Allocative efficiency of resource utilization in fish farming in Ondo State, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Objective: The study assessed resource-use efficiency among fish farmers in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria.

Methods: A multi stage sampling technique was used to select 50 fish farmers for the study. Data were collected during 2013 production cycle. Multiple

regression analysis was used to determine the effects of variables determining the quantity of fish harvested. Allocative efficiency of resources used

in raising fish was determined using marginal value product and marginal factor cost.

Results: Significant determinants of the quantity of fish harvested at the end of the production cycle were fish seeds (0.647) and the quantity of feeds

used (0.339). The two productive resources were significant at 0.01 probability level. The values of allocative efficiency of all the inputs used indicated

that pond size (7.041) and fish seeds (11.500) were under-utilized while labour (0.705) was over-utilized; only feeds (1.032) were optimally utilized

during fish production process.

Conclusion: Under-utilized resources should be optimally used in order to obtain the best possible output. Excessive use of labour should be reduced

so as to cut cost of production and increase profit margin. It is also recommended that fish farmer’s capacity should be developed through regular

training on how to allocate productive resources efficiently.

Keywords: Fish, Resource, Marginal, Utilization, Farming, Efficiency, Feeds, Allocation.