Análise da situação do Programa Quelônios da Amazônia na Reserva Biológica do Parazinho, Arquipélago do Bailique, Macapá, Amapá, Brasil: subsídios para a gestão da conservação da tartaruga-da-amazônia (Podocnemis expansa)

Abstract

The giant South American river turtle (Podocnemis expansa), the largest freshwater turtle in South America, has suffered a historical population decline due to predatory exploitation. The Amazonian Turtles Program (Q-AMA) was created to reverse this scenario, with the Parazinho Biological Reserve (REBIO Parazinho), in the Bailique Archipelago/AP, being one of its most important areas. This study aimed to analyze the current situation of Q-AMA at REBIO Parazinho, evaluating the factors that led to its unfeasibility and proposing subsidies for species conservation management in the Amazon River Mouth region. The research was based on the analysis of historical program data (1981-2018) and primary data collected during three technical expeditions carried out between October 2024 and July 2025, which included mapping 249 km of riverbanks, beach characterization, and nesting monitoring. The results showed that the historic beach on Pará Island, within the REBIO, has lost over 80% of its extension since 2013, leaving a residual 1,640m stretch with clayey sand, obstacles, and tidal flooding, making it unsuitable for nesting. Conversely, a new 2,500m beach with ideal conditions was identified at the Boca-Velha site. However, no signs of nesting or turtle sightings were recorded on either beach during the study period, suggesting a local population collapse. The integrated analysis indicates that coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, historical illegal hunting, and logistical and budgetary constraints make the continuity of Q-AMA in its traditional form unfeasible. It is concluded that the temporary suspension of the program is the most appropriate measure, recommending a reassessment of the Protected Area's category, investment in research and monitoring of the new geological formations, and the implementation of an environmental education program focused on climate resilience and biodiversity conservation.