Abstract
Along ria shorelines mangrove assemblages are closely related to habitat types and there is a recurring pattern in their distribution that is linked to the origin and history of the geomorphic units. The coastal geomorphology is related to ancestral landforms developed prior to the post-glacial transgression, as well as to tidal levels, aspect, modern shore-forming processes, and types of hinterland/tidal flat contacts. These historical and process patterns develop distinct geomorphic units which dictate the distribution of habitats and their mangrove assemblages.
Mangrove assemblages are classified according to their habitat: main tidal flat, hinterland fringe, alluvial fan, spit/chenier, tidal creek bank, tidal creek shoal and rocky shore. Within a given habitat there are various physico-chemical gradients which are instrumental in developing zonation within the assemblages. The variety of internal zones within an assemblage is related to the richness of species within the regional species pool which in turn is related to climate.
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Acknowledgements. Preliminary data for this study were collected in 1978 while the author was researching the Mitchell Plateau area and Dampier Archipelago on behalf of Amax Exploration Pty Ltd and Woodside Offshore Petroleum Pty Ltd; quantitative data on mangrove assemblages in Port Warrender were collected while investigating mangrove ecosystems for Mitchell Plateau Bauxite Company. Access and logistic aid by these companies are gratefully acknowledged. Data from Darwin were collected over several years while engaged on research work for Dames & Moore Consulting Engineers/Department of Lands and Housing, Northern Territory. The manuscript was critically read by P. N. Chalmer and I. LeProvost.
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Semeniuk, V. Development of mangrove habitats along ria shorelines in north and northwestern tropical Australia. Vegetatio 60, 3–23 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00053907
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00053907