Hurricanes have a major impact on mangrove forest dynamics, in terms of species diversity, canopy coverage, age and size distribution, and biomass.
Differences in mangrove mortality patterns indicate that both initial and delayed tree mortality from hurricanes is complex and based on a variety of local stand characteristics, physical site parameters, individual storm characteristics and the degree of natural and anthropogenic stressors that influence forest health.
Investigation into the long-term dynamics of mangroves and their response to catastrophic events will provide insight into their long-term survivability and estuarine responses.