Adaptation options of shrimp aquaculture in southwest coastal Bangladesh

Abstract

Shrimp production is one of the major export industries of Bangladesh with great contribution in its socio-economic development. Changing pattern of climatic variables (i.e., salinity, temperature, rainfall, flood, drought, cyclone) exert stresses on the shrimp cultivation system. Local farmers try to adapt with this changing enviornmental condition in various ways. This study was conducted to identify the adaptation options of shrimp aquaculture in the southwest coastal Bangladesh. A total of 240 shrimp farmer interviews, 60 KI interviews, and 24 FGDs were conducted in southwest coastal districts of Bangladesh. Results indicate that extreme weather event, e.g., extreme temperature, over rainfall, and natural disasters are the major causes of lower production. Local farmers apply various teckniques to adapt with emarging climatic changes. Besides, they typically use mixed culture in different combination with prawn, freshwater fishes, salt tolerant variety of rice, and vegetables to increase net profit. Proper adaption techniques of shrimp farming are essential to support the local farmers to better adapt with the changing climatic context in southwest coastal Bangladesh.