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Litterfall production of mangroves in the Huizache-Caimanero lagoon system, México

May 19, 2016

The ecological legacy of the Huizache-Caimanero lagoon system has long been known as a trophically rich and productive ecosystem that supported artisanal fisheries of local and regional importance; however, a decline in fisheries' yields has been observed in recent decades. Mangroves are a fundamental component of this ecosystem, though data records and field studies are lacking in describing their structure and seasonal characteristics. Mangrove litterfall production was monitored during 2012–13 and described for the dominant species, Avicennia germinans (L.) Stearn and Laguncularia racemosa (L.) C.F. Gaertn. Forest surveys and monthly litter collections were obtained along a latitudinal gradient within the larger lagoon system to characterize the forest structure, leaf biomass, and related biological indicators (chlorophyll a concentration and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index [NDVI] estimated on leaf tissues). Results showed that structural characteristics (diameter at breast height, basal area, height, and crown diameter) were greater in Huizache, corresponding to patches with a dominance of A. germinans, while higher stem density was recorded for L. racemosa in Caimanero, comparatively similar to other mangrove habitat in NW Mexico. Litterfall was highest from May to October for both species. Litterfall production was also higher overall in 2012 in comparison to 2013, possibly corresponding with meteorological differences, most notably wind conditions. Annual litterfall production was similar by species across northern and southern Sinaloa. A contrast of the NDVI by site and species showed a wide interval, including low values for A. germinans, suggesting stress conditions for this species.

Publication Year 2017
Title Litterfall production of mangroves in the Huizache-Caimanero lagoon system, México
DOI 10.2112/JCOASTRES-D-15-00242.1
Authors Francisco Flores-Cárdenas, Miguel Ángel Hurtado-Oliva, Thomas W. Doyle, Mario Nieves-Sotol, Sara Díaz-Castro, Marlenne Manzano-Sarabia
Publication Type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Series Title Journal of Coastal Research
Index ID 70171080
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Wetland and Aquatic Research Center