Conservation assessment of the marine ornamental fish species Pomacanthus imperator (Emperor angelfish) in the Philippines

The Philippines is a significant contributor to the global marine ornamental fish trade. However, increasing fishing pressure and ongoing coral reef degradation raise concerns regarding the sustainability of key species collected from its coastal waters. This study assessed the conservation status of the highly valued emperor angelfish (Pomacanthus imperator) using the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Categories and Criteria. Data were obtained from interviews with 134 ornamental fish divers across eight provinces, supplemented by spatial mapping of reported occurrence points. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) for P. imperator was 94,568.19 km², which exceeds the threshold for threatened categories under IUCN Criterion B, resulting in a Least Concern (LC) classification for this assessment. Although the species exhibits a relatively broad distribution in northern Philippine waters, respondents identified multiple environmental threats affecting reef habitats, including coral degradatio, pollution, biological outbreaks, and frequent typhoon disturbances. These stressors may impact local abundance and habitat quality. To ensure long-term population stability, this study highlights the importance of habitat-focused management, responsible collection practices, and enhanced community engagement. Strategies such as regulating extraction intensity, improving monitoring systems, and implementing site-specific harvest limits are recommended to prevent localized declines while maintaining economic opportunities for ornamental fish collectors. These recommendations support Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water) by promoting the sustainable use of marine resources and align with the Philippine Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (PBSAP) through the conservation of reef-associated species and the enhancement of ecosystem resilience.