Site Selection Criteria for Mangrove Afforestation Projects in Oman

Abstract

The ability of Avicennia marina, the only indigenous mangrove species in Oman, to tolerate both an arid climate and high salinity allows this tree to form an integral part of the coastal habitat. Fouda and Al-Muharrami (1996) estimated the area of mangroves to be 1003 ha, scattered around the coast in no less than 30 sites. The factors that allow mangroves to flourish in some sites and not others are not fully understood. It has been speculated that over grazing in isolated areas eradicated trees and dispersal from distant forests has not occurred. Other possible causes for decline in mangrove forests are the climate shift to more arid conditions some 6000 years ago, excessive exposure to wind and tide action, and unsuitable soil properties at many locations for germination and seedling development. In an attempt to arrest the decline in mangrove areas, a comprehensive afforestation program has been initiated. [...]