Would you go into frog farming?

[MustyJ]

So, I stumbled on this story. Frog farming is set to rise, it says. Before you go ewwww, frogs are a delicacy in parts of Nigeria, Thailand, and China. If there is a market, there is opportunity for the entrepreneur. The market value in China alone is close to $7 billion dollars.

Would you go into frog farming?

Here is the full story from https://thefishsite.com/articles/amphibious-aquaculture-why-frog-farming-is-set-for-success

Amphibious farming. Barbacued frogs

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Amphibious aquaculture: why frog farming is set for success


After decades of frustration, one of the least well-known elements of the aquaculture industry, frog farming, could be poised for growth.

It would seem that frog farming may finally be coming into its own after many decades of little commercial progress. Frogs are cold-blooded animals, so their culture is generally limited to tropical and sub-tropical regions, but farming activities have been increasing rapidly in many parts of the world. This is generally a sign of efficient and profitable technology and management practices, in spite of some recent investment trends in other aquaculture sectors.

Nonetheless, land costs, labour costs, prevailing climatic conditions and value chains all impact the economic feasibility of frog farming, as does competition from poorly regulated harvests of wild frogs. There are two phases involved in frog culture – larval rearing to metamorphosis, followed by grow-out to marketable size. Both have significant management issues to contend with, including diseases, cannibalism, nutrition, water quality and sanitation/biosecurity.

Native vs introduced species
While frog farming has long been pursued in many countries and with a number of species, most of the early research and development efforts focused on the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). This species, native to North America, often reaches 20 cm in length with large females laying up to 25,000 eggs at a time. These seemed like ideal characteristics for a cultivated species when research trials began in earnest, but feeding soon emerged as a major problem because many frog species, including the American bullfrog, will only feed on live food (or whatever they perceive to possibly be alive). Early research using live foods for L. catesbeianus typically resulted in feed conversions of 2.8 to 1, and occasionally higher. Eventually, researchers and producers realised that, if they could cause feed pellets to move around in front of the frogs’ noses by using bubbles, flowing water or motorised feeding trays, they could fool them into consuming it. Sometimes.

The American bullfrog was widely introduced to distant lands over the last century, primarily with an eye toward farming or as a substitute for smaller native species. It is now found in more than 40 countries, and is being cultured primarily in South America and Asia. Nonetheless, many governments, researchers and entrepreneurs across the world have focused on developing culture techniques for native frog species. Some examples include: the marsh frog (Pelophylax ridibundus) in Europe, where farming interest is increasing; the North African green frog (Pelophylax saharicus), which is undergoing preliminary evaluation; and the giant swamp frog, or groove crowned bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus occipitalis) in Burundi and Nigeria.

Fortunately, as interest in frog farming spread throughout Asia, researchers found that the live or moving feed problem can be avoided altogether with some species, such as the tiger frog (Hoplobatrachus ragulosus) that eagerly feed on pellets without any need to move them about mechanically. While this species is still referred to by several scientific names, it has emerged as the most adaptable frog for farming in Asia.

Larval culture
Although their culture requirements are not dissimilar, some tadpoles can be even less forgiving than many fish species. Larval culture for frogs covers hatching to metamorphosis (the point at which legs are fully formed and the tail completely resorbed). Survival to metamorphosis, size and age at metamorphosis, and overall weight gain during larval culture, are important indicators of good (or poor) management. Temperature, rearing density, dissolved minerals, nutrition and water quality are all major influences on tadpole survival and growth.

Luckily, feeding is one aspect of frog culture that is comparatively easy when dealing with the larval stages prior to metamorphosis. While some elaborate diet formulations have been developed for tadpole culture, and commercial salmon starter has also been used successfully, researchers in Nigeria recently reported on the relative performance of H. occipitalis tadpoles fed duckweed, pawpaw leaf and commercial fish feed. The highest feed intake, weight gain, specific growth rate and FCR were all attained with the duckweed diet, with a 90 percent survival rate and 100 percent metamorphosis. The researchers attributed these advantages to the high crude protein content and digestibility of the duckweed. Many other recipes for homemade diets have also proven successful.

In China, metamorphosis rates of H. rugulosa (rugulosus) were shown to decrease as larval density increased. Time to metamorphosis also increased with density, and froglets from high density treatments were smaller. When tadpoles’ food was limited, the time to metamorphosis also increased and froglet size decreased. Similar trends have been reported for other species.

Good sanitation is essential in tadpole culture. Avoiding food waste reduces the potential for bacterial diseases. Tanks should be checked closely several times a day and any sick or dead animals removed. Tanks or ponds should be thoroughly cleaned and dried between batches, so smooth surfaces are preferred.

Post-metamorphosis grow-out
Disease can be common if frogs are raised at high densities, but some species tolerate crowded conditions far better than others. An abundance of potentially pathogenic bacteria can be found in a typical frog farm – especially motile aeromonads. These generally occur in the water, the feed and the frogs themselves. Red-leg syndrome, or bacterial dermatosepticemia, is a widespread problem in frog farms and affects many different species around the world. Certain antibiotics can help with this disease, but resistance, cost and residue concerns limit this approach.

Researchers in China have reported that supplemental taurine, at 16-20 mg/kg body weight, can improve immune function and antioxidant activity in captive H rugulosus. And some other strategies may be emerging to deal with specific bacterial pathogens. Certain bacteria associated with farmed frogs are actually beneficial, and researchers in Brazil have identified a number of lactic acid bacteria present in L. catesbeianus culture environments. Lactococcus lactis CRL 1584, isolated from a bullfrog hatchery, inhibited the growth of Citrobacter freundii (a bullfrog pathogen) and Listeria monocytogenes. Researchers in several countries are working on harnessing beneficial bacteria associated with frog culture as biological control agents and probiotics. Advances in frog nutrition and resulting improvement in the production environment may also reduce disease problems going forward. Papain supplementation in the diet of farmed frogs in Thailand resulted in less waste and improved water quality during grow-out.

Other recent nutritional research has shown that ingredients such as corn gluten meal can be incorporated into frog grow-out rations without reducing survival or weight gain. Refinement of commercial diets (for those species inclined to consume them) is resulting in improved animal welfare and economic efficiencies.

Genetic and environmental issues
Clearly, concerns associated with the widespread introduction of potentially invasive frog species such as the American bullfrog are valid. Additionally, as a result of habitat modification and other anthropogenic phenomena, hybrids between distinct frog species have been reported in recent years in a number of regions. Some evaluation of hybrids for culture has occurred in Europe and Asia, but results have been mixed and generally negative. In Bangladesh, researchers recently reported that while larval hybrids between H. litoralis and H. tigerinus developed normally, albeit with somewhat lower viability at metamorphosis, those involving female H. rugulosus suffered from low survival and those that did survive metamorphosis exhibited abnormal spermatogenesis. Concerns have also been raised over the translocation of distinct subspecies of H. rugulosus for farming purposes and the potential negative genetic impacts that might result.

Markets and demand
Small scale, “backyard” frog farms still appear to be the norm in most countries, suggesting that management practices and value chains have not yet reached the point where significant economies of scale come into play, but this is beginning to change across Asia. In 2017 the Chinese Academy of Engineering estimated the value of the country’s frog farming industry was over US $7 billion. Marketing arrangements still appear to influence the profitability of most producers, and these can vary considerably from one country to another, and from one farm to another.

Dressed carcass yields of farmed frog species vary, but a value of approximately 50 percent is typical. The rear legs generally account for half the carcass weight. Some markets also exist for frog skin as a specialty leather. Western consumers are often only familiar with frogs’ legs as an edible product, but it is more common to see the whole dressed carcass marketed and consumed in other parts of the world. Wild frogs provide a number of environmental services, not the least of which is the control of many agricultural pests.

Consumption of frogs is expanding in many countries and at the same time wild harvests of most edible species have become unsustainable, so it is probably a safe bet that frog farming will grow in the coming years, with benefits accruing for consumers, producers and the environment.

https://thefishsite.com/articles/amphibious-aquaculture-why-frog-farming-is-set-for-success

[Tobi]

Looks like it's an in thing all over the country (Borno, Kebbi, Osun etc) and even in neighboring countries. See the story below. It seem to be a lucrative business. I would not touch it though.

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https://dailytrust.com/how-frog-meat-is-gaining-popularity-patronage-in-nigeria

How Frog Meat Is Gaining Popularity, Patronage In Nigeria

Edible frogs are said to be among the best cuisines of many places in Nigeria and abroad. Like other aquatic creatures, frog meat is stewed, fried, roasted or grilled. While some species taste like fish, others are comparable to chicken.



Apart from health benefits derived from the consumption of frog meat, frog business flourishes in some states in the country. It has now assumed international status, such that traders make significant profits on a daily basis.

Speaking on the nutritional benefits of frogs, a dietician, Sarah Abagi said some people were just waking up to its consumption but it has always been there. She said frogs were a very good source of protein, and like any other animal, it also contains minerals that are good for the body.

She said frogs could easily be differentiated from toad through its smooth skins and long legs, adding that toads are not edible.

“Toad is not edible because it contains venom, which is harmful to the body. The skin is rough, and they are found on the land, unlike frogs, which natural habitat is water,’’ she said.

Abagi, however, said frog farming had not taken place in Nigeria probably because of the taboo some people attach to certain food and animals in some tribes, or some religious beliefs.

“We are yet to see if our people have disabused their minds from frog and embraced its nutritional value. People need to understand that it is a good source of protein,’’ she added.

Similarly, a nutritionist, Najib Ahmad, said several researches revealed that frogs had a high nutritional value.

“It is a good source of mineral elements, such as calcium, potassium and sodium. Research shows that edible frogs are good for man and his animals. According to research, anti-nutrient content in edible frogs is very low when compared to other meats; hence it has less side effects,’’ he explained.

Ahmad said edible frogs could be identified by long legs and streamlined bodies; and it could be found in freshwater, swamp and ponds, adding that it is omnivores and comes in brown, black, tan and green colours.

“Skin type is permeable with top speed, and its lifespan is between 5 to 15years,’’ he added.

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How Frog Meat Is Gaining Popularity, Patronage In Nigeria
Cartons of frogs at Bunza Market
Cartons of frogs at Bunza Market

By
. .
Sun Dec 20 2020

Edible frogs are said to be among the best cuisines of many places in Nigeria and abroad. Like other aquatic creatures, frog meat is stewed, fried, roasted or grilled. While some species taste like fish, others are comparable to chicken.



Apart from health benefits derived from the consumption of frog meat, frog business flourishes in some states in the country. It has now assumed international status, such that traders make significant profits on a daily basis.

All hail Prof Pate, communication giant
Do not be afraid mary for you have found favour with God
Speaking on the nutritional benefits of frogs, a dietician, Sarah Abagi said some people were just waking up to its consumption but it has always been there. She said frogs were a very good source of protein, and like any other animal, it also contains minerals that are good for the body.


Traders loading frog meat at Gboko Friday morning for Gbor market in Kastina-Ala LGA in Benue State

She said frogs could easily be differentiated from toad through its smooth skins and long legs, adding that toads are not edible.

“Toad is not edible because it contains venom, which is harmful to the body. The skin is rough, and they are found on the land, unlike frogs, which natural habitat is water,’’ she said.

Abagi, however, said frog farming had not taken place in Nigeria probably because of the taboo some people attach to certain food and animals in some tribes, or some religious beliefs.

“We are yet to see if our people have disabused their minds from frog and embraced its nutritional value. People need to understand that it is a good source of protein,’’ she added.

Similarly, a nutritionist, Najib Ahmad, said several researches revealed that frogs had a high nutritional value.

“It is a good source of mineral elements, such as calcium, potassium and sodium. Research shows that edible frogs are good for man and his animals. According to research, anti-nutrient content in edible frogs is very low when compared to other meats; hence it has less side effects,’’ he explained.

Ahmad said edible frogs could be identified by long legs and streamlined bodies; and it could be found in freshwater, swamp and ponds, adding that it is omnivores and comes in brown, black, tan and green colours.

“Skin type is permeable with top speed, and its lifespan is between 5 to 15years,’’ he added.


A prepared tasty frog meal

Demand for frog meat increases in Borno

Alhaji Shehu Tilli, who sells smoked fish, cow skin, dried meat and roasted frogs at the popular Baga Road market in Maiduguri, said most of the frogs were sourced from water bodies using special techniques.

According to him, frogs are caught at different locations in the state, including Zabarmari and Konduga, as well as the Lake Chad area of Baga. He said those who hunt for frogs do so between November and January when the weather is still moist and warm, adding that it is often done both day and night.

“Frogs are hunted in large quantities and smoked after removing the intestines and loaded in cartons and supplied to consumers. They could as well be arranged and roasted on sticks without removing any of the internal organs.

Most consumers from Benue State prefer smoked frogs which internal organs are intact. Customers from the western part of the country mostly ask for smoked frogs without internal organs,” he said.

He said that despite the spate of insurgency in the state, the demand for frog meat and meals had continued to increase among consumers.

He added, “The meat is edible and medicinal. This explains why the demand is high in so many parts of Nigeria and abroad. Some of my customers have confided in me that the meat could be used in curing typhoid.

Frog meat is scarce in this market because of short supply. The hunters are afraid to go to locations far from town because of the activities of insurgents. Many people in places where frogs are found have also been displaced. The supply chain has been disrupted because hunters cannot get enough, and retail outlets are almost dormant.”

He said a carton of smoked frog was sold between N2,500 and N3,000, depending on the size while those on stick were sold between N500 and N600 each.

Another buyer, Sani Sale, said frog contained a lot of oil which, when extracted, was sold in large quantities and could be used for cooking and medicinal purposes. He said frog meat could be used in treating calcium deficiency in the body.

A woman who consumed frog meals said the meat tasted like fish.

Frog business thrives in Kebbi

In Bunza town of Kebbi State, frog is one of the most flourishing businesses as commercial activities have since assumed international status.

Daily Trust on Sunday learnt that the business started in the town in the past 20 years, and traders now get their supplies beyond the local outlets, as far as Niger, Benin Republic Ghana and Mali.

Due to the scarcity of the edible species in local water bodies in Bunza, some neigbouring local government areas, as well as some parts of Zamfara State, hunters are forced to exploit other African countries for the commodity.

It was also learnt that the closure of land borders by the Federal Government of Nigeria affected frog business as supplies dropped significantly. However, few people smuggled the commodity through porous borders.

Our correspondent was also told that, like most parts of the North, frog business was received with apathy in Bunza.

Those who took part in marketing the commodity were not only stigmatised but called all sorts of unprintable names. Even their family members were not spared. But over the years, when the business was accepted among the Hausa Muslims, it has now become the most money- spinning business in Bunza. It is now a big market that accommodates both old and newcomers.

People from the western part of the country – Oyo, Lagos, Osun and some parts of Kwara states – are the major buyers of the commodity from Bunza.

A quality checker of all the products coming into the frog market in Bunza, Hamsu Dogo, told Daily Trust that he had been in the frog business for the past 25 years, and that the business had grown steadily.

Dogo said when they introduced the business in Bunza, it was not only rejected by the community, they were also stigmatised and seen as the poorest of all. According to him, residents argued that frogs were not meant for human consumption and that anybody who ate it would suffer severe consequences.

He, however, added that the narrative changed when the business started paying off and many people joined the once forbidden venture.

According to him, whoever wants to enjoy the maximum benefit of the frog business should begin with sufficient capital because the more one invests, the better turnover one makes.

“When I started the business, a carton was sold between N2,000 and N2,500. At that time, we could not market our products freely, even though we are natives. I am an indigene of the neighbouring Kalgo Local Government Area, and we were stigmatised to the optimum.

“But now, there are over 100 businessmen marketing frogs, who are natives of Bunza and adjoining communities. Some of the natives who are only into hunting the frogs could go as far as other countries like Niger and Benin. Some have even relocated to Ghana and Mali. The beauty of it is that when they gather their stock they supply to Bunza market. However, the supply is not regular as they must have stockpiled before ferrying them to Bunza.

“On a normal market day, about 10 fully loaded vehicles leave Bunza for the western part of the country. Most buyers pay through bank transfer,’’ he said.

A buyer from Osun State, Abdulateef Abdul’Aziz, told our correspondent that he started the business in 2019. He said it was not easy but he persevered and his capital had increased tremendously.

According to him, the business is profitable; hence he will continue.

“Frog is nutritional, and it attracts good patronage. My consignment always arrives in my state on demand. I am also planning to partner with a trusted person who would be buying and sending the stuff to me,’’ he said

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How Frog Meat Is Gaining Popularity, Patronage In Nigeria
Cartons of frogs at Bunza Market
Cartons of frogs at Bunza Market

By
. .
Sun Dec 20 2020

Edible frogs are said to be among the best cuisines of many places in Nigeria and abroad. Like other aquatic creatures, frog meat is stewed, fried, roasted or grilled. While some species taste like fish, others are comparable to chicken.



Apart from health benefits derived from the consumption of frog meat, frog business flourishes in some states in the country. It has now assumed international status, such that traders make significant profits on a daily basis.

All hail Prof Pate, communication giant
Do not be afraid mary for you have found favour with God
Speaking on the nutritional benefits of frogs, a dietician, Sarah Abagi said some people were just waking up to its consumption but it has always been there. She said frogs were a very good source of protein, and like any other animal, it also contains minerals that are good for the body.


Traders loading frog meat at Gboko Friday morning for Gbor market in Kastina-Ala LGA in Benue State

She said frogs could easily be differentiated from toad through its smooth skins and long legs, adding that toads are not edible.

“Toad is not edible because it contains venom, which is harmful to the body. The skin is rough, and they are found on the land, unlike frogs, which natural habitat is water,’’ she said.

Abagi, however, said frog farming had not taken place in Nigeria probably because of the taboo some people attach to certain food and animals in some tribes, or some religious beliefs.

“We are yet to see if our people have disabused their minds from frog and embraced its nutritional value. People need to understand that it is a good source of protein,’’ she added.

Similarly, a nutritionist, Najib Ahmad, said several researches revealed that frogs had a high nutritional value.

“It is a good source of mineral elements, such as calcium, potassium and sodium. Research shows that edible frogs are good for man and his animals. According to research, anti-nutrient content in edible frogs is very low when compared to other meats; hence it has less side effects,’’ he explained.

Ahmad said edible frogs could be identified by long legs and streamlined bodies; and it could be found in freshwater, swamp and ponds, adding that it is omnivores and comes in brown, black, tan and green colours.

“Skin type is permeable with top speed, and its lifespan is between 5 to 15years,’’ he added.


A prepared tasty frog meal

Demand for frog meat increases in Borno

Alhaji Shehu Tilli, who sells smoked fish, cow skin, dried meat and roasted frogs at the popular Baga Road market in Maiduguri, said most of the frogs were sourced from water bodies using special techniques.

According to him, frogs are caught at different locations in the state, including Zabarmari and Konduga, as well as the Lake Chad area of Baga. He said those who hunt for frogs do so between November and January when the weather is still moist and warm, adding that it is often done both day and night.

“Frogs are hunted in large quantities and smoked after removing the intestines and loaded in cartons and supplied to consumers. They could as well be arranged and roasted on sticks without removing any of the internal organs.

Most consumers from Benue State prefer smoked frogs which internal organs are intact. Customers from the western part of the country mostly ask for smoked frogs without internal organs,” he said.

He said that despite the spate of insurgency in the state, the demand for frog meat and meals had continued to increase among consumers.

He added, “The meat is edible and medicinal. This explains why the demand is high in so many parts of Nigeria and abroad. Some of my customers have confided in me that the meat could be used in curing typhoid.

Frog meat is scarce in this market because of short supply. The hunters are afraid to go to locations far from town because of the activities of insurgents. Many people in places where frogs are found have also been displaced. The supply chain has been disrupted because hunters cannot get enough, and retail outlets are almost dormant.”


Gemade, a frog trader who hopes to relocate from Benue to Kano State by next year to hunt frogs

He said a carton of smoked frog was sold between N2,500 and N3,000, depending on the size while those on stick were sold between N500 and N600 each.

Another buyer, Sani Sale, said frog contained a lot of oil which, when extracted, was sold in large quantities and could be used for cooking and medicinal purposes. He said frog meat could be used in treating calcium deficiency in the body.

A woman who consumed frog meals said the meat tasted like fish.

Frog business thrives in Kebbi

In Bunza town of Kebbi State, frog is one of the most flourishing businesses as commercial activities have since assumed international status.

Daily Trust on Sunday learnt that the business started in the town in the past 20 years, and traders now get their supplies beyond the local outlets, as far as Niger, Benin Republic Ghana and Mali.

Due to the scarcity of the edible species in local water bodies in Bunza, some neigbouring local government areas, as well as some parts of Zamfara State, hunters are forced to exploit other African countries for the commodity.

It was also learnt that the closure of land borders by the Federal Government of Nigeria affected frog business as supplies dropped significantly. However, few people smuggled the commodity through porous borders.

Our correspondent was also told that, like most parts of the North, frog business was received with apathy in Bunza.

Those who took part in marketing the commodity were not only stigmatised but called all sorts of unprintable names. Even their family members were not spared. But over the years, when the business was accepted among the Hausa Muslims, it has now become the most money- spinning business in Bunza. It is now a big market that accommodates both old and newcomers.

People from the western part of the country – Oyo, Lagos, Osun and some parts of Kwara states – are the major buyers of the commodity from Bunza.

A quality checker of all the products coming into the frog market in Bunza, Hamsu Dogo, told Daily Trust that he had been in the frog business for the past 25 years, and that the business had grown steadily.

Dogo said when they introduced the business in Bunza, it was not only rejected by the community, they were also stigmatised and seen as the poorest of all. According to him, residents argued that frogs were not meant for human consumption and that anybody who ate it would suffer severe consequences.

He, however, added that the narrative changed when the business started paying off and many people joined the once forbidden venture.

According to him, whoever wants to enjoy the maximum benefit of the frog business should begin with sufficient capital because the more one invests, the better turnover one makes.

“When I started the business, a carton was sold between N2,000 and N2,500. At that time, we could not market our products freely, even though we are natives. I am an indigene of the neighbouring Kalgo Local Government Area, and we were stigmatised to the optimum.

“But now, there are over 100 businessmen marketing frogs, who are natives of Bunza and adjoining communities. Some of the natives who are only into hunting the frogs could go as far as other countries like Niger and Benin. Some have even relocated to Ghana and Mali. The beauty of it is that when they gather their stock they supply to Bunza market. However, the supply is not regular as they must have stockpiled before ferrying them to Bunza.

“On a normal market day, about 10 fully loaded vehicles leave Bunza for the western part of the country. Most buyers pay through bank transfer,’’ he said.

A buyer from Osun State, Abdulateef Abdul’Aziz, told our correspondent that he started the business in 2019. He said it was not easy but he persevered and his capital had increased tremendously.

According to him, the business is profitable; hence he will continue.

“Frog is nutritional, and it attracts good patronage. My consignment always arrives in my state on demand. I am also planning to partner with a trusted person who would be buying and sending the stuff to me,’’ he said.


Another set of traders loading frog meat at Gboko Friday morning for Gbor market in Kastina-Ala LGA in Benue State

Benue becoming popular for frog meat

Frog meat is becoming a popular delicacy among the Tiv people of Benue State. However, there are some Tiv who will not forgive anyone that serves them the stuff.

In the local parlance, names such as Ifam, Atôngô-Gba, Ikpam Jande and Chinese meat are attributed to the frog delicacies.

There are basically three ways frog is consumed in Benue. The first and the most popular is the peppered type, which is usually without stew and can be eaten with or without pounded yam. The second is preparing it in stew, while the third is a combination of melon (egusi).

Most evenings, peppered frog meat can be seen in nearly all the markets in Tiv land. This is, however, with exception to Gwer West, Gwer East and Guma local government areas. Although things are now changing, people in those areas take strong exceptions to frog delicacies.

Most of the frogs marketed in the state are brought in from other locations in the country and abroad. The reason is that it is not obtainable in the state in commercial quantities.

Shiekuma Gemade, who has been involved in hunting for the frog in the Gboko area of the state, told our correspondent that there were three basic locations in Nigeria where frogs are found in large quantities – Kano, Jigawa and Taraba.

Gemade, who also travels to Niger Republic for the same purpose, named countries such as Cameroon and Chad as sources.

He disclosed that there were over 1,000 registered members of the Association of Frog Traders in the state, in addition to countless others who do not belong to the union.

He said the prices of frog varied according to sizes. According to him, small sizes on stick goes for at least N600 while the biggest size can be traded for as high as N1,600.

Gemade further explained that in different locations, frogs are not popular among the locals, except lately that few people are beginning to take interest in the business because of the economic value it attracts. He added that locals in such areas don’t even hunt or trade in it.

He said he was planning to move to Kano in February next year for hunting.

“Frog was not popular in the 1990s. That is no longer the case today because things have changed. It is becoming popular by the day. Apparently, people have tasted it and found that it is delicious.

It is profitable. Although there is low patronage now due to Christmas festivities in view of available other sources of meat, patronage will definitely go up.

Through this trade, I am about to build my own house. I have a motorcycle and I am paying my children’s school fees, four of them,’’ he said proudly.

For Mercy Terkula, who was on her way to Gbor market in Kastina-Ala before she spoke with our correspondent, she has been dealing in frogs for eight years now. Apart from trading in it, she enjoys eating it.

“It is one of my best meats,’’ she said.

However, the big challenge associated with the business is travel expenses and frustration. Until now, not many drivers would agree to transport it, especially, Hausa people, Daily Trust learnt.

“Although it is not ‘haram’ to them, they don’t like it. However, it is becoming popular,’’ Gemade concluded.

https://dailytrust.com/how-frog-meat-is-gaining-popularity-patronage-in-nigeria