What halts mangroves growing beyond the subtropics? A wood anatomical survey from the borders in Mauritania.

  • Charlene Cotillas ((PhD) Student)
  • Nico Koedam (Promotor)
  • Nele Schmitz (Co-promotor)
  • Elisabeth Robert (Co-promotor)
  • Hans Beeckman (Advisor)

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

Aim
Searching for an explanation why mangroves have latitudinal limits. What hinders them from growing in temperate regions? Why can Avicennia grow further away from the equator than Rhizophora?

Method
In this study we will search for an explanation in the structure of the water transport system of mangroves since water transport is the most fundamental requirement for plant life. Evidently, the research question is wide with many answers from different fields. Propagule dispersal and coastal morphology for example will also play a role.

Wood samples have been collected in Jan-Feb 2009. Both air-dried stem discs and small samples stored in alcohol are available from both mangrove species growing in this region (Avicennia germinans and Rhizophora mangle). Samples were taken at sites differing in soil water salinity and flooding frequency, at different heights in the tree and at two different latitudes.
Date of Award2010
Original languageEnglish
SupervisorNico Koedam (Promotor), Nele Schmitz (Co-promotor), Elisabeth Robert (Co-promotor) & Hans Beeckman (Advisor)

Keywords

  • mangrove
  • wood anatomy
  • latitudinal limit
  • mauritania
  • water transport

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