Version 1
: Received: 12 August 2024 / Approved: 13 August 2024 / Online: 13 August 2024 (08:56:05 CEST)
How to cite:
Saha, D.; Suresh, D. K.; Krishnan, P.; Mukherjee, R. Balancing Nets and Lives: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Sustainable Fisheries in the Gulf of Mannar. Preprints2024, 2024080879. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0879.v1
Saha, D.; Suresh, D. K.; Krishnan, P.; Mukherjee, R. Balancing Nets and Lives: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Sustainable Fisheries in the Gulf of Mannar. Preprints 2024, 2024080879. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0879.v1
Saha, D.; Suresh, D. K.; Krishnan, P.; Mukherjee, R. Balancing Nets and Lives: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Sustainable Fisheries in the Gulf of Mannar. Preprints2024, 2024080879. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0879.v1
APA Style
Saha, D., Suresh, D. K., Krishnan, P., & Mukherjee, R. (2024). Balancing Nets and Lives: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Sustainable Fisheries in the Gulf of Mannar. Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0879.v1
Chicago/Turabian Style
Saha, D., Pandian Krishnan and Rajdeep Mukherjee. 2024 "Balancing Nets and Lives: A Socio-Ecological Analysis of Sustainable Fisheries in the Gulf of Mannar" Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202408.0879.v1
Abstract
The Gulf of Mannar, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, faces severe overfishing and habitat degradation threats. In this study, we investigate the pivotal role of ecosystem services in sustaining local livelihoods and overall well-being. By conducting a comprehensive survey of 480 respondents across two districts, we gathered extensive data on demographics, livelihoods, fishing practices, reliance on ecosystem services, and community management participation. The analysis reveals a critical dependence on the Gulf's resources (income, food security, traditions) with gender disparities (men fish, women in pre/post-harvest), but fishing is only allowed in the 10km buffer zone (not the core zone). The findings emphasize the promise of community-based strategies, such as Marine Protected Areas and reviving co-management committees, for achieving sustainable fisheries management. However, we also identify gaps, including the need for more nuanced well-being indicators and improved models for community management participation. To address these challenges, we advocate for sustainable fishing practices, tackling social inequities, especially gender disparities in resource access and decision-making, and investing in healthcare, education, and social safety nets for fishing communities. Promoting alternative livelihoods can alleviate pressure on fish stocks, and empowering local communities through capacity building and community-based management initiatives is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of both the Gulf of Mannar ecosystem and the well-being of its dependent communities. This multifaceted approach holds significant promise for balancing ecological health with human prosperity.
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
