Are Crab-collectors in Mangroves of Northern Brazil (PA) Optimal Foragers?

Abstract Intensive harvesting of the mangrove crab Ucides cordatus provides subsistence for food and main or additional income to many inhabitants areas in Northern Brazil. In order better understand spatial patterns use this natural resource as basis sustainable resource-management, we used a combination GPS-tracking, field observations, semi-structured interviews participatory mapping with crab-collectors. We quantified daily working hours, traveling distance time to, well collecting inside, patches where crabs are collected. Based on preliminary findings three different types transportation fishing grounds, conclude that crab-collectors our study area act accordance central place optimal foraging concept they invest more higher catch. hold these will prove relevant sustainably managing resource. The parallel occurrence collecting-behaviours possibly releases pressure from stocks potentially depleting grounds adjacent villages, thus, may render crab-collecting sustainable. Detailed studies needed quantify catch make data useful management resource-exploitation mangroves.