Descrição do aparelho de pesca artesanal (puçá de camarão) utilizado no município de Anchieta, Espírito Santo, Brasil

Artisanal fishing in Brazil is a cultural and economic practice essential to coastal communities, reflecting deep empirical knowledge of marine environments and species. Its documentation is crucial for preserving traditions, promoting the sustainable management of fishery resources, and integrating traditional knowledge into public policies. Despite its relevance, many techniques remain underdocumented, which underscores the importance of specific studies aimed at preserving this cultural heritage and fostering sustainable development in the sector. This study aimed to characterize the puçá de camarão, a manual shrimp fishing gear used in Anchieta-ES, focusing on technical, operational, and cultural aspects. Data collection took place between the Ponte Cônego Barros and the Praça da Ponta dos Castelhanos, where this technique was frequently observed. Eight puçás de camarão were analyzed, provided by local fishers, with measurements taken using calipers and tape measures. The puçá de camarão consisted of two wooden poles (approx. 270 cm), arranged in an “X” shape, supporting a conical net with mesh sizes ranging from 14 to 20 mm, made of twisted polyamide. Optional floaters (plastic bottles) were attached to the net, and the tying and support ropes were made of synthetic fiber. Fishing occurred at low tide and during the summer, with the fisher manually dragging the net at a depth of about 120 cm. The estimated yield reached up to 10 kg, including shrimp, bycatch, and debris. The puçá de camarão represents an efficient, culturally significant, and potentially sustainable practice, whose recognition can contribute to the responsible management of fishery resources.