A SURVEY OF PRESERVED FISH AND FISHERFOLKS IN THE DISTRIBUTIONS AND MARKETING IN GWAGWALADA TOWN, FCT ABUJA, NIGERIA

Abstract

A study on the socio economic impact, distribution and marketing of preserved fish in Gwagwalada town, Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria was investigated through personal interview, complete enumeration and direct observations. A total of 7986 individual fishes were encountered and 23 fish species belonging to 20 families were identified. The most preferred preserved fish of commercial importance is Clarias gariepinus (12.71%) while the most preferred family was Clariidae (12.71%), followed by Mormyridae (11.59%) and Mochokidae (8.76%). Fifty nine respondents were involved, majorities (54.24%) were female and 88.2% married. Most of the respondents (59.32%) had no western education, 67.81% were between the ages of 41-60 years and 49.15% had 11-20 year experience. Those respondents that purchase preserved fish in Cartons constituted 49.15% while others purchases in Basket, Basin and Jute bags. All the respondents were self-sponsored with 89.83% retailers while wholesalers constituted 10.17%. Preserved fish business has impact on financial security of the respondents. However, provision of credit and transport facilities would enhance the socio economic status of fishmongers in the community.