A Profile of Palm Heart Extraction in the Amazon Estuary.

The article demonstrates an economic and ecological profile of açaí palm heart production in the Amazon estuary, particularly those on the island of Marajó. It also examined the economic costs and returns of palm heart extraction, palm heart canning, as well as palm heart distribution. Several factors are shown that lead players in each sector to carry out nonsustainability practices. An analysis reveals how the frequency of palm heart harvest affects açaí population structure and palm heart productivity. Then, an assessment is considered concerning the economic potential of forest management approaches which are designed to provide a constant supply of palm hearts.