Interconnectivity can be as important as habitat type in explaining carbon stocks in the coastal lagoons of arid regions

Abstract

Coastal blue carbon ecosystems, typically comprising interconnected habitat mosaics, are globally important pathways of carbon sequestration and play a significant role in climate change regulation and mitigation. Current coastal management strategies often rely on simplified regional carbon stock estimates, that overlook the geographical variability and intricate ecological dynamics within these ecosystems. This study adopts a seascape ecology approach to evaluate the role of multiple seascape characteristics on carbon storage in two arid region coastal lagoons. We show that seascape location is the most influential driver of carbon stocks. Additionally, carbon isotopic variability, a proxy for connectivity, can be as influential as habitat type, particularly in the UAQ lagoon. This challenges the conventional reliance on data from individual habitat types (e.g., seagrass, mangrove, or tidal marsh) and highlights the context-dependency of carbon stocks. Moreover, the specific characteristics driving carbon stocks vary between seascapes: in Khor Faridah, connectivity to seagrass and mangrove habitats is crucial, while in the UAQ lagoon, sheltered and elevated areas are more influential. Our findings suggest that the interconnectivity between different habitat types, such as mangroves and saltmarshes, significantly enhances carbon storage. This is especially pronounced in large, sheltered mangrove habitat types within upper intertidal zones. Notably, small patches of mangroves, up to 10 ha, are associated with an approximate 10 % increase in carbon stocks. These results underscore the need for a more holistic, context-specific approach to designing nature-based solutions for coastal management and ecosystem restoration. By considering the specific characteristics and connectivity of seascape mosaics, we can more effectively enhance carbon stock potential in coastal ecosystems. This study contributes to a deeper spatially explicit understanding of the complex factors influencing carbon stocks in blue carbon ecosystems, highlighting the importance of tailored management strategies that reflect the unique ecological patterns of each seascape.