Mangrove ecosystems in Australia : structure, function and management : proceedings of the Australian National Mangrove Workshop, Australian Institute of Marine Science, Cape Ferguson, 18-20 April 1979

Abstract

Mangroves have intrigued naturalists for more than a century and, until relatively recently, were regarded largely as a scientific curiosity. These trees and shrubs which live in the intertidal zone along tropical and subtropical coastlines have been used widely for timber and firewood, but in the last decade or so there has been a growing recognition that mangroves may be important biologically as a nursery and source of food for many marine organisms. This book reviews recent research, much not yet published, on the distribution, biology and stability of mangrove ecosystems in Australia. The contributors, who are all active researchers in the field, clearly identify major gaps in our present knowledge of mangrove ecosystems and offer suggestions for further work. This work will be of particular value to scientists who have interests in mangroves and other coastal wetland systems, and for those concerned with coastal fisheries management. It should also be valuable for agencies involved in the development of coastal zone management policy. Although dealing primarily with Australian mangroves, it should have wide appeal in other countries where mangroves are found, since all mangrove ecosystems have many features in common.