By Kenneth Marcos 
Before sunrise, fish farmers quietly check their cages, hoping for healthy stock and better harvests. For many, every day counts. Faster growth means quicker income, especially as costs continue to rise. A new study now offers a simple method that could change how some farmers raise mudfish in the Philippines.
Researchers, through the Philippine Journal of Fisheries, studied whether extending light exposure to 24 hours a day can improve the growth of young mudfish, locally known as “dalag” (Channa striata). The goal was to see if constant lighting could help fish grow faster while remaining cost-effective for farmers.
The study compared two setups: one using natural day-and-night lighting, and another using continuous 24-hour light. After 28 days, the results showed clear differences. Mudfish raised under constant light grew faster and reached the ideal size for the next farming stage in just two weeks. This shortened the hatchery period, allowing farmers to move to the next phase sooner.
Researchers found that the faster growth was linked to increased food availability at night. Under constant lighting, more zooplankton—tiny organisms that serve as natural fish food—gathered in the cages. With more food available even during nighttime, the fish were able to eat more and grow more efficiently.
Survival rates also improved significantly. Fish raised under continuous light had a survival rate of nearly 70 percent, compared to just over 23 percent under normal lighting conditions. This means fewer losses for farmers and more stable production.
From a business perspective, the results were also promising. The 24-hour lighting setup produced a higher net profit of over PHP 200,000 and a return on investment of more than 56 percent. These figures suggest that the method is not only effective but also practical for small and medium-scale fish farmers looking to increase income.
Importantly, the study noted that the nutritional quality of the mudfish remained the same in both setups. This means that while growth and survival improved, the quality of the fish for consumers did not change. Farmers can produce more without sacrificing product standards.
Experts say this approach could help address common challenges in aquaculture, such as slow growth and high mortality rates. However, they also remind farmers to consider electricity costs and proper management when applying continuous lighting systems. Balancing expenses and benefits is key to long-term success.
As the demand for affordable protein continues to grow in the country, simple innovations like this can support local fish production. With the right practices, Filipino fish farmers can improve their yields and strengthen food security for their communities.
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