Coral reef livelihoods

Abstract

Coral reefs support the livelihoods of millions of people, overwhelmingly in developing countries. As reefs become increasingly overfished, scientists and managers frequently suggest that dependence on reef fisheries needs to be reduced. Yet, attempts to do so often fail spectacularly and even result in perverse outcomes because the nature of coral reef livelihoods is often poorly understood. Here, I discuss two emerging threads of social science research that are helping to better shape our understanding about coral reef livelihoods. First is a growing appreciation of the non-material benefits that coral reef fisheries provide to people. Coral reefs contribute to people's identity, lifestyle, and social norms, which create a strong attachment to fishing that can keep people in a fishery. Second, a growing body of research is exploring the role of livelihood diversity in collectively organizing to solve overfishing, complying with fisheries and protected area management, fishing intensity, and willingness to exit the fishery. Importantly, current theory and empirical research does not always support the notion that diversification of livelihoods will lead to reduced fishing effort or lower environmental impacts on coral reefs.