Adoption of Biosecurity Measures for Sustainable Aquaculture Production in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined fish farmers’ acquiescence to biosecurity practices in Ekiti State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 150 respondents from three Agricultural Development Programme zones of the state. Structured questionnaire was used for data collection while data were analysed using illustrative and inferential statistics at p<0.05 level of significance. It was observed that 91% of the farmers were aware of fish diseases and pathogens. Stunted growth (x? = 3.48±0.647), loss of market value (x? = 2.9±1.152), increased cost of production (x?= 2.86±0.811) and loss of fish stock (x? = 2.6±1.353) were the observed mean effects of fish disease. Most respondents (82%) isolated sick fish, but only few (3%) were committed to laboratory test and use of foot dip. The adoption level was 40%, indicating that the respondents were partial adopters in Ekiti state. Level of awareness, age, education, monthly income, and stocking density had significant relationships with adoption of biosecurity measures. To boost fish production, there is need for the creation of platforms providing enlightenment on sound biosecurity measures. There is also an urgent need for the provision of accessible and affordable veterinary services. These can be facilitated by the extension agents, NGOs and relevant institutions.