Breeding and Broodstock Management Practices among Catfish Hatchery Operators in Kogi State, Nigeria

Abstract The sustainability of aquaculture development in Nigeria largely depends on the availability of high-quality fish seed, which is influenced by breeding and broodstock management practices at the hatchery level. This study assessed breeding practices, broodstock sourcing and characteristics, artificial propagation techniques, and health management practices among catfish hatchery operators in Kogi State, Nigeria. A stratified sampling technique was used to select 132 hatchery operators across nine Local Government Areas in the three senatorial districts of the state. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that 56.1% of respondents had received training in fish breeding, with empowerment programmes being the major source of training. Crossbreeding (56.8%) and artificial propagation (65.9%) were the dominant breeding approaches. Most operators sourced broodstock from fish farms (54.5%) and identified them primarily using sex organs (79.6%), with little use of standardized identification methods. Broodstock were generally of moderate size (2-2.5 kg) and relatively young (10-11 months). Milt extraction was predominantly carried out by sacrificing male fish (84.1%), while synthetic hormones such as ovatide (37.9%) and ovulin (34.1%) were widely used for induced spawning. Most hatcheries produced juveniles (49.2%), reflecting a preference for larger seed sizes. Water for hatchery operations was mainly sourced from rivers (44.7%) and boreholes (40.9%), with aeration (64.4%) being the principal water quality management practice. Although over half of the operators monitored water quality daily, the use of filtration systems and diagnostic facilities was limited. Bacterial infections (40.2%) were the most commonly reported diseases, and medication (58.3%) was the predominant health management strategy. The study concludes that while hatchery operators in Kogi State have adopted key artificial propagation techniques, significant gaps exist in broodstock management, genetic improvement, water quality control, and disease prevention. Strengthening technical capacity, promoting structured breeding programmes, improving hatchery infrastructure, and enhancing preventive health management practices are essential for improving fish seed quality and ensuring sustainable aquaculture development. Keywords: Breeding, Broodstock Management Practices, Catfish Hatchery Operators, Kogi State