By Kenneth Marcos 
In the quiet tanks of a milkfish hatchery, researchers carefully add a new substance that could change how young fish are raised. The Department of Agriculture’s National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA-NFRDI) is testing algal paste as a sustainable alternative to live phytoplankton, a key food source for milkfish larvae.
The initiative comes as hatchery operators look for reliable, cost-effective solutions to improve productivity and reduce the risks of live culture shortages. Early trials and field validations conducted in Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) hatcheries show that algal paste performs just as well as live phytoplankton in producing rotifers—tiny organisms that milkfish larvae feed on—and in supporting healthy larval growth.
“This research provides practical guidance for modernizing hatchery operations,” said a DA-NFRDI spokesperson. “Algal paste not only ensures steady feed availability, it also simplifies hatchery management and strengthens sustainability in aquaculture.”
The study highlights key advantages of algal paste: it is easier to store, reduces dependency on continuous live culture production, and provides a consistent food supply for hatchery-raised milkfish. By offering a reliable backup to live phytoplankton, the innovation helps safeguard production against unforeseen challenges like culture crashes or contamination.
As the Philippines continues to expand its aquaculture industry, scientific advancements like this are vital. Milkfish, or bangus, remains one of the country’s most important fish species, supporting local livelihoods, food security, and regional economies. With NFRDI’s research, hatcheries can improve survival rates and productivity, ensuring more efficient and resilient milkfish production nationwide.
The next steps for DA-NFRDI include wider field testing, training for hatchery operators, and potential integration of algal paste into standard hatchery protocols. Experts believe that combining traditional knowledge with modern science will help sustain aquaculture for future generations of Filipino fish farmers.
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