Factors explaining the diversification of livelihood strategies by households engaged in bivalve aquaculture in Thailand

Aquaculture is an important source of food for people around the world; however, little concern is given to those who engage in aquaculture-related activities and their livelihoods. Hence, this study is one of the first empirical research to advances existing literature by assessing livelihood diversification among bivalve households in coastal communities who reliant on marine resources and natural condition for timely climate change adaptation planning. Primary data were obtained from a sample of 420 households in Si Racha and Mueang Chonburi districts of Chonburi Province, Thailand. The descriptive statistics indicate low levels of livelihood diversification in these districts. Multivariate probit regression ( MVP ) and Tobit regression were employed to assess the factors affecting the adoption of livelihood strategies by coastal communities and the extent of their diversification; Simpson's Diversity Index was used to measure the level of diversification. The results of the MVP analysis showed that farmers exposed to water contaminants tended to engage in bivalve aquaculture rather than fishing. Those prone to storms were less likely to participate in off-farm and aquaculture strategies. The Tobit regression analysis revealed that water contaminants positively affected the level of livelihood diversification. External assistance from social networks and the government is crucial for the sustainable livelihoods of households facing weather shocks, water pollution, health problems, or dependent on remittances. For boosting the livelihoods of coastal communities in Chonburi, policymakers should give priority to water quality monitoring and marine resource-conservation practices, as well as promote aqua-trading in storm-affected areas. • Bivalve aquaculture is sensitive to the impacts of either climatic or non-climatic factors. • Environmental shocks such as storms, oil spills, and water pollution exacerbate the vulnerability of coastal communities. • Value-added processing of aquaculture products and non-farm work is strongly shaped by gender, household size, and household aspirations. • Households possessing greater economic and social capitals exhibit a higher potential for livelihood diversification.