“Namatay sila sa sarap”- that’s usually how the life of the smallest fish, “tabios” or “Sinarapan” ends. But it is not the happy ending that immediately comes to our mind. “Sarap” is the Bicol term for the scissor-like fishing gear with a fine mesh net used to catch the world’s smallest commercial fish found in Lake Buhi in Buhi, Camarines Sur. The local folks call it Sinarapan because it is usually caught using the sarap.
It's not as spectacular as other fish as they are not as colorful as the aquarium fish or other ornamental fish and they could hardly be seen under water. But the thing that makes us Bicolanos proud of this species is that they represent Bicol’s rich and unique biodiversity. It even tastes really good and is one of the favorite delicacies of the Bicolanos.
On the contrary, this commercial and edible fish is now considered to be endangered. Its population is slowly depleting as human settlers increase around their habitat.
The Naga City Science High School values Sinarapan as a rare and precious natural resource of our region and we fully support its protection and conservation. As part of our advocacy campaign, our school’s entry to this year’s Doon Po Sa Amin “Ano ang Kwento Mo?” Contest under the Environment and Disaster Preparedness category will feature Sinarapan’s current status, the opportunities brought about by this tiny creature and the threats to its extinction.
Sinarapan may be one of God’s smallest creations, but it certainly isn't the least of God’s love.
To have a glimpse of our topic...watch this video.