the Impact of Salinity on Growth Avicennia germinans in Gabon

This book is based on the article ''Impact of salinity on the infradensity of Avicennia germinans wood collected from different habitats in Greater Libreville'' which was written by numerous authors, including Messrs. Mabicka Iwangou Saint Bickolard, Safou Tchiama Rodrigue, Besserer Arnaud, Masson Eric, Andzi Barhé Timoléon, and Gérardin Philippe. Mr. Mabicka Iwangou Saint Bickolard was the corresponding author of this article and also the editor of this book. Mangroves grow in saline environments, among others. Salinity is an important factor for mangrove growth. Avicennia germinans is the only species of the Avicennia genus found in the mangroves of Gabon. This species grows best in areas with lower salinity; conversely, in areas with high salinity, we find stunted Avicennia germinans trees. This difference in the growth of Avicennia germinans trees can be explained at the level of wood tissue. In areas of high salinity, for example, salinity increases the density of the vessels, reduces their diameter, and narrows the spacing between growth rings. This results in an increase in the infradensity of Avicennia germinans wood.