AN INITIAL STUDY ON THE SUSTAINABILITY OF CLOWN KNIFE FISH (Chitala chitala Hamilton, 1882) IN FISHERY LIVELIHOODS IN THE MEKONG DELTA: A CASE STUDY IN AN GIANG PROVINCE

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the sustainability of Clown knife fishery's livelihood through a survey of 364 individuals related to the fishery. The survey employed a questionnaire with a Likert 5-point scale for assessing factors related to livelihood sustainability. A total of 25 observed variables were considered, which evaluated the sustainability of Clown knife fishery as follows: (i) 4 observed variables on sustainability, (ii) 10 observed variables on the ability to ensure livelihood, and (iii) 11 observed variables on career development opportunities. The results indicate that the livelihood strategy of Clown knife fishery in An Giang province is generally evaluated at a high level, with scores ranging from 3.27 to 3.85. These scores suggest that the fishery adequately meets the living needs of households engaged in fish adoption. In terms of sustainability, the results demonstrate that Clown knife fish farming is capable of ensuring the livelihood of fish farmers, with ratings ranging from 3.55 to 4.07. Furthermore, it creates opportunities for career development, which helps meet the sustainability requirements of the aquaculture industry, with scores ranging from 3.82 to 4.24. The research results contribute to supplementing the scientific basis in researching and developing Clown knife fish fishery in An Giang province in the period of climate change.