In this episode, we'll discuss the three different species of mangroves found in Florida, their northward migration, and the critical role they play in our coastal ecosystems. We'll also share practical actions you can take to help protect these vital habitats.

Learn More: 

• Florida's Mangroves - https://floridadep.gov/rcp/rcp/content/floridas-mangroves

• Mangroves - https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/trees-and-shrubs/trees/mangroves/

• Mangrove Species Profiles - https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/southflorida/habitats/mangroves/species/

• Mangrove propagule image - https://ocean.si.edu/ecosystems/coasts-shallow-water/floating-propagules

• Video of fiddler crab - https://youtu.be/y4dWVCdsXQU?si=M5KI0XjM_KlBhB5d&t=13

• Mangrove Ecosystem Services Field Lesson by Holly Abeels - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G2dsmo6W2do

How You Can Help: 

• Participate in local mangrove planting and restoration projects.

• Avoid using harmful chemicals in your garden that can run off into coastal waters. Not sure where the water from your property flows, find out here: https://mywaterway.epa.gov/

• If you have mangroves on your property that need trimming, please work with a certified mangrove trimmer - https://floridadep.gov/water/submerged-lands-environmental-resources-coordination/content/state-authorized-professional

Sources for this Episode: 

• Narayan, S. et al. (2019) Valuing the Flood Risk Reduction Benefits of Florida’s Mangroves, The Nature Conservancy.

• Assessing the role of mangrove forest in reducing coastal inundation during major hurricanes: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10750-017-3201-8

• The Global Flood Protection Benefits of Mangroves - https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-61136-6