Market margin and price spread of ornamental fish in national capital region, India

This study was undertaken in National Capital Region, India. Market costs, market efficiency; price spread in ornamental fish market was analyzed using primary data. Shepherd's Index was used for ranking and estimating market efficiency. The market channels were indirect, starting from wholesaler to customer, (channel I); wholesaler to customer via retailer (channel II); wholesaler to primary retailer to retailer to customer (channel III). Price skimming and price discrimination were pricing strategy used. The cost enhancing elements were primarily cost of aquarium (Chinese & traditional), transportation, labor, electricity charge and shop rent. The wholesaler has highest marketing cost and margin in NCR due to monopoly in marketing system. Study revealed that the price spread was lower in channels-II (Rs 17.67) as compared to channel III (Rs 21.00). Channel-II was more efficient (1.336) than channels-III (1.286) owing to less number of intermediaries reflecting less marketing cost.