Marketing Mud: An Analysis of Carbon Sequestration in Ecuadorian Mangroves

Advisor: Dr. John Bruno, Marine Sciences

Amanda DelVecchiaEnvironmental Science

Project Background and Goals

The purpose of the project was to answer the basic question:How much carbon is stored in Ecuadorian mangroves?

What is a mangrove?

Mangroves are halophytic (salt tolerant) woody plants that are specially adapted to the harsh

conditions of the coastline. Three main species were studied:

Rhizophora mangle (Red mangrove)Laguncularia racemosa (White

mangrove)Avicennia germinans (Black mangrove)

Where was the study site?

The project was conducted approximately 6km from the equatorial

town of Muisne (0°36’44” N 80°01’34”). Three restored mangrove

forests( formerly shrimp farms) and three natural (old growth) forests were

sampled.

How were samples collected?

Six randomly selected plots were established per study site. At each

plot, a set of replicate cores were taken and partitioned at 5 cm intervals. 1 cm slices were taken at each interval, and these slices were packaged for carbon analysis here at the UNC lab. This will

enable observation of carbon concentration changes with depth.

Results

• Samples are currently being analyzed using UNC’s facilities and results are expected by December 2011.

• These samples will be analyzed for carbon content, dated using and the cesium fallout, and combined with current satellite imagery of the study sites.

• The data will be used to look for patterns between carbon content and depth in the sediment and between carbon sequestration rates and site characterization (high vs. low exposure and natural vs. restored status)

For more information, please visit adelv.wordpress.com and www.thebluecarbonproject.com.