DAVAO CITY — Scuba divers from Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) XI found a couple of Barramundi Cod fish in Talicud Island, in Island Garden City of Samal. Davao del Norte
The DENR team were conducting the Scubasurero, an underwater cleanup activity of DENR on May 6, 2022, to highlight the Month of the Ocean when divers of the agency’s Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section (CRFMS), found a coplu of Barramundi Cod.
It was the second time that the rare species was spotted in the island- the first time was back in 2018 during the team’s coral rehabilitation project monitoring.
The DEWNR in a statement said, sighting indicates that the marine ecosystem is recovering in the said area likewise reflecting its “good condition” coral cover. The barramundi cod/ humpback grouper (??????????? ?????????) has been recorded abundant within the Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape (MPLS), making it as the flagship species of the said protected area.
In 2019, the DENR also reported that a good number of Barramundi Cod was discovered in the protected landscape/seascape in the town of Mabini, Davao de Oro which prompted the agency to design and a program with a mascot named “Barry” to further promote the protection of the rare species of marine resources in Mabini Protected Landscape and Seascape (MPLS).
Since it’s discovery, the DENR never ceases to craft strategic ways to campaign in the conservation of the country’s environment and natural resources particularly on its protected areas thorough the Communication, education and public awareness (CEPA) to connect to people and effectively deliver the message on the importance of conserving nature and its biodiversity.
The DENR in its earlier press statement said they wanted to open the eyes of the public on the presence of this rare and vulnerable species and the importance of conserving their home – the Mabini waters. –ezc with DENR PR
