Mangroves as alien species: the case of Hawaii

摘要: Prior to the early 1900s, there were no mangroves in Hawaiian Archipelago. In 1902, Rhizophora mangle was introduced on island of Molokai, primarily for purpose stabilizing coastal mud flats. This species is now well established Hawaii, and found nearly all major islands. At least five other or associated Hawaii while none has thrived degree R. mangle, at two have self-maintaining populations (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza Conocarpus erectus). Mangroves are highly regarded most parts tropics ecosystem services they provide, but also important negative ecological economic impacts. Known impacts include reduction habitat quality endangered waterbirds such as stilt (Himantopus mexicanus knudseni), colonization habitats detriment native (e.g. anchialine pools), overgrowing archaeological sites, causing drainage aesthetic problems. Positive appear be fewer, uses local importance, harvesting B. flowers lei-making, some attributed elsewhere, sediment retention organic matter export. From a research perspective, possible benefits presence an unusual opportunity evaluate their functional role ecosystems chance examine unique rare interactions.