present status of fish farming in Egypt and factors influencing fish farm production

ABSTRACT

Four governorates [Behaira, Kafr El-Sheikh, Daqahlia and Sharqia] were chosen to conduct this study. From each a sample of "20" fish farms was randomly selected. Data were collected on the following points location and site of fish farm; area in fed.; average depth in cm; annual fish production, kg/fed; use of supplementary feeding [extensive or intensive farms] and the stocking density [fry/fed]. Data showed that a total area of about 50,000 fed is utilized for fish pond culture, operated by both governmental and private sectors. Governmental farms were managed under the technical supervision of scientific experts- where all the construction parameters and farming standards and techniques are followed. In private farms a little consideration was given to these points. The annual fish production amounted to 386 kg/fed. This is considered a lower catch compared to that in many other countries of the world. Annual fish production was positively associated with the water depth of the fish pond, with addition of fertilizers and use of supplementary feeding and with stocking rate - where production was highest in normally stocked farms. No significant relation could be demonstrated between fish production and the area of fish pond due to lack of consideration of fish farming techniques. In conclusion, the present status of fish pond farming in Egypt is quite promising despite certain drawbacks in the current application of this technology. To do its role in food security programs the present rate of fish production should be increased from 400 kg/ fed/ year to 600 kg/fed/year to 800 kg/fed and one ton/ fed/year respectively. The present area available should be increased to 295,000 fed, then to 409, 833 fed and again to 567, 508 fed in the years 1985, 1990 and 2000, according to the expected increase in the Egyptian population