Investment Viability of Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture (IMTA) in Nigeria

Abstract

Integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) is considered a more sustainable alternative to conventional monoculture systems, with the potential to improve profitability while reducing environmental impacts. However, IMTA adoption in Nigeria remains limited. As part of Asia–Africa BlueTech Superhighway (AABS), scientists at WorldFish evaluated the projected economic viability and environmental impacts of four cage-based IMTA systems in brackish water relative to a conventional tilapia monoculture. Across the IMTA systems assessed, the unit investment costs ranged from USD 97.76 to 307.49 per m³ (₦ 134,147.25 - 421,940.85 per m³). Returns per USD invested varied significantly, ranging from USD 1.98 to 3.21 (₦ 2716.98 - 4404.79) in IMTA systems, compared with USD 0.08 (₦ 109.78) in the conventional monoculture system. In addition, IMTA implementation reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 59.7%–82.4% relative to the monoculture system.