Characterization and space-time dynamics of the fishery activity in Marajó Bay, off the Amazon Estuary

Abstract

Marajó Bay is one of the most important fishing grounds for the small-scale fleet in the Amazon estuary and, aiming at describing its fishing activity, landings were monitored in the Island of Mosqueiro (Pará) considering the fleet operating in Marajó Bay, from December, 2005 to November, 2006. Moreover, the fleet was characterized using specialized log-books. The index of relative abundance - CPUE (kg per trip) was used to identify the space-time dynamics of the fishery. A total of 128 fishing boats was registered, with the predominance of small-sized boats and motorized canoes. Mediumsized boats carry a larger crew and are engaged in fewer, but shorter fishing trips in relation to the other categories. The main species captured in the region are Plagioscion squamosissimus, Plagioscion surinamensis, Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii and Pellona spp. Periods of maximum abundance were the first quarter and the fourth quarter for motorized canoes and small-sized boats, respectively. The fishing sites Ponta Fina and Areia do Cotijuba showed the largest annual relative abundance with the main catch of B. rousseauxii and P. surinamensis, respectively.