Journal of Aquaculture Research & Development

Potential impact of varying climate on oyster production and utilization in a tropical coastal wetland in Ghana

4^th International Conference on Fisheries & Aquaculture

November 28-30, 2016 San Antonio, USA

Sandra Akugpoka Atindana, Olajire Fagbola and Sandra Brucet Balmana

University for Developement Studies, Ghana
University of Ibadan, Nigeria
University of Catelonia, Spain

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Aquac Res Development

Abstract:

The Whin estuary has an active women oyster fishery that provides nutritional and financial gain to the people. Itâ??s feared that this ecosystem could be lost in the event of climate change because of its close tie to the sea. This could be magnified by land use activities due to potential impact on food security, livelihood and water. Historic and primary catch data of West African oyster (Crassostrea tulipa) were used as surrogates of the ecological status and sustainability of the water for fish farming using triangulation approach. Focus group discussions, key informant interview, field measurements and observations were employed. Ranking of identified land use stressors were done using the Battisti model. The peak season of catch was from January to May (530-540 kg/day±0.01) and the off season was from June to August (200-210 kg/day±3.33). Rainfall, temperature, drought, mangrove cutting and sand winning were the threats to the fishery. 16.67% of the harvesters perceived its ability to be farmed, 68% of the fishers do not see it as a species that can be farmed and 15.33% have no idea. The fish is a good source of minerals, protein and carbohydrates. The percentage ash, moisture, calcium, iron, carbohydrates and protein were 10.89±2.17, 79.03±0.97, 22.98±0.78, 0.03±0.001, 8.67±0.24 and 43.27±0.35 respectively. There is need for sensitization on adaptation strategies to varying climate and the potential use for farming to coastal communities to mprove livelihoods.

Biography :

Email: sandybrownatindana@gmail.com