Traditional knowledge and practices in seaweed harvesting and farming

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the traditional knowledge and practices present in the extractive activities of natural beds and seaweed farming in Rio Grande do Norte. The study was carried out through semistructured interviews using a questionnaire composed of subjects that addressed issues related to productive practices, social aspects, management of seaweed and knowledge related to coastal ecosystems. In addition to the interviews, the productive activities developed by the participants involved in the research were monitored. Among the records obtained, we can highlight the traditional knowledge of the harvest activity, the empirical knowledge related to the ecology and life cycle of seaweed. Regarding the production of seaweed farmed, it was found that these practices contribute to the reduction of pressure on natural beds, enabling the maintenance and recovery of natural populations of seaweed in the studied area. In addition, it was evident that the activities developed by the community have contributed to the economic, social and environmental development of the region. In conclusion, it was possible to verify that the traditional knowledge and practices of seaweed farming and harvesting, positively influence the conservation of natural resources, and their use in a rational way is extremely important for the perpetuation of the knowledge of these traditional populations.