Socioeconomic profile of seabob shrimp (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri) fishermen of Perequê Beach, Guarujá (SP)

Abstract

In the Southeastern and part of Southern Brazil, the catch of sea-bob shrimp (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri) presents high social and economic relevance. This work described the socioeconomic profile of the fishing community of Perequê, Guarujá (SP). Interviews were applied to 35 sea-bob shrimp fishermen from October 2006 to December 2007. The results indicated that the fishermen interviewed had an average of 42 years of age, were born, at least, in five states (mainly Santa Catarina - 45% and São Paulo - 37%), 50% had more than 25 years of fishery experience and 76% had uncompleted elementary school. It was observed that 88% were homeowners, 15% had vehicle, 59% had the fishery as the only profit, 94% used the bycatch and 23% interviewed had sons in this fishing activity. The main problems are the low standard of living and low levels of fishery structure, fishery profit and school degree. These facts contributed to keep the other problems unsolved. A fishery extension professional is necessary to work in the sustainable sea-bob shrimp fishery in Perequê, valuing fishermen by integrated actions involving the entire productive chamber.