Bioeconomy in Central Amazon: Participatory Management of Pirarucu (Arapaima gigas)

Objective: to describe and critically analyze the participatory management process of pirarucu, a practice developed and monitored by the Mamirauá Institute for Sustainable Development (IDSM) in the Amazon region, highlighting its impact on local communities, its contribution to the bioeconomy and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Theoretical approach: based on the premise of bioeconomy, the article also considers theories related to participatory management of natural resources and biodiversity conservation. Method: a qualitative approach was adopted aligned with quantitative results from data analysis of action research with experts from the Mamirauá Institute on participatory management of pirarucu in the Central Amazon. Results: The results show that the approach contributes to the conservation of the species and its habitat, promotes local eco-socioeconomic development, strengthens communities with equity, and is aligned with the bioeconomy, in addition to offering lessons for the SDGs. Conclusions: it is concluded that the management of pirarucu carried out by the Mamirauá Institute integrates riverside communities, incorporating traditional knowledge into management and conservation practices. This initiative conserves the species and strengthens the local economy, ensuring stable income.