A bio-economic model for commercial on-growing of pike-perch (Sander lucioperca)

One of the major aims of the project ‘Lucioperca’ is the assessment of economic feasibility of farming of pike-perch. In order to make this assessment, a model was constructed which could process all required input and give the answers necessary. The model consists of a spreadsheet model of seven linked sheets which cover aspects like, productivity (growth and density), investments, unit prices, cost of production and cash flow. The model covers the on-growing cycle starting with a fingerling of 10 grams up to a variable end-weight.The model shows that on-growing of pike-perch in a recirculation system can be marginally profitable under the assumptions used with an Internal Rate of Return of 8,01% and a production price of 4,74 euro per kg. The profitability is very sensitive for the market price attained. Scale of production and productivity are other factors of major importance.