Econometrics of Scampi (Macrobrachium Rosenbergii) Polyculture in Selected Ponds at Sandeshkhali – I Development Block in North 24 Parganas District of Coastal West Bengal over the Year 2014

Abstract: For a social and economic standpoint prawn farming will remain an important part of the rural economy. From an environmental standpoint impacts of intensive prawn culture will only become exacerbated if the discharge of untreated effluent continues. This could have severe consequences for the industry in the future. Alternative systems, such as nutrient recycling systems, or alternative water treatment strategies are necessary to mitigate negative impacts in the future. The potential for higher farm income through remediation of currently idle ponds will provide a significant incentive for farmers to make them back on scampi farming. Factors encouraging prawn farming expansion are compatibility with agriculture, small farmers can practice in their own land, opportunities for women’s involvement, no interference with mangrove or environment. Revive the scampi industry can made it a major contributor in earning foreign exchange for our country and at the same time play a crucial role to the employment generation and socio-economic upliftment of a major portion of coastal rural fisher folk.

Key words: Economic standpoint, intensive culture, quality measures, mitigate, sustainable development, potential.

I. INTRODUCTION

Aquaculture is widely used as an important weapon in the global fight against poverty and malnutrition, particularly within developing countries. The giant river prawn Macrobrachium rosenbergii is native to Southeast Asia, South Pacific countries, northern Oceania, and  western Pacific islands [1]. Modern aquaculture of the species began in the late 1960s with the discovery that larval survival required brackishwater conditions [2]. Commercial development was possible due to research conducted by Takuji Fujimura which allowed for the ready availability of postlarvae [3]. Adults are found in most inland freshwater areas, preferring turbid conditions [3]. Due to aggressive behavior and competition, freshwater prawns exhibit differential growth rates. According to Ministry of Water Resources, Govt. of India the total water bodies cover about 7.0 million ha in which tanks and ponds are about 2.9 million ha followed by reservoirs (2.1 million ha), brackish water areas (1.19 million ha).

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