Etnobiologia de pequenos cetáceos por pescadores artesanais do município de Amapá-AP-Brasil

Abstract

Ethnobiology studies the relationship between humans and the environment, with an emphasis on traditional knowledge and the management of natural resources by local communities. This study analyzes the interactions between artisanal fishermen in the municipality of Amapá and small cetaceans, especially the gray dolphin (Sotalia guianensis). These animals, as predators in the aquatic ecosystem, have varied relationships with fishermen, which can be positive, negative or neutral. The accidental capture of porpoises and the lack of adequate monitoring are issues of concern in the region. The aim of this research was to investigate fishermen's ecological knowledge of the gray dolphin and describe their interactions with these cetaceans. Conducted between September and October 2019, it involved 29 fishermen from Amapá, using snowball interviews to collect data on socioeconomic aspects, types of fishing and ecological knowledge. The interviews were conducted in a domestic environment to ensure comfort and avoid external influences. The species were identified using boards and the sighting locations were mapped using GPS. The study revealed that the majority of fishermen have long experience in fishing and low monthly incomes. The main fishing techniques used are longlines and nets. The data suggests that there is an urgent need for more rigorous monitoring of the interactions between artisanal fishing and cetaceans, in order to protect marine biodiversity and guarantee the conservation of cetaceans.