Coral reef ecosystems, integral to biodiversity and local economies, are under increasing pressure from human activities. Understanding these complex socio-ecological systems (SES) necessitates an exploration of both ecological and human behavioral factors. This study investigates the relationship between local fisher perceptions and coral reef health in five Honduran communities, using total biomass as a proxy for overall reef health and commercially significant biomass as a proxy for fishery health. Key findings include significant correlations between higher education levels and non-fishing professions, fishers' observations and overall reef health, emotional ties to fishing and fishery health, and satisfaction with social/governance systems and fishery health. These results underscore the role of human perceptions in managing common-pool resources, challenging traditional management systems that overlook this crucial dimension. The study suggests potential paths for effective resource management, highlighting the need for educational initiatives, livelihood diversification, and enhanced social capital. Despite the correlational nature of the research and some inherent limitations, the study provides critical insights for future transdisciplinary research and sustainable management of fisheries. Further exploration of specific types of perceptions and their impact on reef health is recommended, alongside the use of perception studies to inform and assess conservation strategies.
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