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From pond to lowland scale, a systemic approach to better understanding small-scale rice-fish farming dynamics: Case study in Guinea

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: CONTEXT: Rice-fish farming is a livelihood activity in Guinea, but its practices and outcomes vary across regions due to environmental conditions and market access. These disparities influence farmers’ adoption of advanced aquaculture techniques, necessitating locally adapted approaches.OBJECTIVE: This study examines the practices, challenges, and income contributions of rice-fish farming systems in Guinea. It focuses on identifying factors driving the adoption of advanced techniques and assessing their impact on household incomes in peri-urban and savannah zones.METHODS: Data were gathered from 1,942 rice-fish farmers through a census and the detailed monitoring of 36 production cycles. The study analyzed the adoption of practices such as male monosex tilapia, Hemichromis fasciatus integration, and fry rearing, emphasizing differences between 3 climatic areas.RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Although farmers generally understand fish farming principles, only 59% use H. fasciatus and 30% adopt monosex tilapia. Recycling small fish as fingerlings remains common but constrains growth potential. Rice-fish farming contributes 18% of household income, comparable to rice (22%) and plantation crops (21%). In peri-urban areas, better market access enables farmers to adopt advanced practices like monosex tilapia and H. fasciatus, yielding higher fish prices (25,000 GNF/kg vs. 16,000–20,000 GNF/kg in other areas). Conversely, savannah farmers face challenges like water scarcity, seasonal fish losses, and limited markets, focusing instead on integrating horticulture into ponds during the dry season.SIGNIFICANCE: The study highlights farmers’ adaptability in developing context-specific practices. It underscores the need for tailored support to enhance the sustainability and resilience of rice-fish farming systems in Guinea.

Source: Agricultural Systems

DOI: 10.1016/j.agsy.2025.104383

Authors: Lucas Fertin, Anne Perinelle, Teatske Bakker