A framework for deciphering the biological controls of the mangrove carbon source-sink. This conceptual map bridges key hypotheses with a research agenda that combines experimental approaches (Mesocosm, Incubation, DNA-SIP) with advanced analytical techniques. The data generated will feed into process-based models, enabling robust forecasting of blue carbon stocks and fluxes. MCP: Microbial Carbon Pump; SIP: Stable Isotope Probing.