A SURVEY ON THE USE OF COMMERCIAL FISH FEED BY FISH FARMERS IN DELTA STATE

ABSTRACT

Fish, an important source of animal protein plays an important role in the diet of people in Nigeria. The study examined the use of commercial fish feed by farmers in Delta North, data were collected with the aid of a structured questionnaire across four local government areas in Delta north.A total of two hundred (200) questionnaires were distributed randomly. The results showed that that most of the fish farmers are males (78%). It also indicates that respondent prefers earthen pond to trampoline, plastic and concrete tank and that Clarias catfish is majorly cultured. Farmers use different brands of commercial feed with Blue crown topping the list, the preference was attributed to growth rate of the fish, availability of feed and the cost of feed while the other reason is due to the life stage of the fish. Few farmers use local feed (farm made feed) 7% and it was noted that survival rate when using commercial feed is 70%. Respondents attributed their production success in the farming business to be as a result of using commercial feed (70%).However; respondent complaint of high cost of feed and nutritional deficiency of commercial feed.