Abstract

Traditional shellfish harvesting plays a crucial role in food security, local livelihoods and the preservation of cultural heritage in coastal communities. This study examined environmental, socioeconomic and circular economy perceptions associated with the artisanal fishery of the “black chinese” snail (Hexaplex nigritus) in the Navachiste Lagoon system, located in the south-eastern Gulf of California. A quantitative, exploratory–descriptive approach was employed using a structured Likert-scale questionnaire administered to 225 fishers. Four analytical dimensions were evaluated: environmental perception, personal-family-social, economic, and circular economy perception. Given the multidimensional nature of the questionnaire, the results were interpreted through item-level response patterns. An exploratory hierarchical cluster analysis using Ward’s method suggested greater similarity between environmental and economic perception profiles, without establishing a definitive relationship. The descriptive results indicated moderate environmental concern (x¯ = 3.12), high sociocultural value (x¯ = 4.49), a negative economic perception (x¯ = 2.32) associated with low income and dependence on intermediaries, and limited adoption of circular economy practices (x¯ = 1.36). It is concluded that, despite its cultural importance, surveyed fishers perceive that the fishery faces environmental pressures and economic constraints and shows an almost total lack of integration of circular economy practices. These findings underscore the potential importance of developing comprehensive policies to promote sustainable management, strengthen marketing, and foster a circular economy for the H. nigritus fishery with the aim of contributing to its long-term sustainability in the region.

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