Europa-Morales, Anna Liza Villanueva

Abstract: The seaweed Kawkawayan (Gracilaria sp.), marketed as a food product in the Ilocos Region, has the potential for high profitability due to its growing demand across various industries. The research, conducted in Sinait, Ilocos Sur, used the raft culture method to assess growth by measuring average weight every 15 days and analyzing its relationship with seawater parameters (dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, salinity, water current, conductivity, water temperature, and total dissolved solids). The data were analyzed using a descriptive correlation design, employing the Mean and Pearson Product Moment of Correlation. A 3.5 X 5 m raft with six monolines containing 23 seedlings was installedin the culture site.The results indicated that pH, conductivity, TDS, and turbidity were within the normal range, whereas temperature, salinity, DO, and water current were above the average. Gracilaria's weight increased consistently every 15 days, reaching a peak of 22.99 gon the 105thday. However, there was no significant correlation between the weight gain and the measured seawater parameters. The fluctuations in Gracilaria’sweight were linked to thallus breakdown caused byvigorous water movements.The study’s findings should be made available tofisherfolks in the coastal communitywho cultivate Gracilaria; optimal cultivation of this seaweed can be obtained when disturbances are minimal particularly from February to May thus boosting aquaculture productivity. Alternative cultivation methods like tubular nets and cage systems, along with valuable seaweed species, are recommended. Fisherfolks’ participation is crucial for their success and the future of seaweed farming and marine resource conservation.

Keywords: Gracilaria sp;raft culture method;water parameters;growth increment

SDG: SDG 2, SDG 8, SDG 12, SDG 13, SDG 14

Abstract: Oyster mushroom cultivation is a sustainable practice that converts agricultural waste into valuable resources, enhancing food security and economic stability. This research examined oyster mushroom growth and production using peanut hulls and nuts as substrate supplements. The study assessed growth parameters (stipe length and diameter, pileus diameter and thickness) and production parameters (number of mushrooms per cluster, number of clusters harvested, and weight per cluster) on different substrate formulations: sawdust-molasses-limestone (S1), sawdust-molasses-limestone with 2% peanut hull (S2), sawdust-molasses-limestone with 2% nut (S3), and sawdust-molasses-limestone with 2% molasses (S4). Substrates were prepared using a completely randomized design through drying, mixing, and fermentation. The sawdust and molasses substrate produced the longest stipe and largest pileus diameter, while the sawdust and nuts substrate resulted in the largest pileus diameter, highest number of mushrooms per cluster, and greatest cluster weight. ANOVA analysis indicated no statistically significant differences between substrates, suggesting similar effects among the combinations. The study recommends using sawdust and nuts for optimal growth and production, avoiding molasses due to its inhibitory effects on cluster formation. Further research should investigate the nutrient contributions and pH levels of each substrate component to refine recommendations. Mushroom cultivators should monitor substrate pH and incorporate nuts to enhance production, with agricultural extension services providing training on effective substrate optimization.

Keywords: oyster mushroom, substrate supplement, growth and production parameters

SDG: SDG 2, SDG 8, SDG 9, SDG 12, SDG 13