World Atlas of Mangroves
Mangroves, originally considered something of a nuisance in terms of easy coastal access have undergone considerable evaluation in the last 40 years. The culmination must be, currently, the value of mangroves in post-tsumani Aceh; where mangroves flourished, the damage was far lighter. However, there is far more to this ecosystem than just a loss-reducer; their importance in the marine system cannot be underestimated. If all this is to be realised then it is important that there are decent books which catalogue ecology and distribution as well as sound a serious note for the future. This book, far more than the ‘atlas’ the title implies, aims to cover all of these and more.
The opening chapter sets the scene by describing mangrove ecology and distribution. In a succinct, highly accessible format, the reader is taken through the key aspects of mangrove adaptation to their unique environmental situation. A critical evaluation of mangrove distribution follows with a discussion on mangrove ecology. Chapter two takes us on a rapid tour through the use of mangroves by people. Taking the perspective of ecosystem services we see just how much mangroves are “worth” (helped considerably by a table outlining significant research findings in this area. The downside is covered next where humans impact to reduce the ecosystem health. Finally, we look at conservation and sustainable management. Chapter three is a very brief look at how mangrove distributions are mapped. It’s worth paying attention here because the key (Table 3.1) explians the maps and isn’t found elsewhere! The remaining ten chapters look at each major mangrove area working roughly Eastwards starting around E.Africa to Asia, America and finally W.Africa. Each chapter follows a similar pattern. There are enlarged maps of key areas. Each state’s coastline with mangroves is described and the current status of mangrove populations discussed. The ecological value of mangroves is often mentioned as are any major human impacts. Appendices detail species distributions, national species lists and statistical data.
The key to any ecological education is to engage the audience and give them the critical information needed to continue study. By any measure this book covers every single aspect with ease. It starts with very high quality production values that make it visually appealing. The text is pared down to the key parts but not made simple – not an easy task but one the authors have managed to chart comfortably. The addition of so much ecological data to the maps means that the significance of mangroves can be more easily appreciated. For those wishing to study a specific concept or location in grater detail there is a wealth of reference material provided. This is one of the best books on mangroves to be published in recent years. Its breadth, depth and clarity serve as a standard to which other texts must aspire. One of the certain “must-buys” for the library.
