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In recent times,
mangrove forests are increasingly being recognized and valued
for their uncultivated state and the visual appeal of an
untouched environment that provides recreational and educational
opportunities. This has resulted in larger numbers of people
visiting these areas.
Small-scale disturbances such as trampling on mangrove ecosystems,
has been poorly documented by previous studies in Moreton
Bay and throughout the world. The importance of these disturbances
may have been largely under-estimated as the modification
of mangrove habitats has implications for forest productivity
as well as habitat and nursery quality.
Vegetation is highly sensitive to the action of trampling,
with tracks beginning to form from regular use of the same
area, resulting in significant damage to the immediate habitat.
However, if the action of trampling is sporadic, the effected
vegetation will recuperate with time.
Boardwalks allow easy access to mangrove forests and may
provide immediate relief of trampled areas. They are built
to enhance recreational and educational potential of mangrove
ecosystems while preventing direct damage. Appropriate signage
provides people with a greater understanding and appreciation
of the forests. Nevertheless, there is little known about
the possible impacts of such structures, and the removal
of trees and branches on the flora and fauna of the mangrove
habitats.
Further research needs to be conducted on the effects of
boardwalk construction on mangrove environments and whether
health impacts are minimal enough to warrant construction
or allow continued damage by trampling to occur.
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| Trampled pneumatophores |
Untrampled pneumatophores |
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