Seabird nutrient subsidies enrich mangrove ecosystems and are exported to nearby coastal habitats

In this study, we investigate how mangrove ecosystems respond to nutrient subsidies supplied by nesting seabirds. We first quantify seabird guano nutrient input and seabird guano nitrogen isotopes. We then assess the influence of seabirds on mangroves by comparing nitrogen, phosphorus, nutrient ratios and resoprtion efficiency in mangrove leaves sampled from sites with nestings seabirds versus sites without nesting seabirds. We trace the transfer of seabird-derived nutrients within the mangrove ecosystems by comparing nitrogen isotope values in sediment, mangrove leaves, gastropod and crabs at sites with nestings seabirds versus without nesting seabirds. Lastly, we assess the export of seabird-derived nutrients from mangrove ecosystems by comparing nitrate, nitrite and phosphate levels in seawater, and nitrogen isotope values of macroalgae, at sites with nestings seabirds versus without nesting seabirds.

Methods
This dataset was collected within the mangrove forests of Aldabra Atoll (Seychelles) between November 2022 and February 2023.

Details for each dataset are provided in the README file.