In a new study published in Science Advances, scientists have found that the oscillation of the moon’s orbit or ‘moon wobble’ has a significant impact on the mangrove canopy cover of the world. Now, the study has found that these long-phase tidal cycles pla an important role in the regulation of tidal wetland ecosystems— such as the growth of mangrove forests. Scientists from Macquarie University analysed high-resolution satellite images of the mangrove canopy cover and extent across the Australian continent over a period of 33 years from 1987 to 2020. They found that the mangrove canopy cover fluctuated at an interval of about 18 years. The lead scientist of the study, Dr. Neil Saintilan, found a strong link between the fluctuations of the mangrove canopy cover and the lunar wobble.

Source: The Hindu September 25, 2022 01:57 UTC