News Details

PH Launches First-Ever Research to Breed Tamban in Captivity

NPO

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July 14, 2025

MANILA – The National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI) has embarked on a pioneering project to breed tamban (Bali sardine or Sardinella lemuru) in captivity — a historic first for Philippine fisheries research.

Tamban is among the most affordable and widely consumed fish in the country, contributing 16.7% of capture fishery output in 2023, valued at ₱13.81 billion. Despite its economic importance, no aquaculture technology for tamban has existed until now.

Recognizing the growing threats to wild tamban stocks and potential supply instability, NFRDI, in partnership with SEAFDEC/AQD and DA-BFAR 9, has launched the Tamban Hatchery Program (2024–2030). This 7-year project aims to develop science-based breeding and culture protocols to support tamban aquaculture.

The program is divided into three phases:

1. Biological Studies & Domestication (2024–2025)

2. Broodstock Development & Breeding Trials (2026–2028)

3. Grow-out Culture (2029–2030)

Initial results are promising: tamban have now survived over a year in captivity, and protocols for live transport and domestication have been established. Biological studies revealed tamban primarily feed on copepods, phytoplankton, and zooplankton—key information for future feed development.

NFRDI’s Maria Theresa Mutia emphasized that this effort aims to ensure future food security through sustainable tamban production and a stable sardine supply.

NPO News Team. 

PNA-PR