As the 2024 shrimp harvest kicks off on February 1st in Lagoa dos Patos, Brazil, the fishing sector braces itself for a challenging season. The harvest, slated to continue until May 31st, is met with low expectations due to adverse weather conditions affecting the entry and growth of the crustacean.

Rainfall Woes: Affecting Entry and Development

Excessive rainfall in the state has become a significant concern for shrimp harvesters in Lagoa dos Patos. The abundance of rain is expected to impact the entry and development of the crustacean, setting a tone of caution and skepticism among those dependent on the shrimp harvest.

Insufficient Conditions in Lagoa dos Patos

Nilton Machado, the president of Colônia dos Pescadores Z-1, sheds light on the insufficient conditions prevailing in Lagoa dos Patos. The salinity levels in the lake, influenced by the heavy rainfall, are deemed inadequate for the optimal development of the shrimp. As a result, the growth of the crustacean is anticipated to be delayed, leading to a reduction in the overall harvest.

Delayed Growth and Decreased Quantity

Machado expresses his concerns, stating, “Due to the rains we had in the state, the lake filled up too much and we still have a little water, so the expectation is that the quantity of the harvest will decrease. Based on our experience, the harvest will be a little late and it won’t be a harvest with so many shrimps.”

In Rio Grande, approximately a thousand fishermen are accredited to capture the crustacean. The shrimp harvest period is traditionally highly anticipated, as it plays a pivotal role in the livelihoods of several families in Rio Grande do Sul.