- Project Leader：Mitamrua Hiromichi (Kyoto University, Graduate School of Informatics)
- Collaborators：Thavee Viputhanumas (Department of Fisheries, Thai, Inland Fisheries Bureau)
- Boonsong Richaroendham (Department of Fisheries, Thai, Inland Fisheries Bureau)
- Kobayashi Satoru (Kyoto University, Center For Southeast Asian Studies)
- Arai Nobuaki (Kyoto University, FSERC)
- Mitsunaga Yasushi (Kinki University, Faculty of Agriculture)
Outline of Research
We will develop a sustainable fishery model together with local people at the Kaeng Krachan reservoir of Thailand by proposing the appropriate number of fish to release and recapture for stock enhancement. We will first confirm with government agencies the numbers of Mekong giant catfish currently being released and captured. We will then document fishing gear and methods, and develop improvements with local fishermen. After a period of testing new gear and methods, we will propose appropriate levels of release and capture for optimal stock sustainability.
Description
Across Southeast Asia, people release fish seedlings and engage in aquaculture without knowledge of how to sustain the stock. The Mekong giant catfish is one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, highly endangered, and an important target species for fisheries. The project will establish a sustainable fishery of Mekong giant catfish in Kaeng Krachan Reservoir of Thailand as a model for others to learn from.
Stock management is necessary for the sustainable use of rare species. This study will provide a model of sustainable fishery management to ensure the sustainable consumption of Thailand’s rare great catfish.
In addition to interviews with partners, points of improvement will be sampled together with local fishermen. Through fruitful exchanges, we expect to discover methods in efficient fishing and develop fishing gear. Identifying appropriate numbers of fish will facilitate smooth management of the stock and promote the idea of sustainable fisheries.
 Beautiful blue sky in dry season. The water level of the Kaeng Krachan reservoir was lower and the smaller number of fish was harvested. People pray for the blessed rain. |
 A huge Mekong giant catfish and people with smile at a fish market. The catfish was captured at the Kaeng Krachan reservoir, Thailand. Four 50kg-scales were needed for its weight measurement. |