Socio-ecological dimensions of intertidal gleaning: The use of local ecological knowledge to identify commercially important gastropods in Iligan Bay, Philippines
Paper Details
Socio-ecological dimensions of intertidal gleaning: The use of local ecological knowledge to identify commercially important gastropods in Iligan Bay, Philippines
Abstract
Intertidal gleaning serves as a source of food and income for numerous coastal communities in the Philippines. Nevertheless, the socio-economic and ecological dimensions of intertidal gleaning remain under-researched. This study examined the socioeconomic level of gleaners, their harvesting methods, and their perceived diversity and abundance of edible gastropods in Iligan Bay, particularly in Biga, Lugait, Misamis Oriental, Kiwalan, Iligan City, Lanao del Norte and Tacub, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. Data was collected through household surveys and field sampling, integrating Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) with scientific assessment. Gleaning was mostly carried out by women, older adults, and those with elementary and high school education. Although mainly intended for household consumption, it additionally functioned as a supplementary income source. Gastropod diversity exhibited significant richness, with Strombidae, Conidae, and Cypraeidae as predominant families. Gleaning patterns varied by site: Biga and Tacub showed higher day-and-night activity, while Kiwalan demonstrated moderate daytime harvesting. Harvesting methods differed distinctly, with handpicking dominant in Biga and Tacub, and wading hand gleaning most common in Kiwalan. Gleaners reported declining gastropod populations, attributed to overharvesting, pollution, and destructive fishing practices. Current management measures face difficulties concerning enforcement and awareness. To ensure long-term viability of gastropod resources and coastal livelihoods, enhancing community-based management, environmental education, and integrating local ecological knowledge in scientific research is essential.
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Katrina Flores, Armi G. Torres, Wella T. Tatil, Ivane R. Pedrosa-Gerasmio*, 2026. Socio-ecological dimensions of intertidal gleaning: The use of local ecological knowledge to identify commercially important gastropods in Iligan Bay, Philippines. J. Biodiv. Environ. Sci., 28(1), 126-137.
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