Bodboron Fish: An Overview from the Philippines
The Bodboron fish is a key part of the Philippines’ marine ecosystem and is interesting for those who love aquatic life.
This article will discuss its different names in the Philippines, its scientific classification, and its important role in Filipino food, especially in the Visayas region.
We’ll also discuss the old and new ways Filipino fishermen catch this fish.
Table of Contents
Names and Identification
This fish is known by many names in the Philippines. In areas where people speak Chavacano, Davawenyo, and Visayan, it’s still called “Bodboron”.
In science, this fish is part of two species: Auxis rochei (Bullet tuna) and Auxis thazard (Frigate tuna). These names show the fish’s scientific classification and link it to other marine species in the Philippines.
Habitat and Distribution of Bodboron Fish in the Philippines
Bodboron, which includes two species of tuna, is mainly found in the Philippines Fishery Management Area 4 (FMA 4).
This area covers the southeastern part of the Sulu Sea, including the Panay Gulf, waters of the islands of Panay, Guimaras, and western Negros, down to the Zamboanga Peninsula, and the Sulu Archipelago.
Bullet tuna seems more common in this area. These species, often grouped under the “neritic tuna” category, are significant in the local fishing industry.
Culinary Uses
This fish is one of the favorites in Filipino food, especially as dried fish. It’s very popular in the Visayas region and is used in many local dishes. Dried Bodboron is versatile and can be cooked in many ways.
A common way to eat this fish is to fry it until it’s crispy and serve it with hot rice. This meal is often served with a sunny-side-up or scrambled egg, making a typical Filipino breakfast.
The salty fish, soft rice, and rich egg make a great meal to start the day. This way of cooking shows the fish’s taste and how it can be stored for a long time, making it a handy and important item in Filipino kitchens.
Fishing Techniques
To catch this fish, fishermen use many methods. Old techniques, which are part of the local culture, often use a hook and line, multiple hook and line setups, or jiggers, which are good for catching squid.
New fishing methods include trolling, jigging, and popping, which are also used in sport fishing. The bait is important, with local fishermen often using squid skin, hermit crab, or earthworms to attract the fish.
These baits are known to be good at attracting reef fish and larger pelagic fish.
