Disease Management Strategies in Fish Farming in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigates disease control strategies in fish farming within Ogun State's Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Nigeria. Employing a straightforward random sampling method, 100 fish farmers were selected, and data was collected using a standardized questionnaire and interviews. The analysis, incorporating percentage, mean scores, and standard deviation, reveals that all participants experienced fish mortality in their farms, attributing it to stress, poor water quality, and disease organisms. Water pollution, identified by 76.4% of respondents, and emerged as the primary cause, followed by feed contamination, infection, high stocking density, electrical failure, and environmental factors. Emphasizing the pivotal role of water quality in fish health, the study highlights the challenges, with substantial losses observed at the fry stage (40.8%). During outbreaks, farmers predominantly sought advice from peers (55.6%) and engaged in self-medication (34.7%), indicating limited involvement of professionals. The prevalence of bacterial diseases underscores interventions such as water management and antibiotic use. While fungal diseases are relatively rare, viral diseases like dropsy are identified, with treatments involving salt and antibacterial diets. This study provides crucial insights into the complexities of fish farming, underscoring the necessity for comprehensive strategies addressing water quality, disease management, and knowledge dissemination within the farming community in Ogun State's Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.