Research Article

The use of traditional belief systems in the management of the coastal lakes and their fisheries in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

¹*Francis M. Nwosu and ²Enoabasi Deborah Anwana

¹Institute of Oceanography, University of Calabar, PMB 1115, Calabar, Nigeria

²Department of Botany and Ecological Studies, University of Uyo, PMB 1017, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author E-mail: fmnwosu@yahoo.com,  fmnwosu@unical.edu.ng; Tel: +2348038355564

Accepted 29 November 2013

Abstract

The aim of this study was to understand the role of indigenous knowledge and belief systems in the conservation of the lakes and their fisheries resources. The research was conducted through the qualitative research methodology. Customary practices and regulations in the study communities appear to have aided the conservation of the ecological integrity of these lakes and contributed to the relative abundance of fish species in this region. This indigenous management system hitherto unrecognized, should be incorporated in the conservation and sustainable exploitation of the resources. Hence, we advocate a robust regional management system, which takes cognition of the natural indigenous resource management practices of this region. Socio-ecological systems such as these could act in parallel with state managed systems in the management of biodiversity within the region.

Keywords: belief systems, fisheries management, coastal lakes, Bayelsa State, Nigeria