Carbon Dynamics of Mangrove Forests Submitted to Distinct Levels of Anthropogenic Stress

Mangroves represent an important forestry resource in tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. Anthropogenic activities have significantly altered biodiversity in these strategic coastal ecosystems. In the Bay of Buenaventura in the Colombian Pacific, mangrove forests have been subjected to anthropogenic impacts. The present study estimated the aerial and underground (roots – sediment) carbon stock values of mangrove forests in the Bay of Buenaventura, based on the anthropogenic disturbance index, population density levels, and the distance from the city´s urban core. Four sampling stations were selected based on these criteria; the two stations closest to the city were Aguadulce and Islalba, and the farthest from the city were Piangüita and Punta Soldado. The magnitude of the carbon stock in aerial biomass was inversely related to the anthropogenic disturbance index, which was highest (8) close to the city of Buenaventura. Punta Soldado showed the highest carbon stock values, whereas, Aguadulce registered the lowest carbon stock. This station showed higher values of the anthropogenic disturbance index and was also the area with greatest amount of waste. These results highlight the importance of evaluating carbon stocks in these ecosystems as indicators of health status.