Authors : O.M.G. Abu, L.O. Sanni, E.S. Erondu and O.A. Akinrotimi
Abstract: This study was conducted to assess the economic viability of replacing maize with whole cassava root meal in the diet of hybrid cat-fish. The results from the study indicated that the average total cost per kg of fish was N 180.05 k and the average total revenue per kg of fish was N379.62 k. This gives a Gross Margin (GM) of N202.72 k per kg of fish produced. Also from the results, the average net revenue was found to be N207.07 k per kg of fish. The sum total of elasticities of variables was less than unity (i.e., 0.801), which indicates that replacement of maize with cassava in fish production is in stage II, which is in the rational stage of production. The cost benefit analysis showed that the lowest incidence of cost, highest profit index, the least expenditure, the highest sale, net profit and cost benefit ratio were observed in diet D100, closely followed by diet C66. It could therefore be concluded that whole cassava root meal can replace maize in the diet of hybrid catfish effectively up to 100% with the optimal performance of 66% level of inclusion. Fish farmers can therefore explore the use of cassava as an alternative to maize meal in hybrid catfish diet with better profit margins.
O.M.G. Abu, L.O. Sanni, E.S. Erondu and O.A. Akinrotimi, 2010. Economic Viability of Replacing Maize with Whole Cassava Root Meal in the Diet of Hybrid Cat-Fish. Agricultural Journal, 5: 1-5.