“…The analytical procedures do not consistently reveal the complexity of bioavailability, distribution, and assimilation processes of the elements affecting the plants (Parker et al 2001). Despite this limitation, altogether, these procedures suggest that mangroves act as an efficient biogeochemical barrier to metal transport (Cuzzuol and Rocha 2012). The dual role of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn, which can be either nutrients, or toxic elements in mangrove ecosystems, has been addressed by several studies (MacFarlane et al 2003;Andrade et al 2005;Kannappan et al 2012).…”