PICRC conducts pilot study to determine if different lunar phases affect fish abundance and diversity in FAD

Researchers at the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) are currently conducting a pilot study on a Fish Aggregation Device (FAD) to assess whether different lunar phases affect the diversity and abundance of fish species. The project uses Baited Remote Underwater Video Stations (BRUVS) to capture data, providing a permanent visual record of the different species encountered in the field. This survey method has not yet been trialed on FADs in Palau, but it is a common fish survey tool around the world.

A Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) is a floating object used to provide structure in an open ocean environment. FADs attract pelagic fish for a variety of reasons, including prey capture or as a reference point for schools of fish. These FADs are designed to attract commercially valuable coastal pelagic species and provide an alternative source of fishing for local communities.

The investigation started on 31^{English Stone} Starting in May and continuing throughout the summer, BRUVS will be deployed two hours after sunrise, four times per month (first quarter, full moon, last quarter, and new moon) for three consecutive months in order to obtain fair data. This pilot study hopes to understand trends in fish composition during different lunar phases and evaluate the effectiveness of the BRUVS method.

PICRC researchers aim to further monitor FADs in the future to gain more information on coastal pelagic species diversity, abundance, size, and biomass, and to understand the effectiveness of different FADs in Palau. Results from this study could help determine if FADs have the potential to aggregate commercially valuable pelagic species in Palau’s artisanal fisheries areas. Differences in FAD structure across Palau may also highlight preferred aggregation locations.

PICRC hired Mr. Hadely Renguul to assist with this project because he is a local fisherman with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. PICRC would like to thank him for assisting our researchers in conducting these surveys. This study hopes to provide valuable insights into FAD and the role it plays in improving livelihoods and food security in Palau.

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