MuSIASEM analysis structure proposal for micronarratives on extractive productive chains in the Amazon context

Abstract

Aquarium pets release is an important vector for invasive species establishment in freshwater ecosystems. Here the perceptions and risk behaviors associated to this vector were evaluated using a survey. Portuguese aquarium hobbyists were interviewed through an on-line survey (Google forms) publicized in 9 web sites connected to this hobby (Facebook pages and internet forums). A Pet Propagule Pressure index (PPP), congregating information regarding pet's popularity and electivity for discharge, was developed and applied in this study, so that relative comparisons can be made among different pet types (taxa). Additionally, non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (nMDS) was applied to pet owner's data to identify indicator factors associated with risk behaviors and impacts' awareness. Results indicated that aquarium pet owners usually only have one pet type, most commonly fish or turtles. Only 8% of the owners admit having discharged pets, being more commonly reported the release of only one pet. This risk behavior is connected mainly to the excessive growth of the pet and consequently lack of space in the aquariums. Pet's discharge occurs until 100 km of distance from owner's homes, being very common at distances lower than 1 km. The PPP index developed in this study, indicates the pet types with higher risk of discharge were the turtles and the fishes. Pet owner's awareness regarding the pet discharges impacts in the environment seems to be lower than other risk groups connected to biological invasions in freshwaters, namely anglers. Pet owners most aware of these impacts were associated to higher education levels and higher experience on this hobby. Our study highlights the needs for more environmental education on particular social groups within aquarium pets' owners, namely those that have started this activity or have lower education levels, to decrease the biological invasion risks associated to this hobby. Additionally, our findings regarding the patterns and drivers of discharge action itself are useful to model risk invasion, as well as for detection, management and control of these species.

Sustainability of the Amazon Nut in Mato Grosso: An Application of the MuSIASEM Method

“…This research uses interpretative epistemology and is characterized as descriptiveexploratory with a qualitative approach and aims to analyze the socio-environmental metabolism of the Amazon nut production chain in the northwest of the State of Mato Grosso through the MuSIASEM approach [61][62][63][64]. Regarding the timing analysis, a crosscut with an ex post facto approach is used, and the year 2016 is analyzed in this case study.…”

“…Regarding the timing analysis, a crosscut with an ex post facto approach is used, and the year 2016 is analyzed in this case study. The MuSIASEM approach is integrated with interviews, documents, and secondary data [49,64].…”

“…The region was chosen because of the researchers' interest and for the possibility of data triangulation; for this scope, semi-structured interviews were carried out to understand how the area residents use their time (physiological overload, housework, education, and leisure). The results were validated with the United Nations Development Program delegate, who also acts as a consultant for Coopavam [64]. Data collection was performed on location (Figure 1).…”

“…Note: THA (total human activity), HH (household sector); PW (paid activity); coop (activities carried out by Coopavam); ind (activities allocated to indigenous peoples). Level n and n − 1, adapted from Giampietro, Mayumi, and Ramos-Martin[57], and Level n − 2 and n − 3, adapted from Maldonado, Panhoca, and Allievi[64].…”

Measurement of Natural Capital in academic journals

“…[28][29][30][31][32] Even so, there is a need to improve the information on natural resources used to analyze national wealth and its subsequent measurement. 33,34 Understanding NC involves many interdependencies. 35 Knowing its value, which directs the discussion to its importance, for the production of wealth through not only economic development.…”