Ethnoecological approach to fishery and the bycatch of non-target species in Itacaré, Bahia (Brazil)

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify the relationship between marine fishery and bycatch of non-target species that occur in the Marine Extractive Reserve in Itacaré (Bahia, Brazil), emphasizing inconsistencies between fishing and the proposed Marine Protected Area (MPA). Data were collected between January 2004 and May 2006 by means of semi-structured interviews and field trip sightings. Data analysis comprised a model of combining several individual abilities. Forty-six fishermen were interviewed, of which four (8.7%) work exclusively with fishery. Bottom line, shrimp trawl net, beach seine net and gillnet capture both of target species and non-target species, such as Procelariidae (bottom line), Cheloniidae and Sotalia guianensis (gillnet and beach seine net) and immature fish specimens and invertebrates (trawl net and beach seine net). "Linha de corso†(line to catch pelagic fish) and long line seem to only capture target species. During the study, one specimen of S. guianensis was captured using a diving harpoon. However, this method seems to capture only target species. Empirical knowledge of fishermen and environmental education can provide the basis for planning and participative management of fishery in Itacaré. Consequently, the Marine Protected Area may be implemented effectively, allowing the fishermen of Itacaré to assure their livelihood from fishing activity.