Abstract:
Mangrove ecosystems are faced with far more existential threats of erosion than their terrestrial
counterparts. Consequences of their degradation vary from decline in edible aquatic stocks, coastal erosion and aquatic weeds invasion. Mangrove forest dynamics was assessed from multi-temporal analyses of remotely sensed satellite images (mosaics of 1989/90 and 2014/15) within
233,900 hectares. Ground-truthing was accompanied by field measurements in selected forest
stands to characterize structure, estimate biomass and carbon pools. With conservation as overriding goal, a socio-economic survey was conducted to underpin the factors influencing mangrove
forests over-exploitation and qualitatively assess the sensitivity of the locals to resources decline.
The region recorded fifty percent loss of mangrove area during the 25-year period. Low leaf area
index (1.02 - 2.52 m2∙m−2) confirms canopy openness. Above-ground root biomass (kg per root)
ranged between 110.67 and 382.64. The roots demonstrate capacity to fix up to 176 Mg C ha−1 with
average carbon content of 46 percent. Highest carbon pools were in the Eloka-To forest stands, in
near natural conditions. Despite harsh environmental conditions, potential for natural regeneration was evidenced by seedlings density (individuals per m2) up to 76. Pilot survey revealed high
dependence on mangrove resources for direct income (70 percent) and daily energy needs (60
percent). Despite the heightened awareness of the impending dangers posed by mangrove deforestation and willingness to conserve, riverine communities are incapacitated by lack of viable economic alternatives. External interventions are therefore imperative to achieve conservation goals
with long-term implications for climate change adaptation and mitigation.
