Integrating the Planned Behavior Theory and Social Exchange Theory to Investigate Fish Farmers' Biosecurity Practices

Integrating the Planned Behavior Theory and Social Exchange Theory to Investigate Fish Farmers' Biosecurity Practices | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Integrating the Planned Behavior Theory and Social Exchange Theory to Investigate Fish Farmers' Biosecurity Practices Shahnaz Amirian, Amirhossein Alibaygi, Kazem Abdi This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-6945960/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Responsible behavior among fish farmers is essential for effective farm management and preventing the spread of diseases within this industry. Implementing biosecurity measures helps minimize disease outbreak risks by reducing the likelihood of pathogenic agents entering the farm and spreading to the surrounding environment. This quantitative study aimed to assess the impact of constructs from two theories—the Social Exchange Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior—on the biosecurity practices of fish farmers in western Iran, Kermanshah province. The study's statistical population included fish farm managers, from which 162 individuals were selected using stratified sampling techniques. The results indicated that attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge were the most significant influences on biosecurity behavior. Notably, the farmers' knowledge of biosecurity was an additional variable affecting biosecurity behavior through their attitudes. Furthermore, the perceived benefits of biosecurity measures positively influenced these attitudes, leading farmers to view biosecurity actions as beneficial rather than costly. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that combining the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory offers a more robust theoretical framework for understanding the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers. Biological sciences/Psychology Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences Earth and environmental sciences/Natural hazards Aquaculture Biosecurity Biosecurity Behavior Planned Behavior Social Exchange Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Introduction Motivation of the Research Aquaculture is the fastest-growing food production industry in the world, providing a vital source of protein and essential micronutrients to the global population[ 1 , 2 ]. The industry is expanding worldwide, coinciding with the continuous growth of the global population, which leads to an increased demand for edible aquatic products. However, the supply from wild fishing has reached its maximum capacity and cannot satisfy the rising global demand [ 3 ]. Additionally, the decline in edible aquatic species due to overfishing means that preserving nutrient stocks largely depends on replacing wild-caught fish with farmed aquatic species[ 4 ]. Aquaculture plays a crucial role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) [ 5 – 7 ]. However, as the industry strives to reach its full potential, it faces significant challenges related to biosecurity [ 3 ]. Disease outbreaks and their spread within modern aquaculture are major obstacles to sustainable practices and pose a threat to global food security[ 8 , 9 ].The emergence of infectious diseases on fish farms results in substantial social and economic losses each year, with the ongoing spread of these pathogens diminishing farm revenues[ 10 , 11 ]. Effective biosecurity management in aquaculture can significantly improve farm productivity, enhance production levels, and ensure the health and quality of farmed aquatic species[ 12 ]. By implementing proper biosecurity measures, aquaculture farmers can reduce the risks of disease outbreaks by minimizing the likelihood of pathogens entering their farms and mitigating the potential consequences of their spread. Kermanshah Province is a significant center for aquaculture in the non-coastal areas of western Iran. Aquaculture production in this province began in 1994, initially producing 205 tons. As of 2023, this output has increased to 21,105 tons, creating employment for over 3,799 individuals. This sector is essential for the local economy and job creation in Kermanshah, contributing not only to food security but also to the political stability of this border region. Recently, Kermanshah has been identified by Iran’s Veterinary Organization as one of the hotspots for aquatic diseases. These challenges highlight the importance of farmers adhering to rigorous biosecurity practices, which are crucial for mitigating the risk of disease transmission. Understanding the factors that influence farmers’ behaviors is vital for policymakers who aim to encourage necessary changes[ 13 , 14 ]. Responsible and professional behavior among fish farmers is essential for effective farm management, preventing disease outbreaks, and reducing their detrimental impacts[ 12 ]. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the factors that influence biosecurity behavior in aquaculture. Theoretical Review and Research Hypotheses Various theories, including the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory, explain the emergence of behavior and the factors that influence it. The Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that the primary factor determining an individual's behavior is their behavioral intention (Fig. 1 ). This intention is influenced by three key components: attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (Fig. 1 ). This theory is valuable for identifying and understanding the factors that affect behavior. According to Ajzen and Fishbein, interventions aimed at changing behavior should consider prominent beliefs and influential perceptions [ 15 ]. Another relevant theoretical approach is Social Exchange Theory, developed by George Casper Homans and based on the principles of utilitarian economics. This theory posits that human relationships are shaped by subjective cost-benefit analyses, where individuals are more likely to repeat actions that yield rewards. The greater the perceived benefits and rewards associated with a specific behavior, the more likely it is to be repeated[ 19 , 20 ]. Conversely, when individuals perceive the costs of a behavior to outweigh its benefits, Social Exchange Theory predicts they are more likely to abandon that behavior[ 21 ]. Overall, this theory suggests that all human interactions are influenced by an internalized cost-benefit analysis and the evaluation of alternative options[ 22 ]. As a result, if farmers believe that the benefits of adopting biosecurity practices exceed the potential negative consequences (costs), they are more inclined to implement those practices. This study aims to analyze biosecurity behavior by integrating two significant theories and introducing an additional variable: biosecurity knowledge. Biosecurity knowledge is a crucial factor that influences behavior[ 23 , 24 ]. Therefore, it is essential that training and knowledge development align with the specific needs of farmers. To change their perspective on disease risk and better understand the importance of biosecurity measures, farmers must enhance their knowledge of biosecurity practices[ 25 ]. Numerous studies have identified three key components of literacy: knowledge, attitude, and behavior, all of which influence fish farmers' biosecurity practices[ 11 , 26 , 27 ]. Literacy should be considered a combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes relevant to a specific field of work, study, or learning. Consequently, knowledge is included in the conceptual framework of this study as a variable that influences behavior. The primary objective of this study is to examine the factors that influence farmers’ behavior regarding biosecurity by integrating two significant behavioral theories. As the global importance of biosecurity continues to grow, behavioral theories and models offer a valuable framework for understanding, predicting, and modifying the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers. Therefore, improving the actions of professional farmers is crucial for disease prevention. This study aims to clarify farmers’ biosecurity behavior by combining principles from behavioral science and incorporating key variables into the analysis. This integration is one of the study's strengths. Various behavioral factors influence farmers' actions. The research hypotheses are based on the integration of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory, as outlined in Table 1 . H1: There is a Relationship between the Perception of Benefits and Costs of Biosecurity Measures and farmers’ Biosecurity Attitudes : The Social Exchange Theory suggests that human interactions are influenced by an internal cost-benefit analysis and a comparison of alternative options. This theory combines insights from economics and psychology within a solid sociological framework[ 28 , 29 ]. Additionally, attitudes are shaped by evaluating expected benefits and costs in relation to the advantages individuals perceive[ 22 ]. Various studies have applied Social Exchange Theory to gain a better understanding of people's attitudes toward specific topics[ 30 , 31 ]. Generally, perceived benefits tend to promote certain behaviors, while perceived costs can prevent action[ 32 ]. This implies that individuals are more likely to support behaviors when their positive attitudes toward the benefits and outcomes outweigh any associated costs and negative effects. In this context, Ambrož (2008) states that tourism thrives when individuals have a positive attitude toward it[ 33 ]. H2: Farmers' Biosecurity Attitudes in Kermanshah Province Are Influenced by Prevailing Social Norms : Research indicates that variables such as social influence, subjective norms, and perceived usefulness have a significant impact on attitudes[ 34 ]. A study by Soltani and Hashemi (2018) highlights the strong positive effects of subjective norms on these attitudes[ 35 ]. H3: Fish farmers with Higher Biosecurity Knowledge Have a More Positive Attitude Toward Biosecurity Measures : According to a study by Ghochani et al. (2019) on support for rural tourism development, awareness and knowledge are crucial in shaping individuals' attitudes[ 36 ]. H4: Increased knowledge, positive attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms among farmers in Kermanshah Province regarding biosecurity measures will lead to enhanced and sustained biosecurity behaviors : Developing the necessary knowledge, attitudes, and skills empowers individuals to think critically, act appropriately, and recognize opportunities[ 37 ]. The Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that three factors—attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control—shape behavioral formation and influence an individual's ability to regulate their own behavior. This theory offers a strong prediction of behavioral intentions and accounts for a significant portion of behavioral variability[ 38 ]. Numerous studies have confirmed the influence of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on behavioral intentions[ 39 , 40 ]. For instance, research by Rahimi et al. (2016) identified that attitude, moral norms, and self-identity significantly affect individuals’ intentions regarding water conservation[ 41 ]. Similarly, Zakaria et al. (2014) found that individuals’ attitudes and perceptions have a notably positive influence on their future behavioral intentions[ 42 ]. A study focused on rural tourism development support revealed that attitudes significantly impact behavior[ 36 ]. Additionally, research by Sabzian et al. (2015) concluded that subjective norms may have an even greater effect on individuals’ behavioral intentions than attitudes do[ 43 ]. The text emphasizes the crucial role of social influences in shaping behavior. Additionally, the perceptions, attitudes, and responsible behaviors of residents regarding the environment are closely interconnected, as noted by Lu et al. (2022)[ 44 ]. For farmers to genuinely change their perception of disease risk and enhance their awareness of the importance of biosecurity measures, they must significantly increase their knowledge of biosecurity practices[ 25 ]. This relationship is essential for developing environmental behaviors, which in turn reflect the level of environmental literacy among individuals[ 45 ]. H5: The Effect of Perceived Behavioral Control (Perception of Biosecurity) of Farmers on Their Biosecurity Behavior in Kermanshah Province : The study conducted by Ghochani and colleagues (2019) revealed that individuals' perceptions of the socio-cultural impacts of tourism significantly influence their attitudes toward tourism development[ 36 ] [ 42 ]. Moreover, perceived behavioral control affects attitudes and subjective norms, which in turn can increase or decrease intention and behavior[ 46 ]. Nouri Kouhani and Nadi (2018) further demonstrated that perceived behavioral control positively influences teachers’ knowledge-sharing behavior[ 47 ]. Another study highlighted the direct and positive impact of perceived behavioral control on entrepreneurial intention, concluding that it plays a crucial role in shaping behavior[ 48 ]. In conclusion, while previous research in various fields has explored several intervening variables in behavior, this study adopts an integrated model of Social Exchange Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior to analyze the biosecurity behaviors of fish farmers. Its objective is to identify strategies to enhance these behaviors among this group (Fig. 2 ). Methods Statistical Population of the Study The statistical population for this descriptive-correlational study comprised fish farmers from two categories: Rainbow trout farms and carp farms in Kermanshah Province, totaling 324 individuals. Using Krejcie and Morgan’s table, 175 individuals were selected as the sample through stratified sampling with proportional allocation. With a response rate of 92.5%, a total of 162 questionnaires were completed and collected. Study Area Kermanshah Province, located in the western part of Iran (Fig. 3 ), has a population of approximately 1,950,000 and is the 17th largest province by area. The region boasts four suitable climatic zones and abundant water resources, making it a leading center for aquaculture in Iran. Aquaculture programs in this province play a crucial role in fish production, job creation, and increasing per capita fish consumption, thereby contributing to the province's economic growth. These attributes have fostered regional development focused on agriculture and aquaculture, in alignment with national food security objectives. Fish farms in Kermanshah Province have recently been identified as hotspots for aquatic diseases by the Iranian Veterinary Organization. A key example of this issue is the outbreak of the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) virus in the region's aquaculture sector. This disease was first reported in Iran, specifically in Kermanshah Province, in late 2013, leading to significant economic losses for local fish farmers. The impact of this disease outbreak has severely hindered developmental goals, especially in rural areas where subsistence economies prevail. Other negative consequences of the outbreak in aquaculture include substantial economic losses and wasted production costs due to fish mortality, the temporary or permanent closure of aquaculture facilities, loss of employment on fish farms and in related industries, a decline in trade and foreign exchange revenue, reduced fish quality, and a loss of both domestic and international markets. Moreover, the environmental, social, and economic repercussions of disease outbreaks in aquaculture are substantial. Consequently, Kermanshah Province in western Iran has been selected as the study area for further investigation. Research Instrument The research instrument was divided into two main sections: First Section : The first section measured three variables: knowledge, attitude, and behavior, based on previous studies such as those by Jia et al. (2017), Mateo (2021), and Kambey et al. (2021). It was also designed and revised with input from aquatic health specialists from the Iranian Veterinary Organization, fish farm audit forms from the Veterinary Organization, and experts from the Fisheries Department of Kermanshah Province. The questionnaire items were carefully formulated to avoid any issues that might compromise the accuracy of responses [ 11 , 16 – 18 , 26 , 49 ]. Second Section : The second section of the research instrument included questionnaires on subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and perceptions of biosecurity costs and benefits, using a five-point Likert scale. Participants were asked to express their level of agreement or disagreement with the statements in this section using a five-point Likert scale. Scoring Method for items 1, 2, and 4 in the cost perception section, reverse scoring was applied Strongly Disagree = 5, Disagree = 4, Neutral = 3, Agree = 2, Strongly Agree = 1. The questionnaires were completed through individual interviews with fish farmers. Statement Informed Consent and Ethical Considerations All interviewees were informed about data protection issues related to the census, and they verbally expressed their consent at the beginning of each interview. Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants involved in the study. All materials and methods were conducted in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. This research was approved by a committee at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran. All farmers conducted in this study, including those involving human participants, complied with the ethical standards of the institutional research committee and the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its subsequent amendments or comparable ethical standards. Validity and Reliability of Research Instruments After designing the questionnaire, eight experts reviewed the questions. Following revisions and adjustments, the final questionnaire was approved. To assess the validity of the research instrument, the convergent validity technique was used alongside expert opinions. Convergent validity was examined using the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) as a criterion. To evaluate the reliability of the questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability (CR) were calculated. The composite reliability method assesses construct reliability based on correlations among them. Both Cronbach's alpha and CR were at an acceptable level (above 0.7). Factor loadings were also used to examine the strength of relationships between latent and observed variables. The results showed that factor loadings for most selected items were acceptable and statistically significant at P < 0.01. However, three items in the biosecurity behavior section had factor loadings below 0.4 and were removed from the model. All other categories had acceptable factor loadings. These results confirmed the accuracy of the study components. Data Analysis For descriptive analysis, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, SPSS 20 was used. To test the research hypotheses, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was performed using Smart-PLS 4 software. The conceptual model was tested using SEM. We conducted consistency analysis, including convergent validity (AVE), composite reliability (CR), and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, using Smart-PLS 4 software. Results Descriptive statistics Descriptive statistics of observed variables Table 1 shows the percentage of Correct Responses of Rainbow Trout and Carp Farmers. The results indicate that the average score of 123 Rainbow Trout farmers was 10.96 out of a total score of 20. Meanwhile, the average score of 39 carp farmers was 10.14 out of 20. The overall average biosecurity knowledge score of farmers was 10.55. Compared to the total score, the biosecurity knowledge of farmers was 53 out of 100, which, based on the study by Jia et al. (2017), is considered moderate knowledge[ 11 ]. Table 1 Correct Answers to Biosecurity Knowledge Questions of Aquaculture Farmers (Percentage) Number Question Percentage of correct answers for Rainbow Trout farmers Percentage of correct answers for carp farmers 1 Which type of water source reduces the risk of disease outbreak and transmission in a fish farm? a) Well water, spring water, or groundwater b) Surface water c) River water d) Both b and c 47.2 41 2 How many times per year does the purchase of juvenile fish pose the highest disease transmission risk to a farm? A) No purchase b) Less than 3 purchases c) 3–5 purchases d) More than 5 purchases 30.1 48.7 3 What is the best distance from upstream and downstream farms to reduce disease risk in a fish farm? a) No farm upstream or downstream b) 1–5 km from the upstream farm, 0.2–0.5 km from the downstream farm c) 0.5-1 km from the upstream farm, 0-0.2 km from the downstream farm d) Distance from upstream and downstream farms equal to or less than 0.5 km 39.8 17.9 4 What is the best number of farms within a 5 km radius with independent water sources for proper health management? A) One farm b) Three farms c) Five farms d) More than five farms 28.5 20.5 5 If a farm is located in a tourist area, what is the first step to minimize the risk of pathogen entry? a) Prevent visitors from entering b) Construct and use a lime slurry pond at the farm entrance and restrict visitor access to sensitive areas c) Avoid feeding the fish on holidays d) Record visitor details 43.9 61.5 6 What is the first and most important biosecurity measure to prevent disease outbreaks in a farm? a) Separating fry nets from market fish b) Controlling stocking density and feed management c) Purchasing juvenile fish with health certification d) Using high-quality feed 32.5 41 7 What should be done immediately when fish mortality begins in a farm? a) Salt treatment b) Contacting and consulting the farm veterinarian c) Using Oxy tetracycline d) Reducing incoming water volume 78 87.2 8 An increase in water temperature and salinity affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of water by: a) No change b) Increasing it c) Decreasing it d) Increasing first, then decreasing 75.6 92.3 9 What is the best way to dispose of dead fish in a farm during a disease outbreak? a) Burning the fish in an incinerator or sanitary burial b) Feeding them to animals kept on the farm c) Disposing of them in a river d) Burying them near water sources 91.9 100 10 What is the best method to disinfect the water entering and exiting a fish farm? a) Chlorination b) Using iodophor c) Using thiosulfate d) Using ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation 40.7 84.6 11 What is the minimum quarantine period for newly purchased fish before introducing them to the main farm? A) One day b) One week c) Two weeks to one month d) More than one month 43.9 100 12 How many hours before and after fish transportation should feeding be stopped, considering water temperature and fish weight? A) 48 hours before and 48 hours’ after b) 24 hours before and 24 hours’ after c) 48 hours before and 24 hours’ after d) 24 hours before and 48 hours’ after 30.9 30.8 13 What is one of the most important ways to control fish stress in a farm? a) Maintaining appropriate stocking density b) Maximizing feed supply c) Reducing incoming water volume d) Using antibiotics 91.1 100 14 What are the risks of using slaughterhouse waste as fish feed in farms? a) Need for additional equipment to prepare and store this type of feed b) Shorter shelf life of slaughterhouse waste compared to factory-produced feed c) Rapid spoilage, increased farm contamination, and environmental pollution d) It contributes to fish dietary variety and poses no issues 83.7 94.9 15 What causes gas bubble disease, which results in eye protrusion in fish? a) A viral agent b) Increased carbon dioxide concentration c) Oxygen deficiency in the water d) Water super saturation with dissolved gases such as oxygen and nitrogen 64.2 25.6 16 What is the first sign of stress or disease in fish? a) Normal feeding response b) Loss of appetite c) Jumping out of the pond d) Darkening of the fish’s body 53.7 59 17 When transferring fish from one water body to another, the temperature difference should not exceed: A) 2–3°C b) 3–5°C c) 5–7°C d) More than 7°C 49.6 20.5 18 During high river turbidity and muddy water conditions, what is the most important action to reduce fish stress? a) Increasing incoming water volume b) Reducing or stopping fish feeding c) Stopping water inflow to the ponds d) Removing sludge from the pond bottom 84.6 20.5 19 After stopping antibiotic use in sick fish, how long should they be withheld before being marketed? a) Three days b) One week c) Two weeks d) More than three weeks 25.2 12.8 20 Which of the following is NOT considered a critical point for disease transmission in a fish farm? a) Water b) Purchasing brood stock, fertilized eggs, or juvenile fish c) Pond shape and dimensions d) Carriers (wind, insects, waterfowl, and shorebirds) 41.5 61.5 The results of this section indicate that many farmers have limited knowledge about aquatic health management. For example, 70% of farmers are unaware that frequent purchases of juvenile fish within a year pose a significant risk for disease outbreaks and transmission in a farm (Table 1 ). Overall, the findings suggest that farmers in Kermanshah Province do not have a high level of biosecurity knowledge. The assessment of attitudes toward biosecurity was divided into two categories: the importance of following management and health measures and the benefits of adhering to these measures (Table 2 ) Table 2 Farmers’ Biosecurity Attitude (Percentage) Cases Average out of 4 Standard deviation Very helpful Somewhat helpful Not helpful Not sure Importance of Following Farm Management Measures Feeding management (timing and food selection) 3.91 0.31 91.4 8 - 0.8 Recognizing disease symptoms and early diagnosis 3.85 0.44 87.7 9.3 3.1 Considering the source of juvenile fish supply for the farm 3.79 0.52 82.7 15.4 1.9 - Biosecurity measures (e.g., wearing work clothes, personal hygiene, disinfection pools at farm entrances, and preventive health actions) 3.54 0.84 69.8 22.2 - 8 Administering medication to fish through feed 3.46 0.76 57.4 35.8 4.9 1.9 Benefits of Following Daily Farm Management Measures Proper and hygienic disposal of diseased and dead fish 3.83 0.37 82.7 17.3 - - Ensuring all farm employees are aware of hygiene practices and report unusual disease symptoms or mortality 3.81 0.51 85.2 13 1.9 - Utilizing experience in farm management 3.80 0.39 80.2 19.8 - - Morning inspection of ponds 3.75 0.58 80.2 17.3 2.5 - Avoiding shared equipment with other farms to prevent disease spread 3.67 0.74 78.4 16 5.6 - Quarantining and disinfecting juvenile fish before releasing them into ponds 3.60 0.78 72.8 21 6.2 - Reducing fish density when mortality begins 3.59 0.49 58.6 41.4 - - Preparing for climate changes (e.g., floods, droughts) over time 3.59 0.49 59.3 40.7 - - Disinfecting nets and fishing gear before harvesting fish 3.56 0.83 72.2 16.7 5.6 5.6 Removing dead fish from the pond in cases of mass mortality 3.55 0.78 67.3 26.5 6.2 - Keeping fish of the same age (same weight) in a single pond 3.50 0.92 69.8 20.4 9.9 - Learning and applying proper fish harvesting techniques 3.43 0.91 64.8 21 7.4 6.8 Observing fallowing periods between different farming cycles 3.39 0.92 62.3 21.6 7.4 8.6 Maintaining daily records of farm water quality and mortality rates for early disease detection 3.37 0.95 59.9 27.8 10.5 1.9 Government agency (veterinary and fisheries) supervision of the quality and health of purchased juvenile fish 3.28 1.11 63 19.8 17.3 - Installing signs on the farm to inform visitors about hygiene guidelines 3.20 1.17 61.7 15.4 19.1 3.7 Using probiotics to improve water quality 3.06 1.16 53.7 15.4 16.7 14.2 Number of 22 questions / with a maximum score of 4 (Very useful = 4, somewhat useful = 3, Not sure = 2, Useless = 1) More than 50% of fish farmers found the statements in the section on the importance of following farm management practices to be very useful (Table 2 ). Most fish farmers also rated the options in the section on the benefits of following daily farm management practices as very useful. According to the results, over 80% of fish farmers in Kermanshah province had a favorable attitude toward biosecurity in aquaculture. Fish farmers’ biosecurity behavior was assessed in four areas (Table 3 ). Table 3 fish farmers’ Biosecurity Behavior (Percentage) Cases Mean of 3 Standard Deviation Yes Rarely Never Measures to Prevent the Introduction and Spread of Disease Agents (Disinfection, Storage Management) 1. Do you disinfect fishing and production equipment? 2.43 0.72 56.8 29.6 13.6 2. Do you disinfect juvenile fish when introducing them to the farm? 2.30 0.83 54.3 21.6 24.1 3. Do you share fishing and other equipment with other farms? 2.44 0.76 16.7 22.2 61.6 4. Do you avoid sharing equipment with farms that have infected fish? 2.38 0.86 63.6 11.1 25.3 5. Do you prevent producers from farms experiencing disease outbreaks and mortality from visiting your farm? 2.12 0.83 41.4 29.6 29 6. Do you obtain information about hatcheries and juvenile fish sources before purchasing? 2.81 0.38 81.5 18.5 0 7. Do you quarantine and monitor new fish introduced to the farm? 2.22 0.85 57.4 17.3 25.3 8. Do you participate in training sessions on new fishing methods, production management, and farm hygiene to improve farm productivity? 2.36 0.77 54.3 27.2 18.5 9. If a disease outbreak is diagnosed by a veterinarian, do you cooperate in the disposal of sick and dead fish on your farm? 2.54 0.75 70.4 13.6 16 Farm Record-Keeping 10. Do you maintain accurate daily records of fish mortality? 2.32 0.80 53.7 24.7 21.6 11. Do you keep accurate daily records of water quality? 1.90 0.76 24.7 40.1 35.2 Daily Disease Management Practices on the Farm 12. Do you keep fish of the same size (same age) in a single pond? 2.41 0.82 62.3 16 21.6 13. Do you allow resting periods between production cycles? 2.10 0.9 45.7 18.5 35.8 14. When mortality rates exceed normal levels, do you remove dead fish from the pond? 2.80 0.41 80.9 19.1 0 15. Do you use antibiotics as a preventive measure against disease? 1.56 0.80 63.6 16.7 19.8 16. Do you use probiotics to improve water quality? 1.88 0.80 27.2 34 38.9 17. Do you inspect the pond early in the morning? 2.77 0.43 77.8 22.2 0 18. Have you visited other farms in the past two weeks? 2.04 0.89 38.3 19.8 42 Actions Taken When Mortality Occurs in Neighboring Farms 19. When high mortality occurs in neighboring farms, do you visit or assist them after being informed? 1.73 0.83 51.9 23.5 24.7 20. Do you transfer fish from farms that have experienced mortality and disease outbreaks to your own farm? 2.71 0.66 11.7 5.6 82.7 The results of examining the behavior of fish farmers regarding the prevention of entry and spread of pathogens showed that options related to disinfection measures and storage management were positively evaluated by 50% of fish farmers (Table 3 ). The behavioral score of 162 fish farmers in Kermanshah province was calculated as 15 out of 20, indicating relatively good biosecurity behavior in fish farming in the region. According to Table 4 , the average score for the fish farmers’ subjective norms was 25 out of 30. Table 4 Status of Other Factors Influencing fish farmers’ Biosecurity Behavior in Kermanshah Province Item Mean Standard Deviation Strongly Disagree Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree Subjective Norms on Biosecurity Behavior in fish farmers 1. Among my fish farmer’s friends and colleagues, there are those who have achieved good results by following hygiene measures in their farms, so I also pay attention to hygiene practices in my own farm. 4.07 1.007 7.4 0 2.5 58 32.1 2. Having witnessed disease-related losses in my fish farmers’ friends and colleagues’ farms, I have realized the importance of implementing hygiene measures. 4.18 0.877 3.7 1.2 4.9 53.7 36.4 3. I follow farm hygiene measures based on the recommendations of technical and health experts. 4.28 0.752 1.9 1.2 3.1 54.3 39.5 4. In this era of knowledge and communication, I must be aware of the importance of hygiene measures. 4.36 0.869 3.7 1.2 0 45.1 50 5. Since following hygiene measures is a legal requirement for production and market supply, I comply with hygiene practices in my farm. 4.39 0.806 2.5 1.9 0 45.7 50 6.I adhere to hygiene measures on my farm because low-quality and unhealthy products cannot be sold in the market, as consumers care about the quality and health of farmed fish 4.47 0.797 1.9 1.2 4.3 33.3 59.3 Perceived Behavioral Control Over Biosecurity Actions in fish farmers 1.I can independently decide on implementing hygiene measures in my farm. 3.45 1.231 9.3 16.7 12.3 43.2 18.5 2. I have the financial ability to purchase disinfection equipment and materials for hygiene measures. 3.60 1.192 10.5 8.6 9.9 52.5 18.5 3. I always have time to carry out hygiene measures in my farm. 4.01 0.994 3.1 8.6 4.3 52.5 31.5 4. I have complete knowledge and awareness of hygiene measures in aquaculture farms. 3.85 0.070 3.1 13.6 6.2 49.4 27.8 5. Access to health consultation services is easy for me. 3.58 1.162 5.6 18.5 8 48.1 19.8 6. I have the necessary skills to manage my farm’s hygiene. 3.90 0.998 2.5 12.3 3.1 56.8 25.3 7. I can handle any problems (money, time, or information) related to hygiene measures in my farm. 3.63 0.086 5.6 12.3 13.6 50.6 17.9 Perceived Benefits of Biosecurity Measures in fish farmers 1. Implementing hygiene measures increases farm production. 4.41 0.910 3.1 3.1 1.2 34.6 58 2. By following hygiene measures, fish farmers ensure continuous and high-quality production, preventing farm shutdowns. 4.43 0.779 1.9 1.2 3.1 40.1 53.7 3. Hygiene measures reduce disease-related mortality and, consequently, economic losses. 4.44 0.780 1.9 1.2 3.1 38.3 55.6 4. Hygiene practices in farms contribute to environmental protection and natural resource conservation (by reducing disease incidence and minimizing drug and disinfectant residues in the environment). 4.36 0.817 1.9 1.2 6.8 38.9 51.2 5. 5.Following hygiene measures leads to the production of higher-quality fish with better market appeal. 4.43 0.884 2.5 1.9 6.2 29.0 60.5 Perceived Costs of Biosecurity Measures in fish farmers 1. Learning hygiene practices requires a significant investment of time and money. 3.06 1.382 13.6 38.9 6.2 22.8 18.5 2. Implementing hygiene measures (e.g., disinfecting ponds, morning pond inspections, collecting and properly disposing of dead fish, etc.) requires a significant amount of time and effort. 3.06 1.393 17.3 33.3 1.2 34 14.2 3. Hygiene measures increase farm production costs due to expenses related to disinfectant materials and equipment. 3.23 1.217 7.4 29 10.5 39.5 13.6 4. The health of fish farmers who use disinfectants and chemicals is at risk. 2.35 1.187 4.9 17.3 12.3 38.9 26.5 According to Table 4 , half of the fish farmers acknowledged that they can implement biosecurity measures. The mean score for perceived behavioral control of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was 26 out of a maximum score of 35 (Table 4 ). More than 50 percent of fish farmers consider the implementation of biosecurity measures to be beneficial (Table 4 ). The mean score for the perceived benefit of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was calculated as 22 out of a total of 25. These results indicate that fish farmers are well aware of the benefits and value of adhering to biosecurity measures. Forty-six percent of fish farmers acknowledged that biosecurity measures require both cost and time (Table 4 ). At the same time, more than 50 percent of fish farmers do not agree with allocating these expenses. The mean score for the perceived cost of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was calculated as 11 out of a total of 18. Inferential statistics Section Two: Examination of the Empirical Model of Biosecurity Behavior and the Factors Affecting Biosecurity in Aquaculture. The proposed conceptual model was evaluated in two parts: the assessment of the measurement model and the assessment of the structural model using structural equation modeling. Discriminant validity In order to conduct structural equation modeling, it is necessary to verify the assumption of normality for the collected data and the absence of collinearity among the research variables. The results of Table 5 indicate that the data are normally distributed and that there is no collinearity among the research variables, so there is no impediment to using the structural equation model. Table 5 Statistical Outputs Related to the Normality of the Data and the Absence of Multi collinearity Among the Research Variables Index Perceived Benefits of Biosecurity Measures Perceived Costs of Biosecurity Measures Biosecurity Knowledge Perceived Behavioral Control Over Biosecurity Actions Attitude Toward Biosecurity Subjective Norms on Biosecurity Behavior Biosecurity Behavior Kolmogorov–Smirnov 1.44 3.26 3.57 1.38 2.17 3.45 2.26 Significance Level 0.37 0.21 0.14 0.24 0.36 0.28 0.42 Skewness -0.79 -1.64 -1.56 -0.71 -0.52 -0.71 -1.46 Kurtosis 0.47 1.61 1.50 1.47 0.28 0.34 0.41 Tolerance 0.32 0.17 0.17 0.19 0.21 0.32 - VIF 71.4 8.39 8.39 5.11 6.45 7.42 - The results from the structural equation model and the path coefficients of the research variables related to the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers in the province of Kermanshah are shown in Fig. 4 . Based on Chin’s criteria (1988), the research findings indicate that the latent variable “benefit perception” has an optimal positive relationship with a coefficient of 0.68 (close to 0.67), while the relationship between cost perception and biosecurity attitude is weak, with a coefficient of 0.06 (ranging between 0.19 and 0.33). The relationship between biosecurity attitude and knowledge (β = 0.15) and between biosecurity attitude and behavior (β = 0.137) are significant and effective in promoting biosecurity behavior. The research model, using standardized coefficients, shows that the effect of biosecurity knowledge on biosecurity behavior is very effective and significant, with a β coefficient of 0.70. Other results of this section indicate that subjective norms (with a determination coefficient of 0.11) and perceived behavioral control (with a determination coefficient of 0.57) also impact biosecurity behavior. The structural model section, unlike measurement models, only examines latent variables and the relationships between them. The following section reviews the model fit indices of the structural model and tests the research hypotheses. The first and most essential criterion is the significance of the t-values. A variable has a significant effect on another when the t-statistic is outside the critical range (± 1.96) at the 95% confidence level. Otherwise, there is no significant relationship between them. If the t-statistic falls outside the range of ± 2.56, the path coefficients are considered significant at the 99% confidence level. When the test statistic exceeds the critical values (falls outside the critical range), the researcher rejects the null hypothesis. According to Fig. 5 and Table 7 , it can be stated that attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge are, respectively, the most important components of biosecurity behavior. All constructs clearly have a significant impact on the biosecurity behavior of farmers at the 99% confidence level. In Table 6 , the path coefficients and t-values for the research hypotheses are shown. The results indicated that all hypotheses were confirmed, except for the effect of cost conception on attitude and knowledge of biosecurity behavior. Moreover, the research variables were able to explain 85% of the biosecurity behavior of farmers. Table 6 Summary of software outputs for analyzing the variables affecting behavior Effect β t Significance level Hypothesis confirmation/hypothesis rejection Benefit Perception->Biosecurity Attitude 0.685 3.641 0.000 Hypothesis confirmation Cost Perception ->Biosecurity Attitude 0.006 1.208 0.241 hypothesis rejection Biosecurity Knowledge->Biosecurity Behavior 0.707 0.129 0.908 hypothesis rejection Biosecurity Knowledge->Biosecurity Attitude 0.157 10.181 0.000 Hypothesis confirmation Biosecurity Attitude->Biosecurity Behavior 0.137 3.762 0.001 Hypothesis confirmation Subjective Norms->Biosecurity Behavior 0.111 4.959 0.000 Hypothesis confirmation Perceived Behavioral Control->Biosecurity Behavior 0.570 7.554 0.000 Hypothesis confirmation The R² criterion for the endogenous variable “behavior” shows a value of 0.853, confirming the good fit of the structural model (Table 7 ). Table 7 R² Values of Latent Variables Latent Variables R² Biosecurity Attitude 0.619 Biosecurity Behavior 0.853 The Q² criterion (cross-validated redundancy) indicates the predictive power of the model and must be calculated for all dependent constructs. Table 8 Q² Values of Latent Variables Latent Variables SSO SSE Q 2 Biosecurity Attitude 265 244.18 0.385 Biosecurity Behavior 185 185 0.335 SSO: Sum of squares of the questions SSE: Sum of squared errors in predicting the dependent construct’s questions As shown in Table 8 , this criterion is strong for both endogenous constructs, indicating that the exogenous constructs appropriately predict the dependent constructs, confirming the good fit of the structural model. After evaluating the structural section of the research model, the Goodness of Fit (GOF) index was used to assess the overall model fit. The GOF test results for the research variables are shown in Table 9 . The overall GOF index was calculated to be 0.56, which, being higher than 0.36, indicates a strong and appropriate model fit. Based on the GOF value, the model is considered to have a good fit. Table 9 GOF Values of Latent Variables Latent Variables Coefficient of determination Shared values Biosecurity Attitude 0.674 0.589 Biosecurity Behavior 0.785 0.850 Mean 0.711 0.620 GOF= \(\:\sqrt{0.620\text{*}\:0.711}\:\) =0.56 Implications This research has both theoretical and practical applications in the field of aquaculture. Research implications The findings of this study offer a valuable pathway for researchers in other countries to investigate biosecurity behaviors in fish farms using an integrated model that combines the theory of planned behavior and social exchange. The results from the measurement section indicated that, with the exceptions of two variables—the perception of the costs associated with biosecurity measures affecting attitudes and knowledge of behavior—the remaining items were suitable for estimating the model's components. Therefore, the items used in this study are effective tools for measuring these components and demonstrate high reliability and validity. The proposed model can explain a significant portion of the factors influencing biosecurity behaviors among fish farmers. In practical terms, it appears feasible to concentrate on the components of the model to further examine and improve biosecurity practices. Overall, the presented model, supported by favorable fit indices, is considered both acceptable and valid. It can help identify the underlying reasons for biosecurity behaviors and suggest strategies for addressing and enhancing them. This research highlights the importance of proper biosecurity practices among farmers and the factors that influence them, along with the role of regulations and oversight. It offers a better understanding of the reasons behind low biosecurity levels in fish farms. Furthermore, the study proposes a new approach to evaluating biosecurity levels in aquaculture by focusing specifically on the biosecurity behaviors of farm managers. Enhancing health and biosecurity measures cannot be achieved solely through government-imposed regulations. It is crucial to encourage the ethical commitments and hygienic behaviors of farm managers, who are the primary leaders in biosecurity. This can be done by improving their knowledge, attitudes, and adjusting societal norms, while also ensuring proper monitoring of these aspects. Given the significant impact of various factors on biosecurity behavior—factors that have not been adequately emphasized in previous studies—it is essential to look beyond health regulations. We should focus on improving attitudes, increasing knowledge, promoting biosecurity practices among fish farmers, raising awareness about the benefits of biosecurity, and enhancing their sense of self-efficacy. Practical implications The research findings can guide policymakers in fish farm health, urging them to consider farmers' biosecurity practices and enhance fish farm health. Conclusions In this study, the effects of various variables on biosecurity behavior were examined using the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory. These variables included attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, benefit perception, and cost perception. Additionally, biosecurity knowledge was integrated into the research framework as a key factor influencing both attitude and biosecurity behavior. Researchers believe that enhancing biosecurity literacy and knowledge plays a crucial role in shaping biosecurity behavior among fish farmers. The results indicated that several variables, including attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge, significantly impact the implementation of biosecurity behavior. Among these, perceived behavioral control was found to have the strongest influence on fish farmers' biosecurity practices. This variable refers to fish farmers' perception of their ability to enact positive changes on their farms. If farmers feel unable to perform biosecurity actions—regardless of the potential consequences—they are less likely to take those actions and may struggle to overcome challenges on their farms[ 50 , 51 ]. The study revealed that two components of the Theory of Planned Behavior “attitude toward behavior” and “subjective norms” significantly influenced the actions of fish farmers. Shih’s(2007) research further supported these findings, demonstrating that both factors play a crucial role in shaping fish farmers' intentions and behaviors regarding biosecurity[ 52 ].The influence of attitudes toward biosecurity was significant, affecting behavior both directly and indirectly; knowledge about biosecurity positively impacted attitudes, which in turn influenced behavior. Additionally, there is a meaningful relationship between knowledge and attitude, indicating that fish farmers' understanding positively contributes to the development of their attitudes. To foster a positive attitude towards biosecurity, it is crucial to enhance farmers' knowledge. The findings indicate that farmers currently lack adequate knowledge about biosecurity. Interviews highlighted several reasons for this deficiency, including some farmers living in remote areas, which limits their ability to attend in-person training. Additionally, others have restricted access to social networks that provide educational resources. Some farmers do not recognize the importance of acquiring knowledge or the necessity of staying updated with relevant information. Furthermore, training authorities often lack awareness of farmers' actual knowledge levels and their strengths and weaknesses, leading to the implementation of educational programs based on top-down policies. To improve knowledge, several measures could be beneficial. These include integrating in-person training with social media outreach, enhancing awareness through regulated aquaculture cooperatives, and promoting active participation among farmers. In Iran, biosecurity training is carried out by two organizations: The Veterinary Organization and the Fisheries Organization. However, given the low knowledge scores among fish farmers, there is a pressing need for a needs assessment, evaluation, and effective knowledge management. Key steps to improve biosecurity behavior among farmers include assessing and analyzing current government training programs, evaluating the biosecurity knowledge of fish farmers and the factors influencing their knowledge during the aquaculture period, and developing more coherent educational plans. It is essential to implement a comprehensive educational policy that involves both public and private sectors, including aquaculture associations and cooperatives. This policy could encompass annual biosecurity literacy assessments for farmers, facilitating knowledge transfer from exemplary farmers to their peers, and leveraging the educational resources of all stakeholders involved in the biosecurity sector. The results indicate that subjective norms significantly influence the behavior of farmers. Subjective norms refer to the perceived social pressure that farmers feel to engage in certain behaviors; they reflect the impact of societal expectations, peer influences, and the broader social environment on farmers' biosecurity practices[ 53 ]. Fish farmers are particularly swayed by the recommendations and opinions of fellow farmers, industry experts, market demands, and those in their immediate circles. When farmers receive positive messages, encouragement, and approval from trusted individuals or credible sources, they are more likely to adopt improved biosecurity practices. The findings of this study highlight that four factors—perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, attitudes, and knowledge—collectively shape farmers' behaviors. The role of knowledge is indirect; it influences attitudes, which then significantly impact biosecurity behavior. For instance, the study by Mohaqeqzadeh and Karami (2017) demonstrated that effective behavioral practices are linked to farmers’ attitudes and their perception of behavioral control[ 54 ].Similarly, research by Alavian and colleagues (2014) confirmed that three components—attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control—affect the adoption of behaviors, consistent with the results of this study[ 55 ]. The attitude of farmers towards biosecurity measures is shaped by their perceptions of the associated benefits and costs. Farmers generally perceive the benefits of biosecurity actions to be greater than the costs. Ghoochani and colleagues (2019), drawing on social exchange theory, noted that if individuals view the consequences of their actions positively (or negatively), their attitudes toward those actions will also be more positive (or negative)[ 36 ]. The overall findings suggest that both the Theory of Planned Behavior and social exchange theory can effectively predict farmers' behaviors regarding biosecurity. The rejection of two hypotheses indicates that farmers have a favorable view of biosecurity actions; they do not see these actions as costly or time-consuming and understand their benefits well. Furthermore, the relationship between knowledge and behavior is indirect and stems from the development of a positive attitude toward biosecurity. In summary, understanding the relationship between biosecurity behavior and factors such as knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control can provide deeper insights into the motivations behind farmers' biosecurity practices. This understanding can help manage the strengths and weaknesses of such behaviors. Additionally, the results of this study may also be relevant to other countries with similar contexts. Declarations Data availability The data supporting the findings of this study could be made available from the corresponding author upon judicious request. Author contributions Shahnaz Amirian participated in data collection and analysis. Amirhossein Alibaygi participated in the design of the research methodology and wrote and edited the manuscript. Kazem Abdi assisted in data analysis. All authors reviewed the manuscript. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests. Funding No funding was received for the conduct of this research. References Hicks, C.C., et al., Harnessing global fisheries to tackle micronutrient deficiencies. Nature, 574(7776): p. 95-98. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1592-6 (2019). Boyd, C.E., A.A. McNevin, and R.P. Davis, The contribution of fisheries and aquaculture to the global protein supply. Food security, 14(3): p. 805-827. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12571-021-01246-9(2022). Subasinghe, R., D. Soto, and J. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-6945960","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":508100038,"identity":"32145d53-d30e-451d-a6e5-43457b9ff65f","order_by":0,"name":"Shahnaz Amirian","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Razi University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Shahnaz","middleName":"","lastName":"Amirian","suffix":""},{"id":508100039,"identity":"26650e26-927b-43f1-aae3-ef6e9e9cdf05","order_by":1,"name":"Amirhossein 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15:53:19","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6945960/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-6945960/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":90286860,"identity":"76424905-18eb-4e95-afeb-11065b8b6c35","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-09-01 06:30:38","extension":"png","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":43145,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStructures of the Theory of Planned Behavior [16-18]\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/e194a0b48cff4167742d8636.png"},{"id":90287159,"identity":"67213da9-a163-4ec3-a3cb-3cf752cdc29e","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-09-01 06:38:38","extension":"jpeg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":154863,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStructural model of factors influencing biosecurity behavior\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage2.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/d8665f2e5ef4265b1e4bfb64.jpeg"},{"id":90286865,"identity":"cb7e518c-5636-483b-9d0c-38c3f8f84397","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-09-01 06:30:38","extension":"jpeg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":340444,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLocation of the Study area was used to generate the figure (https:// en. wikipedia. org/ wiki/ Kermanshah province)\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage3.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/fadb535d0cb947fa22ad73af.jpeg"},{"id":90286866,"identity":"b7fe29af-698a-4b9b-880e-d5afc1b1afe2","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-09-01 06:30:38","extension":"jpeg","order_by":4,"title":"Figure 4","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":51603,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eResearch model with standardized coefficients\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage4.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/16b9251475d683e46c5c29ea.jpeg"},{"id":90287846,"identity":"5e010d29-d457-4078-a174-87a0e24d740a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-09-01 06:46:38","extension":"jpeg","order_by":5,"title":"Figure 5","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":51707,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003et-statistic values and regression coefficients for assessing the fit of the structural model\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage5.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/a40849aa030f59de5781e55c.jpeg"},{"id":109044855,"identity":"dfc8692f-7749-4e2e-b0f6-d8ce44b637b9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-05-12 05:13:11","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":1395498,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-6945960/v1/48e2d58b-62fa-473d-80bb-98e42110ddc3.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Integrating the Planned Behavior Theory and Social Exchange Theory to Investigate Fish Farmers' Biosecurity Practices","fulltext":[{"header":"Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMotivation of the Research\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAquaculture is the fastest-growing food production industry in the world, providing a vital source of protein and essential micronutrients to the global population[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e]. The industry is expanding worldwide, coinciding with the continuous growth of the global population, which leads to an increased demand for edible aquatic products. However, the supply from wild fishing has reached its maximum capacity and cannot satisfy the rising global demand [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, the decline in edible aquatic species due to overfishing means that preserving nutrient stocks largely depends on replacing wild-caught fish with farmed aquatic species[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e]. Aquaculture plays a crucial role in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 1 (No Poverty) and Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) [\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR6\" citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e–\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e]. However, as the industry strives to reach its full potential, it faces significant challenges related to biosecurity [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e]. Disease outbreaks and their spread within modern aquaculture are major obstacles to sustainable practices and pose a threat to global food security[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e].The emergence of infectious diseases on fish farms results in substantial social and economic losses each year, with the ongoing spread of these pathogens diminishing farm revenues[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e]. Effective biosecurity management in aquaculture can significantly improve farm productivity, enhance production levels, and ensure the health and quality of farmed aquatic species[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. By implementing proper biosecurity measures, aquaculture farmers can reduce the risks of disease outbreaks by minimizing the likelihood of pathogens entering their farms and mitigating the potential consequences of their spread. Kermanshah Province is a significant center for aquaculture in the non-coastal areas of western Iran. Aquaculture production in this province began in 1994, initially producing 205 tons. As of 2023, this output has increased to 21,105 tons, creating employment for over 3,799 individuals. This sector is essential for the local economy and job creation in Kermanshah, contributing not only to food security but also to the political stability of this border region. Recently, Kermanshah has been identified by Iran’s Veterinary Organization as one of the hotspots for aquatic diseases. These challenges highlight the importance of farmers adhering to rigorous biosecurity practices, which are crucial for mitigating the risk of disease transmission. Understanding the factors that influence farmers’ behaviors is vital for policymakers who aim to encourage necessary changes[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e]. Responsible and professional behavior among fish farmers is essential for effective farm management, preventing disease outbreaks, and reducing their detrimental impacts[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, this study seeks to explore the factors that influence biosecurity behavior in aquaculture.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTheoretical Review and Research Hypotheses\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVarious theories, including the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory, explain the emergence of behavior and the factors that influence it. The Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that the primary factor determining an individual's behavior is their behavioral intention (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). This intention is influenced by three key components: attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). This theory is valuable for identifying and understanding the factors that affect behavior. According to Ajzen and Fishbein, interventions aimed at changing behavior should consider prominent beliefs and influential perceptions [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnother relevant theoretical approach is Social Exchange Theory, developed by George Casper Homans and based on the principles of utilitarian economics. This theory posits that human relationships are shaped by subjective cost-benefit analyses, where individuals are more likely to repeat actions that yield rewards. The greater the perceived benefits and rewards associated with a specific behavior, the more likely it is to be repeated[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eConversely, when individuals perceive the costs of a behavior to outweigh its benefits, Social Exchange Theory predicts they are more likely to abandon that behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOverall, this theory suggests that all human interactions are influenced by an internalized cost-benefit analysis and the evaluation of alternative options[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e]. As a result, if farmers believe that the benefits of adopting biosecurity practices exceed the potential negative consequences (costs), they are more inclined to implement those practices. This study aims to analyze biosecurity behavior by integrating two significant theories and introducing an additional variable: biosecurity knowledge. Biosecurity knowledge is a crucial factor that influences behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e]. Therefore, it is essential that training and knowledge development align with the specific needs of farmers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo change their perspective on disease risk and better understand the importance of biosecurity measures, farmers must enhance their knowledge of biosecurity practices[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. Numerous studies have identified three key components of literacy: knowledge, attitude, and behavior, all of which influence fish farmers' biosecurity practices[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e]. Literacy should be considered a combination of knowledge, skills, and attitudes relevant to a specific field of work, study, or learning. Consequently, knowledge is included in the conceptual framework of this study as a variable that influences behavior. The primary objective of this study is to examine the factors that influence farmers’ behavior regarding biosecurity by integrating two significant behavioral theories. As the global importance of biosecurity continues to grow, behavioral theories and models offer a valuable framework for understanding, predicting, and modifying the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers. Therefore, improving the actions of professional farmers is crucial for disease prevention. This study aims to clarify farmers’ biosecurity behavior by combining principles from behavioral science and incorporating key variables into the analysis. This integration is one of the study's strengths. Various behavioral factors influence farmers' actions. The research hypotheses are based on the integration of the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory, as outlined in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eH1: There is a Relationship between the Perception of Benefits and Costs of Biosecurity Measures and farmers’ Biosecurity Attitudes\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Social Exchange Theory suggests that human interactions are influenced by an internal cost-benefit analysis and a comparison of alternative options. This theory combines insights from economics and psychology within a solid sociological framework[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR28\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e28\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, attitudes are shaped by evaluating expected benefits and costs in relation to the advantages individuals perceive[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e]. Various studies have applied Social Exchange Theory to gain a better understanding of people's attitudes toward specific topics[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e]. Generally, perceived benefits tend to promote certain behaviors, while perceived costs can prevent action[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e]. This implies that individuals are more likely to support behaviors when their positive attitudes toward the benefits and outcomes outweigh any associated costs and negative effects. In this context, Ambrož (2008) states that tourism thrives when individuals have a positive attitude toward it[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eH2: Farmers' Biosecurity Attitudes in Kermanshah Province Are Influenced by Prevailing Social Norms\u003c/b\u003e: Research indicates that variables such as social influence, subjective norms, and perceived usefulness have a significant impact on attitudes[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e]. A study by Soltani and Hashemi (2018) highlights the strong positive effects of subjective norms on these attitudes[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eH3: Fish farmers with Higher Biosecurity Knowledge Have a More Positive Attitude Toward Biosecurity Measures\u003c/b\u003e: According to a study by Ghochani et al. (2019) on support for rural tourism development, awareness and knowledge are crucial in shaping individuals' attitudes[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eH4: Increased knowledge, positive attitudes, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norms among farmers in Kermanshah Province regarding biosecurity measures will lead to enhanced and sustained biosecurity behaviors\u003c/b\u003e: Developing the necessary knowledge, attitudes, and skills empowers individuals to think critically, act appropriately, and recognize opportunities[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Theory of Planned Behavior suggests that three factors—attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control—shape behavioral formation and influence an individual's ability to regulate their own behavior. This theory offers a strong prediction of behavioral intentions and accounts for a significant portion of behavioral variability[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e]. Numerous studies have confirmed the influence of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on behavioral intentions[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e39\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e40\u003c/span\u003e]. For instance, research by Rahimi et al. (2016) identified that attitude, moral norms, and self-identity significantly affect individuals’ intentions regarding water conservation[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e]. Similarly, Zakaria et al. (2014) found that individuals’ attitudes and perceptions have a notably positive influence on their future behavioral intentions[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA study focused on rural tourism development support revealed that attitudes significantly impact behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e]. Additionally, research by Sabzian et al. (2015) concluded that subjective norms may have an even greater effect on individuals’ behavioral intentions than attitudes do[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e43\u003c/span\u003e]. The text emphasizes the crucial role of social influences in shaping behavior. Additionally, the perceptions, attitudes, and responsible behaviors of residents regarding the environment are closely interconnected, as noted by Lu et al. (2022)[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e44\u003c/span\u003e]. For farmers to genuinely change their perception of disease risk and enhance their awareness of the importance of biosecurity measures, they must significantly increase their knowledge of biosecurity practices[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e]. This relationship is essential for developing environmental behaviors, which in turn reflect the level of environmental literacy among individuals[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eH5: The Effect of Perceived Behavioral Control (Perception of Biosecurity) of Farmers on Their Biosecurity Behavior in Kermanshah Province\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study conducted by Ghochani and colleagues (2019) revealed that individuals' perceptions of the socio-cultural impacts of tourism significantly influence their attitudes toward tourism development[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e] [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e]. Moreover, perceived behavioral control affects attitudes and subjective norms, which in turn can increase or decrease intention and behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e46\u003c/span\u003e]. Nouri Kouhani and Nadi (2018) further demonstrated that perceived behavioral control positively influences teachers’ knowledge-sharing behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e47\u003c/span\u003e]. Another study highlighted the direct and positive impact of perceived behavioral control on entrepreneurial intention, concluding that it plays a crucial role in shaping behavior[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e]. In conclusion, while previous research in various fields has explored several intervening variables in behavior, this study adopts an integrated model of Social Exchange Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior to analyze the biosecurity behaviors of fish farmers. Its objective is to identify strategies to enhance these behaviors among this group (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Methods","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStatistical Population of the Study\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe statistical population for this descriptive-correlational study comprised fish farmers from two categories: Rainbow trout farms and carp farms in Kermanshah Province, totaling 324 individuals. Using Krejcie and Morgan’s table, 175 individuals were selected as the sample through stratified sampling with proportional allocation. With a response rate of 92.5%, a total of 162 questionnaires were completed and collected.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStudy Area\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKermanshah Province, located in the western part of Iran (Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e), has a population of approximately 1,950,000 and is the 17th largest province by area. The region boasts four suitable climatic zones and abundant water resources, making it a leading center for aquaculture in Iran. Aquaculture programs in this province play a crucial role in fish production, job creation, and increasing per capita fish consumption, thereby contributing to the province's economic growth. These attributes have fostered regional development focused on agriculture and aquaculture, in alignment with national food security objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFish farms in Kermanshah Province have recently been identified as hotspots for aquatic diseases by the Iranian Veterinary Organization. A key example of this issue is the outbreak of the Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS) virus in the region's aquaculture sector. This disease was first reported in Iran, specifically in Kermanshah Province, in late 2013, leading to significant economic losses for local fish farmers. The impact of this disease outbreak has severely hindered developmental goals, especially in rural areas where subsistence economies prevail. Other negative consequences of the outbreak in aquaculture include substantial economic losses and wasted production costs due to fish mortality, the temporary or permanent closure of aquaculture facilities, loss of employment on fish farms and in related industries, a decline in trade and foreign exchange revenue, reduced fish quality, and a loss of both domestic and international markets. Moreover, the environmental, social, and economic repercussions of disease outbreaks in aquaculture are substantial. Consequently, Kermanshah Province in western Iran has been selected as the study area for further investigation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eResearch Instrument\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research instrument was divided into two main sections:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFirst Section\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe first section measured three variables: knowledge, attitude, and behavior, based on previous studies such as those by Jia et al. (2017), Mateo (2021), and Kambey et al. (2021). It was also designed and revised with input from aquatic health specialists from the Iranian Veterinary Organization, fish farm audit forms from the Veterinary Organization, and experts from the Fisheries Department of Kermanshah Province. The questionnaire items were carefully formulated to avoid any issues that might compromise the accuracy of responses [\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR17\" citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e–\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e49\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSecond Section\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe second section of the research instrument included questionnaires on subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and perceptions of biosecurity costs and benefits, using a five-point Likert scale. Participants were asked to express their level of agreement or disagreement with the statements in this section using a five-point Likert scale. Scoring Method for items 1, 2, and 4 in the cost perception section, reverse scoring was applied Strongly Disagree = 5, Disagree = 4, Neutral = 3, Agree = 2, Strongly Agree = 1. The questionnaires were completed through individual interviews with fish farmers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eStatement\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInformed Consent and Ethical Considerations\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e All interviewees were informed about data protection issues related to the census, and they verbally expressed their consent at the beginning of each interview. Informed consent was obtained from all individual participants involved in the study. All materials and methods were conducted in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. This research was approved by a committee at the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran. All farmers conducted in this study, including those involving human participants, complied with the ethical standards of the institutional research committee and the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its subsequent amendments or comparable ethical standards.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eValidity and Reliability of Research Instruments\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter designing the questionnaire, eight experts reviewed the questions. Following revisions and adjustments, the final questionnaire was approved.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo assess the validity of the research instrument, the convergent validity technique was used alongside expert opinions. Convergent validity was examined using the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) as a criterion. To evaluate the reliability of the questionnaire, Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability (CR) were calculated. The composite reliability method assesses construct reliability based on correlations among them. Both Cronbach's alpha and CR were at an acceptable level (above 0.7). Factor loadings were also used to examine the strength of relationships between latent and observed variables. The results showed that factor loadings for most selected items were acceptable and statistically significant at P \u0026lt; 0.01. However, three items in the biosecurity behavior section had factor loadings below 0.4 and were removed from the model. All other categories had acceptable factor loadings. These results confirmed the accuracy of the study components.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor descriptive analysis, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, SPSS 20 was used. To test the research hypotheses, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was performed using Smart-PLS 4 software. The conceptual model was tested using SEM. We conducted consistency analysis, including convergent validity (AVE), composite reliability (CR), and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, using Smart-PLS 4 software.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDescriptive statistics\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDescriptive statistics of observed variables\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTable\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e shows the percentage of Correct Responses of Rainbow Trout and Carp Farmers. The results indicate that the average score of 123 Rainbow Trout farmers was 10.96 out of a total score of 20. Meanwhile, the average score of 39 carp farmers was 10.14 out of 20. The overall average biosecurity knowledge score of farmers was 10.55.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCompared to the total score, the biosecurity knowledge of farmers was 53 out of 100, which, based on the study by Jia et al. (2017), is considered moderate knowledge[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCorrect Answers to Biosecurity Knowledge Questions of Aquaculture Farmers (Percentage)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNumber\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuestion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePercentage of correct answers for Rainbow Trout farmers\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePercentage of correct answers for carp farmers\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich type of water source reduces the risk of disease outbreak and transmission in a fish farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Well water, spring water, or groundwater\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Surface water\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) River water\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Both b and c\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e47.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow many times per year does the purchase of juvenile fish pose the highest disease transmission risk to a farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA) No purchase\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Less than 3 purchases\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) 3\u0026ndash;5 purchases\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) More than 5 purchases\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e48.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the best distance from upstream and downstream farms to reduce disease risk in a fish farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) No farm upstream or downstream\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) 1\u0026ndash;5 km from the upstream farm, 0.2\u0026ndash;0.5 km from the downstream farm\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) 0.5-1 km from the upstream farm, 0-0.2 km from the downstream farm\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Distance from upstream and downstream farms equal to or less than 0.5 km\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the best number of farms within a 5 km radius with independent water sources for proper health management?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA) One farm\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Three farms\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Five farms\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) More than five farms\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e28.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf a farm is located in a tourist area, what is the first step to minimize the risk of pathogen entry?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Prevent visitors from entering\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Construct and use a lime slurry pond at the farm entrance and restrict visitor access to sensitive areas\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Avoid feeding the fish on holidays\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Record visitor details\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the first and most important biosecurity measure to prevent disease outbreaks in a farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Separating fry nets from market fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Controlling stocking density and feed management\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Purchasing juvenile fish with health certification\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Using high-quality feed\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat should be done immediately when fish mortality begins in a farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Salt treatment\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Contacting and consulting the farm veterinarian\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Using Oxy tetracycline\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Reducing incoming water volume\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e78\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e87.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn increase in water temperature and salinity affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of water by:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) No change\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Increasing it\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Decreasing it\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Increasing first, then decreasing\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e75.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e92.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the best way to dispose of dead fish in a farm during a disease outbreak?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Burning the fish in an incinerator or sanitary burial\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Feeding them to animals kept on the farm\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Disposing of them in a river\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Burying them near water sources\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e91.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the best method to disinfect the water entering and exiting a fish farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Chlorination\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Using iodophor\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Using thiosulfate\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Using ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e84.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the minimum quarantine period for newly purchased fish before introducing them to the main farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA) One day\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) One week\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Two weeks to one month\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) More than one month\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHow many hours before and after fish transportation should feeding be stopped, considering water temperature and fish weight?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA) 48 hours before and 48 hours\u0026rsquo; after\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) 24 hours before and 24 hours\u0026rsquo; after\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) 48 hours before and 24 hours\u0026rsquo; after\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) 24 hours before and 48 hours\u0026rsquo; after\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e30.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is one of the most important ways to control fish stress in a farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Maintaining appropriate stocking density\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Maximizing feed supply\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Reducing incoming water volume\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Using antibiotics\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e91.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e100\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat are the risks of using slaughterhouse waste as fish feed in farms?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Need for additional equipment to prepare and store this type of feed\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Shorter shelf life of slaughterhouse waste compared to factory-produced feed\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Rapid spoilage, increased farm contamination, and environmental pollution\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) It contributes to fish dietary variety and poses no issues\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e83.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e94.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat causes gas bubble disease, which results in eye protrusion in fish?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) A viral agent\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Increased carbon dioxide concentration\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Oxygen deficiency in the water\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Water super saturation with dissolved gases such as oxygen and nitrogen\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e64.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is the first sign of stress or disease in fish?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Normal feeding response\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Loss of appetite\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Jumping out of the pond\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Darkening of the fish\u0026rsquo;s body\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e59\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhen transferring fish from one water body to another, the temperature difference should not exceed:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA) 2\u0026ndash;3\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) 3\u0026ndash;5\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) 5\u0026ndash;7\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) More than 7\u0026deg;C\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e49.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDuring high river turbidity and muddy water conditions, what is the most important action to reduce fish stress?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Increasing incoming water volume\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Reducing or stopping fish feeding\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Stopping water inflow to the ponds\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Removing sludge from the pond bottom\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e84.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter stopping antibiotic use in sick fish, how long should they be withheld before being marketed?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Three days\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) One week\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Two weeks\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) More than three weeks\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhich of the following is NOT considered a critical point for disease transmission in a fish farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ea) Water\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eb) Purchasing brood stock, fertilized eggs, or juvenile fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ec) Pond shape and dimensions\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ed) Carriers (wind, insects, waterfowl, and shorebirds)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of this section indicate that many farmers have limited knowledge about aquatic health management. For example, 70% of farmers are unaware that frequent purchases of juvenile fish within a year pose a significant risk for disease outbreaks and transmission in a farm (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). Overall, the findings suggest that farmers in Kermanshah Province do not have a high level of biosecurity knowledge.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe assessment of attitudes toward biosecurity was divided into two categories: the importance of following management and health measures and the benefits of adhering to these measures (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFarmers\u0026rsquo; Biosecurity Attitude (Percentage)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCases\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAverage out of 4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandard deviation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVery helpful\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSomewhat helpful\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot helpful\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot sure\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImportance of Following Farm Management Measures\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeeding management (timing and food selection)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.91\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.31\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e91.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecognizing disease symptoms and early diagnosis\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.85\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.44\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e87.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConsidering the source of juvenile fish supply for the farm\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.79\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.52\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e82.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity measures (e.g., wearing work clothes, personal hygiene, disinfection pools at farm entrances, and preventive health actions)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.54\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e69.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAdministering medication to fish through feed\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.46\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.76\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e57.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"7\" nameend=\"c7\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBenefits of Following Daily Farm Management Measures\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProper and hygienic disposal of diseased and dead fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.83\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.37\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e82.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnsuring all farm employees are aware of hygiene practices and report unusual disease symptoms or mortality\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.81\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.51\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e85.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUtilizing experience in farm management\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e80.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMorning inspection of ponds\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.58\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e80.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAvoiding shared equipment with other farms to prevent disease spread\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.67\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.74\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e78.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQuarantining and disinfecting juvenile fish before releasing them into ponds\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.60\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.78\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e72.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eReducing fish density when mortality begins\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.59\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.49\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e58.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePreparing for climate changes (e.g., floods, droughts) over time\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.59\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.49\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e59.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDisinfecting nets and fishing gear before harvesting fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.56\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.83\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e72.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRemoving dead fish from the pond in cases of mass mortality\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.55\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.78\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e67.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e26.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKeeping fish of the same age (same weight) in a single pond\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.92\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e69.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLearning and applying proper fish harvesting techniques\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.91\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e64.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eObserving fallowing periods between different farming cycles\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.92\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaintaining daily records of farm water quality and mortality rates for early disease detection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.37\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.95\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e59.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernment agency (veterinary and fisheries) supervision of the quality and health of purchased juvenile fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eInstalling signs on the farm to inform visitors about hygiene guidelines\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.20\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing probiotics to improve water quality\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.06\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNumber of 22 questions / with a maximum score of 4\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(Very useful\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;4, somewhat useful\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;3, Not sure\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;2, Useless\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMore than 50% of fish farmers found the statements in the section on the importance of following farm management practices to be very useful (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). Most fish farmers also rated the options in the section on the benefits of following daily farm management practices as very useful. According to the results, over 80% of fish farmers in Kermanshah province had a favorable attitude toward biosecurity in aquaculture. Fish farmers\u0026rsquo; biosecurity behavior was assessed in four areas (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003efish farmers\u0026rsquo; Biosecurity Behavior (Percentage)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCases\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean of 3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandard Deviation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eYes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eRarely\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNever\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMeasures to Prevent the Introduction and Spread of Disease Agents (Disinfection, Storage Management)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Do you disinfect fishing and production equipment?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.72\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e56.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Do you disinfect juvenile fish when introducing them to the farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.30\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.83\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e54.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Do you share fishing and other equipment with other farms?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.44\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.76\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e61.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. Do you avoid sharing equipment with farms that have infected fish?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.38\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.86\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. Do you prevent producers from farms experiencing disease outbreaks and mortality from visiting your farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.12\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.83\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e41.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6. Do you obtain information about hatcheries and juvenile fish sources before purchasing?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.81\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.38\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e81.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7. Do you quarantine and monitor new fish introduced to the farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.22\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.85\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e57.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8. Do you participate in training sessions on new fishing methods, production management, and farm hygiene to improve farm productivity?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.77\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e54.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9. If a disease outbreak is diagnosed by a veterinarian, do you cooperate in the disposal of sick and dead fish on your farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.54\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.75\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e70.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFarm Record-Keeping\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10. Do you maintain accurate daily records of fish mortality?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11. Do you keep accurate daily records of water quality?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.90\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.76\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDaily Disease Management Practices on the Farm\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12. Do you keep fish of the same size (same age) in a single pond?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.82\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e62.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e21.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13. Do you allow resting periods between production cycles?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.10\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e35.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14. When mortality rates exceed normal levels, do you remove dead fish from the pond?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e80.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e15. Do you use antibiotics as a preventive measure against disease?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.56\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e63.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16. Do you use probiotics to improve water quality?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.88\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.80\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17. Do you inspect the pond early in the morning?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.77\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e77.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18. Have you visited other farms in the past two weeks?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.04\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.89\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"6\" nameend=\"c6\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eActions Taken When Mortality Occurs in Neighboring Farms\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19. When high mortality occurs in neighboring farms, do you visit or assist them after being informed?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.73\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.83\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e51.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e23.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e24.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e20. Do you transfer fish from farms that have experienced mortality and disease outbreaks to your own farm?\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.66\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e11.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e82.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results of examining the behavior of fish farmers regarding the prevention of entry and spread of pathogens showed that options related to disinfection measures and storage management were positively evaluated by 50% of fish farmers (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e). The behavioral score of 162 fish farmers in Kermanshah province was calculated as 15 out of 20, indicating relatively good biosecurity behavior in fish farming in the region. According to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, the average score for the fish farmers\u0026rsquo; subjective norms was 25 out of 30.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStatus of Other Factors Influencing fish farmers\u0026rsquo; Biosecurity Behavior in Kermanshah Province\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eItem\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStandard Deviation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStrongly Disagree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eDisagree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo Opinion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAgree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStrongly Agree\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSubjective Norms on Biosecurity Behavior in fish farmers\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Among my fish farmer\u0026rsquo;s friends and colleagues, there are those who have achieved good results by following hygiene measures in their farms, so I also pay attention to hygiene practices in my own farm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.07\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.007\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e32.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Having witnessed disease-related losses in my fish farmers\u0026rsquo; friends and colleagues\u0026rsquo; farms, I have realized the importance of implementing hygiene measures.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.877\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e36.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. I follow farm hygiene measures based on the recommendations of technical and health experts.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.752\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e54.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. In this era of knowledge and communication, I must be aware of the importance of hygiene measures.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.869\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. Since following hygiene measures is a legal requirement for production and market supply, I comply with hygiene practices in my farm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.806\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e45.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.I adhere to hygiene measures on my farm because low-quality and unhealthy products cannot be sold in the market, as consumers care about the quality and health of farmed fish\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.47\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.797\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e33.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e59.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePerceived Behavioral Control Over Biosecurity Actions in fish farmers\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.I can independently decide on implementing hygiene measures in my farm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.231\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e16.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e43.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. I have the financial ability to purchase disinfection equipment and materials for hygiene measures.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.60\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.192\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e9.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e52.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. I always have time to carry out hygiene measures in my farm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.01\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.994\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e52.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e31.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. I have complete knowledge and awareness of hygiene measures in aquaculture farms.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.85\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.070\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e49.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e27.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. Access to health consultation services is easy for me.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.58\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.162\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e48.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e19.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6. I have the necessary skills to manage my farm\u0026rsquo;s hygiene.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.90\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.998\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e56.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e25.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7. I can handle any problems (money, time, or information) related to hygiene measures in my farm.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.63\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.086\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e50.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePerceived Benefits of Biosecurity Measures in fish farmers\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Implementing hygiene measures increases farm production.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.910\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e58\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. By following hygiene measures, fish farmers ensure continuous and high-quality production, preventing farm shutdowns.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.779\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e40.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e53.7\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Hygiene measures reduce disease-related mortality and, consequently, economic losses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.44\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.780\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.1\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e55.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. Hygiene practices in farms contribute to environmental protection and natural resource conservation (by reducing disease incidence and minimizing drug and disinfectant residues in the environment).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.817\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e51.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5. 5.Following hygiene measures leads to the production of higher-quality fish with better market appeal.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.43\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.884\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29.0\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e60.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colspan=\"8\" nameend=\"c8\" namest=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePerceived Costs of Biosecurity Measures in fish farmers\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1. Learning hygiene practices requires a significant investment of time and money.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.06\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.382\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e22.8\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e18.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2. Implementing hygiene measures (e.g., disinfecting ponds, morning pond inspections, collecting and properly disposing of dead fish, etc.) requires a significant amount of time and effort.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.06\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.393\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e33.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e14.2\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3. Hygiene measures increase farm production costs due to expenses related to disinfectant materials and equipment.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.23\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.217\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e29\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e39.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e13.6\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4. The health of fish farmers who use disinfectants and chemicals is at risk.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.35\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.187\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e17.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e12.3\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e38.9\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e26.5\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e, half of the fish farmers acknowledged that they can implement biosecurity measures. The mean score for perceived behavioral control of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was 26 out of a maximum score of 35 (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). More than 50 percent of fish farmers consider the implementation of biosecurity measures to be beneficial (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). The mean score for the perceived benefit of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was calculated as 22 out of a total of 25. These results indicate that fish farmers are well aware of the benefits and value of adhering to biosecurity measures.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eForty-six percent of fish farmers acknowledged that biosecurity measures require both cost and time (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). At the same time, more than 50 percent of fish farmers do not agree with allocating these expenses. The mean score for the perceived cost of biosecurity measures among 162 fish farmers was calculated as 11 out of a total of 18.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInferential statistics\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSection Two: Examination of the Empirical Model of Biosecurity Behavior and the Factors Affecting Biosecurity in Aquaculture. The proposed conceptual model was evaluated in two parts: the assessment of the measurement model and the assessment of the structural model using structural equation modeling.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDiscriminant validity\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn order to conduct structural equation modeling, it is necessary to verify the assumption of normality for the collected data and the absence of collinearity among the research variables. The results of Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e indicate that the data are normally distributed and that there is no collinearity among the research variables, so there is no impediment to using the structural equation model.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eStatistical Outputs Related to the Normality of the Data and the Absence of Multi collinearity Among the Research Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"8\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c8\" colnum=\"8\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndex\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived Benefits of Biosecurity Measures\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived Costs of Biosecurity Measures\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Knowledge\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived Behavioral Control Over Biosecurity Actions\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttitude Toward Biosecurity\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSubjective Norms on Biosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKolmogorov\u0026ndash;Smirnov\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.44\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.26\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.57\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.38\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e2.26\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignificance Level\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.37\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.14\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.24\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.36\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSkewness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.79\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.64\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.56\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.52\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.71\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-1.46\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eKurtosis\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.47\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.61\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.50\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.47\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.28\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.34\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.41\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eTolerance\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.17\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.19\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.21\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.32\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVIF\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e71.4\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e8.39\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e5.11\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e6.45\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.42\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c8\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results from the structural equation model and the path coefficients of the research variables related to the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers in the province of Kermanshah are shown in Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e. Based on Chin\u0026rsquo;s criteria (1988), the research findings indicate that the latent variable \u0026ldquo;benefit perception\u0026rdquo; has an optimal positive relationship with a coefficient of 0.68 (close to 0.67), while the relationship between cost perception and biosecurity attitude is weak, with a coefficient of 0.06 (ranging between 0.19 and 0.33). The relationship between biosecurity attitude and knowledge (β\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.15) and between biosecurity attitude and behavior (β\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.137) are significant and effective in promoting biosecurity behavior. The research model, using standardized coefficients, shows that the effect of biosecurity knowledge on biosecurity behavior is very effective and significant, with a β coefficient of 0.70. Other results of this section indicate that subjective norms (with a determination coefficient of 0.11) and perceived behavioral control (with a determination coefficient of 0.57) also impact biosecurity behavior.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural model section, unlike measurement models, only examines latent variables and the relationships between them. The following section reviews the model fit indices of the structural model and tests the research hypotheses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe first and most essential criterion is the significance of the t-values. A variable has a significant effect on another when the t-statistic is outside the critical range (\u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;1.96) at the 95% confidence level. Otherwise, there is no significant relationship between them. If the t-statistic falls outside the range of \u0026plusmn;\u0026thinsp;2.56, the path coefficients are considered significant at the 99% confidence level. When the test statistic exceeds the critical values (falls outside the critical range), the researcher rejects the null hypothesis. According to Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e and Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, it can be stated that attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge are, respectively, the most important components of biosecurity behavior. All constructs clearly have a significant impact on the biosecurity behavior of farmers at the 99% confidence level.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e, the path coefficients and t-values for the research hypotheses are shown. The results indicated that all hypotheses were confirmed, except for the effect of cost conception on attitude and knowledge of biosecurity behavior. Moreover, the research variables were able to explain 85% of the biosecurity behavior of farmers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 6\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSummary of software outputs for analyzing the variables affecting behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"5\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEffect\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eβ\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003et\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignificance level\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation/hypothesis rejection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBenefit Perception-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.685\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.641\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCost Perception -\u0026gt;Biosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.006\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e1.208\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.241\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ehypothesis rejection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Knowledge-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.707\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.129\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.908\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ehypothesis rejection\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Knowledge-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.157\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e10.181\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Attitude-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.137\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e3.762\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.001\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSubjective Norms-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.111\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e4.959\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived Behavioral Control-\u0026gt;Biosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.570\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e7.554\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eHypothesis confirmation\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe R\u0026sup2; criterion for the endogenous variable \u0026ldquo;behavior\u0026rdquo; shows a value of 0.853, confirming the good fit of the structural model (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab7\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 7\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eR\u0026sup2; Values of Latent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLatent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eR\u0026sup2;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.619\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.853\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Q\u0026sup2; criterion (cross-validated redundancy) indicates the predictive power of the model and must be calculated for all dependent constructs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab8\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 8\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ\u0026sup2; Values of Latent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLatent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSSO\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eSSE\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ\u003csup\u003e2\u003c/sup\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e265\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e244.18\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.385\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e185\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e185\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.335\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003ctfoot\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd colspan=\"4\"\u003eSSO: Sum of squares of the questions\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tfoot\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSSE: Sum of squared errors in predicting the dependent construct\u0026rsquo;s questions\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e, this criterion is strong for both endogenous constructs, indicating that the exogenous constructs appropriately predict the dependent constructs, confirming the good fit of the structural model.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter evaluating the structural section of the research model, the Goodness of Fit (GOF) index was used to assess the overall model fit. The GOF test results for the research variables are shown in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab9\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e. The overall GOF index was calculated to be 0.56, which, being higher than 0.36, indicates a strong and appropriate model fit. Based on the GOF value, the model is considered to have a good fit.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab9\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 9\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eGOF Values of Latent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eLatent Variables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoefficient of determination\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eShared values\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Attitude\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.674\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.589\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eBiosecurity Behavior\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.785\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.850\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.711\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e0.620\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGOF=\u003cspan class=\"InlineEquation\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"mathinline\"\u003e\\(\\:\\sqrt{0.620\\text{*}\\:0.711}\\:\\)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/span\u003e=0.56\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eImplications\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis research has both theoretical and practical applications in the field of aquaculture.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eResearch implications\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study offer a valuable pathway for researchers in other countries to investigate biosecurity behaviors in fish farms using an integrated model that combines the theory of planned behavior and social exchange. The results from the measurement section indicated that, with the exceptions of two variables\u0026mdash;the perception of the costs associated with biosecurity measures affecting attitudes and knowledge of behavior\u0026mdash;the remaining items were suitable for estimating the model's components. Therefore, the items used in this study are effective tools for measuring these components and demonstrate high reliability and validity. The proposed model can explain a significant portion of the factors influencing biosecurity behaviors among fish farmers. In practical terms, it appears feasible to concentrate on the components of the model to further examine and improve biosecurity practices. Overall, the presented model, supported by favorable fit indices, is considered both acceptable and valid. It can help identify the underlying reasons for biosecurity behaviors and suggest strategies for addressing and enhancing them. This research highlights the importance of proper biosecurity practices among farmers and the factors that influence them, along with the role of regulations and oversight. It offers a better understanding of the reasons behind low biosecurity levels in fish farms. Furthermore, the study proposes a new approach to evaluating biosecurity levels in aquaculture by focusing specifically on the biosecurity behaviors of farm managers.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnhancing health and biosecurity measures cannot be achieved solely through government-imposed regulations. It is crucial to encourage the ethical commitments and hygienic behaviors of farm managers, who are the primary leaders in biosecurity. This can be done by improving their knowledge, attitudes, and adjusting societal norms, while also ensuring proper monitoring of these aspects. Given the significant impact of various factors on biosecurity behavior\u0026mdash;factors that have not been adequately emphasized in previous studies\u0026mdash;it is essential to look beyond health regulations. We should focus on improving attitudes, increasing knowledge, promoting biosecurity practices among fish farmers, raising awareness about the benefits of biosecurity, and enhancing their sense of self-efficacy.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePractical implications\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe research findings can guide policymakers in fish farm health, urging them to consider farmers' biosecurity practices and enhance fish farm health.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusions","content":"\u003cp\u003eIn this study, the effects of various variables on biosecurity behavior were examined using the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory. These variables included attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, benefit perception, and cost perception. Additionally, biosecurity knowledge was integrated into the research framework as a key factor influencing both attitude and biosecurity behavior. Researchers believe that enhancing biosecurity literacy and knowledge plays a crucial role in shaping biosecurity behavior among fish farmers. The results indicated that several variables, including attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge, significantly impact the implementation of biosecurity behavior. Among these, perceived behavioral control was found to have the strongest influence on fish farmers' biosecurity practices. This variable refers to fish farmers' perception of their ability to enact positive changes on their farms. If farmers feel unable to perform biosecurity actions\u0026mdash;regardless of the potential consequences\u0026mdash;they are less likely to take those actions and may struggle to overcome challenges on their farms[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e51\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study revealed that two components of the Theory of Planned Behavior \u0026ldquo;attitude toward behavior\u0026rdquo; and \u0026ldquo;subjective norms\u0026rdquo; significantly influenced the actions of fish farmers. Shih\u0026rsquo;s(2007) research further supported these findings, demonstrating that both factors play a crucial role in shaping fish farmers' intentions and behaviors regarding biosecurity[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR52\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e52\u003c/span\u003e].The influence of attitudes toward biosecurity was significant, affecting behavior both directly and indirectly; knowledge about biosecurity positively impacted attitudes, which in turn influenced behavior. Additionally, there is a meaningful relationship between knowledge and attitude, indicating that fish farmers' understanding positively contributes to the development of their attitudes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo foster a positive attitude towards biosecurity, it is crucial to enhance farmers' knowledge. The findings indicate that farmers currently lack adequate knowledge about biosecurity. Interviews highlighted several reasons for this deficiency, including some farmers living in remote areas, which limits their ability to attend in-person training. Additionally, others have restricted access to social networks that provide educational resources. Some farmers do not recognize the importance of acquiring knowledge or the necessity of staying updated with relevant information. Furthermore, training authorities often lack awareness of farmers' actual knowledge levels and their strengths and weaknesses, leading to the implementation of educational programs based on top-down policies. To improve knowledge, several measures could be beneficial. These include integrating in-person training with social media outreach, enhancing awareness through regulated aquaculture cooperatives, and promoting active participation among farmers. In Iran, biosecurity training is carried out by two organizations: The Veterinary Organization and the Fisheries Organization. However, given the low knowledge scores among fish farmers, there is a pressing need for a needs assessment, evaluation, and effective knowledge management. Key steps to improve biosecurity behavior among farmers include assessing and analyzing current government training programs, evaluating the biosecurity knowledge of fish farmers and the factors influencing their knowledge during the aquaculture period, and developing more coherent educational plans. It is essential to implement a comprehensive educational policy that involves both public and private sectors, including aquaculture associations and cooperatives. This policy could encompass annual biosecurity literacy assessments for farmers, facilitating knowledge transfer from exemplary farmers to their peers, and leveraging the educational resources of all stakeholders involved in the biosecurity sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe results indicate that subjective norms significantly influence the behavior of farmers. Subjective norms refer to the perceived social pressure that farmers feel to engage in certain behaviors; they reflect the impact of societal expectations, peer influences, and the broader social environment on farmers' biosecurity practices[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR53\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e53\u003c/span\u003e]. Fish farmers are particularly swayed by the recommendations and opinions of fellow farmers, industry experts, market demands, and those in their immediate circles. When farmers receive positive messages, encouragement, and approval from trusted individuals or credible sources, they are more likely to adopt improved biosecurity practices. The findings of this study highlight that four factors\u0026mdash;perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, attitudes, and knowledge\u0026mdash;collectively shape farmers' behaviors. The role of knowledge is indirect; it influences attitudes, which then significantly impact biosecurity behavior. For instance, the study by Mohaqeqzadeh and Karami (2017) demonstrated that effective behavioral practices are linked to farmers\u0026rsquo; attitudes and their perception of behavioral control[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e54\u003c/span\u003e].Similarly, research by Alavian and colleagues (2014) confirmed that three components\u0026mdash;attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control\u0026mdash;affect the adoption of behaviors, consistent with the results of this study[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e55\u003c/span\u003e]. The attitude of farmers towards biosecurity measures is shaped by their perceptions of the associated benefits and costs. Farmers generally perceive the benefits of biosecurity actions to be greater than the costs. Ghoochani and colleagues (2019), drawing on social exchange theory, noted that if individuals view the consequences of their actions positively (or negatively), their attitudes toward those actions will also be more positive (or negative)[\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e].\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe overall findings suggest that both the Theory of Planned Behavior and social exchange theory can effectively predict farmers' behaviors regarding biosecurity. The rejection of two hypotheses indicates that farmers have a favorable view of biosecurity actions; they do not see these actions as costly or time-consuming and understand their benefits well. Furthermore, the relationship between knowledge and behavior is indirect and stems from the development of a positive attitude toward biosecurity. In summary, understanding the relationship between biosecurity behavior and factors such as knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control can provide deeper insights into the motivations behind farmers' biosecurity practices. This understanding can help manage the strengths and weaknesses of such behaviors. Additionally, the results of this study may also be relevant to other countries with similar contexts.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u003c/strong\u003e The data supporting the findings of this study could be made available from the corresponding author upon judicious request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor contributions\u003c/strong\u003e Shahnaz Amirian participated in data collection and analysis. Amirhossein Alibaygi participated in the design of the research methodology and wrote and edited the manuscript. Kazem Abdi assisted in data analysis. All authors reviewed the manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/strong\u003e The authors declare no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding\u003c/strong\u003e No funding was received for the conduct of this research.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHicks, C.C., et al., \u003cem\u003eHarnessing global fisheries to tackle micronutrient deficiencies.\u003c/em\u003e Nature, 574(7776): p. 95-98. DOI: 10.1038/s41586-019-1592-6 (2019).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBoyd, C.E., A.A. McNevin, and R.P. Davis, \u003cem\u003eThe contribution of fisheries and aquaculture to the global protein supply.\u003c/em\u003e Food security, 14(3): p. 805-827. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12571-021-01246-9(2022).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSubasinghe, R., D. Soto, and J. 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Implementing biosecurity measures helps minimize disease outbreak risks by reducing the likelihood of pathogenic agents entering the farm and spreading to the surrounding environment. This quantitative study aimed to assess the impact of constructs from two theories\u0026mdash;the Social Exchange Theory and the Theory of Planned Behavior\u0026mdash;on the biosecurity practices of fish farmers in western Iran, Kermanshah province. The study's statistical population included fish farm managers, from which 162 individuals were selected using stratified sampling techniques. The results indicated that attitudes, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, and knowledge were the most significant influences on biosecurity behavior. Notably, the farmers' knowledge of biosecurity was an additional variable affecting biosecurity behavior through their attitudes. Furthermore, the perceived benefits of biosecurity measures positively influenced these attitudes, leading farmers to view biosecurity actions as beneficial rather than costly. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that combining the Theory of Planned Behavior and Social Exchange Theory offers a more robust theoretical framework for understanding the biosecurity behavior of fish farmers.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Integrating the Planned Behavior Theory and Social Exchange Theory to Investigate Fish Farmers' Biosecurity Practices","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-09-01 06:30:33","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-6945960/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"cc955732-4b27-4f04-8f28-806119d2d6ba","owner":[],"postedDate":"September 1st, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":53961027,"name":"Biological sciences/Psychology"},{"id":53961028,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences"},{"id":53961029,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Natural hazards"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-05-12T05:12:17+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-09-01 06:30:33","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-6945960","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-6945960","identity":"rs-6945960","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}