Internal Workshop on Genetic Data Integration for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia

SEAFDEC, with support from the Japan–ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the Japanese Trust Fund (JTF), organized the Internal Workshop on Genetic Data Integration and Final Analysis for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia on 10–13 September 2025 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The workshop was attended by technical staff from SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, SEAFDEC/Secretariat, and DNA experts involved in eel genetics and fisheries-management research.
In recent years, SEAFDEC has implemented several key projects, including the JAIF-supported initiative “Development of Stock-Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resource-Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia,” as well as ongoing activities under the JTF Program. These efforts have generated valuable genetic data from across ASEAN Member States to support the sustainable management of tropical anguillid eels.
The workshop benefited from the expertise of distinguished resource persons,Prof. Sanit Piyapattanakorn of Chulalongkorn University and Dr. Worata Klinsawat of King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, whose specialization in DNA analysis greatly enriched the technical discussions. Their contributions provided deeper scientific insights that will strengthen result interpretation and enhance regional capacity to apply genetic tools in fisheries management.
Tropical anguillid eels, particularly Anguilla bicolor, are recognized for their ecological and economic importance. However, sustainable management is challenged by fragmented scientific information and limited long-term monitoring. This workshop was a vital step toward consolidating genetic data from JAIF and JTF projects, enabling more comprehensive analyses of population structure and biodiversity across the region.
Throughout the sessions, participants reviewed genetic data, including mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers and conducted population-level analyses to assess stock boundaries and regional connectivity. The workshop also finalized technical figures, tables, and interpretations for the Project Completion Report, which will be presented at the Regional Project Completion Workshop scheduled for 30–31 October 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Key outcomes included the establishment of a consolidated dataset of genetic indices from eel samples across ASEAN Member States, an improved understanding of the spatial structure and diversity of eel stocks, and strengthened technical capacity to apply genetic tools in regional fisheries management. In addition, a field visit to fishing grounds in Cilacap provided updated insights into catch composition, habitat conditions, and local fishing practices.
By combining analytical work, collaborative discussions, and technical reporting, the workshop reinforced the scientific foundation for sustainable management of anguillid eels in Southeast Asia. The results are expected to guide regional efforts to develop effective conservation measures and to contribute to the long-term sustainability of this valuable fishery resource.