Fish Consumption and Acceptability of Aquaculture in Coastal Cities of Ivory Coast

Abstract

Fish remains an important component of household diets in the coastal cities of Côte d’Ivoire, yet local supply systems face increasing pressure from urban demand, limited capture fisheries, and growing dependence on imported products. This study examined fish consumption patterns and the acceptability of aquaculture products in four coastal cities: Adiaké, Bassam, Grand-Béréby, and San Pedro. Data were collected between April and May 2025 through a structured questionnaire administered face to face to 457 consumers in markets, fish outlets, and surrounding areas. The sample included 74 respondents in Adiaké, 177 in Bassam, 56 in Grand-Béréby, and 150 in San Pedro. Descriptive statistics were used to compare purchasing practices, preferred fish types, monthly fish budgets, perceived usefulness of aquaculture, and stated willingness to buy farmed fish. The results show that fish purchasing is frequent and generally involves small quantities per transaction. Marine fish was the dominant category across all localities, while freshwater fish, imported fish, and farmed products occupied secondary positions. Pseudotolithus typus was the most preferred marine species, followed by Polydactylus quadrifilis. Freshwater fish preferences varied by locality, with Chrysischthys nigrodigitatus and Lates niloticus being the most frequently mentioned species. Aquaculture products remained marginal in stated consumption preferences. Willingness to buy farmed fish varied strongly between localities, with higher acceptance in San Pedro and Grand-Béréby and lower acceptance in Adiaké and Bassam. These differences appear to be associated with product visibility, price constraints, familiarity with aquaculture, and consumer perceptions of farmed fish. The findings suggest that aquaculture development in coastal Côte d’Ivoire should combine improved market availability with consumer information, product labelling, and attention to locally preferred species.