Preliminary Survey on the Health and Management Practices Among Small-scale Cage Tilapia Farmers on Lake Volta

Abstract The study investigated the health and management strategies adopted by fish farmers on Lake Volta to control disease outbreaks. 30 fish farmers were randomly selected within stratum II of the Lake Volta and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires and oral discussions to collect information on their knowledge, experiences and measures used in controlling the spread of fish diseases. Farmers face challenges including poor water quality and seed and incidence of diseases. 56% of farmers reported they have experienced up to 70% losses of their fish due to diseases. 80% of farmers use antibiotics, herbs and probiotics as a treatment regimen to control diseases. Farmers expressed low confidence in using expert advice in the control of diseases. For better management of fish health, it may be necessary to develop a comprehensive fish health management plan by the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in the management of disease incidence in the aquaculture industry in Ghana.</jats:p