Potentialities and constraints of fish farming in the northern Benin water reservoirs: What are the challenges?

Abstract

Water reservoirs constitute a high potential for aquaculture promotion in Benin. Physical and chemical quality of their water and the presence of fish with high fish farming potential in their biodiversity reinforce this assertion. Main constraints limiting the development of fish aquaculture in northern Benin water reservoirs are (i) threats of agricultural pesticides that contaminate water reservoirs, act on the immunity of fish, their health status and cause an alteration of their sanitary quality, and (ii) lack of zootechnical standards adapted to this ecotoxicological context. In order to improve quantitatively and qualitatively fish production in these water reservoirs, it is of paramount importance that investigations be made on the fish farming systems that minimize the exposure of fish to pesticides and on the possibilities of decontamination of these fish. This will enable the satisfaction of the existing large internal market and ensure food security for the population.