Bangus production in Mangaldan affected by water's high salinity

The high salinity level of water at fish ponds in Mangaldan, Pangasinan is affecting the growth and production of milkfish, known locally as bangus.

The growth of the bangus is affected if the water is too salty.

“Ang bangus, talagang sa tubig tabang ‘yan, pero pwede rin naman sila sa maalat. Kaya lang ang problema namin, sobrang alat talaga ng tubig dito,” said Jun Lambino, one of the bangus growers.

The town’s agriculturist echoes the statement.

“Kapag sobrang alat ng tubig, talagang hindi rin productive ang bangus,” said Merle Cuison-Sali, Mangaldan municipal agriculturist.

The hot weather in Pangasinan, especially in the morning, reportedly contributes to the water’s high salinity level. This is because hot temperature can cause water to evaporate but the ions that contribute to salinity remain.

As of this writing, heat index in Pangasinan reaches 46 to 48 degrees Celsius.

“Dito kasi sa amin, hindi pa masyadong umuulan. Mainit pa talaga, kaya malilit ang bangus,” Lambino said.

Based on monitoring by the Mangaldan Agriculture Office, it will take up to three months to harvest the fish.

“Ang dapat talaga i-monitor ay ang salinity level,” Cuison-Sali said. —GMA Regional TV