Socio-economic Appraisal of Cage Fish Culture in Oguta Lake, Nigeria

Abstract

"Oguta lake is one of the largest natural lakes in south-eastern Nigeria. Traditionally, its fisheries support a large number of fill-time and part-time fishermen with their families. However, in recent years, like most other capture fisheries in Nigeria, fish yields have either been declining or stagnating. Fish stocks in the lake have for long been subjected to over-fishing and use of wrong fishing methods.. The paper proposes large-scale introduction of cage fish culture in the lake as a practical means of reducing fishing pressure on the lake as wellas providing a sustainable means of livelihood for the local population around the lake. Limnological characteristics of lake are described to appraise the feasibility of cage culture in the lake. Recommendations are made on the design, choice of materials, construction and management of cages in the lake. Cost-benefit projections based on prevailing market prices are presented."