Survey of factors affecting the sustenance of a tropical stream in Nigeria

Abstract

Man is at the center of natural resources development and destruction. This study assessed the productivity level of Gada stream and examined the factors militating against its sustenance. A total of 150 respondents, consisting of local fishers, fresh and dry fish traders, fish consumers and those living along the stream were randomly sampled. Data collection was by personal observation, oral interview and semistructured questionnaires. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that there was decreased fish production in the stream. Factors militating against fish production in Gada stream were continuous excavation of sand (81.33%), destruction of stream banks due to farming activities (60.0%), water pollution (48.67%), seldom flood (42.67%), over exploitation of fish (28.0%) and the types of fishing gears and techniques involved (21.33%). Management techniques such as avoidance of sand excavation (85.33%), use of nets of 1 cm2 mesh size (78.0%), controlled fishing activity (70.67%), use of buffer zones (68.67%) and planting of horticultural crops along the stream banks may be adopted for the stream’s revitalization, management and sustenance.

Keywords: Gada stream, Productivity, Factors affecting sustenance, Revitalization, Management, Conservation

Animal Research International (2012) 9(2): 1549 – 1554