Are there general spatial patterns of mangrove structure and composition along estuarine salinity gradients in Todos os Santos Bay

摘要: Abstract Species distribution and structural patterns of mangrove fringe forests along three tropical estuaries were evaluated in northeast Brazil. Interstitial water salinity, percentage fine sediments organic matter content investigated as explanatory variables. In all (Jaguaripe, Paraguacu Subae estuaries), it was observed similar four species these mostly related with interstitial salinity. Rhizophora mangle Avicennia schaueriana tended to dominate sites under greater marine influence (lower estuary), while germinans Laguncularia racemosa dominated areas freshwater (upper although the latter showed a wider over estuarine gradients. Organic best explained canopy height mean height. At higher salinities, there practically no correlation between density, but at lower decreases abundances. The described can be interspecific differences salt tolerance competitive abilities they are likely found other Atlantic estuaries. Future studies should investigate anthropic influences causal processes order further improve design monitoring restoration projects.