A influência da intensificação da produção de açaí (Euterpe oleracea. Mart.) na diversidade de atividades produtivas de ribeirinhos no estuário amazônico

Abstract

Acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) is a native fruit of the Amazon biome prevalent in the Amazon estuary. Its reach is extending progressively throughout northeastern Pará, especially in areas of floodplain forest. This expansion is driven by recent interest driven by new markets, both nationally and internationally. This situation is leading farmers in river communities to adopt the intensification of açai in order to increase fruit yields. In this context, this research evaluated the influences that the process of intensification in the management of acai is having on the productive diversity of the Amazon estuary. The studies were conducted in the community of Santo Antônio, municipality of Igarapé-Miri, and evaluated productive activities, the system of production, and changes in relation to the diversification of production activities. The research was grounded in qualitative and quantitative approaches. 60 families were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires, and a retrospective analysis conducted through historical interviews was used to understand the evolutionary trajectory of productive activities in the community and the application of new practices that have benefited from the intensive management of açai. This methodological approach gave rise results indicating that river farmers of the community of Santo Antônio have, over the years, adapted production activities, and that historical processes have favored the development of some activities and the abandonment of others. As market demand has facilitated the expansion and intensification of acai fruit cultivation, there is added value of açaí fruit compared to other production activities.