Abstract & Overview
Mangrove ecosystems are among the most effective natural carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering significant amounts of carbon. However, they are increasingly threatened by the changing climate, which introduces multiple stressors, including sea level rise, increased storm frequency, shifts in precipitation patterns, rising temperatures, and ocean acidification. While these changes can negatively impact mangrove survival and carbon sequestration capacity, some aspects of climate change, such as increased rainfall and sediment deposition, may facilitate mangrove expansion in certain regions. This review evaluates the effects of climate change on mangrove ecosystems, focusing on their ability to store carbon and their vulnerability to environmental shifts. Projections suggest that while mangrove carbon stocks may increase in some areas under moderate climate scenarios, rising sea levels and habitat loss due to coastal squeeze could significantly reduce mangrove coverage and carbon sequestration potential. The uncertainty surrounding future carbon fluxes raises concerns about whether mangroves will remain net carbon sinks or transition into carbon sources by the end of the century. Understanding these dynamics is critical for developing conservation strategies that enhance mangrove resilience and maximize their role in climate change mitigation.