Does increased nutrient loading alter plant community structure in tidal wetlands and what are the consequences for ecosystem nutrient retention? • back to student info • back to people Jock Mackenzie, Norm Duke, Cath Lovelock Marine Botany, Centre for Marine Studies, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia QLD 4072 commenced: March 2007 jock.mackenzie@uq.edu.au

Tidal wetlands (saltmarsh and mangroves) are recognized as a sink for nitrogen and phosphorous. However, little is known how plant community structure alters nutrient retention capacity and in turn, how altered nutrient loading influences plant community structure. This project will examine the relationship between tidal wetland plant community structure (biomass, cover, species composition and species frequency distribution) and nutrient flows to determine if increased nutrient loading alters plant community structure and if plant community structure influences the nutrient retention capacity of the tidal wetland system. The outcomes of this project will inform future management decisions concerning catchment nutrient loading and enhance existing knowledge regarding the role of tidal wetlands in protecting in-shore coastal waters from eutrophication.