Territórios na pesca artesanal marinha: ambientes, recursos e resiliência socioecológica

Abstract

In Brazil, coastal fishing is predominantly small-scale, with artisanal fishing playing an essential role in food security and the local economy. Fishermen's perception of marine resources is crucial in determining territoriality and usage patterns of these resources, directly influencing their fishing strategies. The research aimed to identify fishermen's perception of fishing territories, changes in exploited resources, and the dynamics of artisanal fishing communities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with artisanal fishermen in Paripueira-AL and Maragogi-AL, in the Costa dos Corais Environmental Protection Area. Fishermen were categorized into three groups ("sea of outside," "sea od inside," and "mixed") based on their own delineations of the most frequently used environment. Results reveal a territorial division between the inner and outer sea, both located on the continental shelf, with coral reef barriers serving as delineators. Fishing in each environment involves distinct strategies, with fishermen in "sea of outside" and "mixed" using larger vessels, capturing a greater variety of species, and generally earning higher incomes than those operating in "sea od inside." We conclude that fishermen in each environment employ different fishing strategies, along with distinct perceptions regarding resources and environmental changes. Understanding these differences is crucial for effective and sustainable fisheries management. Equally important is the implementation of specific policies to promote equity and social justice among fishing communities.