TITLE:
Crocodile Farming—A Tool for Sustainable Development in Coastal Communities: A Case Study of Emede and Esanma Captive Breeding Sites, Delta State, Nigeria
AUTHORS:
Israel Omoghene Ogorode, Ijeoma Favour Vincent-Akpu, Bolaji Benard Babatunde
KEYWORDS:
Crocodile Farming, Sustainable Benefits, Coastal Communities, Conservation, Economic Benefits
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.12 No.1,
January
30,
2025
ABSTRACT: This study investigates the benefits of crocodile farming and ranching in Emede and Esanma Kingdoms, Delta State, Nigeria. A mixed-method approach was used, combining survey, key informant interview, and questionnaire methods. The results show that crocodile farming provides employment opportunities, income generation, and conservation benefits for the local communities. A total of 27 crocodiles were bred in captivity, with 16 Nile Crocodiles and 11 Dwarf crocodiles. The study also reveals that the communities are aware of the crocodile farms and have benefited from them. However, the chi-square analysis suggests that the variables are likely independent, indicating no significant difference between the observed and expected data. The study concludes that crocodile farming and ranching can be a sustainable and profitable venture for coastal communities, with potential economic and conservation benefits.