Functioning mode of semi-intensive fish farms in Benin: case of the aquaculture villages of Dangbo (Ouémé Department, South-East Benin)

Abstract

The functioning of fish farming operations in the commune of Dangbo, located in the Ouémé Department in southern Benin, was analyzed to assess their performance level and sustainability. A field survey was conducted from June to September 2023 among 41 fish farmers across four districts of the commune using a semi-structured interview guide and direct observations. Water quality parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, transparency, and pH of the ponds, were measured using appropriate instruments. The collected data were analyzed using the R software. The results showed that fish farming in Dangbo is predominantly practiced by men (85.37%), most of whom are over 40 years old and primarily engaged in agriculture. Among them, 55.26% have a primary education level and 24% are illiterate, although the majority have received training in fish farming. The most common production systems are excavated earthen ponds, non-drainable and supplied by groundwater, located in areas frequently flooded by the Ouémé River. Non-functional above-ground tanks and basins were observed in 9.76% and 4.88% of farmers, respectively. Two species Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia), present in all surveyed farms and Clarias gariepinus (African catfish), raised by 78.05% of farmers dominated in the explored farms. The main constraints identified include high input costs, limited access to quality fingerlings, insufficient technical support, and marketing difficulties, making the sector vulnerable and unsustainable. To improve sustainability, the recommendation is to strengthen farmers’ technical capacities, promote the use of local inputs, and facilitate access to financing. These measures must help to consolidate the profitability and resilience of fish farming operations in the commune of Dangbo.