A mangrove community in the New Hebrides, south-west Pacific |
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Authors: | ADRIAN G. MARSHALL F.L.S. LORD MEDWAY F.L.S. |
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Affiliation: | Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB9 2TN;Great Glemham House, Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 1LP |
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Abstract: | A general survey of the mangal at Port Stanley, Malekula, New Hebrides, the most extensive mangal in the archipelago, was conducted over an 11-day period in September/October 1971. Seventeen species of true mangrove tree and mangrove associates were recorded. As is characteristic of mangal, this flora was distributed in a zonal pattern, four zones being recognized. Certain anomalies in zonation were attributed to a recent episode of crustal uplift. The aquatic component of the fauna was dominated by molluscs (26 species) and Crustacea (20 species). The terrestrial vertebrate fauna consisted of 4 species of reptiles, 21 birds and 5 mammals. The mangrove community at Port Stanley is an integral part of that of the Indo-West Pacific region. However it is much restricted in number of species, and reasons for this are suggested: distance from Malesia, lack of fresh water, and shallow soils with little silt deposition. Faunal impoverishment is clearly associated with floral impoverishment. |
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