Caracterização da pesca e da comercialização de Cyanocyclas brasiliana (Deshayes, 1854) (Mollusca: Bivalvia), no Delta do Parnaiba - PI

Abstract

The species Cyanocyclas brasiliana is a bivalve mollusk of great economic and social importance for artisanal fishing on the coast of Piauí. For this reason, it has been the subject of recent studies seeking to understand its production chain, as well as its morphological and physicochemical characteristics. The extraction of this resource is based on shellfish gathering, a traditional harvesting practice passed down from generation to generation, especially among local families in the Parnaíba Delta. Carried out predominantly by women during low tide, this activity has significant socioeconomic relevance, ensuring family subsistence through the capture, processing, and commercialization of the shellfish. The present study aimed to characterize the fishing and commercialization of C. brasiliana in the Delta region, specifically in the municipality of Ilha Grande. To this end, the research was conducted through the observation of fishing practices and interviews with community members, aiming to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the entire dynamics of the production chain. The fishing of the bivalve mollusk Cyanocyclas brasiliana in the Parnaíba Delta is characterized by the use of selective, low-impact artisanal techniques, strongly guided by traditional ecological knowledge. However, processing and post-capture management lack infrastructure and sanitary control, limiting food security and access to more demanding markets. The commercialization chain is short, informal, and dominated by middlemen, which reduces the negotiating power of the shellfish gatherers and the value added to the product. It is concluded that the socio-environmental and economic sustainability of the activity depends on the articulation between public policies, structural improvements in post-capture, and the strengthening of community social organization (such as cooperatives), aiming to ensure the autonomy of producers and the efficient management of resources.