Mangroves
Mangroves are plants adapted to life in shallow, muddy, brackish waters, however the word ‘mangrove’ can also be used to describe the habitat these plants live in. Worldwide there are 69 recognised species of mangrove, with 10 of these known to inhabit the Fraser Coast.
Mangrove forests are diverse communities, found in the intertidal zone of coastal rivers, bays and estuaries. Due to their location, they are frequently subjected to fluctuations in salinity, temperature, nutrients and oxygen availability.
The conditions they tolerate are much harsher than those of other plant species. This makes mangroves unique in their ability to survive in such a dynamic environment. Different species of mangrove have different habitat tolerances. This results in distribution patters known as zonation. Those species which are less tolerant of saline conditions are often found growing higher in the intertidal zone (landward side), or in areas where there is access to significant levels of freshwater.
Species which are more tolerant of saline conditions are found in the lower intertidal areas. These species can also be found in areas where there is minimal tidal influence but increased evaporation from the soil. This creates hypersaline soil, which as times is saltier than seawater.
Mangroves form the interface between marine and terrestrial environments, with animals from both habitats found in these systems. This includes fish, crustaceans, snakes, flying foxes, birds and saltwater crocodiles.
Council has adopted a Mangrove Management Strategy for the city reach of the Mary River. This Strategy recognises the important environmental values of mangroves and the need to actively manage them in high use public areas.