Mangroves of the Pacific Islands: research opportunities

Abstract

The perception of mangroves by people in the Pacific islands and throughout all the world has changed in the past decades. Today, the economic, social, ecologic, and esthetic values of mangroves are well recognized. Past research on these ecosystems is responsible for the change in perception. However, a review of eleven subjects relevant to the management of Pacific mangrove forests revealed numerous gaps in quantitative understanding of man-grove functions and values. These gaps must be filled if the gains in public perceptions of mangrove values are to be institutionalized through enlightened management. The subjects reviewed were diversity of mangrove habitats; primary productivity; nutrient cycling; food chains; birds, fisheries, and other wildlife; silviculture; response to stressors; restoration; basic biology; values; and changes in sea level. A proposal for mangrove research in the Pacific islands calls for programs with holistic focus, a hierarchical classification of man-grove habitats, a long-term perspective, sensitivity to human and cultural issues, and use of modem research tools such as geographical information systems, networking of permanent research plots, modeling, and team research.

Citation

Lugo, Ariel E. 1990. Mangroves of the Pacific Islands: research opportunities. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-118. Berkeley, CA: Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. 13 p