Author(s): Ovwigho B.O, Ozoani S.E and Ogisi O.D
The research was driven by the need to test the attitude of rural inhabitants to consumption of cultured catfish since its introduction over 60 years study area. Cultured catfish represented the experimental specimen while captures catfish served as the control. Structured questionnaire/interview schedule were used for data collection. Data were measured by use of a four-point Likert type scale and analysed by use of mean, t-test, Analysis of Variance and Correlation. The rural dwellers had favourable attitude to consumption of both cultured and capture catfish but there was a significant difference in their attitude ( t = 10.26, p = 0.00). A significant relationship was found between the socio-cultural, environmental and economic factors influencing consumption of cultured and capture catfish (F = 381.937, p = 0.00). Socio-cultural factors had a more profound influence on consumption of both cultured and capture catfish. Cultured catfish acquired the properties of an impulse food item due to environmental factors which led to unavailability of capture catfish. The study established that it is possible for a people to change attitude in consumption from an indigenous food to an innovative substitute following changes in the environmental, economic and social structures of the community. Social and agricultural extension workers should not relent in their efforts at persuading consumers to accept new technologies in the event of initial resistance.