Subscribe now

Life

Alligators create hotspots for life by digging holes with their snouts

Alligator ponds have a greater diversity and abundance of plants and animals compared with the surrounding marsh, and offer aquatic refuge in dry months

By Corryn Wetzel

11 June 2023

Alligators in Florida help other life thrive

Alligators in Florida help other life thrive

Shutterstock/SunflowerMomma

Alligators living in Florida marshes create nutrient-rich hotspots that help some algae, plants and other animals thrive.

Animals like beavers are widely considered ecosystem engineers – by felling trees and building dams, they change their environment in ways that benefit other species. But American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) have rarely been considered for their impact on wetland ecosystems, despite their penchant for making a mark on the landscape. From the mucky wetland slough, the large reptiles use their snouts and tails to dig holes in …

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 14th June 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account