Fish Culture Systems and Management Implications: A Case Study of Gulu District, Uganda

Abstract

Fish farming was introduced three decades ago in Gulu district with the interest of improving the livelihood of the community. A random survey was done to assess the fish farming systems design, management, and physico – chemical variables and primary production of the systems in Gulu district. Results show that the systems used for culturing fish were ponds (85%), dams (10%) and valley tanks (5%). The systems design size and depth ranged from 120 -1500m2 and of 1.5 – 4m respectively. The practice was semi intensive. Fresh plant leaves, sunflower cake, rice and maize brand, and cooked posho were common supplemental feed for the fish. The percentage of farmers that cultured the different species was Oreochromis niloticus (62%), Tilapia zilli (28%), Clarias gariepinus (8%) and Cyprinus carpio (2%). The physico – chemical parameters of the pond system were within the desired value for fish culture. Net primary production was relatively low. Few farmers (8%) engaged in fry production. Cultured fish were sold at pond sites. Fish farming though diversified agriculture; supervision of other economic activities had a bearing on the management. Coupled to this is the inadequate extension services offered. The practice still lacks the capacity and finance.