-I fish, therefore I monitor: Participatory monitoring to assess inland small-scale fisheries.

Analysis of small-scale inland fisheries (SSIFs) is often highly dispersed and tends not reflect the true magnitude of their contribution to society. This is partly due to the insufficient attention given to this sector by the relevant authorities, in addition to its highly diverse characteristics, with complex patterns of operation in a wide range of systems, often in remote areas. Here, by integrating fishers as participatory fishery monitors, we provide fishery-dependent estimates of yields, the biological attributes of the fish species, and the spatiotemporal dynamics of the fisheries of lakes on the floodplain of the São Francisco basin in northeastern Brazil. As the fishers were willing participates in the monitoring, the results revealed well-structured artisanal fishing activities, with the lake system providing high-profile fish harvests from both monthly and annual perspectives. The spatial distribution of fishing effort reflected the adaptation of the fishers to the flood cycle of the river, in order to maintain high fishery productivity throughout the year. The results also indicate that participatory monitoring can help to overcome knowledge gaps and provide a database that is readily applicable to management needs at both local and regional scales. As Brazil is one few world's nations that no longer have national fishing monitoring program, participatory monitoring represents a low-cost solution for the credible and useful data on small-scale fisheries. It would thus appear to be extremely worthwhile to invest in the empowerment of communities in order to overcome the historic vulnerability of productive sector and the food security of the populations that depend on these fisheries.

The first baseline of ALDFG generated by the artisanal fishery during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on the north coast of Pernambuco, Brazil.

To prevent the spread of the COVID-19 contagion, some regions of Brazil implemented a prohibition of beach use, which contributed to a reduction of artisanal fishing activity. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of these beach closures on the incidence of abandoned, lost, or discarded fishing gear (ALDFG) along four beaches located on the northern coast of Pernambuco, Brazil. The absolute and relative frequency of occurrence and the number of observations per unit of effort (OPUE) between the periods before and after the prohibition period were analyzed. A total of 1935 fishing gear residues were found (63% before and 37% after prohibition). There was also a significant reduction in OPUE and in absolute frequency (p < 0.05) between these two periods. Although beach closures appear to have contributed to a reduction in the amount of ALDFG in the region, it does not indicate a complete pause in fishing activities.

Nonlethal capture of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in fishing weirs as an opportunity for population studies and conservation.

Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) switch habitats during their development, moving from pelagic to neritic areas and then commuting between nesting and foraging grounds during adulthood. Due to their predominantly coastal habitats, they are under a range of anthropogenic threats. We monitored turtles incidentally captured in fishing weirs in Ceará state, northeastern Brazil, over a decade and provided an overview of capture rates in the fishery during previous decades. Between 2008 and 2018, 2335 captures were recorded, 76% were only once. Most recaptures (86%) occurred up to six months after the first capture, with a mean growth rate of 6.7 ± 3.6 cm year-1. Capture rates varied between years, with the highest rates during the historical period, peaking in 1962 (0.16 turtles day weir-1). Between 2008 and 2018, the daily capture rate was 0.07 turtles day weir-1. Similar to other areas, the use of turtles as a fishery resource seems to have reduced population sizes in the Atlantic Ocean. On the other hand, the intensive monitoring of local weirs provided an opportunity to mobilize the community regarding their conservation, which in turn could have supported the recovery of turtles from a number of distant colonies. The relatively constant and year-round capture of green sea turtles reflects the presence of individuals from different rookeries and demonstrates the importance of the region as a developmental ground for juveniles from different nesting areas, with high growth rates compared with other feeding areas. Partnership with local fishermen and the long-term monitoring of passive nonlethal fishing weirs are key tools in supporting sea turtle conservation.

Description of buoyant fibers adhering to Argonauta nouryi (Cephalopoda: Argonautidae) collected from the stomach contents of three top predators in the Mexican South Pacific.

Argonauta nouryi Lorois, 1852 is an octopod that inhabits the holopelagic zone, the objective of this study was to describe the occurrence of buoyant fibers adhering to the body and mantle cavity of A. nouryi females found in the stomach contents from Euthynnus lineatus (skipjack), Coryphaena hippurus (dolphinfish), and Istiophorus platypterus (sailfish). Stomach contents from 224 individuals were examined. All female evaluated presented fibers adhering to the mantle cavity; 92.6% of the fibers measured 0.25 to 5 mm in length and hyaline was the dominant color (72%). The amount of fibers in the fish stomach contents with A. nouryi was significantly greater than in stomachs without; this suggests that the fibers might be introduced via A. nouryi. Findings of this work could be related to the discharge of solid materials in the water column.

Life-history characteristics of an exploited bonefish Albula glossodonta population in a remote South Pacific atoll.

Bonefishes Albula spp. are important components of subsistence fisheries and lucrative sport fishing industries throughout their circumtropical distribution. In Oceania, however, Albula spp. have historically been overexploited and there is a growing need to balance the demands of competing fishing sectors, making the description of their life history a regional priority. To this aim, we collected biological samples from Albula spp. of Anaa atoll, French Polynesia, to identify the species that compose the stock and estimate their life-history parameters including age, growth, reproduction and natural mortality. Our results indicate that Albula glossodonta is the species of bonefish present, with a maximum age that is below the, 20 year longevity of the genus (8 years in males and 10 years in females). Differential growth patterns existed between the two sexes (L∞ = 58, 78 cm fork length (LF ) and K = 0.38, 0.21 for males and females, respectively). Males attained sexual maturity at 43 cm LF (c. 3 years) whereas females matured at 48 cm LF (c. 4 years) and oocyte production was significantly related to body mass, with a maximum batch fecundity of 1,133,767 oocytes in a 4406 g (70 cm LF ) female. The gonado-somatic index of harvested fishes indicated that the spawning season extends from March through September. Based on the observation of a, 20 year bonefish at the proximate Tetiaroa Atoll and several empirical models, estimates of natural mortality ranged from 0.21 to 0.68; however, an estimate of 0.21 was deemed most appropriate. This information facilitated the resurgence of a Rahui (temporary fishing closure) and community-based management to protect A. glossodonta during a critical portion of their spawning season and in this context our results provide an important demographic baseline in evaluating the recovery of this fishery.

Reproductive aspects of the Atlantic angel shark Squatina dumeril in the southern Caribbean Sea.

The maturity and reproduction of the Atlantic angel shark Squatina dumeril were assessed using 77 females (29·2-110·4 cm total length; LT ) and 269 males (58·7-108·2 cm LT ) harvested by artisanal gillnetters off Venezuela. The biased sex ratio implied segregation or sex-specific gear selectivity. Based on the development of the reproductive tract, 50% LT at sexual maturity (LT50 , mean ± s.e.) for females and males were estimated at 86·14 ± 0·64 and 81·55 ± 0·12 cm, respectively. Uterine fecundity ranged between one and six and with a maximum embryo size of 25·7 cm LT . Gravid females were observed from August to December, including those close to parturition and while the gestation period was not confirmed, the size of ovarian follicles among some specimens implied protraction. The low fecundity of the species supports close monitoring of catches.

Bienestar sicológico y nivel de sedentarismo de pescadores artesanales de la Región de Los Lagos, Chile / Psychological well-being and sedentary lifestyle levels in artisanal fishermen from Los Lagos Region, Chile

Diversos estudios internacionales indican que los pescadores sufren diferentes problemas de salud, entre los cuales son frecuentes las enfermedades cardiovasculares, accidentes laborales, heridas, ahogamientos, estrés laboral y problemas de salud mental. Objetivo: Con el estudio se pretendió identificar el nivel de bienestar sicológico y sedentarismo de pescadores artesanales de la Región de Los Lagos, Chile. Método: Se realizó un estudio cuantitativo que consistió en la aplicación de la escala de bienestar sicológico de Ryff y la versión breve del cuestionario de actividad física IPAQ a 41 pescadores artesanales con una media de edad de 53,22 años (DT= 9,06 años). Resultados: Los resultados indican que un 68,3 % de pescadores son sedentarios, mientras que en las dimensiones del bienestar sicológico un 22 % muestra un alto nivel de crecimiento personal, seguido de un 14,7 % que presenta un alto nivel de dominio del entorno. No obstante, un alto porcentaje de los pescadores, 34,1 %, se encuentra en un nivel bajo de crecimiento personal, seguido de un 31,7 % con bajo nivel de autonomía y un 26,8 % con bajo nivel de relaciones positivas. Conclusiones: Los datos indican la necesidad de generar acciones preventivas de promoción y tratamiento oportuno de las patologías de salud mental para evitar que se conviertan en causas directas o indirectas de fallecimiento de los trabajadores.

Diverse international studies show that artisanal fishermen suffer from different health issues, among which cardiovascular diseases, occupational accidents, injuries, drowning, work-related stress and mental health problems are the most frequent. Objective: the aim of the study was to identify the psychological well-being and sedentary lifestyle levels in artisanal fishermen from Los Lagos Region, Chile. Method: this was quantitative study consisting in applying Ryff's Psychological Well-being Scale and the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) to 41 artisanal fishermen, whose mean age was 53.22 years (SD = 9.06 years). Results: the results reveal that 68.3 % of the fishermen have a sedentary lifestyle, while in the psychological well-being dimensions 22 % of them show a high level of personal development, followed by 14.7 % who have a high level of the control of the environment. Nevertheless, there is a considerable percentage of fishermen, 34.1 %, who have a low level od personal development, followed by 31.7 % with a low level of autonomy and 26.8 % with a low level of positive relationships. Conclusions: the data reveals a need to generate preventive healthcare measures and its promotion, and ensure an opportune treatment of mental pathologies in order to avoid that those become a direct or indirect cause for the demise of workers.

Spatial overlap of shark nursery areas and the salmon farming industry influences the trophic ecology of Squalus acanthias on the southern coast of Chile.

Potential interactions between marine predators and humans arise in the southern coast of Chile where predator feeding and reproduction sites overlap with fisheries and aquaculture. Here, we assess the potential effects of intensive salmon aquaculture on food habits, growth, and reproduction of a common predator, the spiny dogfish-identified as Squalus acanthias via genetic barcoding. A total of 102 (89 females and 13 males) individuals were collected during winter and summer of 2013-2014 from the Chiloé Sea where salmon aquaculture activities are concentrated. The low frequency of males in our study suggests spatial segregation of sex, while immature and mature females spatially overlapped in both seasons. Female spiny dogfish showed a functional specialist behavior as indicated by the small number of prey items and the relative high importance of the austral hake and salmon pellets in the diet. Immature sharks fed more on pellets and anchovies than the larger hake-preferring mature females. Our results also indicate that spiny dogfish switch prey (anchovy to hake) to take advantage of seasonal changes in prey availability. Despite differences in the trophic patterns of S. acanthias due to the spatial association with intensive salmon farming, in this region, there appears to be no difference in fecundity or size at maturity compared to other populations. Although no demographic effects were detected, we suggest that a range of additional factors should be considered before concluding that intensive aquaculture does not have any impact on these marine predators.

Assessing the ecosystem-level consequences of a small-scale artisanal kelp fishery within the context of climate-change.

Coastal communities worldwide rely on small-scale artisanal fisheries as a means of increasing food security and alleviating poverty. Even small-scale fishing activities, however, are prone to resource depletion and environmental degradation, which can erode livelihoods in the long run. Thus, there is a pressing need to identify viable and resilient artisanal fisheries, and generate knowledge to support management within the context of a rapidly changing climate. We examined the ecosystem-level consequences of an artisanal kelp fishery (Macrocystis pyrifera), finding small-scale harvest of this highly productive species poses minimal impacts on kelp recovery rates, survival, and biomass dynamics, and abundances of associated commercial and culturally important fish species. These results suggest that small-scale harvest poses minimal trade-offs for the other economic benefits provided by these ecosystems, and their inherent, spiritual, and cultural value to humans. However, we detected a negative impact of warmer seawater temperatures on kelp recovery rates following harvest, indicating that the viability of harvest, even at small scales, may be threatened by future increases in global ocean temperature. This suggests that negative impacts of artisanal fisheries may be more likely to arise in the context of a warming climate, further highlighting the widespread effects of global climate change on coastal fisheries and livelihoods.

Aspects of fish conservation in the upper Patos Lagoon basin.

The Patos Lagoon basin is a large (201 626 km(2) ) and complex drainage system in southern Brazil. The lagoon is 250 km long and 60 km wide, covering an area of 10 360 km(2) . The exchange of water with the Atlantic Ocean occurs through a 0·8 km wide and 15 m deep inlet, fixed by 4 km long jetties, at the southernmost part of the Patos Lagoon. The estuarine area is restricted to its southern portion (10%), although the upper limit of saline waters migrates seasonally and year to year, influenced by the wind regime and river discharge. The known number of recorded limnetic fish species is 200, but this number is expected to increase. A higher endemism is observed in fish species occurring in upper tributaries. The basin suffers from the direct impact of almost 7 million inhabitants, concentrated in small to large cities, most with untreated domestic effluents. There are at least 16 non-native species recorded in natural habitats of the Patos Lagoon basin, about half of these being from other South American river basins. Concerning the fishery, although sport and commercial fisheries are widespread throughout the Patos Lagoon basin, the lagoon itself and the estuarine area are the main fishing areas. Landing statistics are not available on a regular basis or for the whole basin. The fishery in the northern Patos Lagoon captures 31 different species, nine of which are responsible for most of the commercial catches, but only three species are actually sustaining the artisanal fishery: the viola Loricariichthys anus: 455 kg per 10 000 m(2) gillnet per day, the mullet Mugil liza: 123 kg per 10 000 m(2) gillnet per day and the marine catfish Genidens barbus: 50 kg per 10 000 m(2) gillnet per day. A decline of the fish stocks can be attributed to inadequate fishery surveillance, which leads to overfishing and mortality of juveniles, or to decreasing water quality because of urban and industrial activities and power production. Global climatic changes also represent a major threat to the Patos system by changing the frequency of El Niño-La Niña-Southern Oscillation (ENSO).

Abundancia, reproducción y tallas del tiburón martillo Sphyrna lewini (Carcharhiniformes: Sphyrnidae) en la pesca artesanal de Golfo Dulce, Pacífico de Costa Rica / Abundance, reproduction and length of scalloped hammerhead shark Sphyrna lewini (Carcharhiniformes: Sphyrnidae) in the artisanal fishery in Golfo Dulce, Pacific of Costa Rica

Resumen En Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, se han reportado capturas incidentales de S. lewini por pescadores artesanales. Debido a esto, este estudio tiene como objetivo caracterizar las capturas del tiburón martillo en Golfo Dulce, y recomendar pautas de manejo. Entre mayo 2010 y mayo 2011 se recopiló información biológica-pesquera de tiburones capturados durante faenas artesanales en Golfo Dulce. Se estimó la captura por unidad de esfuerzo a lo largo del año. Se analizaron un total de 315 tiburones, todos juveniles, con una longitud total media de 74.3±17.4cm. Las longitudes totales y la abundancia relativa tuvieron tendencias opuestas: en julio-agosto cuando las longitudes totales medias fueron menores, las capturas por unidad de esfuerzo fueron mayores. Debido a esto, se recomienda implementar vedas temporales durante el periodo de nacimiento de las crías de tiburón martillo (junio-agosto) en sitios donde se reportaron las mayores capturas.

Abstract Incidental catch of S. lewini by artisanal fishermen in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, suggest that this could be one of the coastal locations used by the species. This study aims to characterize the scalloped hammerhead shark population in Golfo Dulce, in order to best guide management actions for the conservation and sustainable use of the species. Fisheries-dependent biological data (size-TL, sex, reproductive status) were gathered for S. lewini between May 2010 and May 2011 in the communities of Puerto Jimenez and Pavones, Golfo Dulce during artisanal fishing trips. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) throughout the year was also estimated from catch data. We sampled a total of 315 sharks. Mean total length was estimated at 74.3±17.4cm. Both pups and juveniles were reported, which presented a male: female ratio of 1:1.2 (p>0.05). Total length and relative abundance of S. lewini had opposite tendencies, with the smallest TL (64cm) recorded during July-August, when CPUE was highest. (0.0075). Temporary closures from June to August are therefore recommended at areas of highest reported catch (Pique Fijo, Los Bajos y La Ciénaga), in order to protect newly born S. lewini, and promote the sustainability of the species in the ETPS Closures should be complemented with a long-term study that can further clarify whether Golfo Dulce is a nursery area for S. lewini. Rev. Biol. Trop. 63 (Suppl. 1): 307-317. Epub 2015 April 01.

Dinámica espacio-temporal del esfuerzo en una pesquería de buceo artesanal multiespecífica y sus efectos en la variabilidad de las capturas: Implicaciones para el manejo sostenible / Spatio-temporal dynamics of fishing effort in a multi-species artisanal diving fishery and its effects on catch variability: Insights for sustainable management

Artisanal diving fisheries are a source of income, employment and food security of coastal areas in many countries. Understanding the dynamics of these fisheries, including the spatial and temporal dynamics of fishing effort, gears and species can help to address the challenges involved in fisheries management. We aimed to analyze the differences in fishing strategies under- taken by fishers that use two different diving methods (hookah and free diving), the conditions and their potential impacts on catches when adjustments to those strategies are applied over time. For this, detailed information of fishing operations from artisanal boats in the North Pacific coast of Costa Rica was analyzed in two fishing seasons (2007-2008 and 2011-2012). Data were collected by onboard observers (fishing site, fishing time, species composition, depth and visibility). Additionally, interviews with divers were applied to obtain information of price per species, species volume and fishing operations. From the total number of trips during both seasons, hookah diving was represented by a sample size of 69.3%, while free diving, with a sample of 41.9%. More than 15 species were identified in each fishing season. Nevertheless, three categories had substantial contributions in both seasons with differences in the proportions for each case: green lobster (Panulirus gracilis), octopus (Octopus sp.) and parrotfish (Scarus perrico and S. ghobban). It is worth noting that an important proportion of catch was retained by fishers for personal consumption purposes, including species of high commercial value. Additional night diving activity, increased the number of dives from one season to another. Besides, cooperation processes in free diving fishing operations, and changes in fishing effort between seasons, defined important changes in fishing strategies. Potential causes of changes in fishing strategies and the implications for manage- ment to ensure the sustainability of these fisheries in the long term are discussed.

Las pesquerías artesanales asociadas a métodos de buceo son fuente de ingreso, empleo y seguridad alimentaria de zonas costeras en muchos países. Los altos precios y la poca movilidad de especies bénticas capturadas por buceo enfrentan retos cada vez mayores en su aprovechamiento y manejo, esto demanda un entendimiento integral de estas pesquerías en diferentes contextos, incluyendo la dinámica espacial y temporal del esfuerzo pesquero, las artes y las especies. En el presente estudio se busca elucidar si existen diferencias en las estrategias de pesca desarrolla- das por pescadores que emplean buceo en dos modalidades (hookah y buceo libre). También se busca conocer si se desarrollan adaptaciones de estas estrategias en el tiempo, bajo qué condiciones y el posible efecto de las estrategias sobre las capturas. Para ese fin se analizó información detallada de las operaciones de pesca de embarcaciones artesanales que operan en la costa del océano Pacífico de Costa Rica durante dos temporadas de pesca. Se analizó información obtenida a bordo de embarcaciones como: sitio de pesca, composición de especies, tiempo de pesca, número de inmersiones por viaje, entre otros; y se aplicaron entrevistas a buzos al momento de las descargas para obtener información de precios, el volumen de las especies capturadas y forma de operación de los pescadores. Para el buceo con hookah se obtuvo una muestra del 69.3% del total de viajes en las dos temporadas de pesca y en el caso del buceo libre se obtuvo una muestra del 41.9% del total de viajes en las dos temporadas de pesca estudiadas (2007-2008 y 2011-2012). Se identificaron más de 15 especies en cada temporada de pesca, dominaron tres categorías en ambas temporadas pero con diferencias en las proporciones obtenidas en cada caso: langosta (Panulirus gracilis), pulpo (Octopus sp) y pez loro (Scarus perrico y S. Ghobban). Resalta un componente importante de captura retenida por los pescadores para consumo personal, incluyendo especies de alto valor comercial. Se identificaron cambios en las estrategias de pesca asociadas a cambios en las capturas y cambios en la asignación espacial del esfuerzo pesquero de una temporada de pesca a otra, definidas por la adición de buceo nocturno, aumento en el número de inmersiones de una temporada a otra y procesos de cooperación en las faenas de pesca de buzos que usan buceo libre. Se discute las potenciales causas de los cambios en las estrategias de pesca observadas y se derivan implicaciones para el manejo que permiten la sostenibilidad de estas pesquerías a largo plazo.

Comparative age and growth of common snook Centropomus undecimalis (Pisces: Centropomidae) from coastal and riverine areas in Southern Mexico

Common snook Centropomus unidecimalis is an important commercial and fishery species in Southern Mexico, however the high exploitation rates have resulted in a strong reduction of its abundances. Since, the information about its population structure is scarce, the objective of the present research was to determine and compare the age structure in four important fishery sites. For this, age and growth of common snook were determined from specimens collected monthly, from July 2006 to March 2008, from two coastal (Barra Bosque and Barra San Pedro) and two riverine (San Pedro and Tres Brazos) commercial fishery sites in Tabasco, Mexico. Age was determined using sectioned saggitae otoliths and data analyzed by von Bertalanffy and Levenberg-Marquardt among others. Estimated ages ranged from 2 to 17 years. Monthly patterns of marginal increment formation and the percentage of otoliths with opaque rings on the outer edge demonstrated that a single annulus was formed each year. The von Bertalanffy parameters were calculated for males and females using linear adjustment and the non-linear method of Levenberg-Marquardt. The von Bertalanffy growth equations were FLt=109.21(1-e-0.21(t+0.57)) for Barra Bosque, FLt=94.56(1-e-0.27(t+0.48)) for Barra San Pedro, FLt=97.15(1-e-0.17(t+1.32)) for San Pedro and FLt=83.77(1-e-0.26(t+0.49)) for Tres Brazos. According to (Hotelling’s T², p<0.05) test growth was significantly greater for females than for males. Based on the Chen test, von Bertalanffy growth curves were different among the study sites (RSS, p<0.05). Based on the observed differences in growth parameters among sampling sites (coastal and riverine environments) future research need to be conducted on migration and population genetics, in order to delineate the stock structure of this population and support management programs.

El robalo blanco Centropomus undecimalis representa un ingreso monetario significativo y un recurso alimentario para todas las comunidades rurales cercanas a su distribución. Se determinó la edad y crecimiento de esta especie. Los organismos se recolectaron mensualmente en los desembarcos de la pesca artesanal de las cooperativas de mayor contribución en la zona costera (Barra Bosque y San Pedro) y ribereña (San Pedro y Tres Brazos) entre julio 2006 y marzo 2008. La edad se determinó mediante otolitos seccionados. La edad estimada fue de 2 a 17 años. Mensualmente se estableció la formación anillos opacos y traslúcidos. Para ambas zonas de estudio agrupadas, se validó el retrocálculo por comparación de tres métodos (Fraser-Lee, Dahl-Lea y Whitney-Carlander), se encontraron diferencias significativas (ANCOVA, p<0.05) entre el promedio de la longitud observada y la longitud retrocalculada. Las constantes de la ecuación de von Bertalanffy fueron calculadas para cada sexo y combinados, se empleó el método no lineal de Levenberg-Marquardt’s. La edad estimada para el robalo blanco fue de 2 a 17 años. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en el crecimiento entre sexos (T² Hotelling, p<0.05). Los parámetros de crecimiento para ambos sexos fueron, zona costera: Barra Bosque Lf t=109.21(1-e-0.21(t+0.57)), Barra San Pedro Lf t=94.56(1-e-0.27(t+0.48)), y para la zona ribereña: San Pedro Lf t=97.15(1-e-0.17(t+1.32)) y Tres Brazos Lf t=83.77(1- e-0.26(t+0.49)). Se encontraron diferencias significativas en las curvas de crecimiento de von Bertalanffy entre las poblaciones comparadas (RSS, p<0.05).

Assessment and management of white mullet Mugil curema (Valencienne, 1836) (Mugilidae) fisheries of the south coast of São Paulo state, Brazil / Avaliação e gestão da pesca do parati Mugil curema (Valencienne, 1836) (Mugilidade) no litoral sul do estado de São Paulo

There is intense fishing activity, mainly artisanal, in the Cananéia, Iguape and Ilha Comprida Estuarine System. White mullet (Mugil curema) is one of the local fishery resources and is usually caught with gillnets and fish traps. This study aimed to characterise the Mugil curema fisheries thereby underpinning the management of the species in the region. The study was developed with data collected from landings in the town of Cananéia, São Paulo state, Brazil, from 1995 to 2009. Production data, fishing effort and CPUE were used to assess the evolution of captures. The gillnets were characterised by interviewing fishermen from 16 communities in Cananéia. White mullet fishery has aroused the interest of fishermen in the region since the 80s and today it is one of the main products of artisanal estuarine fishery off the south coast of São Paulo. The major landings occur in the warmer months with fish traps and gillnets being the main fishing gear used. The largest catches occur in the spawning months of the species from October to April. The highest landings varied according to different fishing gear, showing differences primarily due to trade preferences and to the structure of the fishing gear. According to the index of abundance used in this study, the resource is overfished due to the progressive increase in fishing effort, so it is suggested that measures should be taken to control fishing effort, such as special fishing permits to catch white mullet, especially with gillnets. The current management measures neither meet the needs of fishermen nor the preservation of the resource, and must be reviewed in a participatory way with management agencies and the fishery sector, ensuring greater legitimacy and success in the sustainability of the activity.

No Complexo Estuarino Lagunar de Cananeia-Iguape-Paranaguá ocorre uma intensa atividade pesqueira, principalmente artesanal, tendo o parati (Mugil curema) um dos recursos pesqueiros, sendo capturado geralmente com redes de emalhe e cercos-fixos. O presente trabalho visa caracterizar a pesca do Mugil curema, trazendo subsídios para o ordenamento de sua exploração. O trabalho foi desenvolvido com os dados de desembarque no município de Cananeia, no período de 1995 a 2009. Utilizaram-se dados de produção, esforço pesqueiro e CPUE para avaliar a evolução das capturas, e a rede de emalhe foi descrita através de entrevistas com os pescadores de 16 comunidades de Cananeia. A pesca de parati despertou interesse dos pescadores da região a partir da década de 1980, sendo atualmente um dos principais produtos pesqueiros da pesca artesanal estuarina no litoral sul de São Paulo. Seus maiores desembarques ocorrem nos meses quentes, tanto com redes de emalhe, como outro aparelho de pesca denominado de "cerco-fixo". As maiores capturas ocorrem no período de desova da espécie entre os meses de outubro a abril. A diferença no período de maiores desembarques entre os aparelhos de pesca ocorreu principalmente devido a preferências comerciais e por causa da estrutura do aparelho. De acordo com os índices de abundância utilizados o recurso está em sobre-pesca, devido ao progressivo aumento do esforço pesqueiro, assim sugere-se que sejam tomadas medidas para controle do esforço pesqueiro, como permissões especiais para pescadores trabalharem na pesca do parati, principalmente com redes de emalhe. As atuais medidas de ordenamento não atendem os pescadores, nem a preservação do recurso, tendo de ser revistas de maneira participativa entre os órgãos gestores e o setor pesqueiro, garantindo maior legitimidade e sucesso na sustentabilidade da atividade.

Estrutura populacional do siri-baú, Hepatus pudibundus (Herbst 1785) no Norte do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Sudeste do Brasil / Population structure of the flecked box crab, Hepatus pudibundus (Herbst 1785) in Northern Rio de Janeiro State, Southeastern Brazil

O presente estudo descreve as primeiras informações sobre a estrutura populacional do siri-baú, Hepatus pudibundus, na costa Norte do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (21° 30' e 21° 50' S). Entre abril de 2006 e março de 2007 foram realizadas coletas mensais (n = 12) com rede de arrasto de fundo em embarcações da pesca camaroneira local. Os espécimes foram classificados quanto ao sexo e maturidade, medidos e pesados. No total, foram capturados 523 indivíduos de H. pudibundus: 299 (57,2 por cento) machos e 224 (42,8 por cento) fêmeas. De modo geral, a razão sexual na população se manteve estável ao longo do período de estudo, com ligeiro predomínio de machos. Os espécimes adultos foram mais numerosos do que os juvenis. Os machos foram maiores e mais pesados que as fêmeas, com médias da largura da carapaça de 46,8 ± 9,1 mm e peso de 23,4 ± 13,2 g, em comparação com 45,3 ± 6,6 mm e 18,8 ± 7,9 g para as fêmeas. As relações entre peso e largura da carapaça foram ajustadas pelas equações P = 0,0002.LC I3,0391 (R2 = 0,97) (machos) e P = 0,0003.LC I2,8734 (R2 = 0,94) (fêmeas). A espécie H. pudibundus tem pouca representatividade na pesca camaroneira regional, mas o presente estudo indica sua ocorrência regular em associação às águas costeiras do Norte do Estado do Rio de Janeiro.

The present study describes the first information about the population structure of the flecked box crab, Hepatus pudibundus, in Northern Rio de Janeiro State (21° 30' and 21° 50' S). From April 2006 to March 2007 monthly samples (n = 12) were conducted using a bottom trawl net aboard local shrimp fishery boats. The specimens were classified by gender and maturity status, measured and weighed. In total, 523 individuals of H. pudibundus were captured: 299 (57.2 percent) males and 224 (42.8 percent) females. In general, the sex ratio was constant over the studied period, with slight predominance of males. The adult specimens were more numerous than the juveniles' ones. Male specimens were larger and heavier than females, with averages of 46,8 ± 9,1 mm in carapace width and 23,4 ± 13,2 g in weight, compared to 45,3 ± 6,6 mm and 18,8 ± 7,9 g for females. The relationships between weight and carapace width were adjusted by the equations W = 0.0002.CW I3.0391 (R2 = 0.97) (males) and W = 0.0003.CW I2.8734 (R2 = 0.94) (females). The species H. pudibundus has little significance to the regional shrimp fishery, but this study indicates its regular occurrence in coastal waters from Northern Rio de Janeiro State.

O comportamento do boto-cinza Sotalia guianensis (van Bénéden, 1864) (Cetacea; Delphinidae) através do olhar dos pescadores artesanais / Behavior of the estuarine dolphin Sotalia guianensis (van Bénéden, 1864) (Cetacea; Delphinidae) through the eyes of artisanal fishermen

Com este estudo procurou-se obter informações sobre o comportamento, dieta e área de ocorrência do boto-cinza (Sotalia guianensis) presente na costa dos Estados da Bahia, do Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo, de acordo com as informações relatadas por pescadores locais. Foram feitas 100 entrevistas etnográficas com os pescadores residentes nos quatro Estados. Os resultados indicam que os pescadores artesanais (n=77) têm boa percepção a respeito do comportamento, hábitat e dieta do boto e que também diferenciam os indivíduos juvenis dos adultos. Os resultados fornecem informações etnobiológicas que podem auxiliar na elaboração de propostas voltadas para a conservação da espécie com a participação das populações tradicionais(AU)

Behavior of the estuarine dolphin Sotalia guianensis (van Bénéden, 1864) (Cetacea; Delphinidae) through the eyes of artisanal fishermen. This study investigated the behavior, diet and occurrence area of the estuarine dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) as reported by fishermen living on the coast of the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil. One hundred ethnographic interviews were conducted with fishermen. Results showed that artisanal fishermen (n=77) correctly perceive the behavior, occurrence area and diet of the estuarine dolphin, and are also able to recognize an individual as being a juvenile or an adult animal, and provide ethnobiological information that may be put to good use in projects for the conservation of estuarine dolphins with local fishermen participation(AU)

O comportamento do boto-cinza Sotalia guianensis (van Bénéden, 1864) (Cetacea; Delphinidae) através do olhar dos pescadores artesanais / Behavior of the estuarine dolphin Sotalia guianensis (van Bénéden, 1864) (Cetacea; Delphinidae) through the eyes of artisanal fishermen

Com este estudo procurou-se obter informações sobre o comportamento, dieta e área de ocorrência do boto-cinza (Sotalia guianensis) presente na costa dos Estados da Bahia, do Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro e São Paulo, de acordo com as informações relatadas por pescadores locais. Foram feitas 100 entrevistas etnográficas com os pescadores residentes nos quatro Estados. Os resultados indicam que os pescadores artesanais (n=77) têm boa percepção a respeito do comportamento, hábitat e dieta do boto e que também diferenciam os indivíduos juvenis dos adultos. Os resultados fornecem informações etnobiológicas que podem auxiliar na elaboração de propostas voltadas para a conservação da espécie com a participação das populações tradicionais

This study investigated the behavior, diet and occurrence area of the estuarine dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) as reported by fishermen living on the coast of the states of Bahia, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, Brazil. One hundred ethnographic interviews were conducted with fishermen. Results showed that artisanal fishermen (n=77) correctly perceive the behavior, occurrence area and diet of the estuarine dolphin, and are also able to recognize an individual as being a juvenile or an adult animal, and provide ethnobiological information that may be put to good use in projects for the conservation of estuarine dolphins with local fishermen participation.

Evidences of El Niño effects on the mullet fishery of the Patos Lagoon estuary

Based on biological and meteorological long-term database (1979-1983 and 1996-2000), we analyzed the variation in the juvenile recruitment and artisanal fishery landings of the mullet (Mugil platanus) in the Patos Lagoon estuary and its relationships with the regional rainfall and estuarine salinity anomalies during two strong El Niño events (1982-83 and 1997-98). Juvenile and adult mullets declined in abundance under the high rainfall and near-zero salinity that prevailed in the estuary during both El Niño events. We proposed two different hypotheses to explain the El Niño-induced effects on the juvenile and adult stages of the mullet in the estuary. First, high freshwater outflow during a very strong El Niño might render ineffective the mechanism of passive immigration of juvenile mullets into the estuary, which can lead to their decline in the estuary during El Niño events. Second, near-zero salinity at the estuarine area along several months during strong El Niño events could lead to higher spatial dispersion of the maturing mullet during their migration to the ocean , resulting in smaller shoals of individuals and, consequently, lower catches by artisanal fishermen.

Episódios El Niño ocorrem na região tropical do Oceano Pacífico e estão associados com o aumento da descarga continental de água na Lagoa dos Patos (10.360 km²) e sua região estuarina (971 km²). A partir de um banco de dados meteorológicos e biológicos de longo prazo (1979-1983 e 1996-2000), este trabalho investiga as variações no recrutamento de juvenis e no desembarque da pesca artesanal da tainha (Mugil platanus) no estuário da Lagoa dos Patos e suas relações com anomalias regionais de chuva e anomalias locais de salinidade durante dois fortes episódios El Niño (1982-1983 e 1997-1998). Tanto os juvenis quanto a captura dos adultos na pesca artesanal diminuíram em abundância durante as chuvas excessivas e salinidades próximas a zero que prevaleceram no estuário durante ambos eventos climáticos. Duas hipóteses são sugeridas para explicar os efeitos ocasionados pelo El Niño sobre as fases juvenis e adultas da tainha no estuário da Lagoa dos Patos. Primeiro, a elevada descarga continental durante forte eventos El Niño poderia afetar negativamente o transporte passivo de juvenis de tainha para o interior do estuário, o que levaria ao declínio de juvenis na região nesse período. Segundo, as salinidades próximas a zero durante vários meses no estuário durante forte eventos El Niño poderia acarretar maior dispersão dos cardumes de tainhas adultas durante a sua migração reprodutiva para o mar, resultando em menores capturas pelos pescadores artesanais da região.

Avaliação do desembarque pesqueiro efetuado em Manacapuru, Amazonas, Brasil / Evaluation of the Manacapuru fishing landings, Amazonas State, Brazil

A atividade comercial pesqueira na Amazônia Central é predominantemente direcionada para Manaus, porém o perfil das atividades pesqueiras efetuadas nos demais centros também é fundamental para o planejamento do setor. Neste contexto, o presente trabalho visa caracterizar o perfil da produção pesqueira que abastece a cidade de Manacapuru, um dos principais centros urbanos da Amazônia Central. Os desembarques ocorreram a partir de canoas a remo, canoas motorizadas, barcos de pesca e recreios. A média mensal de pescado desembarcado foi de 175,36 ± 39,50 t em 2001 e de 172,13 ± 18,88 t em 2002, não apresentando diferença significativa entre anos (P>0,05). Dos 35 nomes específicos comuns registrados, observa-se que curimatã (Prochilodus nigricans), jaraquis (Semaprochilodus spp.), cubiu (Anodus spp.), mapará (Hypophthalmus spp.), e tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) foram os itens mais importantes nos dois anos, e piramutaba (Brachyplatystoma vaillantii) em 2002. Sete sub-regiões foram visitadas pela frota pesqueira, destacando-se Baixo-Solimões e o rio Purus.

The fishing commercial activity in Central Amazonia is mainly addressed for Manaus, even so the characteristics of the fishing activities directed to other important urban centers in the region are also fundamental for the planning of the sector. In this context, the present work seeks to characterize the profile of the fishing production that lands in the city of Manacapuru, one of the main urban centers of Central Amazon. Fish landings were done from non-motorized canoes, motorized canoes, fishing ships and pleasure boats. The monthly average of landed fish was of 175,36 ± 39,50 ton in 2001 and of 172,13 ± 18,88 ton in 2002, not presenting significant difference among years (P>0,05). Of the 35 registered common species names, it is observed that curimatã (Prochilodus nigricans), jaraquis (Semaprochilodus spp.), cubiu (Anodus spp.), mapará (Hypophthalmus spp.), and tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) were the most important fish landed in 2001 and 2002, and piramutaba (Brachyplatystoma vaillantii) specifically in 2002. out of the seven sub-areas visited by the fishing fleet, Lower Solimões and Purus river stand out.