AQUACULTURE PRACTICES AMONG THE FISH FARMERS OF BHALUKA UPAZILA, MYMENSINGH - SCENARIO FROM A DECADE AND HALF AGO

Abstract

Mymensingh is the top inland aquaculture producer in Bangladesh. This
study was undertaken to identify the barriers to develop earthen pond fish
farming entrepreneurship in Bhaluka Upazila, Mymensingh about a decade and
half ago when the fish culture revolution has been started. In this study, fish
farmers were selected randomly from three villages that followed mono or
composite-fish culture in earthen pond environment. More than 14 species being
cultured of which half of them were exotic. The feasibility of pond fish culture
was found viable due to proper communication with Dhaka wholesale fish
market along with other destinations. In addition, hatchery sources of fish fry
and fingerling, access to fish feed and financial support were further encouraged
farming these perishable items. Education level of farmers, lack of technical
knowledge of fish culture, poor extension service and lack of information about
the pond management were identified as the potential barriers for the
improvement of fish farming entrepreneurship. The higher stocking density as
well as poor water quality conditions were facilitated to lead lower fish
production and profit. The small-scale farmers (47.79%) with higher stocking
density had lower profit (Tk 1.44 /fish) and large-scale farmers (19.85%) with
lower stocking density showed higher profit margin of Tk 3.53 /fish. Therefore,
this study suggests the optimal fish stocking density in earthen pond fish
farming system which could be augment the fish production and enhanced
profitability.