A Seagrass meadow is an underwater ecosystem formed by seagrasses.
Seagrass meadows occur in shallow coastal waters where sunlight can penetrate, as they, like terrestrial plants, rely on sunlight to carry out photosynthesis.
Seagrass species diversity and density vary with habitat conditions, as different species show preferences for specific water depths, soil types, tidal zones, and nutrient availability.
These meadows serve as critical habitats for various marine species such as fish, crustaceans, molluscs and sea turtles. They also provide shelter for animals and are the primary food source for dugongs.
Seagrasses are sometimes referred to as foundational species because they create and maintain a physical environment that prepares the way for other plant and animal species to move in and thrive.
Seagrass root systems help to stabilise the ground and prevent erosion. They are sometimes referred to as the “lungs of the sea” because they remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and produce oxygen, which helps improve water quality.
As they draw in carbon dioxide, they store and capture the carbon (known as carbon sequestration), which helps mitigate climate change- this is what is referred to as ‘blue carbon”.
Locally, these vital ecosystems thrive in shallow waters of the Pumicestone Passage and adjacent coastal areas.
Seagrasses are 35 times more efficient than rainforests at capturing carbon from the atmosphere and storing it in the ocean, making them one of the planet’s most powerful natural carbon sinks!
