A comparative economic analysis of aquaculture production systems in Southern Agricultural Zone of Cross River State, Nigeria

This study was undertaken to determine the factors that influence the output of aquaculture production and the profitability of three production systems (concrete tank, earthen pond, and mobile tank) in Southern Agricultural Zone of Cross River State. A multi-stage stratified random sampling technique was used to select 140 farmers from three LGAs in the study area. Structured questionnaire was used for data acquisition. Descriptive and inferential statistics alongside budgeting techniques were used in data analysis. ANOVA results indicates that there was significant difference (P .01) among the fish farming systems. Establishment of fish farm estates in the study area to enable fish farmers operate in clusters for efficient utilization of government facilities for enhanced productivity is recommended. Key words: Aquaculture production systems, gross margin, profitability ratios, return on investment and return on sales.