Abstract

This study provides information on the environment, modes of access and exploitation of Macrobrachium species, the level of capture, the operators and their organization. The data collected through interviews and direct observations revealed that Macrobrachium spp. are caught on the banks of the Congo River near the islands of Kimuabi, Malela and Mateba in Zones A and B of the Mangrove Marine Park (PMM). This fishery is carried out individually by a mainly male population throughout the year using a cylindrical creel baited with palm nuts and dead crabs. The free access to the fishery and the poor knowledge of the factors contributing to the existence of Macrobrachium spp. among some fishermen lead them to exert considerable pressure on this resource. This results in the capture of smaller and immature individuals of about 57 and 54 mm, respectively for males and females. It is necessary to deepen this study on the biological, ecological and economic aspects of this resource by involving all the stakeholders concerned by this exploitation in view of a participatory co-management where the fishermen will be particularly concerned.

Key words: Macrobrachium, Mangrove Marine Park, D.R. Congo.