Beyond Protected Boundaries: Uncovering Six Decades of Mangrove Recovery in Thailand
Main findings: Over 90% of mangrove recovery in the studied Thai landscapes (1987–2025) happened through natural regeneration, not active planting, indicating that the inherent ecological processes are robust enough to facilitate recovery without human intervention. This underscores the importance of allowing nature to take its course rather than relying heavily on artificial methods of restoration, which can sometimes lead to unintended consequences.
Ecosystem Quality: Naturally regenerated forests with surviving mature trees achieved biodiversity and structural complexity comparable to pristine natural stands, further emphasizing that maintaining the legacy of these trees is crucial for creating resilient ecosystems. The presence of a variety of species fosters a complex web of interactions that enhances overall ecosystem functionality and health.
The “Xylocarpus paradox”: Large, surviving legacy trees play a disproportionate role in driving forest structure and aiding recovery. These trees not only provide habitat for various species but also contribute to nutrient cycling and soil stability, making them integral players in the restoration process.
Conservation Takeaway: Highlights the value of protecting mature trees and recognizing these recovering landscapes as potential OECMs (Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures), rather than relying solely on planting trees from scratch. By implementing strategies that safeguard existing trees and their surrounding environments, we can create a sustainable approach to conservation that recognizes the dynamic nature of ecosystem recovery.
