Artisanal fishing gear in Cururupu, Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

Artisanal fisheries play a fundamental role in subsistence and income generation for coastal communities along the western coast of Maranhão, Brazil, and are characterized by the diversity of fishing gear associated with estuarine and fluviomarine ecosystems. This study aimed to characterize the main fishing gear used in the municipality of Cururupu, Maranhão, describing their technical features, operational methods, and associated fishery resources. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, field observations, and technical measurements of fishing gear used by local fishing communities. Different categories of gillnets, longlines, “puçás de muruada”, and “zangarias” were identified, differing in mesh size, hanging ratio, materials employed, and fishing environments. The main species associated with catches included king weakfish, acoupa weakfish, uritinga catfish, mullet fish, and serra spanish mackerel. Particular emphasis was placed on fishing gear still poorly documented in regional scientific literature, such as “puçás de muruada” and “zangarias”. The results expand current knowledge of artisanal fishing technology along the Maranhão coast and provide valuable information for future fisheries management and conservation strategies.