Abstract:
Aquaculture meets growing seafood demand, with saline tilapia suited for
brackish waters, fostering sustainable practices. The study aims to analyze
factors contributing to the successful cage culture of Saline Tilapia in
Batticaloa Lagoon and seeks to conduct a feasibility analysis and offer
suggestions for further development to assist in its success. A technical
feasibility analysis evaluates water quality parameters crucial for tilapia cage
culture. Socio-economic feasibility involves a survey of 40 nearby farmers
in Southern Batticaloa Lagoon. Legal feasibility assesses the permit
acquisition process, while financial feasibility considers cost and revenue
estimations. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. In the
southern region of Batticaloa Lagoon, aquaculture is male-dominated with
farmers aged 40-50 and low educational qualifications. Technical feasibility
analysis indicates favourable conditions for saline tilapia cage culture with
optimal pH, salinity, and water depth. Socio-economic factors highlight
economic challenges but also opportunities, with all farmers expressing a
desire to transition to tilapia cage culture. Environmental awareness is high,
and financially, most farmers believe in the profitability of tilapia cage
culture, though challenges exist. Ongoing monitoring and support are
recommended for sustainable success. The study concludes with a financial
viability assessment of saline tilapia cage culture in the southern Batticaloa
Lagoon, emphasizing its potential benefits and addressing identified
challenges.
