The arapaima, a colossal freshwater fish, is an integral part of the Amazon’s complex ecosystem. This remarkable creature, capable of reaching enormous sizes, provides crucial food and income for communities throughout the Amazon basin. It also plays a vital role in maintaining the health and balance of the aquatic environment by regulating the populations of other freshwater species. Revered by indigenous and riverside communities, the arapaima holds a significant place in their traditions and diets. However, this iconic fish is facing a perilous future. Overfishing, habitat destruction, and environmental degradation have led to a dramatic decline in arapaima populations, making it a “ghost species” in some areas like the Juruá basin.
Recognizing the arapaima’s importance, fishermen and researchers have united to develop a sustainable management strategy. This collaboration has produced impressive results, increasing arapaima numbers, bolstering local incomes, and improving the overall health of the freshwater ecosystem. In the Medium Juruá basin, this community-based approach serves as a shining example of successful conservation. By working together, local communities have implemented agreements that combine arapaima counting methods with temporary fishing bans and regulated harvests. This straightforward yet effective strategy relies on a well-organized and committed community dedicated to long-term conservation. Their efforts are rewarded with higher prices for arapaima meat in a sustainable market, showcasing how economic and ecological goals can be mutually reinforcing.
Source: Instituto Fronteiras
Protecting the arapaima requires a comprehensive approach that considers the interconnectedness of ecological conservation, economic sustainability, and cultural preservation. Strong partnerships between local communities, governments, and environmental organizations are crucial to ensuring the survival of this magnificent fish. Effective management not only safeguards the arapaima but also preserves a vital aspect of Amazonian cultural heritage, strengthening the profound bond between local communities and their natural environment.
The Frontline Foundation is committed to supporting community-driven conservation efforts, such as those in the Juruá basin. We are currently collaborating with the Instituto Fronteiras to enhance their capacity for arapaima co-management, aiming to replicate the achievements of the Medium Juruá basin in the Upper Juruá region. With our support, Fronteiras experts and local fishermen leaders are participating in valuable learning exchanges and hands-on training focused on sustainable arapaima management. These activities bring together diverse stakeholders, including experts, community members, and environmental organizations, to promote collaboration, share knowledge, and tackle the challenges of managing this invaluable resource. The Instituto Fronteiras plays a key role in this process, advocating for innovative approaches to ensure the long-term health of arapaima populations and the well-being of the communities who depend on them.
Source: Instituto Fronteiras
The Frontline Foundation actively supports local sustainable supply chains as part of its dedication to promoting sustainable practices that balance ecological conservation with the socio-economic needs of Amazonian communities. We believe that sustainable practices are crucial for ensuring both the protection of the Amazon’s rich biodiversity and the livelihoods of its people.
