The world’s smallest edible fish, locally called “sinarapan,” is slowly disappearing due to overfishing in Lake Buhi in Camarines Sur province, and the absence of a systematic and scientific way of protecting and propagating the species.

Municipal officials are struggling to bring back the once thriving species of sinarapan (Mystichthys luzonensis), which has placed Buhi town on the world’s fisheries and tourism maps. Buhi, a firstclass town (average annual income: P55 million or more) of over 77,000 people, has been known for this unique fish in its lake, created centuries ago when Mt. Asog erupted.

The sinarapan, considered the smallest commercial fish in the world with an average length of 12 millimeters, belongs to the Goby family. It can also be found in Lake Bato in the town bearing the same name and in two smaller lakes—Manapao and Katugday—in upper Buhi at the foothills of Asog.

More Info: faspselib.denr.gov.ph