This Guide to Indicators of Reef Health and Social Well-being in the Mesoamerican Reef Region (2007) is the first edition of an evolving toolkit for field scientists, managers, and other stakeholders involved in the long-term study and conservation of the Mesoamerican Reef. It was the first effort to quantify the definition of coral reef health with specific indicators and reference values, designed for a general audience.

The guide also offers practical advice on how reef stewards can apply these indicators to real-world situations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the connections among different indicators. Ultimately, this guide aims to help reef managers use these indicators to catalyze stronger actions to ensure the long-term ecological health and sustainability of our remarkable reefs.