Knowledge and behavior: a study on adoption of best management practices among Sri Lankan shrimp farmers

Shrimp farming in Sri Lanka is economically advantageous but faces challenges like disease outbreaks and environmental issues. The government has introduced Best Management Practices (BMPs) to ensure sustainability. This study aimed to assess BMP knowledge and adoption among Sri Lankan shrimp farmers while identifying socio-demographic and behavioral factors influencing them, which have not been previously assessed. Data were gathered from 131 shrimp farmers in Puttalam district in Sri Lanka through a questionnaire survey and analyzed using descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regressions. The results showed that 26% of farmers had poor BMP knowledge, while 37% each had fair and good knowledge. Regarding adoption, 2% exhibited poor, 89% fair, and 9% good BMP adoption. According to the ordered logistic regression results, BMP training (p < 0.01), education (p < 0.05), and workforce (p < 0.05) significantly affect the knowledge level of BMPs. In contrast, age (p < 0.05), experience (p < 0.05), income share (p < 0.1), and risk preference (p < 0.1) significantly affect the adoption of BMPs. It is recommended to provide more BMP training to shrimp farmers, to improve their knowledge. Moreover, considering socioeconomic and behavioral factors is crucial when designing policies and interventions to promote BMP adoption.