Duke, Norman C. (1992) Mangrove floristics and biogeography. In: Robertson, A.I., and Alongi, D.M., (eds.) Tropical Mangrove Ecosystems. Coastal and Estuarine Studies Series (41). American Geophysical Union, Washington, D.C., pp. 63-100.

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Abstract

Mangroves are a diverse group of predominantly tropical trees and shrubs growing in the marine intertidal zone where conditions are usually harsh, restrictive and dynamic. Here, they are subject to both shorter term rhythms of tides and seasons, as well as longer term changes of climate and sea level. As a group, they share several highly specialised and collectively well-known adaptations, notably exposed breathing roots, support roots and buttresses, salt excreting leaves, and viviparous water-dispersed propagules. However, as individuals, we know less about then, exemplified by the mistaken belief that these characters might be shared equally by all species. Therefore, it this chapter, it was necessary first to clarify and enhance the concept and definition of what is a mangrove, prior to discussing their biogeography, and why they occur in certain localities and not others. It will also be seen that the genetic diversity of thes plants belies their ecological uniformity, raising serious doubts fro ideas of shared ancestry with theit co-inhabitors. Finally, the concept of the mangrove habitat wiil be enhanced by knowing more about the individuals that provide te structural framework and trophodynamic coherence to this unique ecosystem.

Item ID:	48895
Item Type:	Book Chapter (Research - B1)
ISBN:	978-0-87590-255-5
Keywords:	mangrove; plants; floristics; distribution; biogeography; salinity; world
Funders:	Minerals Management Service (MMS), Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI)
Projects and Grants:	MMS Contract No. 14-12-0001-30393
Date Deposited:	15 May 2017 05:45
FoR Codes:	06 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 0603 Evolutionary Biology > 060302 Biogeography and Phylogeography @ 30% 06 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES > 0602 Ecology > 060205 Marine and Estuarine Ecology (incl Marine Ichthyology) @ 30% 05 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES > 0502 Environmental Science and Management > 050202 Conservation and Biodiversity @ 40%
SEO Codes:	97 EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE > 970106 Expanding Knowledge in the Biological Sciences @ 30% 96 ENVIRONMENT > 9608 Flora, Fauna and Biodiversity > 960802 Coastal and Estuarine Flora, Fauna and Biodiversity @ 40% 96 ENVIRONMENT > 9605 Ecosystem Assessment and Management > 960503 Ecosystem Assessment and Management of Coastal and Estuarine Environments @ 30%
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