PERCEPTION, POPULAR KNOWLEDGE AND EXPLOITATION OF THE WETLAND CROCODILE (Crocodylus moreletii Duméril & Bibron) FOR INHABITANTS OF THE FLORA AND FAUNA PROTECTION AREA OF LAGUNA DE TÉRMINOS, CAMPECHE, MÉXICO

Abstract

The objective of this study was to understand the exploitation, popular knowledge and perception that inhabitants from three communities in the Flora and Fauna Protection Area of Laguna de Términos (APFFLT, for its initials in Spanish) in Campeche, México, have towards the wetland crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii Duméril & Bibron). The data were collected through 54 semi-structured interviews with key informants and through the discussion in nine focal groups. Five uses of the wetland crocodile are recognized: medicinal, food, photograph, artisanal and leather. The use of the fat to treat respiratory diseases and to strengthen the immunological system in children is very common in the population. It is mentioned that the commercialization mainly
of the skin has decreased due to the vigilance and prohibition by the authorities, with an increase perceived of the populations of C. moreletii. It is recommended to establish sustainable management proposals in freedom or captivity living conditions that can generate an economic benefit to the communities.