Mangrove interaction with saltmarsh varies at different life stages

Area of Science:

• Coastal Ecology
• Marine Biology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Mangroves and saltmarshes are vital coastal ecosystems providing essential services like coastal protection and climate mitigation.
• These habitats often co-occur, leading to complex ecological interactions that influence their structure and function.
• Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective coastal management and conservation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current scientific knowledge on ecological interactions between mangroves and saltmarshes.
• To propose a conceptual model illustrating these interactions across different life stages and saltmarsh types.
• To discuss the implications of these interactions in the context of anthropogenic threats and climate change.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review screening 1410 articles published between 1945 and 2022.
• Selection of 29 experimental studies focusing on mangrove-saltmarsh ecological interactions.
• Development of a conceptual model based on synthesized findings.

Main Results:

• Interactions between mangroves and saltmarshes can be both positive (facilitation) and negative (competition).
• Mangrove propagule retention and establishment are enhanced within saltmarshes, particularly with grass species.
• Mangrove seedlings, saplings, and trees generally compete with saltmarshes, negatively impacting mangrove growth.

Conclusions:

• The outcome of mangrove-saltmarsh interactions varies depending on the mangrove life stage and the type of saltmarsh.
• A conceptual model is proposed to predict interaction outcomes based on these factors.
• These interactions are critical to consider alongside anthropogenic pressures and climate change for coastal ecosystem resilience.