Fisher Folk Research Articles

Coupling and synchronization of HIV/AIDS fisher folk metapopulations

Coupling and synchronization of HIV/AIDS fisher folk metapopulations

Equitable food and nutrition security initiatives for farmers and fisher folks in Masbate, Philippines

Loss of income among Filipino farmers and fisher folks caused by the pandemic resulted to food and nutrition insecurity in their respective households. Their low level of education limited their source of livelihood into small scale farming, fishing, or both thus also limiting their income and opportunity to find additional sources of income. Descriptive statistics was used alongside Smith’s Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis to analyze the data and understand the respondents’ lived experiences. The pandemics negative effect to their source of livelihood prompted them to institute drastic coping mechanisms for survival. Despite the dire situation the respondents still possess a positive outlook in life and have shown their usual resiliency to disasters. Life lessons drawn from them aided in the formulation of personal and organizational development policies in the context of the province of Masbate, Philippines. Finally, the Smart Sirungan Framework for a Food and Nutrition Secure Future was created and presented for possible utilization and further studies.

Analysing the Factors Influencing the Inclusive Development of Fisher Folk Concerning Southern Districts of Tamil Nadu

The state’s economy depends significantly on the work of fishermen. The purpose of the Development of Fisher folk is to create a community of fishermen that is fully developed in all areas, including education, health, social standing, and economic development. The many Fisher community’s development programs are designed to aid all men, women, youth, and children who work in fishing activities and reside in coastal areas by enhancing their access to education, healthcare, culture, and employment possibilities. The paper examines the factors influencing the inclusive development of fisher folk in southerly districts of Tamil Nadu. Through field surveys, fundamental knowledge is gathered. To compile a thorough profile of the socioeconomic circumstances of the households of the fishermen, an interview schedule has been created. By using convenience sampling, 200 respondents from Tamil Nadu’s southern districts, were included in the final sample set. Therefore, the results revealed that climatic change and inadequate technology significantly impact the Fisher communities’ inclusive development. The outcome of the results also shows the insignificant relation between inadequate facilities for storing the catch impact and inclusive development of fishing communities. Factors influencing inclusive development include socio-demographic characteristics, climate change, lack of occupational return, inadequate storage facilities, lack of knowledge, technology, and financial institutions. Age, marital status, education, and involvement do not significantly impact development. The findings also show that the development of the fishing community is unaffected by a lack of financial institutions, expertise, or awareness. The results confirmed that state assistance was inefficient in reaching the targeted society and emphasised the need for further planned government intervention. By creating additional capacity structure initiatives that maintain and provide continuous social defence and engage the coastal community through an innovative alertness campaign, the authorities may demonstrate their commitment to the full development of aquatic fishermen.

Assessment of knowledge and utilization of antenatal care services among tribal women of Palakkad district, Kerala: a cross-sectional study

Background: Nearly 800 women die out of preventable causes associated with pregnancy and childbirth worldwide every day, with low and middle-income countries contributing approximately 90% of the mortality. The majority of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable with the provisioning of cost-effective services like antenatal care (ANC). Despite Kerala having a good human development index compared to other states in India, marginalized groups like Dalit, Adivasi, and fisher folks are still behind the development process, including the utilization of ANC services. This study assessed the knowledge and utilization of ANC services among tribals in Kerala, India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 45 tribal women of Palakkad district, Kerala, who registered for ANC and delivered child. Convenient sampling was used to select study participants. Descriptive statistics were used to obtain frequency and percentage. The chi-square test was carried out to see the association between identified variables. Results: Among 45 participants, 28.89% fell under the adequate ANC utilization. 64.46% did early ANC registration, 73.3% visited ANC more than four times, 75.56% completed the 2 tetanus toxoid (TT) injections, and 66.67% consumed more than 100 iron-folic acid tablets. About 73.3% of participants knew the importance of immunizing children against vaccine-preventable diseases. Conclusions: Even in an egalitarian state like Kerala with high literacy, ANC service utilization among tribal communities is still below 70%. The issue is multifaceted and requires a more nuanced approach. The health system must adopt comprehensive, context-specific, and community-based approaches.

IMPACT OF SEA ROBBERY ON ARTISANAL FISH PRODUCTION IN AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

The study assessed the Impact of Sea Robbery on Artisanal Fish Production in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Specifically, this study compared the income of the fisher-folks affected by sea robbery and those not affected; estimated and compared costs and returns in artisanal fish production by both groups of fisherfolks; determine and compare the effect of socio-economic characteristics on the level of fish output of fisher folks affected by sea robbery and those not affected. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used among others to select the sample size of 202 respondents (fisher-folks) for the study area. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and interpersonal interviews. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regressions, were employed to test the hypotheses also budgetary technique was used to estimate the costs and returns in artisanal fish production. Distribution of respondents by income showed the mean income of ₦351,990.10 for fisher-folks affected by sea robbers, while fisher-folks not affected by sea robbers had the mean income of ₦764,534.65. Costs and returns analysis revealed returns on investment (ROI) of ₦0.55 for fisher folks attacked by sea robbers, while returns on investment (ROI) revealed ₦0.79 for fisher folks not attacked by sea robbers. The multiple regression results for both fisher folks attacked and those not attacked by the sea robbers on the output (k.g) and socio-economic characteristics showed a positive relationship for both groups. The study recommended increase surveillance and patrol along waterways in the study area especially rural fishing settlements. This will assist to abate the surge of sea robbery which has high level of negative interference with fishing activities in the study area.

The Role of Organic Agriculture in Poverty Alleviation in Southern Philippines

This paper examines the impact of organic agriculture towards poverty alleviation among farmers in Sarangani Province, a southern province of the Philippines. In the Philippines, agriculture sector accounts the highest poverty incidences particularly on farmers and fisher folk. Using a qualitative case study design, the realities on the ground are drawn from insights of organic farmers using key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Interestingly, organic agriculture shows potential for poverty alleviation as it addresses fundamental problems among farmers such as food availability, sufficient nutrition, and source of daily income. Food security for the locality through organic farming remains a challenge as surplus production is met by intensive labor requirements for organic farming especially for rice and corn. This paper argues that organic agriculture potentials for poverty alleviation can be maximized when equipment, transfer of technology, and entrepreneurial/marketing components are further extended to the farmers as part state intervention. While relationship with the civil society and the industry can be improved to increase the income potential of organic farmers.

Perception of climate change and adoption of climate smart fisheries among artisanal fishers

Fisheries, particularly small-scale fisheries, is recognized as a source of dietary diversity, food security, and poverty alleviation. Fish is widely regarded as a significant source of protein. Despite the significance of fisheries, it is faced with several challenges such as constant change in climate. This study was conducted to examine the perception of fisher folks on climate change and the relationship between socio-economic characteristics and adoption of climate smart fisheries using semi-structured questionnaire. Perception towards climate change and adoption of climate-smart fisheries were analyzed using statistical inferential statistics. The predictor of co-management as a mitigative measure for climate change in fisheries was also analyzed with an ordered logistic regression technique. The result showed that 92.5 % of the fishers have formal education. Majority of the fishers (98.3 %) have no access to storage facilities whilst 96.66 % have access to market. In addition, 31.66 % of the fishers have access to information on climatic and weather conditions. On the perception of climate change, 47.5 % of fishers perceived decrease in amount of rainfall as evidence of climate change whilst 66.6 % perceived decrease in sea level as evidence of climate change. A few fishers perceived an increase in humidity, change in temperature and wind-storm or sea breeze as evidence of climate change. Again, 48.33 % of the fishers agree to reduction of fleet's carbon emission whilst 33.33 % fishers disagreed to diversifying sources of household income as an adoption to climate-smart fisheries. Additional cost in the beginning of adoption of climate smart fisheries as a constraint was agreed upon by 50.00 % of fishers. The results of the ordered logistic regression show that age, education, having a second source of income and an increase of fuel subsidy are statistically significant to fishers perception of the extent to which co-management could contribute to address climate change was detected.

Perceptions and attitudes towards unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) use for delivery of HIV medication among fisher folk communities on the Islands of Kalangala, Uganda.

The study aimed to assess the attitudes of stakeholders towards the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (medical drones) for delivering antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Kalangala district of Uganda, which is comprised of 84 islands and has approximately 18,500 People Living with HIV (PLHIV). A qualitative baseline study was conducted to assess the acceptability and feasibility of using a medical drone for ART delivery in the island settlements of Kalangala Islands. The data revealed four emerging themes: knowledge about the drones, perceived benefits of medical drone delivery, perceived risks of medical drone use, and recommendations for future use. The study found that most participants, especially healthcare workers and key opinion leaders, were aware of the medical drones, which could reduce transport costs, deliver medication on time, and reduce healthcare workers' workload. However, there were also perceived risks related to the use of medical drones, such as stigma, reduced contact with healthcare providers, and maintenance and security issues. The study provided evidence that medical drones would be acceptable and have support from various stakeholders in the island settlements for ART delivery. However, concerns were raised about potential stigma and less health worker interaction. This qualitative work allowed the team to address these concerns during the pilot phase.

Tracking device system using LoraWan for motorized and non-motorized Banca in Catanduanes

LoRa (Long Range) technology is suggested as an effective way to ensure the safety of fisher folks in Catanduanes. The paper proposes a tracking device system for boats there, using low-power wireless tech to transmit data between the device and a network of gateways. This technology can send small data amounts over long distances, enabling real-time location tracking even in areas with weak network signals. When paired with GPS, LoRa can boost tracking accuracy. The system includes a GPS module, water level sensor, and emergency button. Test results confirm the Neo 6M GPS module provides precise boat location coordinates. The water sensor triggers an emergency signal to authorities if levels get critical. Additionally, a webpage displays real-time locations of LoRa devices, helping personnel track their movement.

Assessment of Climate Change Variables Impact on Fishing Livelihood of some Fishing Communities in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos, Nigeria

This study examined the impact of climate change variables on fishing livelihood in some communities in Badagry Local Government Area of Lagos State, Nigeria. It utilized a well-structured questionnaire that was distributed among the 306 respondents randomly to inquire into the demographic, fishing activities, perception on climate change and adaptation mechanism of respondents to climate change. It was found that 86.3% of the respondents were familiar with the climate change variables such as rainfall, windfall, drought etc. Also, 92.5%, and 85.8% of the respondents claimed to know that erratic rainfall and temperature respectively is due to climate change and affected their fishing activities. The perception of the respondents on the climate variability impact on the fishing activities has nothing to do with their gender at t (238) = -1.440, p = 0.151. A significant correlation was discovered in the perceived climate change variables and their effect on the fishing activities of the fisher folks in each of the communities (r =0.274; p<0.05). Perceived oscillation of unusual dry and wet season in the past few years was significant, c2 (1, N = 240) = 86.40, p<0.05 with the fishing activities and income. Lastly, Employment status, annual income and education share a non-significant relationship [F (2, 240) = 0.171, p=0.843] to swift adaptation to climate variable effects among the fish farmers. In conclusion, reduction in the fishing activities livelihood and income of the fisher folks in the communities has been ascribed to the effect of climate change variables.

Does the pandemic disrupt the livelihoods of marine fishermen? Evidence from Kerala during the pre- and post-lockdown periods of Covid-19

Purpose This paper aims to determine the implications of Covid-19 on the livelihood of marine fishermen. It gives a concrete picture of how vulnerable communities like marine fishermen are affected due to the lockdown policies. The paper examines these communities' present status and the extent of vulnerability during the post-Covid period.Design/methodology/approach The study uses an exploratory research design to find the solution to the research problem. 298 samples were collected and analysed within a sustainable livelihood theoretical framework. The scope of the study is limited to marine fishermen in Kerala, residing in six districts out of the nine coastal districts. The impact of the lockdown on income was analysed using paired t-test and results linked with the theory.Findings The study has done an empirical analysis for three periods: before lockdown, lockdown and after lockdown, to identify the impact of lockdown on marine fishermen. The study's significant findings are that these fishermen's livelihood is at risk during the post-lockdown period, and many families are moving into a “debt-trap”.Research limitations/implications Policymakers can develop appropriate policy strategies to enhance the livelihood assets of vulnerable communities to include them in a sustainable framework.Originality/value Only a few studies are highlighting the impact of Covid-19 on vulnerable communities in India. The effects of climate change on the marine ecosystem are already endangering marine fisher folks' livelihoods. In this light, it is vital to study the extent of the impact of income shock on the livelihood assets of marine fishermen due to the lockdown policy implemented in the State to prevent the spread of Covid-19.Peer reviewThe peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2023-0192

Population structure of Indian river shad, Gudusia chapra (Hamilton, 1822) from the Rupsha River, south-west Bangladesh

The Indian river shad, Gudusia chapra, is a well-known species of potamodromous fish belonging to the Clupeidae family. The main focus of this study is to state the sex ratio, growth pattern, length-length relationship, form factor, Fulton’s condition factor and relative weight of G. chapra harvested from the Rupsha River (south-west Bangladesh). Altogether 300 specimens (male=166 and female=134) were harvested with the help of commercial fisher folks on seasonal basis (summer, rainy and winter) during 2022. Body weight and length of individual specimen were recorded with digital balance and measuring board. Total length varied between 12.7 to 16.5 cm for males and 13.0 to 17.3 cm for females. Further, body weight ranged between 15.82 to 42.48 g for male and 18.36 to 46.65 g for female. As a whole, both sexes revealed positive allometric growth pattern (b>3.00). Moreover, the length-length relationships were found highly correlated for both sexes. The estimated form factor was 0.0087 indicated fusiform body shape for G. chapra population. The mean Fulton’s condition factor was recorded close to 1 indicated a pleasant health condition for this species. Further, mean relative weight revealed a sound ecological atmosphere regarding prey-predator status. The research outcomes would be helpful to execute a sound management policy in the Rupsha River and connected ecosystem in the south-west Bangladesh.
 

Geochemical and Geospatial Distribution of Organic Contaminants in the Flood Plain of Ekpetiama, Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

This study investigated the geochemical and geospatial distribution of organic contaminants in the floodplain water and sediments of Ekpetiama in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. This study is necessary because there are limited data on the level of organic contamination in this section of the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. The extinction of planktons in Ekpetiama became a source of concern to the residents. This concern is because this section of the coastal plain provides fisher folks with livelihood. So, there was a need to track the source of contamination in this part of the Niger Delta region. Previous studies have suggested a high level of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon and Total Hydrocarbon Content as possible sources of reduced dissolved oxygen in similar deltaic terrain. A total of 10 water and 10 sediment samples were collected and analyzed in triplicate at an interval of 100 m in the flood plain. A particle size analyzer was used to perform particle size analyses of air-dried sediments. The American Public Health Association method (APHA) was used to do the chemical analysis of the water samples. Here, a liquid-liquid extraction procedure was performed on sediment samples using 30 mL of Dichloromethane (DCM) as the extracting agent. The results were subjected to statistical validation. The mean grain size ranged from 2.37-4.83, kurtosis (1.94-0.49), and skewness (-0.8-0.71). The contaminant indicators (pH, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen and Total Organic Carbon) point to the presence of organic contamination of the flood plain. The results indicated a total petroleum hydrocarbon range of 0.47-0.87 ppm in water and 0.69-0.96 ppm in sediments and a total hydrocarbon content range of 1.10-2.80 ppm in water and 2.56-3.90 ppm in sediment# samples. The results were above the permitted limits of the World Health Organisation. The source of ecological damage is the abnormal concentrations of organic contaminants in the flood plain. These results significantly caused ecosystem damage and human health effects in the food chain. This study provides information to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency for a cleanup process.

Geochemical and Geospatial Distribution of Organic Contaminants in the Flood Plain of Ekpetiama, Niger Delta Region of Nigeria

This study investigated the geochemical and geospatial distribution of organic contaminants in the floodplain water and sediments of Ekpetiama in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. This study is necessary because there are limited data on the level of organic contamination in this section of the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. The extinction of planktons in Ekpetiama became a source of concern to the residents. This concern is because this section of the coastal plain provides fisher folks with livelihood. So, there was a need to track the source of contamination in this part of the Niger Delta region. Previous studies have suggested a high level of Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon and Total Hydrocarbon Content as possible sources of reduced dissolved oxygen in similar deltaic terrain. A total of 10 water and 10 sediment samples were collected and analyzed in triplicate at an interval of 100 m in the flood plain. A particle size analyzer was used to perform particle size analyses of air-dried sediments. The American Public Health Association method (APHA) was used to do the chemical analysis of the water samples. Here, a liquid-liquid extraction procedure was performed on sediment samples using 30 mL of Dichloromethane (DCM) as the extracting agent. The results were subjected to statistical validation. The mean grain size ranged from 2.37-4.83, kurtosis (1.94-0.49), and skewness (-0.8-0.71). The contaminant indicators (pH, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen and Total Organic Carbon) point to the presence of organic contamination of the flood plain. The results indicated a total petroleum hydrocarbon range of 0.47-0.87 ppm in water and 0.69-0.96 ppm in sediments and a total hydrocarbon content range of 1.10-2.80 ppm in water and 2.56-3.90 ppm in sediment# samples. The results were above the permitted limits of the World Health Organisation. The source of ecological damage is the abnormal concentrations of organic contaminants in the flood plain. These results significantly caused ecosystem damage and human health effects in the food chain. This study provides information to the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency for a cleanup process.

Machine Learning Techniques for Intrusion Detection of Fishermen and Trespassing into Foreign Seas

Issues regarding trespassing and intrusion of fishermen in the maritime boundary line is of great importance to be discussed nowadays. One of the main reasons still existing is transgression for better catch of fishes in foreign waters. Thus is a concern, and in order to prevent this issue from becoming a national security threat, it should be taken care of, by identifying the intruders as the first step to get a better view on the situation. Finally, in the hope to slim the chances of transgressions by marine fisher folk, a SVM model based on Automated Identification System that makes use of real-world data is implemented that will analyse the possibility of successful detection of intrusions of fisherman by categorising the vessel as normal or anomalous one. Convolution Neural Network model is used to find whether it is ship or not a ship, and if it is ship then it will categorize whether it belongs to anomalous or non-anomalous. The model's validation accuracy of 96% shows that it can correctly identify whether a ship is present in each image.

Fisher Folk Disaster Environment and Management

In order to develop proactive program management frameworks, the research set out to assess the requirements and issues of the fishing community. The methods used program-proactive evaluation by John Owen; criteria selection took into account purposive random sampling technique; used interview guide protocol; grounded theory matrix on the data analysis; and served as the basis for the paradigm illustration. The research revealed that respondents had experienced both natural and man-made disasters. Everyone affected, including the participant's family members, experiences anxiety and stress as a result of the destruction. Additionally, there aren't any long-term government initiatives, and organizational management is poor. The paper covers the fisherfolk management framework to develop the institutional processes in terms of participatory governance, leading by example, and enhancing transparency. The fisherfolk association's growing capacity for organizational development in the face of disasters is strongly correlated with early warning disaster messages, disaster planning, education advocacy programs, emergency response skills, sustainable livelihood health programs, financial insurance coverage, and multi-sector community support partnerships.

PROMOTING TECHNOLOGY EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE UTILIZATION OF SOLAR-POWERED COASTAL WATER MONITORING SYSTEM

The Solar-Powered Coastal Water Monitoring System was developed to specifically monitor the level and temperature of coastal water in real-time and generate a report from the collected data. The system is designed using an LM35 temperature sensor, PVC pipe with copper wires calibrated at actual metric measurement, a real-time clock, GSM, and a solar panel. The system was installed in a coastal area to test reliability, accuracy, and response time. The sensor was submerged in the coastal water to measure its level and temperature and transmit these data automatically every 6 hours daily or as specified. Selected fisher folks, IT experts, and a BFAR representative evaluated the system in terms of functionality, aesthetics, workability, durability, economy, and safety. The evaluation reveals that the system is excellent, as indicated by the overall mean of 4.40, which means that the system is beneficial to the residents of the community as well as the government agency that directly handles and monitors such information and reports.

Studies on some Physico-Chemical parameters and heavy metals concentration in the tissues of Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus from Amansea River of Anambra state, Nigeria

The physico-chemical parameters of Amansea River and the bioaccumulation of heavy metals in two most prevalence fish species Oreochromis nilotics and Clarias gariepinus of the river, were studied from February to September. The fish specimens were procured monthly from artisanal fisher folks from three sampling stations I, II and III. The samples were taking to the laboratory, and were analysed for heavy metals using 240 Version Atomic Absorption Spectrophometer (AAS) method. There were presence of Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Chromium (Cr) and Cadmium (Cd) presence in the two fish species tested. The heavy metal ranking in descending order in O. niloticus are As>Pb>Hg>Cr>Cd, with mean concentration mg/kg-1 values of 5.093±0.153, 1.039±0.059, 0.134±0.012, 0.084±0.003 and 0.053±0.007 respectively, while C. gariepinus heavy metal ranking in descending order are Cd<As<Hg<Pb<Cr, with heavy metal mean plus standard deviation (SD) concentration mg/kg-1 values of 2.805±0.008, 2.784±0.058, 0.652±0.003, 0.555±0.008 and 0.365±0.026 respectively. The heavy metal concentration in the tissues of both fish species were higher than permissible limit for fish by the WHO/FAO of 0.2/0.5, 0.30/0.30, 0.05/, 0.05/0.05 and 0.020/0.02 mg/kg-1, rendering fishes from the river dangerous for human consumption. The physico-chemical parameters (To, pH, Salinity, DO, and Conductivity) of 280C, 6.60, 0.25ppt., 6.29mg/L-1 and 84.08us/cm-1 respectively were within the Federal Ministry of Environment standard for fish survival and growth. The high level of heavy metal concentration, calls for serious intervention, monitoring, control and management of activities going on along the river to prevent sicknesses associated with heavy metals bioaccumulation.

Studies on fish species diversity, abundance and Distributon along Onitsha axis of River Niger, Anambra State of Nigeria

A study on biodiversity, abundance and distribution was carried out in Onitsha Axis of River Niger in Onitsha North and South Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria for a period of three months. The area was partitioned into Station I (Emejuru), Station II (Bridge Head) and Station III (Akpaka). Fish samples were collected weekly from July to September, 2019 with the aid of fisher folks using gill nets, cast nets, hook and lines and local traps. The results showed a total composition of 4,645 individuals belonging to 15 families and 31 species. Momyridae showed significance (p<0.05) species diversity with seven (7), followed by Bagridae (5) spp. with the remaining 13 families having one and two spp. Station III Akpaka recorded the highest fish diversity of 37%, followed by Station I Emejuru 34% and Station II Bridge head 29%. In terms of species abundance, Bagrus bayad 13.9% >bagrus docmak 8.8% >Chryschythys Nigrodigitatus7.2% >Bargus filamentous 4.5% >Malapters electricus 4.4% >Heterotis niloticus 4.0% >Orochromis niloticus 3.8% >Mormyrus macrophatalmus 3.3%) recorded the highest, followed by Heterobranchus bidorsalis, Mormyrus rume, Mormyrus tarpirus, Mormyrus senegalensis, Schibe mystus Synodontis clarias and Cithrinus citharus had 2.2%, 2.3%, 3.0%, 1.7%, 2.9%, 1.6% and 3.2% respectively, and Hypothermirus pissitacus the least with 0.4%. This research shows that the Onitsha axis of the River Niger is still rich in fish species diversity and abundance; hence concerted efforts should be made by the various government agencies to see that laws guiding the proper use of water bodies are enforced in the Onitsha axis of the River Niger, to enhance economics, conservation and sustainability.

Study on the Work Life of Fisher folks in Thota Bengre Fishing Community in Coastal Mangaluru

Study on the Work Life of Fisher folks in Thota Bengre Fishing Community in Coastal Mangaluru