GIS mapping and spatial pattern distribution of milkfish (Chanos chanos) growers in selected Barangays in the Municipality of Dumangas, Iloilo

Abstract

This study intended to create a map utilizing GIS mapping and pattern distribution of milkfish grower in the Municipality of Dumangas. The highest contributors of milkfish production are found in Brgy. Bacay, Dacutan and Sapao in the municipality of Dumangas, Iloilo. Milkfish are commonly raised in brackish water fishponds. Brgy. Bacay produced 13.2 MT annually resulting to 0.9 tons per ha. with the total production area of 127 ha. Brgy. Dacutan has an estimated area of 83 ha. producing an average annual production of 15 MT, amounting 0.5 tons per ha. Brgy. Sapao contributes higher production of milkfish with the total pond area of 218 ha. with the average annual production of 17 MT, averaging 1 ton per hectare. The results of the spatial analysis using the average nearest neighbor method indicate that the milkfish growers in Dumangas are not clustered but rather dispersed. Locations of the fishponds are spread out across the municipality rather than concentrated in a single area. Based on the pattern distribution analysis the area of milkfish growers resulted to dispersed data based on the number of milkfish area. These varying patterns and directions of distribution reflect how growers have adapted pond locations based on accessibility, water availability, and land suitability. Thematic maps produced serve as a valuable information resource that effectively supports and enhances the data on milkfish production in the Municipality of Dumangas, Iloilo.