Effect of Salinity and Substrate on the Emergence and Growth of Propagules of the Mangrove Species Rhizophora racemosa in the Sassandra-Dagbego Ramsar Complex, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the behaviour of seeded propagules of Rhirophora racemosa (R. racemosa) on different substrates and under different salinity levels. Three substrates including sand, mud and a mixture of the two were tested together with tree salinity levels (low 5%, moderate 10% and high 25%). R. racemosa seedlings were more likely to emerge and grow under moderate and low salinity conditions. The propagules had significant early growth in mud compared to sand and mud-sand mixture. The combined effect of salt and substrate influenced significantly propagules performance in nursery (p<0.001). High propagules emergence and growth were observed in the combination mud and salt treatments as compared to sand and san-mud mixture substrates. These results provide valuable information for the management and restoration of mangroves, highlighting the optimal environmental conditions for the successful regeneration of this species.