Assessing the present status of low-cost small pelagic fish production, supply, and consumption in Matara district, Sri Lanka

Abstract

Low-cost small-pelagic (LC-SP) fish is rich in essential nutrients and can be a cost-effective solution to ensure food and nutrient security in Sri Lanka. However, researchers indicate that the current performance of Sri Lankan LC-SP fisheries is generally low, highlighting the need for improvement. Hence, this study aims to explore the present status of LC-SP fish production and supply, and consumer behavior towards LC-SP fish in the Matara district. Primary data on the industry’s present status were collected from Gandara fisheries harbor. Thirty single-day fishermen were conveniently selected from a population of 130. A consumer survey was conducted to understand the consumer preferences and behavior towards LC-SP fish. It included one hundred participants, chosen through convenience sampling, ensuring representation from both urban (50 from Matara DS division) and rural areas in the Matara district (50 from Pasgoda DS division). Major LC-SP fish species harvested in the Gandara fisheries harbor include Sardinella, Herrings, Indian scad and Thryssa. Issues in LC-SP fish production and supply include overexploitation, weather pattern changes, ocean pollution, increasing fishing costs, low economic gain, and huge post-harvest loss. Consumer survey found that urban consumers eat LCSP fish three times, averaging 3.4 kg per week while rural consumers limit it to two times, averaging 2.6 kg per week. Under the same market conditions, 51% of consumers prefer to choose large marine fish over LC-SP fish, primarily due to its ease of consumption (95%). Consumers prioritize fish quality and price among various factors influencing demand. Consumers agree that LC-SP fish is a valuable nutrient source (93%), considering it a better option than larger marine fish (51%). Furthermore, they express awareness of different LC-SP species (77%), market prices (71%), and nutritional benefits (83%). Moreover, 45% of consumers indicate the impact from subjective norms on LC-SP fish consumption. Consumers face difficulties in eating (97%) and preparation (90%) due to small-bones in LC-SP fish body. Fishermen highlighted the need of good price mechanism (25%) while consumers suggested value-added, ready-to-eat fish products (85%). Finally, this study provided valuable insights for managing LC-SP fish which can nourish Sri Lankans, especially those in low-economic groups.