A study of economic efficiency, adaptive measures to extreme climatic events, and drivers of disease in Vietnamese white leg shrimp aquaculture

Abstract

This thesis delves into three key research areas centered on shrimp farming: evaluating operational efficiency in shrimp farming, analyzing adaptive choices made by farmers, and forecasting disease occurrences in shrimp farms in the context of evolving climate and environmental influences. The research employed a blend of methodologies derived from pertinent literature, coupled with data acquired through surveys. Rigorous checks for robustness were employed, leading to statistically substantial outcomes that address various inquiries concerning the economic facets of shrimp cultivation in the face of severe weather conditions. The specific locale chosen for this study is the Vannamei shrimp farming in the provinces of Bac Lieu and Ca Mau, situated in the Mekong Delta of South Vietnam. These provinces hold diverse shrimp farming systems and contribute significantly to the nation's shrimp output. Their geographical vulnerability to the impacts of climate change also aligns well with the study's core objectives.

The first objective assessed efficiency in shrimp yield for both intensive and extensive systems, linking factors like climate perception, education, adaptation, disease, and location to efficiency. This aids in identifying factors that mitigate inefficiencies in well-managed farms during adverse weather. The second objective analyzed factors influencing farmers' choices in adopting adaptive measures across intensive and extensive systems. Socioeconomic status, knowledge sharing, access to services, farm characteristics, and perceptions were key factors shaping adaptive decisions, with policy implications for climate adaptation in shrimp farming.

The final objective predicted disease outbreaks in intensive shrimp farming, identifying risk and protective factors. Training, extension services, and protective measures were crucial in minimizing disease, with shrimp crop duration and operational years affecting disease likelihood.