Small-scale fisheries of the Atlantic seabob shrimp (Xiphopenaeus kroyeri): Continuity of commercialization and maintenance of the local culture through making public policies on the Brazilian coast

Abstract The objective of this study is to describe the economic aspects of artisanal fishing for Atlantic seabob shrimp on the northeastern and southeastern coasts of Brazil and to generate information for making public policies regarding co-management and continuity of the local culture. Ethnographic interviews were conducted with 80 artisanal fishermen in the communities of Barra de Caravelas (n = 36) and Santa Cruz de Cabralia (n = 12) in the state of Bahia in the northeast region of Brazil and of Anchieta (n = 18) and Barra Nova (n = 14) in the state of Espirito Santo in the southeast. The fishermen are male, are aged between 20 and 73 years old and have between 6 and 50 years of experience in shrimp fishing. The income obtained from the Atlantic seabob fishery reported by the fishermen ranges from US $ 274.74 to US $ 549.48. In this study, two shrimp distribution models are identified by fishermen. In Anchieta and Santa Cruz de Cabralia, most of the catch is sold directly to the consumer, and the first sale value of Atlantic seabob is greater. In Barra de Caravelas and Barra Nova, shrimp distribution is performed by an intermediary, and the sale value of the shrimp is lower. In all localities, shrimp processing adds greater value to the catch and is performed by family members. The results demonstrate that a supply chain without intermediaries and with family participation in shrimp processing can increase the final value of the product, providing more profit to the fisherman. These factors should be considered by fishery management to help maintain the activity and increase the quality of life for families that depend on artisanal fishing.