SUSTAINABLE FISH PRODUCTION: AN ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF FISH FARMING IN BAUCHI STATE

Abstract

This study was conducted in Bauchi State to analyse the economics of fish farming. Data were collected from 30 respondents in six Local Government Areas of the State using the simple random technique between January and March, 1996 using a well structured
questionnaires. The collected data were analysed using the farm budgeting model and the cobb-Douglas production function analysis. The results obtained showed that the respondents were making an average net income of N80.00 per m² of fish pond and an
average net income of N6,189.20 per respondent. Also that the coefficient of multiple determination or R 2 is 82.38 %. The F value is 26.50 and is found to be significant (P<0.05). The estimated coefficients (elasticities of production) are found to be positive but less than 1. The results also revealed the resources (fingerling, feed and labour) are being used below the economic optimal level. High cost of inputs, inadequate and untimely delivery of inputs, inadequate water during dry season and high cost of pond construction were some of the major constraints affecting fish farming in the area.