Nonsustainable Use of Renewable Resources: Mangrove Deforestation and Mariculture in Ecuador

Abstract

The paper provides a conceptual model that examines (i) open-access exploitation and(ii) mangrove deforestation as two potential causes for the scarcity of post-larval shrimp inputs to shrimp mariculture in Ecuador. Results indicate that conversion of mangrove ecosystems to shrimp ponds may have obtained short-term profit at the expense of long-term productivity. Open-access collection of post-larval shrimp may also have contributed to dwindling stock levels. Specific policy recommendations are presented, and future empirical studies are proposed.Mariculture, mangroves, deforestation, shrimp, fisheries, Ecuador, Environmental Economics and Policy, Production Economics,