Kenya Aquatica Journal

ISSUE 50

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KMFRI takes lead in mangroves restoration guidelines launch at global fête

This year’s celebrations to mark the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem went a notch higher, with the launch of programs that support calls for sustainable management and protection of the mangrove ecosystem stealing the show.
The organizing committee of the International Day of Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem led by the chairperson of the National Mangrove Management Committee (NMMC), who is also a Principal Research Scientist at Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI) Dr. Judith Okello had lined up a series of activities for the whole week ahead of the main event all geared towards raising awareness on the important role mangrove forests play in conserving our marine ecosystem.
Partners drawn from the county government of Kwale led by HE the Governor, Hon Fatuma Achani, Kenya Forest Services, World Worldwide Fund, Kenya Fisheries Services, Plan International, Big Ship CBO, and many others joined hands in planting mangrove seedlings at Mkupe-kwa Mekwekwe Nyanje Tsunza in Kwale county to commemorate the international day of mangrove conservation.

KENYA AQUATICA JOURNAL AT ARBEC II (2024) HELD IN KISUMU, KENYA

VOLUME 9

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Volume 9 Contibutors

Stock status of the dash-and-dot goatfish, Parupeneus barberinus (Lacepède, 1801) in Kenya’s coastal marine waters

Abstract
Demersal reef fisheries are important for the provision of food and livelihoods for the coastal communities. The fisheries are multispecies, exploited by artisanal fishers using a diverse range of gear types. Data collated from artisanal fishers along the Kenya coastline for the period 2017 to 2023 was used to assess the stock status of Parupeneus barberinus to inform the management of the fishery....

Catch characteristics, gears, and fishing effort in reef fisheries: rabbit and emperor fish at Nyali landing site, Mombasa, Kenya

Abstract
Coral reefs are some of the most productive marine ecosystems, comprising a wide range of fish biodiversity and other marine organisms. Reef fisheries influence the ecosystem health, productivity and sustainability. The present study contributes to knowledge on the reef fish species, their sizes and the gears used with emphasis on...
The suitability of incentives in social research on artisanal fishing communities in coastal Kenya: A perspective

Abstract
Artisanal fishing communities in coastal Kenya contribute the largest proportion of the country’s total marine catch. This, coupled with nutritional value of fish, and the global focus on ensuring food security to all populations, makes coastal fishing communities excellent research subjects.....
Assessing cage fish farming practices in Lake Victoria, Kenya, for sustainable lake utilization and community well-being 

Abstract
The proliferation of cages in the Great Lakes of Africa is accompanied by the potential socio-economic outcomes which underscores a significant trend in the aquaculture industry that is supplementing the traditional fisheries production. In light of these considerations, the study herein was undertaken to comprehensively evaluate the potential impacts of high intensity of cages at a site in Lake Victoria, Kenya with the leading numerical focus
Quantifying fish bycatch in Lake Turkana: Potential for sustainable livelihood diversification

Abstract
The sustainability of fisheries in Lake Turkana is threatened by the pervasive issue of fish bycatch, wherein non-target species are unintentionally caught in fishing gear. This paper addresses this concern, recognizing its ecological and economic ramifications. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data was gathered on fish species diversity, bycatch rates and discard practices from various fishing gear types......
Effect of replacing Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal with fish meal in diets for African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) reared in earthen ponds

Abstract
The effect of replacing fish meal for black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFLM) on growth and feed utilization of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) was evaluated in earthen ponds at Sagana research Centre. 240 fish were distributed in a completely randomized design with four treatments in triplicates. Fish were fed increasing inclusion levels of BSFLM replacing fish meal (FM) at 0%, 33%, 66%, and 100 designated as D1, D2, D3 and D4 respectively.
Integration of remote sensing in watershed studies: A case study of Chawia & Fururu forested watersheds in Taita Hills, Kenya.

Abstract
The ever-increasing demand for water due to population growth and the current environmental impacts due to climate change have resulted in the drying up of springs, and a reduction in their discharge volumes in Taita Hills. These impacts necessitated the evaluation and exploration of groundwater resources in Taita Hills. 
Mangrove dieback due to massive sedimentation and its impact on associated biodiversity

Abstract
Emerging scientific evidence strongly suggests that the 1997/8 and 2000 rains in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region previously attributed to El-Niño were mainly caused by the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), a phenomenon whose frequency and intensity have increased over the years due to climate change. The abnormally high rainfall experienced during this time combined with poor land use managment, caused intense sedimentation due to erosion of terrigenous sediments, leading to extensive mangrove die-back in several areas in the WIO region. 

VOLUME 8 Issue 2

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Special Edition

This Special Edition of the Kenya Aquatica Journal covers the proceedings of the Workshop on the Solar Cooling and Drying (SolCoolDry) project and other climate-smart technologies, including the poster session, as well as the exhibition event hosted by the local community of Mwazaro. The Workshop and related events were held on February 7th – 8th 2023 to inaugurate the launch of the SolCoolDry technology in Kenya, a first of its kind in this region of Africa. The technology uses 100% solar-powered and off-grid system for cooling and drying fish and other perishable commodities including vegetables, fruits and seaweeds for value addition by local communities.
Community involvement in this technology through a tripartite collaboration with partner institutions from three key sectors comprising research, academia and industrial development will ensure sustainability of the SolCoolDry approach. Furthermore, it promises to be long lasting, with options for replicability along the Kenya coast and in other localities nationally, where aquatic systems comprising lakes, rivers and big dams exist.

VOLUME 8 Issue 1

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Volume 8 Issue 1 Contibutors

A preliminary assessment of the post-harvest fish losses along selected fish supply chains in Kwale County, Kenya

Abstract

Artisanal marine fisheries play a critical role in enhancing food security and supporting the livelihoods of Coastal communities in Kenya. The sustainable exploitation of this resource is however threatened by post-harvest fish losses (PHFLs) occurring along the entire fish value chain.We conducted an assessment of the PHFLs at five landing sites in Kwale County to investigate the status of these losses along selected fish supply chains in the County. 

Rapid assessment of the Indian mackerel Rastrelliger kanagurta fishery in Kenya’s coastal waters

Abstract

The Indian mackerel, Rastrelliger kanagurta is a highly migratory epipelagic species in the family Scombridae. The species plays a significant role in supporting the food security and livelihoods of coastal communities in the Western Indian Ocean. The exploitation status of R. kanagurta in Kenya’s waters is uncertain. This study evaluated the R. kanagurta fishery using available catch data collected from 2014-2015 and 2017-2020. The study described the catch dynamics and utilized a suite of length-based approaches to derive diagnostic indicators of the exploitation status.

Limnological status of Lake Oloidien in Kenya’s Rift Valley between 2020 and 2021

Abstract

Water samples were collected between August 2020 and March 2021 and analyzed for physicochemical parameters to ascertain the current limnological status of Lake Oloidien. The maximum mean depth of the lake recorded was 7.7 m in November, which corresponded with a high water transparency value (69.0 ± 3.4 cm) in the same month. There were no significant variations in temperatures among the sampled stations, mean ranges were 23.15 ± 1.15°C and 23.93 ± 1.09°C.

Assessing cage fish farming practices in Lake Victoria, Kenya, for sustainable lake utilization and community well-being 

Abstract

Aquaculture as an enterprise is hampered by the high cost of fish-based protein diets which account for 30 - 70% of the production cost. Alternative plant-based protein diets are paramount in guiding fish farmers on feed efficacy and fish stocking densities. This study analyzed the growth performance of marine acclimatized Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) using fish meal (animal protein), soybean (plant protein) and wheat bran (control) formulated diets. Nile tilapia fingerlings weighing 13 -17 g were cultured in hapa nets in three concrete-based ponds at stocking densities of 15 fish/m3, 10 fish/m3 and 5 fish/m3 for each feed treatment.

The potential of three culture techniques to mitigate environmental challenges and enhance yields of Eucheumoids (Rhodophyta; Gigartinales) in deep water on the Kenyan Coast

Abstract

Relocation of seaweed farms from shallow to deeper waters has been recommended to remedy seasonal infestation of seaweeds by ice-ice disease and epiphytes. However, data supporting the best culture technique for farmers’ adoption is scarce. In the present study, the production potentials of one shallow, fixed off-bottom (FB) and two deep water techniques; modified off-bottom (MB) and floating raft (FR) techniques were evaluated by comparing the yields of Eucheumadenticulatum and Kappaphycus alvarezii while monitoring the environmental factors.

COVID-19 Ripples: Vulnerability to food insecurity and coping strategies for low-income fisheries-dependent lacustrine urban dwellers

Abstract

The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) measures were counter-productive in the food and nutritional security landscape for households that were already vulnerable before the pandemic. Our study assessed the food insecurity experiences of low-income, fisheries-dependent, urban dwellers of Manyatta slum in Kisumu, Kenya, during the implementation of the COVID-19 regulations. Data was collected from 24 households in July 2021 for a period of 14 days using a standard food security assessment questionnaire

Alarming incidence of porcupinefish bycatch in the Lamu seascape beach seine fishery: Could this be a sign of an ecosystem imbalance?

Abstract

Overfishing and destructive fishing practices are strongly associated with loss of biodiversity and habitat degradation resulting in the proliferation of non-target and resilient species. In the longterm, this may also lead to an ecosystem imbalance. This short communication documents a worrying trend of high catch ratios of porcupinefish in the Lamu seascape beach seine fishery observed during catch assessment surveys conducted in 2021 – 2023. The increasing incidence high puffer bycatch is alarming fishers due to concerns over economic loss.

VOLUME 7

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Impact of COVID-19

Unmasking the impact of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of small-scale fishers along the Kenyan coast for possible interventions 

Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic caused many human deaths and was a multiplier of vulnerability for many households. Consequently, threatening attainment of food security especially in developing countries. This research survey examined the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 on the lives of small-scale fishers associated with restrictions imposed in response to the pandemic among Kenya’s coastal fishing communities. The survey was undertaken through interviews of stakeholders in major fishing areas of Lamu, Malindi and Shimoni, which are the richest inshore fishing grounds with high concentration of artisanal fishers. 

VOLUME 6

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Restoring a Degraded Reef

Low-Tech, Community-Accessible Method to Restore a Degraded Reef, in Wasini Island, Kenya

Abstract
Coral reefs are among most diverse and productive ecosystems on earth; providing essential services such as supporting fisheries and tourism sectors, thereby contributing to food security, job creation, and economic development. However, around the world coral reefs are in decline and degraded state due to a combination of human and natural factors. Coral reef restoration is seen a tool that can be used to return the dying reefs and increase their resiliency Techniques for active restoration using coral farming and transplantation on artificial reef structures have been well developed and
proved to be viable for reef rehabilitation of degraded reefs, yet are rarely practiced. A pilot lowtech, community-accessible reef restoration project was implemented in Wasini community managed area, Kenya. The aim was to rehabilitate degraded reef areas using artificial reef structures. Here, we describe the steps involved in coral rehabilitation and the resulting outcomes.

VOLUME 5

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Conference proceedings of the Kenya Coastal Development Project (KCDP)

Potential of Vetiver Grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) in Phytoremediation of Kipevu Wastewaters

Abstract
Wastewater treatment worldwide has mainly been done using physical, chemical and biological treatment systems such as activated sludge and biological nutrient removal technologies. Mombasa produces large amounts of pollutant-laden effluent water that is collected and primarily treated and discharged into the Indian Ocean. Various pollutants such as nitrates, phosphates, zinc and cadmium in water bodies pose a threat to the aquatic species. The aim of this study was to explore
the potential of vetiver grass as a phytoremediation technology to minimise pollutants in water bodies. Field experiments were carried out using plastic containers of five litres which were set-up simultaneously with planted grass hydroponically. Wastewater was characterized for physicochemical parameters before and after treatment with the grass.

VOLUME 4

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Access to Water in Kenya’s Coast Region

A Challenge to Community Development and Poverty Alleviation in Lamu County

Abstract

Water is considered a basic commodity and essential for life - living on planet earth is dependent on it. However, access to water has been and will continue to be a dilemma for a majority of the residents at the coast of Kenya. A close look at the window on “Coastal Resources and People” reveals that water is a key resource but despite its immense importance, many people especially in the rural areas and among the Vulnerable and Marginalized Groups (VMG’s) do not have adequate access to potable, reliable and convenient sources of water. Lamu, currently considered among water scarce counties in Kenya as per the Lamu County Integrated Development Plan (http://lamu.go.ke/wp content/uploads/2016/03/LAMU_CIDP-Revised.June_2014-1.pdf), faces serious challenge of provision of potable water to its residents

VOLUME 3

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Marine Botanical Resources of Kenya Coast

Investigations have shown that the Kenyan cooast botanical resources are underutilized and have not been realized as exploitable resources. Aaprt from the mangroves which are heavily exploited, algae and marine angiospre resources are the least exploited. In a steo to realize these as future exploitable resources their current uses in kenya and how they could be used is discussed. Aview of research work which could be seen as a prelude to further research is also included.

VOLUME 2

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The national objectives as a basis for working out research requirements and priorities

In the modern world, research consstitutes a powerful instrument for accelerating the pace of development and no nation can afford to neglect it. Research and experimental development (R& D) are being made to serve in an ever increasing degree and socioeconomiic needs of society and human welfare in its various aspects.
The present inadequacy of information for developmental purpose has highlighted the vital role of research and the need to orient it to serve developmental objectives. The question of identification of problems and assigning of priority then become a national concern which should be related to the resource endowments and the overall national perspectives.

VOLUME 1

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Application of Science and Technology in the development of Fisheries

The importance of fish as a source of animal protein has been generally recognised and many countries throughout the world are engaged in intensive programmes to develop their fishing industries. In the developing countries fish forms the main protein food for the many million people and fish and fishery products have been used to counteract the problem of malnutrition. In many countries fish is not merely regarded as a source of animal protein but as a valuable food generally. Some of the fishery products are internationally considered delicacies and do thus comriland very high prices in the market. The great increase in fish concuming population throughout the world -has created excessive demand for fish such that the trend is for the fish to change from a cheap source of animal protein to an expansive good commodity beyong the reach of the low income groups.