ABSTRACT
At this point, the anthropocentric view dominates the sandy beach management, with the actions being generally directed towards human well-being. Traditionally, plans for management are based on physical and socioeconomic aspects. Damage to the fauna due to intensive anthropic use was usually neglected. The present study analyzes and validates the use of biological metrics in order to assess environmental quality of sandy beach ecosystems. Ghost crab Ocypode quadrata and Bledius hermani staphylinids coleopteran populations were tested as bioindicators in the Paraná coast, south Brazil. During the summer season 2013/2014, physical parameters (width and slope of the beach, diameter of the grain, morpho dynamic stage), biological metrics (abundance of adult crabs, density of staphylinids) and Recreational Potential Index (RPI) were evaluated along 12 beaches. Significant negative correlations were identified between the biological metrics and the Recreational Potential Index. Based on these results, it was possible to identify priority areas for conservation, as well as recreation and multiple uses. Consequently, guidelines that guarantee the sustainable use of goods and services of the beaches without generating environmental and economic damages were proposed. Finally, the adoption of biological indicators of environmental stress is strongly recommended, since such measures reflect the health of the beach ecosystem.
