Mangrove trees are on the move, taking the tropics with them

Mangrove trees are shifting poleward due to climate change, impacting coastlines and ecosystems. Ecologist Ilka C. Feller has been tracking their migration in North America for two decades, revealing changes in subtropical boundaries. Mangroves provide crucial coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat for various species. Despite facing threats like development and extreme weather, mangroves are expanding in some regions like northern Florida, Australia, Brazil, and South Africa. Their migration poses challenges and opportunities, influencing coastal landscapes and biodiversity. The movement of mangroves northward in Florida has led to the discovery of the northernmost mangrove specimens in the U.S., indicating a significant range expansion. Researchers are studying the implications of this migration on associated species and ecosystems. The coexistence of mangroves and salt marshes raises questions about habitat competition and resilience to climate change impacts. Understanding and predicting mangroves' movements remain a key focus for ecologists like Feller, highlighting the complex interactions between plants, animals, and changing environments.