Nigerian hatchery meets rising demand for catfish seed:The lack of good quality fingerlings is a major challenge for finfish production throughout the region

摘要

With huge contributions to the livelihood, employment and food security of coastal communities in Nigeria, the fisheries sector is one of the country's most important. Amidst a high demand for quality catfish seed, one hatchery in Ughelli Delta Statecould have significant impacts on Nigeria's aquaculture.Catfish and their hybrids {Clarias heterobranchus) make up around 80% of overall cultured species in Nigeria, with African catfish (C. gariepinus) the most significant. It is among the most highly demanded fish species in other African nations owing to its resistance to disease, ability to tolerate a range of environmental extremes, high stocking densities, fast growth (reaching 1kg within four to five months), pleasant taste and good quality meat. Because it eats a variety of foods, such as aquatic weeds and insects, small fish and snails, it's also extremely easy to feed and its high fecundity and fertility rate allow it to produce over 4,600 eggs.