Extrativismo de quelônios no Médio Juruá: a importância dos tabuleiros e comunidades ribeirinhas para a conservação e manutenção das espécies em Itamarati, Amazonas

Abstract

This study analyzes the relationship between chelonian extractivism and riverside communities in the Médio Juruá, Amazonas, highlighting its historical, social and environmental importance. Extractivism in the Amazon region is a traditional practice that plays a fundamental role in people's livelihoods. However, the intensification of chelonian exploitation, driven by growing commercial demand and changes in land use, has led to a decline in the population of these species, generating environmental concerns and the need for rigorous application of existing conservation and legislative measures, as well as proposals that take into account the specificities of the Itamarati territory. With this in mind, the main objective of this research was to “analyze the relationship between the extraction of chelonians and the riverside communities in Médio Juruá, Amazonas”. The methodology was based on the method of historical and dialectical materialism to analyze the extraction of chelonians in Itamarati-AM. A bibliographical review, documentary analysis and systematic review of scientific databases were carried out. The fieldwork took place in two stages, taking into account the seasonality of the river, with direct observation and interviews with local residents, fishermen and managers. Tools such as QGIS and drones helped map the areas studied. Content analysis made it possible to identify the socio-environmental impacts and propose alternatives for the conservation of species and the sustainable use of the territory. The study shows that chelonian extraction, despite its economic and cultural importance, needs to be regulated to ensure the sustainability of natural resources. The creation of temporary protection zones and the active participation of riverside communities in the management of chelonians are fundamental to balancing the relationship between exploitation and preservation of the species. In this way, the research contributes to understanding the territorial and social dynamics of the Médio Juruá, reinforcing the need for public policies aimed at conservation and sustainable development in the region. The study also highlights the importance of community participation in implementing effective conservation strategies, ensuring the protection of chelonians without compromising the livelihoods of local populations.