Population aspects of Crassostrea sp. in a protected mangrove estuary: perspectives for artisanal fishing management

Abstract

ABSTRACT The mangrove oyster (Crassostrea) is one of the most common bivalves found on the Brazilian coast, widely used in artisanal fisheries. Oysters are dioecious with external reproduction, typically found in estuarine environments. The present study aimed to identify the population aspects of Crassostrea in different fishing locations in northeastern Brazil. The study area was the Acaú-Goiana Extractive Reserve, a protected area focused on the development of artisanal fisheries. Oysters were collected during low tide at three sampling points, where their removal from mangrove roots was carried out, during May, July, September, November 2021, and January and March 2022. In the laboratory, biometric measurements were conducted, and for the months of May and November 2021 histological preparations to study the reproductive cells. Biometric measurements were significantly higher in the dry season at all sampling points. The sex ratio was M = 0.38, F = 0.62, for May, and M = 0.30, F = 0.69, for November. The biometric and reproductive data obtained can support the development of management strategies, including a rotation plan between collection sites and the establishment of a minimum size for fishing. Here we recommend a minimum size of 20 mm shell length (SL) or larger for fishing.