Dynamics of Smoking Practices of Clams Galatea schwabi (Clench, 1929) in the Lower Sanaga, Littoral Region (Cameroon)

Background and Objective: Exploitation of clams constitutes a source of income and food for populations in developing countries. The objective of the study was to characterize populations involved in shellfish sector, describe post-smoking storage practices of Galatea schwabi clam and identify problems associated with their storage in the Lower Sanaga, Littoral Region, Cameroon. Materials and Methods: A total of 142 participants from Malimba and Yakalak Districts practising the activity were registered and the study took place between February and June, 2022. Data of interest were collected from each participant using a structured questionnaire during individual interviews and focus group discussions. Results: Participants were mainly represented by females regardless of the districts. Participants from Yakalak were significantly younger than their counterparts from Malimba. The higher proportion of individuals having completed university studies was found in Yakalak. Smoking was the main storage method of Galatea schwabi clams in both districts. Further storage methods including freezing/refrigeration and icing were also used at higher rates in Yakalak (p = 0.001). The 5 pesticides were locally used viz. leaves of Alchornea cordifolia, chili, oil+red palm oil, Rambo and Vitoxy bolus with no obvious environmental implications. There was a difference between districts regarding main constraints to smoking activity. Inappropriate smoking conditions lead to a deterioration of 15.91% of smokers in Malimba, versus 12.96% in Yakalak. Conclusion: Lack of financial resources was more given in Yakalak while pest control issues were more frequently reported in Malimba. This study provided insight into management practices and associated problems with the smoking activity of Galatea schwabi clams.