Mauritius is emerging as a significant contributor to global “blue carbon” sequestration through coastal ecosystems, particularly mangroves, which enable the long-term capture and storage of atmospheric carbon dioxide in biomass and sediments (Doodee et al., 2025). While Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are often assessed primarily in terms of climate vulnerability, scientific evidence indicates that Mauritius demonstrates a comparatively high blue-carbon capacity, by hosting some of the most carbon-dense mangrove forests in the world.
The Ferney Standout: A "Global Super-Sequestrator"
The mangrove forest at Ferney is a remarkable example of ecological productivity. It is characterized by high carbon stocks, as reflected in its elevated above-ground biomass (AGB), and exhibits relatively high carbon-fixation efficiency (unpublished).
Exceptional Growth: The Ferney forest has recorded an AGB of 326.2 t/ha.
Global Comparison: This figure is significantly higher than the global average for Rhizophora mucronata (94.8 t/ha) and even exceeds the average for Rhizophora species in general (281 t/ha).
Steady State: Having reached a biological "steady state" as early as 2010, the maturity of the Ferney forest allows it to maintain a high level of carbon storage compared to younger or less established sites.
Soil Carbon Wealth: Hidden Treasures in the Sediment
Beyond the visible trees, the true power of the Mauritian mangroves lies beneath the surface. The sediment at Ferney acts as a massive carbon sink, trapping organic matter for centuries.
Organic Carbon: The Total Organic Carbon (TOC) levels at Ferney reached 47.34%. This concentration exceeds the standard global range for mangrove sediments, which typically falls between 2.00% and 40.00%.
Environmental Factors: This high carbon storage is supported by the site's unique environmental conditions, including relatively lower salinity (5–15 ppt) and high availability of essential nutrients like magnesium and ammonium.
A Local Solution to a Global Crisis
These findings transform our understanding of the Mauritian coastline. By protecting and restoring these high-performing sites, Mauritius is not just preserving local biodiversity; it is making a scientifically significant contribution to the global fight against climate change. Our mangroves are more than just trees—they are vital tools for a climate-resilient future.