Fish Farming Research Articles

Anesthesia Using Eugenol for Two Weight Classes of Piaractus mesopotamicus: Evaluation of Induction Time, Recovery Time, Behavioral Response and Serum Glucose

Aims: The use of anesthetics in fish ensures that they can undergo common handling in fish farming without causing damage to production. The aim of the present study was to determine the induction and recovery times of Piaractus mesopotamicus submitted to eugenol anesthesia. Study Design: 100 P. mesopotamicus were used, divided into two weight classes (Class I weighing between 275 and 460 grams; and Class II weighing between 461 and 680 grams). Methodology: The fish (n=10) were submitted to eugenol anesthesia in five dosages (50.0; 75.0; 100.0; 125.0 and 150.0 mg L−1) and the induction times to anesthesia and recovery to normal activity, as well as fish behavior during this stage. Results: There were statistical differences (p = .05) between anesthesia and fish recovery. For fish belonging to class I, the best dose to apply is 50 mg L−1, while for class II, the recommended dose is 75 mg L−1. Glucose was higher (p = .05) in animals submitted to a dose of 75 mg L−1 compared to those stunned at 50 mgL−1, but there was no effect between the other doses as well as between weight classes. Conclusion: Larger fish are induced to deep anesthesia and return to normal behavior before smaller fish. Considering the induction times to anesthesia and total recovery, it is recommended to use a dose of 50 mg L−1 for class I and 75 mg L−1 for class II.

Assessment of Fungi Infection on Clarias anguillaris (Linnaeus, 1758) and Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758), Two Fish Species Farmed in Burkina Faso

Worlwide, fungi are by far the most common pathogen in fish farming. They are responsible of important economic losses in the fishery sector. However, in Burkina Faso knowledge of fungi infecting farmed fish are scarce. As a consequence, the prevalence as well as the effect of these pathogens are not known. A study was carried out on fungal infection of farmed fish. It aimed to evaluate the diversity of fungi associated with Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus, 1758) and Clarias anguillaris (Linnaeus, 1758) farmed in Burkina Faso. In total, 89 individuals of fish consisted of 47 specimens of Oreochromis niloticus and 42 specimens of Clarias anguillaris were collected from eleven fish farms. Swabs were taken on fish bodies and inoculated in Malt Extract Agar (MEA). The chloramphenicol was added to avoid bacterial contamination. Seventy-seven (77) fish were infected by fungi (85.51%). Four genera including Aspergillus (four species), Rhizopus (one species), Penicillium (one species) and Mucor (one species) were isolated. Small and big fish were all infected. This study shows fungi as a potential factor that impacts fish farming and suggests a need for more research on their effect on fish. Knowledge of fish parasites like fungi will allow to set effective means of fish pathology control, which once implemented will lead to an increase in fish farming productivity.

Strategies for feeding tilapia in smallholder aquaculture systems: a study of aquaculture feed access and availability in two districts of Northern Province, Zambia

ABSTRACT Aquaculture contributes to agricultural development, economic growth, and poverty reduction initiatives in Zambia. In northern and rural regions of the country, development requires improvements to the management of local and farm-generated inputs. Fish farmers have limited market access and purchasing power, which restricts access to commercial inputs, such as formulated feeds and chemical fertilizers. Instead, farmers adopt integrated-agriculture-aquaculture (IAA) practices, whereby on-farm resources supply essential inputs. Research is limited regarding local systems of resource management, and this hinders development of innovations for improving efficiency. This mixed-methods study explored local patterns of resource utilization. Smallholders (n = 63) participated in surveys and interviews regarding resource management. A series of quantitative analyses, including descriptive statistics, principal component analyses (PCA), and multinomial logistic regression (logit) models, identified relationships between these resources, household livelihood, and system productivity. Qualitative analyses explored farmer perceptions regarding seasonal resource availability. Results suggested that livestock manure, homemade feeds comprising maize and soybean, garden residues, and kitchen wastes were the most frequently selected inputs. Logit models of feeding intensity found that income, proximity to Luwingu Town, experience in aquaculture, and access to extension services were key household resources. High-intensity feeding strategies incorporated commercial feeds, chemical fertilizers, as well as home-made feeds containing a wide diversity of both high- and low-quality ingredients. Low-intensity feeding strategies incorporated only farm waste and termites. Potential innovations that may improve system performance in resource poor contexts are considered and recommendations for additional research are offered.

Morphometric Characterization and Fillet Yield of Two Commercial Fish Species from Panyam Fish Farm Plateau State

A total of 50 individual samples of Parachanna obscura and Clarias gariepinus were collected fresh from Panyam fish farm with the aid of crush ice for preservation until assessment was carried out to determine the fillet yield of Parachanna obscura in comparism with Clarias gariepinus. The whole fresh fish samples were taken to the department of Fisheries and Aquaculture laboratory of the Federal University, of Agriculture, Makurdi for assessment. Their Total and Standard Lengths were recorded (in cm) using a Measuring Rule, while Total Body Weights were recorded (in grams) using an electronic weighing balance. Data were collected on: the Total Weight (g), Total Length (cm), Standard Length (cm), Visceral Weight (g), Head Length (cm), Weight of Bones (g), Weight of Fins (g) and Weight of Fillet (g) in comparism between the two fish species. Descriptive statistics for morphometric data were determined using Minitab 18® (Minitab 2017). Regression and correlation of variables was carried out in R (R Core Team 2020). Results of the mean measured parameters of Parachana obscura and Clarias gariepinus from Panyam Fish Farm Jos, showed that Total Length (42.66 ± 0.58cm), Standard Length (38.56 ± 0.29cm), Fin Weight (15.51 ± 0.37g), Visceral Weight (11.04 ± 0.17g), Head Weight (1.49 ± 4.01g), Bone weight (39.84 ± 0.80g) and Weight of fillet (89.02 ± 2.38g) of Parachana obscura were higher than the mean measured parameters of Clarias gariepinus. There was a significant difference (p= .05) among the measured parameters between P. obscura and C. gariepinus. The higher fillet percentage per body weight of P. obscura in comparism to C. gariepinus is a pointer to a relatively higher economic value for commercial purposes of this species. This assessment also provides information for further studies on this species to be built on, as there is obvious need for Nigeria’s aquaculture system to diversify from the prevalent catfish culture.

Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio) Fish Aquaculture Revitalization, Multiplication and Sustainability in Nigeria

Thirty three mature broodfish of Common Carp were harvested from Panyam Fish Farm, Plateau State (PFFPS), and from Federal University of Agriculture Makurdi Research Fish Farm (FUAMRFF). These farms are situated in two different agro-ecological zones of Nigeria (with a fading history of Carp fish culture). The broodfish were fed for 90 days, in preparation for on-farm breeding activities with the aim of determining water quality, hatching parameters (through un-induced natural spawning, induced natural spawning and induced breeding by stripping in indoor concrete ponds); thirdly, to determine percentage survival of the bred Carp fish progenies cultured for 56 days (in ponds sampled in PFFPS and FUAMRFF). Fourthly, to evaluate growth and potential economic returns from the two areas, and finally to further evaluate fish farmers perception of Carp fish culture in selected fish farms across other agro-ecological zones in Nigeria. After breeding activities, progenies were cultured and fed to satiation. The water quality parameters in the ponds and in water holding tanks was monitored daily. At the end of the research period, PFFPS showed better Carp fish hatching tendency, highest (94%) in Induced Natural spawning), with better environmental condition and water physico-chemical parameters for Carp fish culture with mean Dissolved Oxygen content level (8.35 Mg/l), and pH (7.54). Furthermore, PFFPS has capacity to accommodate the mass production of Carp fish. Economically, PFFPS had a higher gross margin (402,250), and Profit index (5.0). Also, result from fish farmers perception on carp fish culture showed that 62% of farmers have no idea of Carp fish management, 66% have no idea of Carp fish selling price, 66% are aware of PFFPS and 100% expressed that more awareness should be created on aquaculture diversification (with interest in Carp fish aquaclture), as this will meet consumer demand and rescue this species from its current track of going extinct in Nigeria, if given urgent attention).

Carbon Footprint and Automation in Aquaculture

Objective: This paper proposes research on the state of the art of automation and carbon footprint in aquaculture. Theoretical Framework: The development of electronics and automation, which are so prevalent in everyday activities and industries, has contributed to the advancement of automation levels in aquaculture. The use of electrical sensors could be an alternative for estimating the carbon footprint of aquaculture production systems. Method: The methodology was based on scientific research with a qualitative approach on automation and the carbon footprint in aquaculture and observations made during visits to fish farms and fish technology fairs. Results and Discussion: The levels of automation used in aquaculture are still low compared to other economic activities, especially industry. The use of existing technology in fish farms would raise the level of automation in aquaculture, but this transformation faces challenges on the part of fish farmers, such as: cost of access, difficulty of operation and lack of interest in investing in automation. The use of automation and control techniques could corroborate methodologies for estimating the carbon footprint during the animal rearing phase in excavated ponds. Research Implications: Promote discussion on the use of new technologies and influence research on the theme of carbon footprint and automation in aquaculture. Advance research into the need to expand the use of automation in fish farms. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by reviewing the state of the art of automation in aquaculture, demonstrating the need for research to expand the use of technologies both to automate aquaculture farming and to estimate the carbon footprint during farming.

Economic Impact of Periphyton-Based Stunted Fingerling Production in Arunachal Pradesh, India

Non availability of right type quality seed at right time in required quantity is major bottleneck for the growth of aquaculture in Arunachal and major portion of seed are being import from other nearby state especially Assam in particular. To make availability of good quality seed at right time having a regional acclimation for a longer duration in far flung areas of the state, the present investigation was conducted on low cost Periphyton (grown on paddy straw) based stunted yearling production technology to improve the survival and health of stocked material and their economic impact on the fish farmers of district West Kameng during 2018-2021. The average values of pond water quality parameters were observed to vary between both the culture ponds with a significant seasonal differences at all the sites and there were found a greater difference in average survival rate of both the commodities i.e. table size fish as well as stunted yearling during whole culture period. The involved cost of cultivation was recorded higher Rs. 4,70,000 / ha in stunted yearling culture in comparison to Rs.424,940/ha in thetable size carp culture while average gross benefit was just opposite, recorded higher Rs. 6,90,000/ ha in stunted yearling culture in comparison to Rs.199,960/ ha in table size carp culture with the same trend in BCR i.e. 2.46 for stunted fingerling production and 1.47 in the production of table size fishes respectively.

Enhanced sulfide burial in low-oxygen aquatic environments could offset the carbon footprint of aquaculture production.

Carbon removal from the atmosphere is needed to keep global mean temperature increases below 2 °C. Here, we develop a model to explore how alkalinity production through enhanced iron sulfide formation in low-oxygen aquatic environments, such as aquaculture systems, could offer a cost-effective means of CO2 removal. We show that enhanced sulfide burial through the supply of reactive iron to surface sediments may be able to capture up to a hundred million tonnes of CO2 per year, particularly in countries with the highest number of fish farms, such as China and Indonesia. These efforts could largely offset the carbon footprint associated with their aquaculture industry. Enhanced sulfide burial could directly benefit both fish farms and surrounding ecosystems by removing toxic sulfide from aquatic systems, providing an addition to durable global CO2 removal markets and a path towards large-scale, carbon-neutral aquatic food production.

PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS OF CATFISH PRODUCTION IN KANO METROPOLIS, KANO STATE, NIGERIA

Fish is an important dietary element and a major source of animal protein in human diet for many Nigerians. The demand for fish has been on the increase because of geometrical increase in human population, this has resulted to a significant gap created between fish demand and supply. It is obvious given the importance of fish production that efforts must be made to encourage entrepreneurs to go into the business. However, many have shown doubts on the productivity and profitability of fish production, particularly on a smallholder level. This study therefore, examines the profitability of catfish production in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. Two stage sampling procedure was employed to select respondents for the study. Primary data were collected with the use of well-structured questionnaire administered to 120 catfish producers. The tools of analysis employed were descriptive statistics, gross margin and net farm income. The study revealed that Majority of the producers (69%) are male. Furthermore, 85percent of the fish producers have attained post primary education. The gross margin (GM) was ₦657,420, while the enterprise profit which is the net farm income was estimated at ₦598,128 and 0.33 return to capital for the farmers. Some of the challenges confronting the respondents in their business includes high cost of feed, lack of government support and lack of training. Thus, there is a need for provision of training for higher level of productivity, subsidizing of inputs such as feed by the government and participation in cooperative societies by the fish farmers for financial and inputs assistance by relevant Non-Governmental Organizations.

Importance of Proper Breeding Techniques in Enhancing Magur Seed Production

Fish farmers in eastern India, consider it to be a species of choice for diversifying their cultural practice since it provides them with a considerable return on their investment. The natural seeds of Magur have been sharply declining due to ecological imbalance in their natural breeding ground, which is low lying paddy field. This imbalance is caused by the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizer and chemical pesticides. However, the availability of Magur seeds in desired hours of stocking in desired quantity stands as a constraint to the propagation of culture of this species. It is consequently the only method that is feasible to reduce the severity of the issue, and that is to induce breeding of the species in captivity. There have only been a few models designed for the purpose of reproducing Magur in captivity, but each of these models involves a significant amount of financial investment. However, a labor-intensive and low-cost farmers'-friendly model for the production of small quantity seeds has not yet been standardized for rural small scale fish farmers. In this paper we found that magur seed production can be done through low cost investing, that’s why farmers or rural people get more economic profit. The study demonstrates how specific breeding techniques and management practices can significantly enhance seed production, contributing to the sustainability of Magur aquaculture in India.

PELATIHAN PENGOLAHAN MINYAK JELANTAH PADA BUMDES PULOTONDO, KEC. NGUNUT – KAB. TULUNGAGUNG

The village of Pulotondo, in the Ngunut subdistrict of Tulungagung Regency, has significant potential for freshwater fish farming and horticultural plant cultivation. However, this potential remains underutilized because the marketing area is still limited to the local scope. The local BUMDes (Village-Owned Enterprises) has not seized this opportunity and is only focusing on a micro-scale LPG retail business for the surrounding community. The event can provide BUMDes Pulotondo for utilizing waste processing, specifically converting used cooking oil into scented candles. This could reduce used cooking oil waste and allow the candles to be sold, thereby boosting BUMDes's economic potential. The service method includes material presentation, discussions, and practical exercises. Making candles from used cooking oil proceeded smoothly and was well-received by 12 participants, and they can produce candles for product sale.

Comparative Study of the Nutritive and Elemental Composition of Smoked and Raw Clarias gariepinus from Three Selected Fish Farms in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria

Clarias gariepinus is of economic importance in aquaculture due to its rapid growth, omnivorous diet, and potential as food source. It has been widely cultured and dispensed both in raw and smoked forms in various regions to meet the demand for fish protein This study assessed and compared the nutritional quality and elemental composition of smoked and raw samples of Clarias gariepinus. A total of twelve fish samples were analysed, six raw samples and six smoked samples with two fishes sampled from each farm tagged A, B and C. The Proximate and elemental analysis were done using standard procedures. The result of the study showed that moisture content measured in the raw Clarias gariepinus which ranged between (73.074 ± 1.59) % and (71.52 ± 1.83) %. was higher than that of the smoked fish ranging from (26.69±0.03) % to (32.21± 0.02) %. The protein content of smoked fish ranged (43.2±0.02) % to (46.78±0.01) while that of raw fish was between (20.52 ± 1.12) % and (22.15 ± 0.43) %. Similarly, the crude fat, ash, carbohydrate, and fibre content were higher in the smoked fish than raw catfish samples. The elemental composition of both smoked and raw catfish were within the permissible limit of World Health Organization. Arsenic was not detected in the muscle of the raw fish, while cadmium, chromium, lead and magnesium were present in values within WHO permissible limit and similar results was observed for the smoked fish samples. The result of this study presents the possibility of smoked catfish being more nutritious than the raw samples aside from the fact that it has more shelf life than raw fish. Also, both smoked and raw samples of the fish are safe as the values of heavy metal observed were all within the permissible limit of WHO.

Economic-ecological assessment of multi-crop small-scale model farms in the Republic of Armenia (piloting results from Gegharqunik region)

Background: Biogenic elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are major pollutants of Lake Sevan's water, causing eutrophication and deterioration of water quality. Untreated wastewater, sewage, agriculture, fish farming, and other activities are significant sources of these pollutants. Vegetable cultivation, heavily reliant on mineral fertilizers and chemicals, and livestock breeding contribute substantially to nitrogen pollution in the lake. However, improved vegetable growing practices, including small-scale agriculture using organic fertilizers, natural soil improvers, and eco-friendly bio-liquids as growth stimulants, can enhance the socio-economic conditions for farmers in the Lake Sevan basin. These practices promote environmentally friendly, water-saving land-use methods, reducing nitrogen leaching into the lake. Objective: This study aims to demonstrate the socio-economic and environmental benefits of applying innovative agro-technology to small-scale farming in the Lake Sevan watershed (Gegharkunik region). Specifically, the study objectives are to determine the quality characteristics of crops grown in small-scale farms and compare these quality indicators between yields obtained through the proposed technology and traditional cultivation methods. Methods: Field trials of multi-crop systems were conducted on 0.25 ha land plots in four variations across four different locations in the Lake Sevan watershed. The trials were evaluated for various parameters. Nitrate content, dry matter, starch, vitamin C, and sugar levels were determined in potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, beets, and green beans, while fat content was measured in green beans and green peas. Results: Economic efficiency calculations revealed that utilizing the proposed innovative agro-technology in a multi-crop small-scale farm (0.25 ha) yielded a 20-25% increase compared to traditional cultivation with synthetic fertilizers, accompanied by notable environmental benefits. Conclusions: The study demonstrates that small-scale agricultural practices employing the proposed agro-technology have significant socioeconomic and environmental impacts on local farmers. Keywords: Cultivation of non-traditional crops, organic farming, small-scale farming, activities, economic and ecological evaluation, and food quality characteristics.

Economic Effects of COVID-19 Agricultural Loan Palliative on Poultry and Fish Farmers’ Production in Ondo State, Nigeria

Economic Effects of COVID-19 Agricultural Loan Palliative on Poultry and Fish Farmers’ Production in Ondo State, Nigeria

Socio-Economic Profile and Vulnerabilities Assessment in Small-Scale Fisheries of Lower Gangetic Flood Plain Wetland: An Initiative Towards Achieving Wetland Ecosystem Sustainability and Community Well-Being

ICAR-CIFRI has been continuously working to develop wetland fisheries in a transdisciplinary knowledge-to-action mode to upscale the livelihood of vulnerable small-scale fishermen communities. The integrated development approach was initiated in different lower Gangetic floodplain wetlands of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India, to increase the fish production and socio-economic development of small-scale fishermen communities of the wetlands. Duma is one of the most extensive horseshoe-shaped wetlands in Asia. To augment the fish production from this wetland, the pen culture system was adopted by the fishers under the supervision of ICAR-CIFRI in 2021. Within a year, they received 15 tons of commercial fish, valued at around 30 lakhs apart from the small indigenous fish. It has recently been advised that auto-stocked, high-value minor carp in the wetland be adopted to improve income and conserve small indigenous species. In this article, SDG 14 (Life below water) addresses sustainable ecosystem management and livelihood enhancement for the wellbeing of the local people (SDG 3). Nutritional security of the local people is maintained through the small indigenous fish species which is crucial for addressing ‘No hunger’ as per SDG-2. The research also proves that women can play a crucial role in small-scale fisheries and they can economically stand alone, which is the main aim of SDG-5 (gender equality). However, significant issues such as lack of jurisdictional coordination, ecological changes, inequitable distribution of benefits, and income reduction persist in wetland management. The need for urgent reformation of policy and resource management systems is crucial to boost the economic efficiency of the SSF in the wetland. Training for more knowledge on fishing and fish farming, acquiring alternative livelihood and education on financial management should be brought to the fishermen’s communities. These could develop a resilient community that is more equipped to respond to future crises.

Influence of cage fish farms in the dietary aspects at the individual level of a non-native fish species

Influence of cage fish farms in the dietary aspects at the individual level of a non-native fish species

Parasite scars: the impact of salmon lice injury on sea trout populations.

Spillback effects of the parasitic salmon louse from fish farms to wild fish are a critical environmental concern for countries with wild salmon. The ectoparasitic louse causes significant physical and physiological damage to wild salmonids that probably have long-term impacts on individuals and population dynamics. However, empirical links between injuries and abundance of lice have not been established in the wild. This study establishes a strong association between dorsal fin injuries in wild sea trout (Salmo trutta) and infestation with salmon lice at a marine site in Norway. We further assessed the prevalence of such injuries on sea trout returning to spawning grounds from snorkelling observations in 16 rivers in Hardangerfjord, western Norway, from 2007 to 2021. The prevalence of injuries decreased with distance from the fjord outlet, from approximately 70% in middle and outer parts to approximately 10% in the inner parts. Additionally, a negative correlation was found between sea trout population size and the proportion of the population with dorsal fin damage. The results demonstrate that salmon lice inflict high levels of injury on significant portions of sea trout populations in areas with intensive fish farming, leading to poorer population status in affected populations.

Improving livelihood in tribal region of Chhattisgarh through integrated fish farming systems

Improving livelihood in tribal region of Chhattisgarh through integrated fish farming systems

Money In The Eyes Of Sufism: Insights From An Indonesian Tariqat

Money has historically been used as a means of oppression, personal gain, and manipulation in politics, law, and justice, often contributing to societal discord. This article examines the concept of money and its societal perceptions through the lens of Prof. Dr. H. Kadirun Yahya, a prominent Indonesian Sufi and Mursyid of the Tariqah Naqshbandiyah, known for his success in managing a wide range of business ventures. Utilizing qualitative research methods, including interviews, observation, and documentation, the study investigates Yahya's numerous business initiatives aimed at fostering prosperity. These initiatives span diverse sectors such as agribusiness, including large-scale plantations (oil palm, apple, orange, and other crops), livestock farming (poultry, fish, ducks, goats, and cows), and enterprises in furniture manufacturing, workshops, drinking water factories, electronics, travel services, and more. The findings highlight Yahya's belief that money serves as a manifestation of divine light, a tool for attaining blessings and life's necessities. While money lacks inherent value, it remains essential for human existence. His view, consistent with other Sufi teachings, likes money to a mirror that reflects various possibilities based on its use. Grounded in Sufi principles that emphasize unity, illumination, and divine manifestation, Yahya argues that money should be employed to combat injustice, dishonesty, and exploitation. Its ultimate purpose is to uphold morality, promote social justice, equitable wealth distribution, and meet basic human needs. This research underscores the importance of further studies on integrating Sufi values into business management.

Optimizing goldfish hatchery of the oranda variety Carassius auratus to improve cultivation performance at BSD fish farm

The business of cultivating ornamental fish is quite popular because its sales are profitable for cultivators. Ornamental fish also have attractive colors; therefore, many people are interested in this commodity. One ornamental fish commodity that is in great demand is the oranda goldfish Carassius auratus, which has a variety of colors, unique movements, and body shapes. The annual increase in market demand for oranda goldfish reaches 95,000 fish annually, and each year, there is an increase in the production of 3,000 fish of around 3% each year. This study was carried out in an effort to explore technical information on goldfish cultivation so that the information obtained can be disseminated widely and used as a reference source for the community so that it will add value to the benefit of improving sustainable welfare. The results of the study show that the technique of spawning oranda goldfish can be performed naturally using a substrate in the form of a water hyacinth. The average fecundity produced by one female parent oranda goldfish was 6429 eggs, with a presentation hatching rate of 74% and a presentation survival rate of 64%.