World Aquaculture Singapore 2022

November 29 - December 2, 2022

Singapore

OPPORTUNITIES IN ORNAMENTAL FISH BUSINESS IN NIGERIA

Okechukwu Alum-Udensi*, Johnpaul C. Ikwuemesi and Anthony A. Nlewadim

Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management

Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Nigeria.

*okeyalum@yahoo.com

 



Ornamental fish keeping is a popular hobby in developed countries and is gaining popularity in many developing countries. Ornamental fish breeding, wild-fish collection and trade and associated aquarium business provide excellent opportunities in non-food fisheries for employment and wealth creation. Pet fish keeping has made a come-back in Nigeria after about two decade’s decline of the hobby in the early 1990s.

There is a great opportunity for growth in both in international market and the almost untapped domestic market with the non-existence of aquatic outlets and public aquariums in major cities of Nigeria. This paper takes a close look at the business opportunities presented by this non-food fisheries sector for employment and wealth creation.