Operationalizing social-ecological system-based fishery management employing a system dynamics model: Lessons from eel fishery

• A participatory system dynamics (SD) modeling framework is proposed. • The framework operationalizes SES-based management. • The participatory SD modeling reflects stakeholder heterogeneity in decision-making. • The SD model captures the complexity of eel fisheries in Central Java Province. • Uncertainty analysis identified adult eel survival as a key leverage point. The sustainability of tropical eel fisheries is increasingly threatened by overexploitation and environmental degradation. Addressing the complexity, uncertainty, and heterogeneity inherent in their social-ecological systems (SES) is critical for effective management. This study presented a participatory system dynamics (SD) modeling framework to operationalize the SES concept in fishery management through four stages: (1) SD modeling to address the complexity of SES by capturing feedback loops among ecological components, social components, and their interactions; (2) uncertainty analysis to explore variability in model parameters; (3) participatory scenario analysis to incorporate diverse stakeholder perspectives and co-develop feasible interventions; and (4) sustainability assessment to ensure alignment of the proposed scenarios with long-term management goals. The baseline results revealed a rapid shift from resource growth to depletion, influenced by inherent time delays in the eel life cycle. Scenario analyses indicated that reducing fishing efforts promoted stock recovery; however, it might not ensure sustainability. Uncertainty analysis identified the adult eel survival rate as a critical leverage point for stabilizing the population. These findings highlight the need for integrated strategies that combine effort reduction with conservation measures aimed at key life stages, including seasonal closures, size limits, and protected migration routes. The participatory approach enhances stakeholder understanding, promotes dialogue, and builds consensus on sustainable practices, thereby demonstrating the value of co-developed models. This framework not only advances the operationalization of SES-based management in tropical eel fisheries but also serves as a scalable model for addressing the sustainability challenges of natural resources in diverse social-ecological contexts worldwide.