Profiling of Chinese Mitten Crab Farmers in the Jiangsu Province of China

Abstract

Profiling of Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) farmers is relevant for policy development and successful implementation of projects. Few studies have been undertaken in this area of research. The object of this study is to profile farmers involved in the production of Eriocheir sinensis farming in Jiangsu province, China. Data were collected using structured questionnaire. Results show that most farmers have attained basic education. The average age of farmers is about 57 years. The main occupation of most of them is fish farming. The average number of household labour involved in mitten crab farming is 2, working 8 hours/day. Casual labour works for 8 hours and is paid about CNY 110.00/day while permanent labour is paid an average of CNY 3,500.00/month. Most farmers have 6-10 years’ farming experience; majority are involved in polyculture with shrimp as the major species mix with mitten crab. A greater number of farmers depends on their own savings for farming and operate between1-10 ha. Most farms are not insured against risks and disasters. A large number of farmers benefit from various training to enhance their capacities. It is therefore essential that authorities consider the socio-economic characteristics of mitten crab farmers for policy drive to help develop programmes and projects for successful implementation.