Mangroves of Southeastern Mexico: Palaeoecology and Conservation

ABSTRACT

Pollen analysis on a sediment core from a mangrove area in southeastern Mexico was discussed and aspects of paleoecology, ecology and conservation were considered. The core spans the last 4000 years and evidences changes in a Rhizophora mangle dominated system. Between 3900 and 3500 cal yr BP, pollen data indicate higher levels of precipitation. Between 3600 and 3300 cal yr BP tropical forest near the mangrove area is established, indicated by the presence of Ficus, Moraceae, Fabaceae, Sapotaceae, Rubiaceae and Gymnopodium floribundum. Between 3300 and 3150 cal yr BP, development of tasistal vegetation is evidenced, based on taxa like Acoelorraphe wrightii and Thrinax radiata. The paleoecological evidence is discussed considering mangrove ecology and conservation. Mangroves in southeastern Mexico are impacted by natural hazards, like hurricanes and additionally human activities have severely damaged this economically important ecosystem.