Journal of Ecosystem & Ecography
Open Access

Abstract

The mangrove crabs Sylla serrata are very important for the livelihood of coastal communities particularly in Metuge District, South of Cabo Delgado Province, where the study was conducted from June to August 2014. The aim of this study is to estimate the socioeconomic impact of mangrove crabs captures in communities of Metuge district. Data were collected in the landing sites in the village and in local crab markets. In total 26 crabs, fishermen and 6 traders were surveyed it was found that activity of capture mangrove Crabs is practiced 100% by man. Their ages ranged from 15 to 68 years old and the range 35-60-year-old was dominant. To capture the mangrove crabs the fishermen use a long hook iron with 1.5 to 2 meters, they goes 5-7 times per week and spend about 5-8hours a day in mangrove forests, the quantities captured by fishermen can vary from 2 to 20kg per day, the price of crabs depend on where fishermen sell, in village one kilogram cost 1 to 1.5USD and 3USD for local traders. On the other hand, the traders can sell until 50kg of crabs along the road and specific places in Pemba city. The incomes vary from 11 to 174USD per month. The money is intended to purchase food and agricultural instruments. 90% of interviewed dropout the school, high number of family members, poor housing made by local materials, and relies on community wells to access water and most do not have electric power.

Biography

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