Community Structure and Productivity of Mangroves at Nabq, Red Sea

Abstract

Tree and pneumatophore height and density of Avicennia marina were measured along a point -intersection/band transect at Nabq, Red Sea, to establish possible zonation patterns amongst these mangrove characteristics. There was a significant increase in pneumatophore height and density landwards to seawards. Tree density decreased significantly down the transect. Graphical analysis showed an increase in tree height followed by a decrease at the seaward edge. Investigation of a theoretical increase in productivity (biomass) down the shore by leaf index calculation (leaf index = average leaf area x number of leaves per station) was inconclusive from data obtained.