Marine artificial reef (MAR) interference in artisanal fisheries in Brazil: use of traditional knowledge

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the traditional knowledge from artisanal fishermen related to marine artificial reef (MAR) ship Victory 8B and to identify possible changes in the fishery area after its installation. We performed single ethnographic interviews (n = 80) through a semistructured questionnaire, using participant observation, visual ethnography, and field diary recordings. All the interviewees were men from 27 to 77 years old, with low education levels and up to 60 years of experience in the fishery artisanal. Most of the interviewees (n = 71; 88.7%) recognize the presence of this MAR in the region and its role as a shelter for marine fauna and an attractor for species with commercial value. Even with fishery prohibition in the vicinity of MAR Victory 8B, most of the interviewees (n = 75; 93.7%) reported the practice in that area. According to the fishermen, the ship installation did not alter area the fishery, but the structure positively changed the activity by attracting more fish, increasing capture and profits. With that, from the perspective of the fishermen perception, MAR Victory 8B fulfilled its role in the enrichment of the fish stock and the conservation of marine biodiversity in the region.