Wildlife of tidal forested wetlands in the southeastern Atlantic United States

Abstract

Tidal forested wetlands combine hardwood forest structure with the tidal regimes of more coastally associated wetlands. While they are appreciated for their diversity, little is known about their dynamics and how different processes shape wildlife communities. Their ephemeral nature and heterogeneity facilitate habitat refuges for numerous species ranging from waterfowl to reptiles and mammals. These wetlands support species that fulfill numerous ecological roles, ranging from nutrient transport to ecosystem engineering. However, the ecosystem also functions to shape the species composition, with factors such as saltwater infiltration creating ghost forests and increasing available habitat. While inundation and saltwater intrusion are factors in tidal forested wetlands, climate change is increasing these factors beyond recent historic levels. While research efforts are growing, more work must be done to understand how tidal forested wetlands and their species respond and adapt to climate change.