Mangrove Restoration trial in Florida, United States

BESE-elements are used in the restoration of black (Avicennia germinans) and red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) in Florida.

Two experiments have been set-up to determine the succes of black and red mangrove growth within BESE-elements and outside of the BESE-elements. One experiment actively planted the red mangrove propagules and black mangrove seeds within the BESE-elements. Another experiment focussed on natural recruitment.

Results show that red mangrove propagules stay fastened and grow within the BESE-elements, while outside of the BESE-elements the planted propagules got washed out of the sediment. Natural recruitment did not happen within the BESE-elements. Black mangrove seeds were not able to grow in the planting experiment, while in the natural recruitment experiment up to 50 black mangrove seeds got stuck in the BESE-elements and sprouted. Project pictures below showcase the results of the first experiments.

Next year, a large scale mangrove restoration experiment will be set-up in Australia.