Bioeconomic Analysis of a Pilot Commercial Production for Frogs (Lithobates Catesbeianus), In Greece

Abstract

In the present paper the viability of a pilot commercial production of the American bullfrog Lithobates catesbeianu s in Greece was examined. Data were collected through personal interviews (in-depth interviews) with the entrepreneurs of six companies. A comparative presentation of profits and expenses was conducted, and the Net Present Value criterion was applied, as an indication of potential profitability of the investment plan. For the viable scenario NPV, was +464258€ and IRR was 72.8%. A larger produced amount, due to the lower density of the individuals (240 individuals/m2), and the better board management with automatic troughs. One couple of forg legs weighed 140 gr and for the production of 1kg of frog legs seven individuals are required. With food convertibility of 2:1, each animal consumes 750gr of food until it reaches the trading weight of 350gr. Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing sectors of agriculture in Greece and the development of frog farming interest, both financially as well as in protecting and preserving the natural populations of amphibians.