FISH FARMERS PERCEPTION ON CLIMATE VARIABILITIES AND ITS EFFECTS ON FISH PRODUCTION IN BOSSO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, MINNA, NIGER STATE

Abstract

This study was carried out to investigate fish farmer’s perception of climate variability’s and its impact on fish production in Bosso local government area, Minna, Niger State. Structured questionnaires was used to obtain information from respondents, these responses were tabulated in percentages, frequencies, tables and charts. The secondary data obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Organization (NIMET) on temperature, rainfall and wind speed indicate variability’s over the months and years. ArcGIS 10.2 software was used to produce the map. 87% of respondents are males in their active age, married with 5 to 20years of fish farming experience. The questionnaires result shows that there is reduction in number of rainy days, unpredictable rainfall pattern, and increase in temperature and wind speed. Respondents in the study area perceive climate variables like rainfall, temperature and wind to have significant effect on fish production. These findings were analyzed and recommendations were offered based on the study carried out. This was further synchronized to generate a map of the distance between farm locations. In conclusion, climate variability is a serious environmental threat which must be effectively managed for profitable aquaculture production.