Structural characterization, reproductive phenology and anthropogenic disturbance of mangroves in Costa do Sol, Bons Sinais Estuary and Pemba-Metuge from Mozambique

Abstract

Mangrove forests are among the most important ecosystems with high ecological and economic value. In order to better understand and conserve this ecosystem, we aim to provide an overview of mangrove structure along the southern, central and northern parts of Mozambique, in Costa do Sol (CS), Bons Sinais Estuary (BSE) and Pemba-Metuge (PM), respectively. A total of 10 plots/site (10 × 10 m) along a transect perpendicular to the seashore were used. Inside the plots, the stem diameter and height were measured, and the species identified. The phenology and deforestation were categorized, and dead stumps were identified by species and its diameter measured. A total of five mangrove species were observed at BSE, four at PM and three at CS. BSE presented the greatest mean height at 3.3 m, as well as the highest complexity at 22.7. Avicennia marina was identified as the most ecologically important species in all the study sites. During May, A. marina trees were mainly dormant, while those of Ceriops tagal and Rhizophora mucronata were flowering and fruiting. Intact trees were dominant in all the study sites. This study will contribute in designing and implementation of sustainable strategies for conservation of mangrove forests in Mozambique.