Ibajay, Aklan
09276410243
_________________________________________________________
Date of Birth: May 23 2000
Gender: Male
Age: 18
Height: 5’5
Weight: 48 kg.
Father’s Name: Pablo M. Nalangan Sr.
Mother’s Name: Julinda M. Nalangan
Sibling’s Name: Monica M. Nalangan
Nira M. Nalangan
98
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
Pablo M. Nalangan
Joanna M. Nalangan
_________________________________________________________
S.Y 2018-2019
PRIMARY: Ibajay Central School
Poblacion, Ibajay, Aklan
S.Y 2012-2013
99
Trunklines:289-2316; 289-2828; 289-2799
100

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MELCHOR MEMORIAL SCHOOL, INC.

Purok 2, Laguinbanwa, Ibajay, Aklan

THE PROBLEM AND ITS SETTING

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Through the ages, fishing has been one of the

earliest occupations known to man. It has grown from

crude and simple beginning into a complex industry with

modern equipment and installations. The commodities that

more numerous and varied than what is commonly known.

Philippines, an island-dwelling population of more

than 100 million Filipinos and more than 7, 100 islands,

is a major fishing nation and the world’s second largest

archipelagic state. Philippine seas supply food for over

one hundred million Filipinos, livelihood for millions of

people and foreign exchange. The fisheries sector is

divided into the municipal and commercial subsectors and

aquaculture subsector. With the growing population of the

Philippines, fisheries are one of the major industries

seen as a positive contributor to the developing economy.

As Philippines is located in the typhoon belt, the

country is usually affected by 15 and struck by five to

six cyclonic storms per year with other natural hazards

such as landslides, active volcanoes, destructive

earthquakes and tsunamis. Major environmental issues

include uncontrolled deforestation especially in

watershed areas, soil erosion, air and water pollution in

major urban centers, coral reef degradation, and

increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps that are

important fish breeding grounds. (Food and Agriculture

Organization, 2004) The country is also on constant alert

for red tides and fish kills. Seemingly impossible just

20 years ago, protein deficiency among fishing

communities is now increasing at an alarming rate.

Aklan, one of Philippines’ provinces that has

aquaculture-based livelihood, is also seen affected by

this apparent issue in the fishing industry with

its total volume of fisheries production in 2016 was

declined by 1.90% due to the decrease in output across

all sub-sectors and species as reported by the Philippine

Statistics Authority-Aklan. The decline in commercial and

marine fishery production was attributed to lesser

fishing operations due to rough seas and strong winds

brought by northeast monsoon conditions, low volume of

catch in swamps, creeks, estuaries and rivers and the

shift of some fishermen to other job such as construction

With these emerging problems in the fishing

industry, people have begun to explore the factors that

affect the growth of species. One study by Utne-Palm et.

al (2018) revealed that most fishes and crustaceans

respond to light, and artificial light sources may

therefore be an efficient stimulus to manipulate

behaviors in aquatic animals. Light is an important

environmental factor regulating physiological processes

and ecological activities in fishes. (Meakin, 2011) The

role of light intensity in fish biology has been

documented in numerous fish species under experimental

conditions and in nature (Rickel & Genin 2005). Light has

been correlated with a variety of responses such as