Small-scale disturbance and regeneration dynamics in a neotropical mangrove forest

Background

This study focuses on regeneration dynamics of mangrove species in lightening-created gaps, in the Dominican Republic.

Goals & Methods

The objective of the study was the quantify the following: (i) the spatial patterns of overstorey and understorey tree distributions; (ii) the spatial and temporal patterns of lightning‐created gap formation; and (iii) tree regeneration in lightning‐created gaps and beneath the closed forest across the intertidal zone. To do so, the authors surveyed 52 of 1257 lightening-caused gaps (1.9% of the forest canopy) which they identified using aerial photography and field reconnaissance.

Conclusions & Takeaways

The authors found that Rhizophora mangle regeneration dominates in lightening-created gaps because of its low mortality rate in comparison to other species. The authors also found dramatic soil compaction underneath lightening-caused canopy gaps, and suggest that R. mangle may dominate in these gaps due to its relativcely high flooding tolerance.