Community-based freshwater fish culture in Sri Lanka

摘要

In the recent past, planning and aquaculture development programs were a failure due to the absence of the participation of local communities, The programs completely collapsed when State patronage was discontinued in 1990. However, State support for aquaculture development has subsequently been revived and the importance of community participation in implementing the strategy is now well realised. This paper presents the results of attempts to increase fish production in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka through aquaculture with the participation of village-level organisations. The activities centered on fry to fingerling rearing of Oreochromis niloticus, Labeo dussumieri and Cyprinus carpio in net cages (4 X 2.5 X 2 m) in reservoirs and a number of village ponds (0.013-0.054 ha). The fingerlings produced were utilised in the culture-based fishery in seasonal reservoirs, and six seasonal tanks (area 7-18 ha) were stocked. The agricultural farmer organisations associated with seasonal tanks were trained in fish culture and were entrusted with stocking and harvesting fish. The general technological aspects of these culture systems, their advantages and constraints, with special reference to community participation, are discussed. The development strategy of identifying village-level organisations suitable for aquaculture activities, formation of new societies for pond fish culture, and of linking them to state-owned fish-breeding stations are discussed. Tools utilised for technology extension are also highlighted. The importance of providing financial assistance during the take-off stage is emphasised.