Pond-adjacent grass height and pond proximity to water influence predation risk of pond fish by amphibians in small fish ponds of Kakamega County, western Kenya

Otieno, Nickson Erick; Wasonga, Dominic V.; Imboko, Demetrius

doi:10.1007/s10750-021-04551-8

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 53 publications

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“…The study ponds had earthen-floors and each of them averaged 200-250 m 2 in surface area, and water was maintained at nearly the same depth (1.0-1.3 m). Each pond was stocked at the rate of 1,000-1,200 fish, each bearing 90% tilapia and 10-15% catfish, a strategy cited by farmers to be useful in reducing predation risk posed by most vertebrate pests (Glahn et al, 2017), and in particular, loss of juvenile fish to predatory amphibians (Otieno et al, 2021). Fish in each pond were fed at least twice daily with commercially formulated feed pellets or fragments of Dagaa fish (Rastrineobola argentea) marketed specifically for this purpose (Were et al, 2006).…”

Section: Study Areamentioning

confidence: 99%

Effectiveness of physical barriers and enhanced fertilization in controlling predation on tilapia and catfish aquaculture systems by four piscivorous water bird families

Otieno¹,

Shidavi²

2022

Front. Sustain. Food Syst.

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Waterbirds cause substantial fish-stock losses in open aquaculture systems, particularly in developing countries where fish-ponds are smaller and predator control methods largely manual or under-resourced. This study: (1) used three fish-pond treatment meassures to assess their efficiencies in deterring predation pressure by four piscivorous waterbird families in small tilapia and catfish farms in western Kenya; and (2) distinguished bird group(s) most effectively deterred by these measures. The treatment measures were: coarse-grid wire mesh barriers; finer-grid wire barriers; and enhanced pond fertilization. Twelve fish-ponds were randomly sampled to assess birds' pond-neigborhood assemblages and their predation deterrence responses to pond treatment effects. Bird species richness was not affected by pond cover status, enhanced pond fertilization or type of pond cover barrier. However, pond-cover status, singularly and interactively with enhanced fertilization, reduced bird encounter rates while cover barrier type did not. Conversely, cover status, cover barrier type and fertilization each separately but not interactively contributed to improved deterrence to bird predation rates overall. However, while predation by families of larger birds was effectively reduced by enhancing pond fertilization or cover barriers, predation by families of smaller birds was prevented only by fine-grid chicken-mesh barriers. These results demonstrate that using enhanced fertilization and physical barriers can significantly contribute to reduction in predation pressure on open-culture pond-fish by most piscivorous birds, but may not always be effective if used separately. Effectiveness of combination of measures chosen will depend on types of target bird species and their feeding habits. The results constitute additional knowledge on field techniques useful in diversifying solution options for minimizing impacts of vertebrate predation on pond-fish stocks toward promoting sustainable aquaculture production and improving rural human nutrition.

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Section: Study Areamentioning

confidence: 99%

Effectiveness of physical barriers and enhanced fertilization in controlling predation on tilapia and catfish aquaculture systems by four piscivorous water bird families

Otieno¹,

Shidavi²

2022

Front. Sustain. Food Syst.

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Aquaculture: A hidden goldmine for the rural poor—A cost–benefit analysis of fish farming for sustainable development and food security in Vihiga County, Kenya

Syanya,

Harikrishnan,

Simiyu

et al. 2024

Bus Strat Dev

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In Kenya, aquaculture plays a significant role in enhancing the livelihoods of rural communities by boosting the local economy and diversifying protein sources. Although Vihiga County in Western Kenya boasts considerable potential for aquaculture, it paradoxically experiences some of the highest levels of poverty and malnutrition in the country. The profitability of fish farming has also been affected by inefficiencies and poor resources, disproportionately affecting the income and nutritional value of rural poor who rely on Aquaculture as a source of cheap protein. The study was conducted in Vihiga County to assess the cost–benefit of aquaculture production, selecting 100 fish farmers through a stratified random sampling technique from five sub‐counties. A descriptive research design was employed, and data analysis was conducted using correlation and regression analysis with SPSS. Budgetary techniques were used for the cost–benefit analysis. Data presentation was by comparing the mean and standard deviation in US dollars of different pond size production. The research findings indicated that the size and type of pond do not have a significant correlation and differences in production (p‐value >.05). There is a strong positive correlation between the size of the pond and the stocking density. The variable cost (VC) has a positive correlation with pond productivity meaning that an increase in VC leads to an increase in production. And is not statistically significant (p‐value = .21827, p‐value >.05). Moreover, the total cost (TC) correlation is statistically significant (p‐value = .0351, p < .05). Larger ponds are more profitable but require higher costs production than smaller ponds. The study concludes that pond size significantly impacts productivity, advocating for smaller ponds to achieve higher net returns with lower production costs. Major challenges include high costs of feeds, inputs, fish diseases, and post‐harvest losses. Key policy variables influencing aquaculture in Vihiga County include infrastructure, fish feed production, capital, and fisheries extension services. Adequate financial support from both National and County governments is crucial for sustainable aquaculture in alignment with Kenya's Vision 2030 and Global Sustainable Development Goals. Policymakers are urged to assist small‐scale farmers with financing, training, and market information to optimize returns on investment.

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Aqua perspectives: stakeholder attitudes and perceptions in live fish transportation practices within the Kenyan fisheries sector

Syanya,

Mathia,

Mumina

et al. 2024

Mar Fish Sci

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Live fish are in high demand all over the world, especially in China, where quality standards align with consumer preferences. In Kenya, discussions on live fish, particularly in aquaculture-rich regions, are focal points. However, the lack of a systematic approach to transporting live fish poses challenges for stakeholders. This research explores attitudes and perceptions of stakeholders in Kenya regarding the adoption and transportation of live fish, shedding light on transportation procedures and sector challenges. Using a descriptive research design, primary data were collected from diverse aquaculture stakeholders through a questionnaire, addressing their knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward live fish transportation in the country. The study unveils varied patterns of live fish transportation in Kenya, influenced by the purpose and distance. Private cars are prominent at 26.3%, with Nyanza and Mombasa leading at 35%. Modified vans are prevalent in Central-Nairobi and Western regions (25% and 22.5%, respectively), while public transport is widespread, especially in Central and Nairobi (25%). Purpose-built live fish vehicles dominate in Western and Nyanza (20% and 17.5%, respectively). Crustaceans like lobsters and crabs are primarily exported from the Coastal region (27.5%). Participants generally assessed their knowledge of live fish transportation as moderate, with a basic understanding of fish welfare. Feedback indicates common practices in live fish transport in Kenya as sealed tanks, plastic bags, and purpose-built vehicles. Temperature and oxygen fluctuations poses a significant challenge during transportation across all regions, particularly in Mombasa and Kisumu. The use of anaesthetics, especially for food fish, is infrequently reported. The study revealed favourable perceptions of stakeholders to live fish transportation and welfare, indicating early adoption. Further research is recommended on fish welfare, best management practices, technological advancements, and interdisciplinary studies to enhance the sustainability of live fish transportation sector and fish welfare in Kenya.

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Pond-adjacent grass height and pond proximity to water influence predation risk of pond fish by amphibians in small fish ponds of Kakamega County, western Kenya

Cited by 3 publications

References 53 publications

Effectiveness of physical barriers and enhanced fertilization in controlling predation on tilapia and catfish aquaculture systems by four piscivorous water bird families

Effectiveness of physical barriers and enhanced fertilization in controlling predation on tilapia and catfish aquaculture systems by four piscivorous water bird families

Aquaculture: A hidden goldmine for the rural poor—A cost–benefit analysis of fish farming for sustainable development and food security in Vihiga County, Kenya

Aqua perspectives: stakeholder attitudes and perceptions in live fish transportation practices within the Kenyan fisheries sector

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