Interrelations between mangrove ecosystem, local economy and social sustainability in Caete Estuary, North Brazil

Various types of subsistence and commercial extraction of mangrove products are identified on the North Brazilian coast. Of 2500 households in 21 rural communities (about 13.000 people) near the Caete estuary, 83% derive subsistence income, and 68% cash income through use of mangrove resources. The mangrove crab (Ucides cordatus) is collected and sold by 42% of households, and constitutes a main income source for 38%. Including processing and trading occupations, over half of the investigated population depend on the mangrove crab for financial income. Mangrove fishery occupies the lower rural income groups in the fisheries sector. About 30% of households engage in commercial fishing in or near the mangrove. Illegal commercial and subsistence use of mangrove wood and bark maintains a considerable number of rural households. In the context of widespread rural poverty in coastal North Brazil, it is important for mangrove management to take into account subsistence production, which has a central socio- economic function for the rural poor who live close to the mangroves. Socio- economic priorities in mangrove villages were, in order of importance, educational quality, occupational options, medical care, the low level of mangrove product prices, access to electricity and local leadership quality.