The lunar-tide cycle viewed by crustacean and mollusc gatherers in the State of Paraíba, Northeast Brazil and their influence in collection attitudes

TLDR

Traditional communities in the region possess extensive environmental knowledge, and animal collection in estuarine and coastal areas is directly shaped by tidal cycles. The study aims to assess gatherers’ understanding of lunar‑cycle tides in Paraíba. Data were collected from 20 crab and 30 mollusc gatherers via open interviews and structured questionnaires. Gatherers accurately comprehend tidal phenomena, a knowledge that is transmitted across generations.

Abstract

Abstract Traditional human communities have a wide knowledge of their environment. Collection of animals in estuarine and coastal areas are directly influenced by tidal cycles. The aim of this study is to evaluate the understanding of the tides associated with the lunar cycle held by people who gather crustaceans and molluscs in the State of Paraiba. The empirical knowledge of 20 crab gatherers and 30 mollusc gatherers was recorded through open interviews and structured questionnaires. The results showed that the gatherers have an accurate comprehension of tidal phenomenon based on their exploitation of natural resources, which perpetuates through generations.