Demographic and profitability analyses of the West African mangrove oyster (Crassostrea tulipa) fishery in the Densu delta, Ghana

Abstract

The Densu Delta oyster fishery has attracted enormous attention recently from fishers and the public, which could be ascribed to its economic potential. Assessments on the demography of oyster fisherfolk and profitability of Crassostrea tulipa fishery were carried out at Bortianor/Tsokomey and Tetegu, which is associated with the Densu Delta, from May to June 2017. Ninety-eight (98) oyster fisherfolk were sampled by the snowball sampling technique and their responses obtained by the use of a semi-structured interview guide. A majority (97 %) of the respondents were females and 3 % were males, with 35 - 44 years being the modal age group. Married persons were the dominant group (71 %). About 57 % and 37 % of the interviewees had dependants ranging between 1 - 4 and 5 - 9, respectively. Approximately 76 % of the respondents dropped out of Primary school or had no formal education. Respondents of the Ewe tribe dominated the fishery by 86 %. The livelihoods of the respondents were mainly fishery-related (76 %). About 92 % of the respondents were engaged in harvesting, processing, and marketing. The oyster fishery was found to be seasonal (April to September), unregulated, and had unrestricted access. The annual catch was approximately 238 to 352 tonnes, with an appraised value of USD 56,193 to 74,902. The total annual cost of fishing, gross annual income, and total annual profit were estimated at USD 11,897, USD 39,993, and USD 28,097, respectively. The oyster fishery should be regulated and promoted to improve returns.