Changes In Florida's Mangrove Distribution Mangroves also filter water and maintain water quality and clarity. Mangroves can help prevent erosion by stabilizing shorelines with their specialized root systems. A very narrow fringe of mangroves offers limited protection, while a wide fringe can considerably reduce wave and flood damage to landward areas by enabling overflowing water to be absorbed into the expanse of forest. The amount of protection afforded by mangroves depends upon the width of the forest. Mangrove forests protect uplands from storm winds, waves and floods. People living along the south Florida coasts benefit many ways from mangroves. Frequently, all three species grow intermixed. Black mangroves can occur farther north in Florida than the other two species. They are common as far north as Cedar Key on the Gulf Coast and St. Research indicates that salinity, water temperature, tidal fluctuations and soil also affect the growth and distribution of mangroves. Seeds sprout while still on the trees and drop into the soft bottom around the base of the trees or are transported by currents and tides to other suitable locations.įlorida's mangroves are tropical species therefore, they are sensitive to extreme temperature fluctuations as well as subfreezing temperatures. They are elliptical, light yellow green and have two distinguishing glands at the base of the leaf blade where the stem starts.Īll three of these species utilize a remarkable method of propagation. The easiest way to identify the white mangrove is by the leaves. Unlike its red or black counterparts, the white mangrove has no visible aerial root systems. The white mangrove ( Laguncularia racemosa) usually occupies the highest elevations farther upland than either the red or black mangroves. Mangrove branches are rookeries, or nesting areas, for beautiful coastal birds such as brown pelicans and roseate spoonbills. Many animals find shelter either in the roots or branches of mangroves. Florida's important recreational and commercial fisheries would drastically decline without healthy mangrove forests. They also provide food for a multitude of marine species such as snook, snapper, tarpon, jack, sheepshead, red drum, oyster and shrimp. Mangroves provide protected nursery areas for fishes, crustaceans and shellfish. The relationship between mangroves and their associated marine life cannot be overemphasized. Many of these attached organisms filter water through their bodies and, in turn, trap and cycle nutrients. Mangrove roots act not only as physical traps but provide attachment surfaces for various marine organisms. This ecosystem traps and cycles various organic materials, chemical elements and important nutrients. Some secrete excess salt through their leaves, while others block absorption of salt at their roots.įlorida's estimated 600,000 acres of mangrove forests contribute to the overall health of the state's southern coastal zone and beyond. They thrive in salty environments because they can obtain freshwater from saltwater. Within a short drive, residents of some of Florida’s most urban areas can step back in time and experience natural Florida.Mangroves are one of Florida's true natives. The park is a vestige of the coastal berm and mangrove forest habitats that were once much more wide spread around the Tampa Bay shoreline and in Florida. The same isolation that requires a boat for access contributes to the protection of the barrier islands and the persistence of the park’s natural resources. There are several paddling trails adjoining and around the park including the Snook Paddling Trail, Horseshoe Crab Paddling Trail and Little Manatee State Trail. The water around the park is an ideal place for fishing, kayaking canoeing, paddle boarding and bird watching. The gulf vistas of the park and occasional sand beaches are best viewed from a canoe or kayak on one of the marked trails available adjoining the park. The combination of open and sheltered bay waters, mangrove swamps, habitat for imperiled birds and the Florida manatee make for a scenic and peaceful experience. Paddlers can explore between the small mangrove islands and enjoy a picnic on one of the upland islands that has a sandy beach. They are a wonder to visit by boat, paddleboard, kayak or canoe. These small islands dot the coast from the mouth of the Little Manatee River south to Cockroach Channel. The park protects one of the last remaining swaths of undeveloped mangrove barrier islands.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |