| Summary: | Many coral reef fisheries in developing nations have been, or are currently being overexploited,
leading to negative ecological and socio-economic effects. Yet, many reef fisheries
are often marginalized from policy makers, leading to a lack of effective management and a
poor understanding of these valuable fisheries. For example, the small-scale reef fisheries of
Pulau Banggi, Sabah, Malaysia, have neither been actively studied nor managed before. This
study seeks to understand the dynamics of Banggi's reef fisheries. I first characterize and
analyze the ecological, social, and economic aspects of Banggi's reef fisheries. This is done
based on monitoring fish landings and interviewing local fishers during two field periods in
2004 and 2005. I then use an ecosystem modelling tool to explore different policy options,
and identify a management strategy which is most appropriate given local social and
economic conditions. This study suggests that Banggi's reef fisheries resources may still be
relatively productive, but have declined significantly over time. They are likely to become
depleted in the future if current rates of exploitation are maintained. Results from an
ecosystem modelling exercise, considered within the context of Banggi's socio-economic
environment, indicate that: i) the establishment of a small, community-managed marine
reserve within the current fishing grounds; and ii) the implementation of alternative
livelihood programmes, will be the most suitable courses of action for sustainable
management of Banggi's reef fisheries. === Science, Faculty of === Resources, Environment and Sustainability (IRES), Institute for === Graduate
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