Lai and Leaf Size Differences in Two Red Mangrove Forest Types in South Florida

Leaf area indices (LAI) were evaluated for two different red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle L.) forest types (basin and dwarf) in southeast Florida using the plumb line and canopy light interception methods, LAI and leaf size (length, width and area) were found to be significantly different in the two forest types, The basin forest type had the highest LAI (5.7), lowest light transmissions (7.2 percent of ambient) and the largest leaf dimensions in contrast to the dwarf type (LAI 3.0, percent light 17.2). The results reflect different environmental forces acting upon each location and reinforce the practical ecological value of the classification of mangrove forest types.