V3I5P89

Community Perceptions and Eco-tourism Potentials of Rainbow crabs (Cardisoma armatum) in coastal communities of Lagos, Nigeria and Cotonou, Republic of Benin

Adewole Adekunle Omolayo^1*, Ejidike Bernadette Nwandu², Adeyemo Adebisi Ilesanmi³

Abstract

This study examined community perceptions and the ecotourism potentials of rainbow crabs (Cardisoma armatum) in selected coastal communities of Lagos, Nigeria and Cotonou, Republic of Benin. The study explored the relationship between local awareness, socio-demographic characteristics, and support for community-based tourism (CBT) centered on rainbow crabs and mangrove ecosystems. Data were collected from 79 respondents across four coastal communities using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis.

The socio-demographic results revealed that respondents were predominantly male (70.9%), economically active, and largely dependent on fishing and other coastal livelihood activities. The findings showed strong community support for rainbow crab-based CBT development, particularly regarding its potential to promote local businesses (Mean = 4.52), increase environmental awareness (Mean = 4.46), attract government support (Mean = 4.44), and enhance conservation of crabs and mangrove habitats (Mean = 4.39). Respondents also expressed high support for the development of rainbow crab tourism in their communities (Mean = 4.28).

Regression analysis further revealed that education significantly influenced perception toward CBT development (β = 0.249, p = 0.028), indicating that respondents with higher educational attainment demonstrated more positive attitudes toward ecotourism and conservation initiatives.

The study highlights the considerable ecotourism potential of rainbow crabs as biodiversity resources capable of supporting sustainable livelihoods, environmental education, and mangrove conservation in coastal West Africa. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating indigenous ecological knowledge, community participation, and conservation-oriented tourism planning into sustainable coastal development strategies.

Keywords:

Community-based tourism, ecotourism, rainbow crabs, Cardisoma armatum, indigenous knowledge, mangroves, coastal communities, Nigeria, Benin Republic.