Abstract

Effective management of marine reserves requires accurate and comprehensive data on fishery resources and fishing activities. This study explores the utilization of the Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART) to collect fishery-dependent data from fishers at the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve. The primary focus of data collection is on queen conch, Caribbean spiny lobster, and finfish, which are important species for both ecological and economic reasons. The SMART system collects species-specific data, including catch composition, size distribution, and abundance, providing valuable insights into the status of target species within the marine reserve. Additionally, the system captures spatial data, including information on fishing locations, to enhance the understanding of fishing patterns and resource distribution. Furthermore, data on fishers and their fishing gears are collected, enabling a comprehensive assessment of fishing effort and gear usage, contributing to a better understanding of fishing activities.The collected data aims to improve the management of the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve by enhancing the understanding of fishery dynamics, identifying potential hotspots of fishing activity, and assessing the impacts of fishing on target species. These findings will facilitate evidence-based decision-making, guiding resource allocation, implementing effective fishing regulations, and developing appropriate enforcement measures. This study highlights the importance of utilizing innovative tools like SMART to support the sustainable management of marine reserves and the preservation of fishery resources.