Dynamic Ecology of Mangroves

The study of mangroves has evolved over time, from the earliest historical and biogeographic descriptions of the 16th and 17th centuries made by travellers and explorers who encountered this unique ecosystem in the tropical and sub-tropical areas, to the present century where the ecosystem is among the most endangered in the world. Section One contains a biogeographic description of mangrove forests based on recognized regions which do not necessarily follow eco-regional patterns. Section Two deals majorly with mangrove habitats and environment. It treats the evolution of mangrove habitat, the morphology of the habitats and how species assemblages are indicators of habitats types. Section three adopts a quantitative approach to the analysis of mangrove forest structure. Section Four deals with mangrove ecosystem threats and functions. The main threats faced by the mangroves are examined, including the scale of mangrove loss globally and in regions. Mangrove ecosystem functions and services are also discussed, including valuation which has been in serious debate as it determines attitude which people adopt to mangrove management.