Floating cage systems of the aquaculture industry in Benin: Assessment of opportunities and challenges on Lake Djetoe

Abstract

Aquaculture farmers need to develop new or improved strategies or systems to sustain production amidst numerous challenges such as rising production costs and climate change, for efficient and sustainable aquaculture. This study aimed to assess the opportunities and challenges of floating cage aquaculture production on Lake Djetoe in Benin. For this, in-depth interviews were conducted with key personnel, supplemented by personal field observations. Furthermore, a questionnaire (descriptive and open questions) was administered to stakeholders. The study revealed that Benin has significant potential for aquaculture development due to its abundant, unused water bodies. Cage culture in Benin can stimulate the growth of the aquaculture industry, create employment, enhance food security and reduce poverty. The only species cultivated (Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus) in cage culture on Lake Djetoe are established with sizes ranging from 45 to 62,5 m³. The stocking density ranges from 96 to 200 fish.m^-3 with a final average weight of 500g after a six-month culture period, and the productivity ranges from 7 to 15 kg.m^-3. This business is relatively profitable, up to US$ 2,975 per production cycle. The major challenges faced on lake Djetoe are the conflict between cage culture farmers and fishermen, and the lack of quality fish seed and feed and policy gaps that must be remedied. Overall, the future trends for fish cage culture in Benin appear relatively bright.