AWARENESS, WILLINGNESS AND PERCEIVED BENEFITS OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY LARVAE IN AQUAFEED PRODUCTION AMONG OGUN STATE FISH FARMERS

Abstract

Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal (BSFLM) is a viable alternative to conventional fishmeal, offering a high-protein content that meets the nutritional needs of fish. This study assessed the awareness, willingness, and perceived benefits of BSFLM-based aquafeed to fish farmers in Ogun State. A multistage sampling technique was adopted. Ogun State Agricultural Development zoning system was adopted and blocks with prevalent fish farming activities were selected. Purposive selection was done to select 307 farmers within the study area. This ensured that only farmers relevant to the study’s focus, who are capable of providing accurate and relevant information needed were selected. A structured interview guide was used to elicit information on socio-economic characteristics, awareness, willingness and perceived benefits of BSFLM. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools (SPSS, v25). Majority (87%) of the farmers were married; 88% were male. Average age was 39 years; household size – 6; years of farming experience – 13 and average monthly income was ₦279,511. BSFLM awareness rate of 82.4% was relatively high, and only 19.8% were aware of its use in aquafeed formulations. About 91% of the respondents showed willingness to adopt BSFLM. Willingness tested as the dependent variable indicated that years of experience (p = 0.042), average monthly income (p=0.019), number of ponds owned by farmers and the quantity of harvest, significantly influenced willingness to adopt BSFLM. Perceived benefits result indicated that about 89% of farmers perceived that BSFLM does not pose a potential risk to consumers, 94% perceived BSFLM-formulated feed is cheaper and 73% agreed that BSFLM in aquafeed does not affect consumer acceptability. Inadequate training (x=2.23) was identified as the highest barrier to the adoption of BSFLM while competition with other farmers (x=1.74) was the lowest ranked. The study concluded that majority of farmers have basic awareness of BSFL. Most farmers were noted to show a high level of willingness and they perceived the benefits of BSFLM. The study recommends that targeted educational programs be developed to bridge this knowledge gap, alongside policies that ensure the availability and affordability of BSFLM.