Food web dynamics in the mangrove ecosystem of the Pearl River Estuary surrounded by megacities

Abstract

Global recognition that mangroves support coastal ecosystem services has increased; however, studies on trophic dynamics in mangrove ecosystems remain limited. We seasonally analysed the δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N of 34 consumers and 5 diets to elucidate the food web dynamics in the Pearl River Estuary (PRE). Fish had a large niche space during the monsoon summer, reflecting increased trophic roles. In contrast, the small niche space of benthos over seasons reflected consistent trophic positions. Consumers mainly utilized plant-derived organic matters in the dry season and particulate organic matters in the wet season. The present study with literature reviews revealed characteristics of the PRE food web with the depleted δ¹³C and enriched δ¹⁵N, indicating a high contribution of mangrove-derived organic carbon and sewage input, particularly in the wet season. Overall, this study confirmed the seasonal and spatial trophic dynamics in mangrove forests surrounding megacities for future sustainable mangrove ecosystem management.

Keywords: Benthos; Fish; Mangrove; Particulate organic matters; Pearl River; Trophic dynamics.