The native freshwater silver perch, Bidyanus bidyanus, has the potential to form a large pond-based aquaculture industry in Australia, but at present, production is based on genetically un-improved stock. Research for improved growth rate has identified a significant level of hybrid vigor in fingerlings of the Murray River x Cataract Dam cross (MC). This study investigated whether the profitability of a commercial farm could be increased by using this intra-specific cross. Results indicate that silver perch bio-economics are sensitive to growth rate; use of MC increased annual return by AU$33,092, 20-year NPV by AU$324,895 and saved 56 days average grow-out. Cash flows became positive earlier for a farm using MC, which was also more risk efficient with only a 4% chance of making an annual return of less than AU$0. Although use of MC should result in improved profit to farmers, high feed costs and the small size of farms remain as major constraints to industry growth.
Journal article
Economic assessment of an intra-specific cross of silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus Mitchell) for commercial farming
Aquaculture Economics and Management, Vol.13(4), pp.328-343
2009
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Abstract
Details
- Title
- Economic assessment of an intra-specific cross of silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus Mitchell) for commercial farming
- Creators
- Jeffrey A Guy - NSW Department of Primary Industries, Grafton Aquaculture CentreBill Johnston - QLD Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, NambourOscar J Cacho - University of New England
- Publication Details
- Aquaculture Economics and Management, Vol.13(4), pp.328-343
- Identifiers
- 2244; 991012821376202368
- Academic Unit
- School of Environment, Science and Engineering; Faculty of Science and Engineering
- Resource Type
- Journal article