Effects of the expected sea level rise on avicennia marina L: a case study in Qatar

Abstract

A simulation of the expected sea levels rise was carried out by imposing a state of protracted flooding on seedlings of the mangrove species Avicennia marina L. under natural conditions. The imposed flooding resulted in stomatal closure, loss of the variable component of prompt chlorophyll flourescence induction kinetics, and a slight reduction of leaf water potential. However, signs of fast recovery were observed after the period of flooding. The results indicated that A. marina possessed a certain degree of tolerance of metabolic functions to flooding. It is suggeted that sea level rise may favour survival of this mangrove species by provoking colonization of new supratidal flats at the study site