What role do seagrass beds play in carbon sequestration?
Seagrass beds play a crucial role in carbon sequestration by capturing and storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in their biomass and sediments. They are highly efficient at trapping carbon, often referred to as "blue carbon," helping mitigate climate change effects.
How do seagrass beds contribute to marine biodiversity?
Seagrass beds contribute to marine biodiversity by providing essential habitat and nursery grounds for numerous marine species, including fish, invertebrates, and sea turtles. They offer shelter and food resources, support complex food webs, and enhance species diversity and abundance in coastal ecosystems.
How do seagrass beds help prevent coastal erosion?
Seagrass beds stabilize the seabed with their dense root systems, reducing sediment movement and trapping particles. This helps to buffer wave energy and current, decreasing the erosive forces on shorelines and thereby preventing coastal erosion.
What threats do seagrass beds face due to human activities?
Seagrass beds face threats from human activities such as coastal development, which leads to habitat destruction; pollution, including nutrient runoff and oil spills; boating activities that cause physical damage; and climate change, which results in ocean warming and acidification affecting their growth and survival.
How do seagrass beds affect water quality?
Seagrass beds improve water quality by stabilizing sediments, reducing turbidity, and preventing erosion. They act as a natural filter, absorbing nutrients and contaminants, which can help prevent harmful algal blooms. Additionally, seagrasses support oxygen production through photosynthesis, enhancing the surrounding marine ecosystem's health.