SEASONAL ASPECTS AND THE ADAPTATION OF FISHERMEN IN THE SONGKHLA LAGOON, THAILANDHA THI THU HUE, SIRIPORN PRADIT, APIRADEE LIM, THONGCHAI NITIRATSUWAN AND GONCALO CARNEIROAbstract Small-scale fisheries are very important in the coastal areas as the main livelihood in Thailand. However, as many places in the world, the fishers are facing the decline of fish catch and worrying about their future. The study was conducted to obtain an understanding of fishing activity and fishers future perception in Songkhla Lagoon. The methodology included questionnaires, observing fishing practices, and in-depth interviews with village leaders. A survey of 164 fishers was conducted in eight villages in the area, who were found to engage in fishing. There was a significant difference in the mean catch between three seasons. The highest mean total catches of 1602 ± 136.369 kg/year/fisher were found in the light rainy season. The lowest mean total catch of 963.29 ± 104.660 kg/year/Fisher was found in the rainy season. Some important findings from this research were that almost studied fishers dont have the alternative occupation and are difficult to find another job, illegal fishing gear is the serious cause of fish decline. A well-managed fishing activity and alternative sustainable livelihood need to be urgent acted in the Songkhla Lagoon.
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