Lake Sebu Fish Kill Overview

LAKE SEBU FISH KILL OVERVIEW

Objectives:

        Its purpose is to prevent the death of the fish here in the lake which is one of the sources of livelihood of the people here in Lake Sebu.

Introducing the Municipality of Lake Sebu:

Kemdol Lake Sebu

       The Municipality of Lake Sebu is a first class municipality in the province of South Cotabato, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 81,221 people. The best selling Lonely Planet described Lake Sebu as a place located in a bowl of forests and mountains.

What is fish kill?

        The term fish kill, is also known as fish die-off that is refers to localized die-off of a fish populations that may also be associated with more generalized mortality of the aquatic life. It is the sudden and unexpected death of a number of fish or other aquatic animals.

KEMOHUNG

         The fish kill was a caused by a phenomenon called "kemohung" or "kamahong" which is characterized by sudden changes in the lake's temperature. Often occuring during the wet season, kamahong triggers the rise of sulfuric acid that eventually lowers the dissolved oxygen in the lake's waters.

What are the effects of fish kills?

       Fish kills event is an indicator that ecosystems health and water quality have been deteriorated. It may indicate that water may have been contaminated with biotoxins (algal blooms) or chemicals (pesticides/herbicides) or microbial pathogens.

How to prevent fish kills?

  In order to prevent fish suffocation in fertile lakes:

• Do not overstock fish

• Fence livestock from the lake and upstream waters

• Prevent manure and animal waste runoff into the lake

• Proper management of your lake will greatly reduce the chances of a fish kill due to low dissolved oxygen levels

      As humans, we shouldn't just simply use or waste our resources because, as beings who possess a greater intellect than other species, we are obliged to protect and preserve human nature. It's our responsibility to do things that could benefit our environment. Preserving natural resources and avoiding things that can cause the occurrence of environmental issues are some of the things that we must do.When it comes to environmental issues, Baranggay officials and the people of Lake Sebu should be at the forefront. They should take action and make plans to resolve the issue. If they won't move, who will? People of all ages must participate in environmental activities such as tree planting and clean-up drives. Their willingness and participation can provide greater help and have a positive impact on their society. Let's make our environment greener and live in a safe and healthy society.