Local Use of Mangroves on the Coast of Southeastern México

Abstract

Mangroves are essential for the well-being of the inhabitants of coastal areas, who have extensive knowledge about the use and exploitation of this resource. However, this knowledge is decreasing, which could trigger negative repercussions for this ecosystem. Ethnobiological investigations make it possible to gather information on the use, management, and exploitation of this resource. Hence, this paper presents a study that is framed around the coastal area of the state of Tabasco, in southeast México, and consists of 74 semi-structured interviews that were carried out, while the local relevance of each mangrove species was evaluated using ethnobiological indices. Three species of mangrove were identified, Avicennia germinans, Laguncularia racemosa, and Rhizophora mangle, and the latter species had the highest Use-Value (UV) Index value of 6.08. A total of 27 forms of forestry use were found, 11 for non-timber use and 16 for timber use. Firewood stood out as the main use with 12.6%, while the use of needles to make cloth and crafts represented the lowest percentage with 0.3%. The uses given by the coastal population to the mangroves and their respective species were influenced by immediate needs and specific characteristics of each species. To ensure the sustainability of mangroves, it is essential to design environmental strategies that integrate local ethnobiological knowledge and promote the active participation of direct users of this ecosystem. These strategies should be incorporated into public conservation policies, recognizing the cultural and economic value that mangroves hold for local communities. By implementing these actions, the relationship between communities and their environment will be strengthened, laying the groundwork for further exploration of coastal ethnobiology.

1. Introduction

The majority of the world’s population is concentrated along the coastal areas [1], thus allowing for the development of a wide range of economic activities such as transportation, tourism, fishing, and aquaculture [2]. In these coastal regions, ecosystems can be found, such as mangroves, which cover a global area of 14,735,900 hectares [3], and play an essential role in the development and functioning of these areas [4].

Mangroves are considered one of the most valuable and productive coastal ecosystems on the planet [5], providing habitat to a wide diversity of species, including human beings [6], turning these areas into essential spaces as an economic source, and means of subsistence for residents of coastal areas [7,8,9,10].

Since prehistoric times, humans have coexisted with mangroves, as demonstrated by ceramic remains from more than 7000 years ago, which were found in the mangroves of South America and East Africa [6]. This ecosystem provides a wide range of environmental goods and services, such as fishing materials, tannins, medicines, fishing ground, firewood, fence posts, charcoal, honey, housing construction materials, habitats for various species, sediment deposition, storage of carbon, nutrients, and protection against erosion, and acts as buffers and stabilizers of coasts [6,11,12,13,14], thus contributing to human development. In this context, mangrove conservation is highly profitable, and has a particular benefit for marginalized communities with limited access to basic services [15].

The use of plants has been accumulated and transmitted from generation to generation, thus establishing a significant link between rural communities and natural resources [16]. This knowledge plays a crucial role in understanding the relationship between humans and the surrounding vegetation, which is essential to the optimization of plant usage for human benefit [17]. In addition, plant use has great value in planning programs for sustainable forest management. However, the rapid decline in knowledge of the traditional uses of plants is an issue of great concern, because the rate of decline is higher than the disappearance rate of the species themselves [18]. Plants have been used by humans in various ways over time, and continue to be used today [17]; these relationships between people and plants are becoming increasingly important in biodiversity conservation [19].

This close relationship between the mangrove ecosystem and the society has been evidenced in research carried out in places such as the City of Bolívar, in the province of Esmeraldas, Ecuador, where mangroves provide services to the community, and mangrove users reciprocate with protection and care [20]. Additionally, the mangrove is recognized as providing food, firewood, construction poles, habitat for aquatic animals, as well as sources of medicines and chemicals in communities adjacent to the mangroves in the northwestern and southern provinces of Sri Lanka [21]. This connection is also present in México, where mangroves are used for various purposes, such as obtaining firewood and poles, fishing, commerce, housing, medicine, and furniture on the public land (ejido) of Cerro de Tumilco, in the municipality of Tuxpan, in the province of Veracruz [22]. This is also true of the Biosphere Reserve Pantanos de Centla, in the province of Tabasco, where the community conserves and restores this ecosystem, while being fully aware of the multiple benefits it provides them, which in turn contributes to improving their livelihoods and well-being [23].

The highly diversified use of this resource is possibly the result of the long-term development of the local population, based on their knowledge of the properties and characteristics of the different materials available [24]. For example, wood is valued for its ability to resist decay and damage caused by termites [6], demonstrating that inhabitants of mangrove areas have traditional ecological knowledge about the species they interact with.

With increasing threats and diverse uses of these ecosystems, it is crucial to analyze the nature and importance of social uses that are present in coastal ecosystems, determine where and to what extent they occur, and evaluate their value to local inhabitants [5]. Therefore, to promote sustainable development in coastal areas, it is necessary to encourage the participation of all interested parties in the implementation of environmental management programs [25]. For this, it is essential to understand how a human group uses the territory to guarantee its survival, since this is directly related to the use that group makes of natural resources [26].

Through ethnobotanical research, we can collect and document information about different plant species and their uses, which will allow us to better understand this interaction. This study responds to the urgent need to document and preserve the knowledge of mangrove users with legal harvesting permits on the coast of the state of Tabasco, México. This will allow for a detailed and up-to-date understanding of mangrove use and management in the region, highlighting its cultural importance and providing a solid basis for future research projects and conservation strategies.

This situation becomes particularly relevant in the coastal zone, where most of the world’s population resides; this area is constantly subject to change due to the construction of both marine and terrestrial infrastructure, which alters the natural dynamics [1]. In Tabasco, the relevance of the coastal zone is increasing, due to the rise in sea level that has accelerated as a result of global warming, which represents a significant threat to coastal plains and small islands [27]. Also, the increase in industrial activity, particularly the intervention of the oil industry with extensive onshore and offshore oil exploitation, is causing tensions in these ecosystems, resulting in the degradation of mangroves, thus causing environmental and social vulnerability for coastal communities situated near the mangroves of the state of Tabasco [28]. An example of this situation is the development of a refinery promoted by the Federal government in the coastal area of the state of Tabasco.

This study distinguishes itself by using an ethnobiological approach to assess the relevance of mangrove species in the region, documenting traditional knowledge and uses that have been underestimated or little explored in previous research. The main objective is to describe the uses and valuation of each mangrove species on the coast of Tabasco, México, using methods that provide an accurate picture of local knowledge.

In addition, this approach seeks to highlight both traditional and emerging uses in order to revalue the benefits offered by mangroves. In this way, it is hoped to lay the foundations for conservation strategies that actively involve local communities, contributing to the sustainable development of the region and to the adaptive and effective management of mangroves.

Therefore, this study responds to the urgent need to integrate scientific and local knowledge into sustainable forest management, establishing a framework that strengthens the protection and management of mangroves in Tabasco.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area

The study region is located on the coast of the state of Tabasco, México, between longitudes 92°28′ W and 94°10′ W, and latitudes 17°15′ N and 18°39′ N, in the south–southeast mesoregion of the country. The study region is bounded to the north by the Gulf of México, to the south by the state of Tabasco itself, to the east–northeast by the state of Campeche, and to the west by the state of Veracruz [29] (Figure 1); it has approximately 200 km of coastline along the Gulf of México [30], and connects with important coastal basins and lagoon systems that support activities such as fishing, aquaculture, agriculture, livestock, and the oil industry [31]. Among the most representative ecosystems are the flooded palm forest, hydrophilic vegetation, and the mangrove [32], whereby the mangrove area in the state reaches 49,225 hectares [33], which represents 5.4% of the mangrove area of the whole country.

2.2. Data Collection

To understand the interaction of local people with the mangrove, research tours were undertaken in various areas, in order to meet local people who, have legal permits for use and their relationship with the mangrove ecosystem. The research tours made it possible to establish contact with the population and present the project to local authorities. Semi-structured ethnobiological interviews were used in order to gather information about this relationship because their flexibility is adequate for obtaining interpretations that are consistent with the objectives of the research, as noted in the work of Díaz-Bravo et al. [34] and Tejero [35]. The interviews consisted of two sections: the first section addresses demographic data (age, gender, education level, indigenous languages) and the second section collected information on ethnobotanical aspects (species present and uses for each species) such as in the uses of mangrove species. Further, the information obtained in the interviews was complemented with direct observations of the interviewees concerning the use of the mangrove in their daily lives.

To determine the number of interviews, first, all the people (local inhabitants) were identified who traditionally use the mangrove (mangleros), who are part of some common agricultural land (ejido) or coastal town in the state of Tabasco, and who also have permits of mangrove exploitation granted by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). This approach was based on the criteria suggested by Quintana-Peña [36], which establishes the importance of considering for the analysis those individuals who are linked to the problem under study. Subsequently, the sample size (“n”) was calculated, in accordance with the study by Aguilar-Barojas [37], and consequently, it was determined to conduct 74 interviews with a confidence level of 95%, which were selected at random. The interviews were conducted at different stages of the research from 2021 to 2023. Only one member per household was interviewed, in order to avoid duplication of participants within the same household.

The mangrove species were identified using the field guide of Agráz-Hernández et al. [38]. For a more detailed analysis, the uses associated with each mangrove species were initially identified, then they were subsequently grouped, and finally classified into two categories: timber forest products (TFPs) and non-timber forest products (NTFPs).

Before conducting the interviews, a clear explanation of the purpose of the study was given to the participants. Consent was obtained from all participants, guaranteeing the privacy of each interviewee at all times, and ensuring the confidentiality of the information collected.

2.3. Data Analysis

All data provided by the interviewees were recorded and organized in a database using Microsoft Excel 2010. The ethnobotanical uses and taxa identified were evaluated based on the information collected during the interviews. The local importance of each species was determined using ethnobiological indices, which allow for a deeper cognitive analysis and provide information on the mechanisms that influence the creation, loss, and persistence of ethnobotanical knowledge [39,40,41]. These indices were chosen for their ability to provide a broader view of the responses related to the various categories of use of each mangrove species, thus aligning with the objectives of the study.

The indices used to calculate the local importance of each species were the following:

The Use-Value (UV) Index is used to evaluate the population’s preferences towards a specific plant [42,43,44]. It is calculated using the following formula:

$$UV={\displaystyle \frac{\sum UVis}{nis}}$$

(1)

where

$UVis$ represents the sum of the Use Values attributed by the participants for a given species

$nis$ is the total number of participants interviewed

To quantify the use of mangrove plants, mangrove species, and the experience in the species used by the coastal population, the value of Informant Diversity (ID) was used [45]. Informant Diversity was calculated according to the following formula:

$$ID={\displaystyle \frac{Ux}{Ut}}$$

(2)

where

$Ux$ is the number of uses cited by the given informant

$Ut$ divided by the total number of uses

To evaluate the cultural importance of mangrove species in the study area, significant use was determined [46,47] using the following formula:

$$UST={\displaystyle \frac{\mathrm{S}\mathrm{p}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{c}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{f}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{c} \mathrm{U}\mathrm{s}\mathrm{e}\left(s\right)}{\left(nis\right)}}\left(100\right)$$

(3)

where

$UST$ = Level of Significant Use (where T is usually TRAMIL or “Traditional Medicine in the Islands”)

$\mathrm{S}\mathrm{p}\mathrm{e}\mathrm{c}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{f}\mathrm{i}\mathrm{c} \mathrm{U}\mathrm{s}\mathrm{e}\left(s\right)$= number of citations for each species

$nis$ = number of informants surveyed

To evaluate the relationship between demographic variables (gender, educational level, and age) and knowledge about the uses of mangrove species, appropriate statistical tests were applied. The chi-square test was used to assess associations between gender, educational level, and knowledge of mangrove species’ uses. To examine the relationship between age and knowledge of these uses, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed. All the analyses were performed using RStudio software (version 4.2.1 for Windows).

3. Results and Discussion

3.1. Demographic Analysis

The average age of interviewed participants was 59.9 years, with a minimum age of 37 years and a maximum age of 85 years. Regarding distribution by gender, it was found that 79.7% of participants interviewed were men and 20.2% were women. Age and gender will reflect the dynamics of social roles that have been established in the use of mangrove in the area under study, with a pronounced male predominance that is in line with the historical tradition which has given men a predominant role in activities linked to these coastal ecosystems. This gender disparity in participation can be attributed to the differentiated assignments of social roles in the use of natural resources [48].

Regarding educational level, according to Mexican standards, the following percentages were found: 5.4% had completed their university studies (higher or tertiary level), 6.7% had completed preparatory education (higher secondary level), 21.6% had completed secondary education, and 31.0% had completed primary education (basic level), while 35.1% had not received any formal education.

It was identified that 2.07% of the interviewed population spoke an indigenous language, specifically Chontal. These data are consistent with the records of the 2020 Population and Housing Census, which indicates that 4.0% of the population of the state of Tabasco speak an indigenous language [49].

The results of the chi-square test indicate a significant relationship between gender and educational level and knowledge about the uses of different mangrove species (χ² = 23.84; p < 0.0001 and χ² = 27.49; p < 0.0001, respectively). This suggests that both sociodemographic variables influence the distribution of knowledge regarding mangrove uses. The analysis of variance did not show a significant relationship between age and knowledge of mangrove uses (F = 0.96; p > 0.51). Although this result suggests that, in general terms, age is not a determining factor, the existence of differences for specific types of uses could be possible.

3.2. Mangrove Species

The interviewees identified three mangrove species in their local area: Rhizophora mangle Linnaeus (red mangrove or “colorado mangrove”), Laguncularia racemosa (Linnaeus) Gärtner (“white” mangrove), and Avicennia germinans Linnaeus (black mangrove or “prieto” mangrove). This is consistent with the mangrove species composition described in the Mecoacán lagoon in the state of Tabasco, México [50]. That is, three of the four species previously reported for the coastal plain of Tabasco were confirmed [51]. In addition, 9.4% of the interviewees mentioned a variant of mangrove they call “yellow mangrove”, which they distinguish by its characteristic yellow color when the bark is removed. However, in the present study, this variant was classified as L. racemosa (L. G.) (white mangrove), as there are no specific records to suggest that it is a new species. Therefore, it would be relevant to conduct genetic research to determine whether this characteristic represents variation within a known species, a local variety, or a completely new species. This recognition of local mangrove species highlights the strong ecological knowledge embedded within the community, which has been previously documented in studies from southeastern México [22,52]. In addition, the importance of mangroves in providing environmental goods and services has been recognized [53,54]. This makes it an essential ecosystem for the livelihood of coastal communities, especially in developing countries [55].

3.3. Use Value of Mangrove Species

The highest Use-Value Index was for R. mangle (L.), with 6.08, followed by L. racemosa (L. G.) with 5.04, and A. germinans (L.) with 3.5 (

Table 1. Mangrove ethnobiological indices.

Species	Use-Value (UV)	Informant Diversity (ID) Value (Media ± DE)	Level of Significant Use (UST)
R. mangle (L)	6.08	0.22 ± 0.10	33.7
L. racemosa (L. G.)	5.04	0.18 ± 0.07	21.6
A. germinans (L.)	3.5	0.12 ± 0.06	18.9

). These values reflect the importance of these species in the life and activities of the local people. Differences in Use Values between species may be related both to their physical properties and characteristics, and to the particular needs and preferences of each person. The Use Values obtained in this study are significantly higher than those reported in Ejido Sinaloa, Cárdenas, Tabasco [56], which could be due to differences in cultural perception, dependence on natural resources, and ecological particularities of each area. The higher Use Value reflects the population’s preference for R. mangle (L.), which is consistent with Chil and Ramírez [25], who report that this species is culturally significant. This underlines the need for sustainable management, as species with high cultural relevance tend to have greater potential for future research on the characteristics that make them useful, as well as for studies focused on their uses and conservation [57].

Reporter diversity (ID) values recorded were 0.22 for R. mangle (L.), 0.18 for L. racemosa (L. G.), and 0.12 for A. germinans (L.) (Table 1). This variation can possibly be attributed to the geographical location that acts as a link between the marine environment and local communities [28,31]. In addition, cultural and traditional practices of local communities may influence the variation in values, along with other factors such as species availability and accessibility.

The Level of Significant Use indicates that R. mangle (L.) and L. racemosa (L. G.) species are widely used, with values of 33.7% and 21.6%, respectively, exceeding the 20% threshold (Table 1). However, the fact that a species does not exceed this threshold does not imply that it is less important, but possibly that it has a more limited or specialized use. This demonstrates the importance of these species, and suggests that they are considered significant in terms of their cultural acceptance in the study area. This can be attributed to their particular properties and characteristics, which make them particularly useful and valuable for a variety of uses and applications [8,9,58].

Therefore, it is necessary to continue with scientific evaluation and validation studies, which can contribute to a more complete knowledge of the properties, benefits, and possible applications of these species, as well as provide guidance on their sustainable management and conservation.

3.4. Timber and Non-Timber Forest Products Obtained from Mangrove Species

A total of 27 forms of forestry use were identified, and then classified into non-timber forest products (NTFPs) and timber forest products (TFPs). The NTFPs were subdivided into four groups with a total of 11 forms of use, while the TFP were divided into two groups with 16 forms of use (

Table 2. Mangrove use.

Forest Products	Groups	Mangrove Uses	Description	Percentage of Uses
(NTFP)	Dendroenergy	Firewood	Remains of the plant used as fuel for cooking, or to obtain charcoal.	12.6
		Charcoal	A product obtained from the carbonization of mangrove firewood. This process is carried out in ovens where the environment is controlled to avoid the presence of oxygen and to maintain controlled heat.	4.7
	Agricultural implements	Rod o stick “palanca”	A rigid rod that can be used to lift, move, or hold an object.	9.2
		Instruments for rustic work	Tools commonly used in agricultural and forestry environments, such as hooks, which are used to collect or move vegetation during the pruning process.	6.3
		Oars and instruments used in fishing gear	Oars are instruments of different shapes and sizes, depending on the type of boat, while scrapers are utensils used to collect oysters, such as the species Crassostrea virginica.	2.5
		Vegetable support poles	Used to give vertical support to plants, thus helping them grow as straight as possible.	2.5
		Netting needle	Straight, pointed needle with an eye through which the thread is passed. Commonly used to weave or repair fishing nets (i.e., cloths) used in catching fish.	0.3
	Ornamental and artisanal	Leather tanning	Using the tannins present in mangrove bark as a tanning agent.	1.0
		Ornamental	Used to generate visual interest in the environment.	0.8
		Artisanal	A type of artisanal work is carried out, whereby in some cases the roots are used to make figures.	0.3
	Therapeutic	Medicinal use	To treat an illness or disease.	3.4
(TFP)	Wood	Fence posts	Used in the installation of fences to delimit or protect areas of land.	11.9
		Roof support posts “horcones”	A piece that is as straight as possible, with a V-shaped upper part, used to support the roof. The heart of the tree is regularly used.	4.0
		Square posts	Pieces of wood with a square-shaped cross section. These posts are commonly used where strong and durable vertical support is required.	2.2
		Tables	Flat piece which varies in size and thickness depending on needs.	1.5
		Furniture	Made from solid wood or recycled wood, which is often left untreated.	1.0
		Poles for electrical lines	Vertical posts that are used to support cables that distribute electrical energy. These poles are installed on properties where electricity supply is required.	1.0
	Rural or marine construction	Construction props “puntales”	Used to provide vertical support to a structure.	7.6
		Scissors for homes	Used to distribute loads and provide necessary support to hold a roof covering.	6.6
		Beams	Long, rectangular pieces used to support a roof.	4.7
		Formwork “cimbra”	A temporary structure that provides necessary support to ensure that the concrete remains in place while achieving the strength necessary to support itself.	3.4
		Crossbars in homes	Horizontal structural elements used to distribute weight and to reinforce the roof structure.	3.0
		Piles “pilotes”	Used for support and stability in structures built on swampy terrain.	2.3
		Sole plate “solera”	Serves as the base on which the walls will be built.	2.2
		Pattern or stakes	Used to mark specific points at specific locations to guide to the goal of a specific design.	1.7
		Roof struts “chombero”	Used to provide structural stability and prevent water leaks at the highest point of the roof; a rod that passes from one side to the other.	1.1
		Batten “Cintas”	Thin, long piece of wood used to provide support.	1.0

). These results highlight the versatility of mangrove species, demonstrating their ability to be used in a wide range of forest products. This observation is consistent with the study by Walters et al. [59], which emphasized the diversity of products that can be obtained from these mangrove species. Further, the observation agrees with the work of Faridah-Hanum et al. [53], which identified forestry as one of the main activities carried out in mangroves. The above information indicates that it is necessary to have sustainable forest management that guarantees the conservation of mangroves and the continuous provision of these vital resources.

These processes of appropriation and use of forest resources, such as mangroves, are the responsibility of both the community and local merchants [9]. This dynamic is evident in the homes surrounding the mangrove on the Tabasco coast, where people are supported by a variety of activities involving mangroves [28]. Over a period of decades, these communities have depended on both timber and non-timber forest resources for their subsistence [51]. In this context, ethnobiological knowledge plays an important role in people’s ability to manage, conserve, and improve the governance of the mangrove ecosystem [21], and this knowledge permits us to have a deep understanding of the ecology and functioning of mangroves, as well as sustainable practices for their management.

3.5. Mangrove Ecological Dynamics

The coastal characteristics of the study area revealed that the mangrove population has advanced inland, occupying areas that were previously used for agricultural activities. This advance of the mangrove has been driven by ecosystem changes, including coastal erosion and the effects of climate change, which have forced some people to relocate and shift their activities. Additionally, many species that once inhabited the area have been affected, either migrating to other regions or disappearing locally (Figure 2).

Regarding to the structure of the mangrove, two physiognomic types were identified: (A) fringe or edge mangrove, located mainly along the coastline, which is influenced daily by the tides, dominated by R. mangle (L.) and A. germinans (L.) in the tree layer; (B) basin mangrove, located inland behind the fringe mangrove, with less tidal influence. This type features monospecific or mixed forests of L. racemosa (L. G.) and A. germinans (L). These characteristics are consistent with findings reported in Laguna Mecoacán, a coastal plain in the state of Tabasco, México, where fringe and basin mangrove structures are also described [50].

3.6. Non-Timber Forestry Use of Mangroves

Dendroenergy: It was found that firewood is an indispensable resource for the local population in coastal areas who do not discriminate against any species of mangrove since the three species are used for this purpose by all interviewees in this study (Figure 3). This reflects the importance of this resource as a source of energy in coastal areas, which coincides with the study by Furukawa et al. [24], that documented the fundamental role of mangroves as supplies of fuel material for daily use. Further, the collection of mangrove firewood remains the main source of energy, mainly as fuel for cooking in these areas [8,60,61,62,63]. The lack of discrimination between the mangrove species used suggests that all mangrove species are equally valuable as sources of firewood, further reinforcing their importance in the livelihoods of local communities. This was demonstrated in studies by Fernandes et al. [9] and Paniagua-Cano et al. [64], which found that these same mangrove species are used for this purpose.

In relation to the use for production of charcoal, it was found that 37.8% of interviewees use R. mangle (L.) for this purpose, while having less preference for A. germinans (L.) with 10.8% (Figure 3). This preference can be attributed to the specific properties of R. mangle (L.), which is characterized by being a hard wood, with lower moisture content, and reduced mass loss during the carbonization process in producing charcoal. Charcoal production is a common activity in these areas, as demonstrated by Adanguidi et al. [61], who found that this activity constitutes the second most common form of energy used. Furthermore, Guevara et al. [12] note that this activity is used for both self-consumption and sale. Therefore, charcoal production is not only of significant economic importance, but also of social importance, as it contributes to the livelihood of local communities.

Agricultural implements: Five uses were identified, with the highest proportion of mentions for rod o stick “palanca” with 62.2%, showing a preference for L. racemosa (L. G.), likely due to its abundance at the edges of mangroves and its resistance and durability when in direct contact with water [9]. The lowest percentage was for netting needle with which to make cloth (i.e., for fishing nets) with 2.7%, where the interviewees showed preference for R. mangle (L.), due to its durability, and noted that the root of this species is used in the manufacture of needles (Figure 3). This phenomenon is explained by the fact that Rhizophora spp. is a species used as green wood to build tools [62].

The population uses these mangrove species to make oars for rowing and mobility of small boats, or to build fishing traps (Figure 3), since it has been shown that different mangrove species can be used successfully for these purposes [65], as well as for the manufacture of fishing gear, or the preparation of traps to capture shrimp [63,64]. Therefore, the various mangrove species that are present in the area are a natural resource which is used for different purposes, depending on the characteristics of the species. This reflects extensive knowledge about these species and their high valuation.

Ornamental and artisanal: Three forms of use were found, namely, artisanal, ornamental and leather tanning, with 2.7%, 6.8%, and 8.1% respectively, where R. mangle (L.) is used (Figure 3). These anthropic uses of plants are evident in studies carried out by Guadarrama et al. [66] in the southeast of the state of México, where those authors observed the use of vascular plants for ornamental and artisanal or craft purposes. These uses allow the population to be in harmony with the environment, since crafts, for example, are an activity that reduces anguish and stress, and calms the mind [67]. Additionally, mangrove tannin continues to be used in India and Bangladesh for leather tanning [13], demonstrating the ongoing relevance of these practices in integrating natural resource use with human well-being and environmental sustainability.

Therapeutic: Medicinal use stands out as an important practice in the area, since it allows people to treat various diseases or illnesses, which were reported by 27% of the interviewed population, where the species R. mangle (L.) is the only species used for this purpose (Figure 3). The observation on the medicinal use of R. mangle (L.) in the studied region agrees with what was documented by Sol et al. [68], who specifically note the medicinal use of this species on the coast of the state of Tabasco. In that, this plant helps in the treatment of diseases, such as respiratory conditions, diarrhea, fungi, pain, and wound healing [25]. The hemostatic action, for example, is probably due to the presence of various polyphenolic compounds in the chemical structure of R. mangle (L.), such as phenols, flavonoids, and tannins [13,69]. All this reinforces the importance and prevalence of the therapeutic use of this species in different coastal regions of México.

3.7. Mangrove Forestry Timber Use

Wood: Six types of uses were identified for the species under study. The most frequent use was fence posts, which represented 90.5% of the total number of interviewees, using L. racemosa (L. G.). The least common uses were furniture and tables, each with a percentage of 4.1%, where A. germinans (L.) is used (Figure 4). This agrees with the study by Faridah-Hanum et al. [53], in which it is noted that mangrove wood is mainly used for fence posts. Further, according to Fernandes et al. [9], the mangrove tree species L. racemosa (L. G.) and A. germinans (L.) are used to construct pens for raising pigs. For their part, Gallup et al. [62] note that mangrove wood is used in furniture manufacturing. These findings underline the versatility and importance of mangrove species for coastal communities.

Rural or marine construction: A total of 10 uses were identified, and the most predominant use was construction props “puntales”, with 56.8% using L. racemosa (L. G.). The lowest percentage was for piles “pilotes” with 4.1% where they use A. germinans (L.) (Figure 4). This may be due to the fact that, in rural communities, the extraction of mangrove wood for construction continues to be very important, as demonstrated by studies carried out in southeastern México by Hernández and Morales [58] and Basáñez et al. [22], where it was noted that mangrove wood is used for the construction of houses. In addition, the mangrove forest is also used in tourism infrastructure, such as docks [8]. The species A. germinans (L.), R. mangle (L.), and L. racemosa (L. G.) are used in construction [9,57,59]. This is due to their quality and durability, including resistance to pests and rot, which make mangrove wood ideal for use in land or marine construction [8,70,71].

3.8. Integrating Local Knowledge into Mangrove Conservation

This study provides an innovative perspective on the traditional use of mangroves in coastal southeastern México, highlighting their crucial importance for the livelihoods of local communities and how these uses are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. In contrast to previous research, which has focused primarily on the ecological functions of mangroves, such as carbon storage [72], this work documents how local people exploit both timber and non-timber forest products from the mangrove through sustainable practices, revealing traditional ecological knowledge that is closely linked to the improvement of human and cultural well-being [73,74]. Similar to findings in the Sundarbans, where villagers near the mangrove forest depend on its resources to varying degrees [75], local people utilize mangrove resources by integrating these practices into their daily lives and local economy [9].

In addition, the information registered on species-specific use and differential valuation, particularly in relation to forest harvesting, represents an interesting contribution, as it provides up-to-date and contextual data that have not been explored in previous studies in this area. This lack of knowledge about the uses of mangrove forests has led to problems such as the overexploitation of certain species and a lack of knowledge about the appropriate forms of management [76].

It is important to emphasize that many forms of appropriation and use of mangrove resources are relevant in order to have a better understanding of the interaction between users and the mangrove as a common good [9]. However, as in other contexts, community-based management faces significant limitations, such as lack of resources, to effectively enforce sanctions and regulation, which underlines the need for collaboration with government authorities and other stakeholders for more comprehensive and effective management [77]. This approach highlights the importance of community self-management as a replicable model that demonstrates that local empowerment is essential for long-term sustainability. Furthermore, the findings underline the relevance of preserving both mangrove ecosystems and the associated local knowledge to ensure their sustainable use and the survival of the people who depend on them. Whereas the integration of local knowledge into conservation strategies can be more effective than externally imposed policies, it emphasizes the need for socio-culturally and economically sustainable integration, linking mangrove conservation with the livelihoods of local communities [78].

This study documents how mangrove uses continue to exist despite external pressures, and highlighting the importance of considering local knowledge and individual demographic characteristics. These dimensions have important implications for the design of inclusive and adaptive management policies, and highlight the need for collaborative conservation strategies involving communities, governments, and organizations to ensure the continued protection of mangroves [79].

4. Conclusions

A close relationship was identified between the “mangleros” and the different species of mangroves, an interaction that transcends economic, social, environmental, and cultural spheres. The results reveal that traditional practices linked to mangrove use remain fundamental to livelihoods, especially in the harvesting of products such as firewood, used for both domestic consumption and income generation. The species with the highest Use Value was R. mangle (L), reflecting its importance in economic, medicinal, and ecological terms. This demonstrates the need to prioritize its conservation in local policies. The diversity of uses of each mangrove species is determined by its individual characteristics and the specific needs of the people. This traditional knowledge has generated a culture of use that must be integrated into the formulation of public policies, ensuring the conservation of coastal ecosystems and the active participation of the “mangleros”. It is essential to incorporate local knowledge in the design of conservation policies, as it is key to the sustainability of mangrove ecosystems. Successful management strategies must ensure tangible benefits for local people, thereby encouraging their active participation in conservation and sustainable use activities.

Strengthening institutional linkages will be essential to overcome the technical and financial challenges faced by these communities and to ensure their resilience in the face of environmental change. The success of conservation strategies depends to a large extent on the benefits perceived by each person, since when people understand and value the benefits of mangroves, they are more willing to participate in their protection and sustainable management. Therefore, the participation of local people, especially the direct users of mangroves, is key to developing resilient coasts and ensuring long-term sustainability.