Farming The Sea

The power of the sea is central to Meriam life and culture.

While the Meriam gained sustenance from their food gardens, they also "farmed" the sea; they built small coral structures to raise lobsters.

In ancient times, they built stone traps on the reefs to catch fish.

Over the last few years, a commercial, but community-run, fishery has helped younger people maintain the Meriam's traditional fishing and maritime skills.

However, while the knowledge gained from farming the land and nurturing the sea still exists, the impact of a larger world is drawing young Meriam away from their subsistence heritage.