Pesca artesanal e conservação de Elasmobrânquios: Avaliação da captura e indícios de um potencial berçário em um ponto crítico da pesca artesanal na Costa Amazônica Maranhense

Abstract

Artisanal fishing of elasmobranchs (sharks and rays) on the western coast of Maranhão was investigated with the aim of understanding its dynamics, identifying nursery areas and assessing the perception of local fishermen regarding the conservation of these animals. The study was motivated by the growing fishing pressure in the region and the lack of consistent data on catches, which makes fishing management difficult. The research was carried out in the Arapiranga-Tromaí RESEX region, through systematic monitoring of fishing landings in Carutapera, MA between 2023 and 2024, interviews with fishermen, and the use of georeferencing tools. During the 19-month cycle, 118 landings were monitored and 1.054 elasmobranch captures were recorded, comprising 11 shark species and 8 ray species, distributed across 3 shark families, 6 ray families, 2 shark orders, and 1 ray order. The species Hypanus guttatus, Rhizoprionodon porosus, and Sphyrna lewini were particularly emphasized, being recorded at all stages of development. Areas with a continuous presence of neonates and juveniles were identified, indicating the possible occurrence of nursery areas. Statistical analysis showed a composition dominated by juveniles, evidencing the vulnerability of the species to capture. The research demonstrated that fishermen possess valuable ecological knowledge, which can be integrated into management and conservation actions. It is concluded that, in addition to providing unprecedented data on local artisanal fishing, the study contributes to the formulation of public policies and strategies aimed at fisheries sustainability and the protection of marine biodiversity.