The Use of Chinampa-like Islets to Restore Mangroves on Collapsed Soil

The restoration of mangroves growing on collapsed soils remains a critical challenge in Mexico, where traditional reforestation efforts often fail due to inadequate feasibility analysis, the absence of reference ecosystems, and insufficient long-term monitoring. In this synthesis, we document over 17 years of development and application of chinampa-like islets in restoring mangroves, a technique inspired by Mesoamerican practices and contemporary ecological principles such as succession and nucleation. The methodology consists of constructing islands of approximately 1 m² by artificially raising the soil surface to match that of a reference mangrove, using structures made from local materials to retain sediments and facilitate the germination and establishment of nursery plants, propagules, and native seeds. We have applied this technique in the Alvarado Lagoon System (Veracruz, Mexico), where it has proven functional, cost-effective, and scalable, achieving remarkable recovery in sites where natural regeneration is impossible due to subsidence of up to 60 cm. Results show progressive crown expansion, island consolidation by Rhizophora mangle root systems, and canopy cover approaching 80% within 7 years. Its large-scale implementation—15,000 chinampas across 40 ha - confirmed its effectiveness under appropriate hydrological conditions. The chinampa technique is a viable tool for restoring mangroves with arrested succession, provided it is implemented with clear ecological reference conditions, microtopographic analyses, and long-term monitoring.