Commercial Diving and the Callo de Hacha Fishery in Seri Territory

Abstract

"This paper examines commerical diving in Seri territory, from its early stages to contemporary practices. Commercial diving in Seriland is not only a story of marine-resource exploitation; it is also a tale of close interaction between two historically antagonistic sociocultural groups. From the times of the pearl hunters (1720-1733) to the present callo de hacha (scallop) fishery, Seri and Mexican mestizo fishermen have repeatedly conflicted and cooperated in their efforts to harvest marine bivalves. Grasping the nature of such interactions is crucial for understanding how the fishery began, how it has changed over time, and how it is organized today."