Month: October 2023

FISH FARMING

Posted on by Israel Daramola

Fish farming has been a common sector in Nigeria as a business. it has enjoyed a substantial increase in its market share and notable popularity majorly due to the increase in demand for its products. It is a fast-growing farming business in Nigeria due to its ability to have created several opportunities across its value chain.
Fish farming is the production of fish in an enclosure. This enclosure can be the usage in ponds, or in an area that is penned off from surrounding water by cages or open nets.
Fish farming can be done in different forms
⦁ Monoculture: This involves the farming of a single specie of fish in the pon
⦁ Bi culture : This involves the farming of two species of fish in the pond
⦁ Polyculture: This involves the farming of two or more species of fish in the same pond.
In recent time, The Aquaculture sector in Nigeria has experienced some notable growth that has increased the culture of various species in the country. The different species of fish farmed in Nigeria are Catfish, Tilapia, Pangasius, Freshwater brama, Rohu, Common Carp e.t.c. other type of fish include crab, shrimp, salmon e.t.c
The fish farming busines in Nigeria is a lucrative sector of the country and the opportunities in this sector are unlimited due to the increasing demand for fish. Fish is one of the most consumed animal source-foods in Nigeria and a major source of protein. For Nigeria’s rapidly growing population, THe aquaculture sector offers new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and nutritious diets.
The market provide many opportunities as Nigeria depends on importation of fish to meet up with the increasing demand for fish by the increasing population. Nigeria consume over 3.6 million metric tonnes annualy and only able to produce 1.2 million metric tons. leading to the importation of 2.4 million metric tons to meet up with the demand.
Worldfish foresight model projections indicate that the fish supply-demand gap in Nigeria will widen over the coming decades. Fish supplies from marine capture fisheries will remain stable, so future growthin fish supplies will have to come from aquaculture, artisanal fisheries and imports.
As Nigeria population increases from 196 million in 2018 to 263 million in 2030, Worldfish future research indicates that Nigreria would need 752 thousand tonnes more fish to maintain 11,2kg of current national capita fish cosumption and would need 31.4 million tonnes more fish toreach 20,3kg global per capital fish consumption, by 2030 (FAO).
With the increasing market, fish farming provide opportunities to
⦁ Fulfilling the population nutritional requirement
⦁ Investment opportunities
⦁ Business opportunities for women and youth across the value chain
⦁ Source of foreign exchange
The value chain- whether it be the primary production stage or the subsequent product supply chain can contribute to achieving SDGs at both national and regional level. These goals cover:
⦁ Poverty
⦁ Hunger
⦁ Gender equality
⦁ 6 economic growth and
⦁ Life below water.

Freshwater Brama Aquaculture: A recipe for success in Nigeria

Posted on by Israel Daramola

Aquaculture has gained significant attention in Nigeria as a means of addressing the growing demand for high-quality protein sources while also providing economic opportunities for local communities. Nigeria’s population is growing rapidly, and with it, the demand for fish is escalating. Fish is a primary source of protein for Nigerians, making it a vital part of their diet. As urbanization continues, the demand for convenient and readily available protein sources is higher than ever. Unfortunately, the pressure on wild fish stocks and the stagnation of traditional fishing practices are unable to meet this rising demand.

As this demand continues to surge, the aquaculture industry in Nigeria is responding to the challenge by promoting the farming of Freshwater Brama, a species that holds immense potential for meeting the growing appetite for fish. Freshwater Brama farming is a thriving industry that responds to the increasing demand for fish, particularly in regions where this species is farmed. Its adaptability, rapid growth, and nutritional value make it a valuable asset in the aquaculture sector, contributing to economic growth and food security.

Advantages of Freshwater Brama

  1. It is a freshwater fish
  2. It is a scaly freshwater fish
  3. They are omnivorous
  4. It has a high market value and consumer preference due to its tasty and nutritious meat
  5. they can be farmed under monoculture and polyculture system
  6. Has low feed intake compared to other farmed freshwater species
  7. They grow very large and can reach 50kg weight
  8. It is less bony and its fillet has has a good texture
  9. High disease resistance

The successful breeding of Freshwater Brama by AQUAPET in Nigeria is a noteworthy achievement that reflects our dedication to research and development. This accomplishment brings several benefits and positive impacts to the aquaculture industry in Nigeria and the region as a whole:

  1. Improved Local Food Production
  2. Economic Growth
  3. Sustainable Farming
  4. Diversification of Fish Species
  5. Innovation in Aquaculture
  6. Reduced Dependence on Imports
  7. Positive Impact on Local Ecosystems
  8. Community Resilience
  9. Quality Protein Source
  10. Potential for Global Markets

Freshwater Brama aquaculture has proven itself to be a game-changer in the country’s pursuit of sustainable food production. With an astounding success rate ranging from 95% to 98%,

In a nation with a growing demand for fish, Freshwater Brama emerges as a beacon of hope for sustainable aquaculture in Nigeria. Its adaptability, rapid growth, and nutritional quality make it a shining example of a species that aligns perfectly with the unique environmental conditions and market demands in the region.

PROCESSING VALUE

Freshwater Brama (Colossoma macropomum) stands out as a promising breed that holds the key to an exciting realm of value addition and economic growth for processors. With its unique characteristics and versatility, Freshwater Brama offers numerous prospects for adding value to the fish processing industry.

Freshwater Brama is renowned for its succulent, boneless meat with a mild flavor. This prime meat quality is a canvas for processors to create a variety of value-added products that cater to the discerning tastes of consumers.

Freshwater Brama meat is a versatile ingredient for processors. It can be transformed into fillets, smoked fish, frozen fish, fish balls, fish sausages, and countless other products. Its adaptability in various culinary applications makes it a sought-after choice for creative food production.

Freshwater Brama is packed with high-quality protein, low fat content, and essential nutrients. Processors can leverage these nutritional attributes to develop health-conscious products that meet the growing demand for nutritious foods.

For processors with established product lines, freshwater Brama provides an opportunity for diversification. Adding Freshwater Brama-based products can attract new customers and broaden market reach. With the right processing methods and quality standards, Freshwater Brama-based products have the potential to reach international markets. This opens up opportunities for processors to participate in global trade.

As we’ve explored in this article, Freshwater Brama farming not only addresses the rising demand for fish but also fosters economic development, enhances food security, and promotes environmental conservation. With government support, local expertise, and innovative practices, Freshwater Brama aquaculture is poised to flourish and offer a brighter, more sustainable future for Nigeria’s aquaculture industry.

So, whether you’re a seasoned fish farmer, an aspiring aquaculturist, or a conscious consumer, consider Freshwater Brama as not just a fish but a sustainable solution that exemplifies the potential of aquaculture in Nigeria. Together, we can propel this success story further, feeding the nation while preserving its natural riches.