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Blue carbon storage & environmental influences in mangroves, Puerto Rico

Howe, Jahnelle1; Groffman, Peter1; Hernández, William2; Merchant, Shakila3; Pessutti, Jeffery4

Published Mar 25, 2026 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.pnvx0k6zp

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Abstract

Mangrove ecosystems play a crucial role in global carbon sequestration, with carbon storage capacity influenced by site-specific environmental and climatic factors. This study examined carbon storage in two mangrove systems in Puerto Rico—La Parguera and Laguna Grande—and assessed the relative influence of hydrology, sediment deposition, and climate factors on carbon accumulation. Laguna Grande had significantly (p < 0.10) higher carbon storage (166 ± 66 Mg C ha⁻¹ (σ)) than La Parguera (115 ± 68 Mg C ha⁻¹ (σ)). Hydrological processes, including tidal exchange and water residence time, are likely key regulators of organic matter retention and decomposition. La Parguera’s stronger tidal flushing may facilitate organic matter export, while Laguna Grande’s restricted tidal exchange and higher primary production (as evidenced by higher standing biomass) may promote accumulation. Although climatic differences between the study areas—higher temperatures and precipitation in San Juan (Laguna Grande) versus lower precipitation in Lajas (La Parguera)—could influence productivity, decomposition rates, and organic matter inputs, hydrology and sedimentation appear to be primary drivers of carbon sequestration in these systems. These findings underscore the importance of integrating hydrological processes into blue carbon assessments and highlight the need to consider both geomorphological and climate-driven factors in mangrove conservation strategies. As climate change intensifies, understanding how tidal dynamics, sediment deposition, and precipitation shifts interact will be essential for predicting ecosystem responses and developing effective mitigation efforts.