Fish Post Harvest Losses and Intervention Measure to Reduce Losses in Lake Hashengie

Abstract

The survey was conducted to determine the kinds and extent of losses and to propose the actions required to prevent post-harvest losses in Lake Hashengie. The assessment was carried out by adopting the methodology of Wood (1985) by measuring the flow of fish through the system. Direct weight measurement of the catch was performed quickly by using a simple balance at landing site. The total catch, as well as, total discarded due to spoilage, size, and lack of market were measured. The study was conducted between September 2009 and August 2010. From the total annual 5118 kg total tilapia catch, the post-harvest loss constitute 526.9 kg (8.3 %), of which, 100.6 kg of tilapia was discarded due to size discrimination and 426.2 kg was discarded due to spoilage. From the estimated 2012 kg of common carp catch, the overall post harvest losses were 367.8 kg (15.4%), of which, 144.3 kg was due to size discrimination and 230.2 kg discarded due to spoilage. Higher post harvest fash losses were measured between March and May for both species. The main reasons for post harvest losses include inadequate handling, poor processing and storing facilities, .delay between catch, collection and distribution, lack of proper market channel and lack of appropriate fish handling and preserving techniques,