Social-ecological dynamics of the small scale fisheries in Sundarban Mangrove Forest, Bangladesh

Small-scale fisheries in the Sundarban Mangrove Forest (SMF), a critical ecosystem for Bangladesh, are under severe threat due to mangrove degradation driven by deforestation, illegal logging, and environmental stressors. Despite diversification efforts, artisanal fishers' livelihoods remain intricately linked to the forest's health. The study reveals that these fishers face multiple risks—including tiger attacks, corruption, and natural disasters—which have compelled them to adopt adaptive strategies such as illegal fishing practices, migration, and reliance on women for household tasks. These coping mechanisms, while necessary, further strain the already fragile social-ecological system (SES). The research highlights urgent policy gaps in managing the SMF, emphasizing the need for sustainable resource utilization to protect both the ecosystem and the livelihoods of its dependent communities.

Hoque Mozumder, M. M., Shamsuzzaman, Md. M., Rashed-Un-Nabi, Md., & Karim, E. (2018). Social-ecological dynamics of the small scale fisheries in Sundarban Mangrove Forest, Bangladesh. Aquaculture and Fisheries, 3(1), 38–49. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aaf.2017.12.002