Seagrass: The Undiscovered World of Roatan
When you hear about the underwater world…what do you think of? Many think of coral reefs, sharks, jellyfish, and crabs. Other’s may think of a vast darkness, with bellowing waves and high winds. Rarely do they think of the most beautiful and calm aspect of the ocean…the seagrass.
Divers and snorkelers breeze right past it. Developers destroy it. Unappreciated and undervalued, the magic of seagrass is the most underestimated marine habitat there is. But if you take a closer look, seagrass blossoms into a magical world which holds astonishing surprises and unsurpassed beauty.
What Is Seagrass?
“Seagrass” is actually a misnomer! This vital plant is more closely related to a flower, and is the only submerged flowering plant that thrives in shallow marine waters. Evolved from terrestrial plants 100 million years ago, today there are approximately 60 different species of seagrass, which are grouped in four main families:
• Posidoniaceae
• Zosteraceae
• Hydrocharitaceae
• Cymodoceaceae
Why Is It Important?
1. Seagrass helps fight climate change. Seagrass is crucial for the submerged ecosystem, helping to battle climate change by producing vital elements and conducting photosynthesis. It converts carbon dioxide into sugar and oxygen, akin to coral reefs, contributing to a healthy coastline ecosystem.
2. Seagrass protects coastlines from erosion. Seagrass slows down underwater currents with its deep root structures and leaves, allowing sediments to settle and providing a natural barrier against storm waves.
3. Seagrass serves as a vital habitat and food source for numerous marine organisms. Acting as a nursery for spawning and providing shelter for a variety of species – including fish, manatees, sharks, turtles, seahorses, shrimps, and octopus – seagrass is an essential home for many species! Without this habitat, juvenile species wouldn’t be able to survive.
4. Seagrass beds purify the ocean. Seagrass helps maintain water quality by acting as ocean filters, purifying water, absorbing excess nutrients, trapping sediments, and removing bacteria, ultimately enhancing water clarity and quality.
5. Seagrass is an essential part of the economy. Seagrass contributes to local economies by supporting coastal communities through its provision of food and resources, as well as creating ideal conditions for tourism, commercial fishing, and recreational activities.
6. Seagrass is valuable. The monetary value of seagrass meadows is estimated to be significant, with an exhaustive study from the University of New Hampshire valuing them at $19,000 per hectare per year, making seagrass one of the most economically valuable ecosystems on Earth.
