ECI and ACES have joined in partnership to aid in wildlife and habitat conservation on Ambergris Caye. Together, they are undertaking their first project: mangrove reforestation on Ambergris Caye.
There are many small-scale attempts at mangrove nurseries and reforestation in Belize and neighboring countries with similar ecosystems. These efforts have yielded positive results thus far. The methodology varies from person-to-person and with differing restoration sites. As an example, mangrove propagules need far greater protection in their younger years when planted in the turbulent ocean. In contrast, propagules in the sheltered lagoon habitat require less protection.
Red mangrove – a complex web of roots vital to the ecosystem
ACES has opted to focus on the red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle). This is a particularly important species of mangrove that grows directly in water. The above-ground roots of the red mangrove are adapted to thrive in the harshest of tropical conditions. They are vital to the overall ecosystem from the lagoons to the coral reef. The complex web of roots traps sediment and soil. This holds the land together, preventing long-term erosion and providing protection during storm surges. Additionally, it prevents sediments from reaching and suffocating the reef. The root system also provides a home and nursery to hundreds of species of fish, reptiles, crustaceans, and in many cases, mammals.
Areas of reef with mangrove forests nearby have up to 25 times more fish on the reef than areas where the mangrove have been destroyed. Mangroves are also vital in the fight against climate change. Their forests can remove and store up to 10 times more carbon from the atmosphere than a similarly sized terrestrial forest. Indeed, we cannot overstate the importance of this incredible species of flora.
First harvesting of seeds
Early in July, ACES did its first harvesting of mangrove seeds that were big enough for propagating. They soaked a few hundred seeds for a week before replanting them at the chosen site. The location is particularly important. Belize legislation protects mangroves, but they receive little protection on the cayes, and enforcement of the law often lacks effectiveness. Development destroys mangrove and the surrounding wetland habitat on a daily basis. Due to this lack of regulation, most wetlands that could use restoration are in the possession of private citizens and developers. They often eradicate the mangroves and fill in the area to create profitable “reclaimed land.”
ECI’s property to the west of Ambergris Caye, the site of TES Village, will be the first testing ground for this exciting project. The bedrock is too shallow for planting in the actual pond. However, experts have declared the mud flats on the south side next to the pond as excellent for the seedlings. On July 11th, ACES’ Chris Summers reported that 416 mangrove seeds were planted in the adjacent waters just south of the TES Tiny Home development, expressing excitement.
Progress
According to Chris, the area is great to begin with. It’s trying to restore itself from prior destruction when the area was under development. “There’s already a natural slope of black mangrove growing in the shallows spreading out, but given the location, lack of proper tides, and the fact that there’s only one adult reproducing mangrove bush nearby, the red mangrove seems to be struggling to take back hold, so this seems like a perfect spot to start the project and lend a helping hand,” said Chris. He also believes the area could handle a few thousand seeds being planted, as it’s still uncertain which percentage of them will take hold.
It is truly exciting for ECI to be part of such an incredible project. We will closely monitor the newly planted seeds. Likewise, we will provide updates, especially regarding upkeep, new developments, and changes in planting methodology if necessary.
About ACES: ACES is a non-profit organization permitted by the Belize Forest Department and dedicated to the conservation of Belize’s critical wetland habitats and protected species, specifically Crocodilians, through scientific research and education to preserve wildlife for future generations. Website: https://www.aceswildliferescue.org/
