By Kenneth Marcos 
Fisherfolk in many coastal towns say wild abalone, once easy to find along reefs and rocky shores, has become harder to gather each year. The prized shellfish now sells at high prices in both local and foreign markets, pushing demand even higher despite shrinking natural stocks.
To address the rapid decline of abalone in the wild, the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute–Marine Fisheries Research and Development Center (NFRDI-MFRDC) has launched a research project to improve hatchery production and boost aquaculture output. The initiative focuses on developing reliable methods to raise abalone in controlled settings so fishers no longer depend solely on wild populations.
Abalone is one of the most valuable shellfish in the Philippines. It typically sells for ₱300 to ₱600 per kilo in local markets and can reach USD 12 to USD 120 per kilo internationally. Because of this high value, overharvesting has placed heavy pressure on reefs, leading to a sharp decline in natural stocks over the past decades.
NFRDI-MFRDC’s project consists of two major studies. The first aims to refine breeding techniques to ensure more successful spawning and fertilization in hatcheries. Researchers are improving broodstock care, monitoring water quality, and adjusting feeding strategies to increase the number of healthy larvae produced.
The second study focuses on inducing triploidy, a genetic process that can enhance growth rate, size, and survival of cultured abalone. Scientists are testing controlled exposure to caffeine — a method explored in other countries — to encourage triploidy development. If proven effective and safe, the technique could help farmers raise faster-growing abalone that meet market demand without harming natural stocks.
Experts say expanding abalone aquaculture is crucial for both environmental sustainability and livelihood security. With global demand rising, a well-developed hatchery system can support small fishers and coastal communities by providing an alternative source of income. It can also ease pressure on coral reefs, which continue to suffer from poaching, climate change, and habitat loss.
The research team continues to refine its methods, aiming to share technology packages with local governments, cooperatives, and small-scale aquaculture operators once the studies reach full maturity. Officials say the long-term goal is to rebuild abalone populations while creating a steady, legal, and sustainable supply for the market.
As efforts move forward, the project highlights the need for responsible harvesting, improved regulation, and stronger support for science-based fisheries management — essential steps to protect the country’s marine resources for future generations.
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