The mangrove ecosystem is one of the most important in coastal wetlands and has primary functions for the food chain and for the social use of resources by traditional populations. The work we are initiating deals with the different forms of degradation of the ecosystem, either by natural factors (accentuated salinization of the soil and water, attack by moths, erosion, etc.) or by human actions (opening of roads, logging, etc.). The 36 km transect between the city of Bragança and Ajuruteua beach is a good example of these changes. It is part of the Coastal Studies Program of the Emilio Goeldi Museum of Pará and is supported by a JICA expert. The methodology includes analysis of the specialized literature on mangrove ecosystems, the conditions necessary for their development in terms of climate, geographical position, sediments, water flows, etc., the adaptation of flora and fauna, the different types of mangrove forests, their vital functions, and their contribution to the food chain. These are essential conditions for the ecosystem to be able to fully fulfill its functions in terms of social use, which is pressing for the populations. The methodology includes, besides the analysis of the critical mass, field work (not yet started) includes the study of botanical parameters (vegetation structure) and sediment logic, the constitution of an image bank, and the presentation of papers in local events. The results obtained are still preliminary, in the form of reading sheets, work sessions with the supervisor and researchers from the CCTE, and presentation of internal seminars.
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