The Political Ecology of Scallop (Argopecten Purpuratus) Use and Management in the Pisco-Paracas Region, Southern Peruvian Coast

Abstract

This dissertation examines scallop (Argopecten purpuratus) booms experienced during the late-twentieth century in the Pisco-Paracas Region of southern Peru using a political ecology perspective. The examined booms were triggered by the 1982-1983 and 1997-1998 mega-El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. The significant increase of ocean temperatures causes the migration and/or mass mortality of key predators, as well as enhances the growth rate of scallops, leading to their exceptional abundance. These booms have transformed local society and created new relationships as outside stakeholders appear to take advantage of new market opportunities. The quiet fishing ports have been transformed by the arrival of thousands of fishermen from all over the Peruvian coast, as well as others, seeking to improve their living conditions. This has led to rapid growth in the scallop industry, the overexploitation and depletion of the shellfish creating a crisis: the boom-to-bust cycle of scallops. Government institutions in their role as resource managers and environmental stewards have attempted to control access to scallops and other resources in a region that contains the only marine protected area of the nation (the Paracas National Reserve - RNP). Relations of power and resistance, two of the important focuses of political ecological studies, among and between various stakeholder groups are examined through an analysis of the narratives produced. This dissertation aims to contribute to the field of political ecology by analyzing a unique case study. Its uniqueness stems from its analysis of a marine resource that thrives under conditions of environmental change. Furthermore, since these booms not only contribute to the enhancement of the national and regional economies, but also have an international reach, its geographical range goes beyond the immediate space, which characterizes research in political ecology. The dissertation findings show that unequal power relations under competing discourses characterize the use and management of scallops; a reactive state response characterizes the management of scallops; management strategies, as well as the RNP master plans, have partially affected the use of scallops; and, scallop booms have produced important social changes in the local population.