Female fish farmers: How technically efficient are they? Evidence from Delta State Nigeria

The study investigated the technical efficiency of female catfish growers in Delta State, Nigeria. Data have been obtained using questionnaires from 112 farmers who randomly selected. Descriptive statistics, cost and return analysis as well stochastic model used data. results showed that mean age, farming experience household size fish were 42 years old, 8 6 persons respectively. Most participants are married educated. gross margin net farm income N490,378.46 N416,242.82k With a rate on investment BCR (Benefit Cost Ratio) 0.64 1.64, was found to be profitable. Stochastic frontier outcome pond, fingerlings, feed water supply had significant positive effect production, while medication an inverse relationship with production. Age, education increase performance, inefficiency is increased by distance location credit access. finding further revealed farmer 53.5% area study. This signal implementing technologies practiced best farmers, productivity can improved about 46.5% farmers. coefficient elasticity 0.567, which indicated Phase II. failure reach production may however due certain factors, including insufficient funding, high costs, fingerlings shortages. On basis results, should supported means professional training practices ensure their resources optimally utilized.