Browsing by Autor "Joachim Carolsfeld"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2

Nutrient Content of the Invasive Arapaima gigas (Osteoglossiformes) in Bolivia
(2024) Fernando M. Carvajal‐Vallejos; Joachim Carolsfeld; Paul A. Van Damme; Selva V. Montellano
The Paiche or Paichi (tentatively identified as Arapaima gigas) is an introduced species and one of the most important fisheries resources in Bolivia. Its meat has characteristics that have facilitated its commercialization in the main cities of the country. The objective of this work was to describe the nutritional quality of its meat sold in the city of Riberalta (Beni), the main supplier of Paiche meat to inland markets. Tissue samples were collected from the dorsal, abdominal and caudal areas (n=3; 800 g) from three medium-sized specimens (81.6 cm average total length, aproximately 8 kg). Results showed that Paiche meat is rich in proteins (20%), but low in total fats and carbohydrates (0.81 and 0.67%, respectively). The fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins were low, with values less than 0.027 mg 100 g-1; except vitamin E (average 1.198 mg 100 g-1). Seven fatty acids were found in the abdominal portion, five in the dorsal portion, and none in the caudal portion. Linoleic Acid (Omega 6) was found only in the abdomen. Its regular consumption in the diet is recommended. Studies are needed to see how nutritional value is affected by food preparation for consumption and to assess mercury content.
“Paiche reigns!” species introduction and indigenous fisheries in the Bolivian Amazon
(Springer Science+Business Media, 2015) Alison Macnaughton; Fernando M. Carvajal‐Vallejos; Adalid Argote; Tiffanie K. Rainville; Paul A. Van Damme; Joachim Carolsfeld
Species introduction, combined with changing access rules, increasing demand, and new road and dam infrastructure, are contributing to remarkable changes in Bolivian Amazon fisheries. This paper examines community responses to the appearance of a commercially valuable introduced fish species, Arapaima cf. gigas (“paiche”) in the Bolivian Amazon. Until the end of the 20th century, fisheries in this region were relatively low intensity, focused in rivers on a small number of native large-sized species by an urban-based commercial fishing fleet, and in floodplain lakes on a high diversity of native medium-sized species for subsistence by rural indigenous communities. In the seventies, Arapaima cf. gigas was introduced from Peru and has since invaded a significant portion of the Madre de Dios and Beni basins in northern Bolivia. This species now represents up to 80 % of commercial catches for the region. Occupying primarily floodplain lakes, many of which are located within indigenous territories, it has created economic opportunities and stimulated conflicts. The evolution of fisheries in one indigenous Tacana community is described, and the perspectives of local fishers are explored. Results suggest that while the new resource has strengthened incipient community-level organization, the current capture strategies and management mechanisms may not be conducive to sustainability or equitable distribution of returns. Commercial fisheries targeting a set of native species have been replaced by a single-species fishery in this community, raising questions about how the changes both in the resource-base and associated livelihood strategies are impacting system resilience. Ecosystem impacts of the introduction remain unclear. Paiche is viewed both as a potential threat and an opportunity by indigenous fishers. The management of this introduced species for a maximum social benefit and minimal environmental damage are topical concerns for communities and government actors and should be treated carefully considering local and broader, regional-scale implications.