Abstract:
The study which was conducted in Anambra State, Nigeria, assessed the profitability of catfish farming without neglecting constraints that could retard profitability. It utilized non-parametric statistics, enterprise budgeting and the profit function model in data analysis. Data were obtained from 204 farmers selected via multistage random sampling technique. Results indicated mean gross margin of N 734,850.39, mean net farm income of N712,659.89 and net return on investment of 0.61, implying that catfish farming is profitable in the study area. Furthermore, cost of catfish feeds and production unit negatively and significantly influenced profit, while output price exerted a positive and significant influence on profit. Profitability could be increased by tailoring policies towards the setting up of commercial pelleted and floating catfish feed mill and modern hatcheries in the State, the provision of adequate infrastructure, cheap and available credit facilities and expansion of extension services. These would go a long way to solving the most serious constraints to catfish production in the study area - high cost of feeds, lack of quality fingerlings and inadequate capital.
Page(s):
105-109
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Social Sciences, Volume: 6, Issue: 4, Year: 2010