Resources
What are seagrasses?
Seagrasses are plants and not seaweeds.
They are marine flowering plants that are adapted to live underwater. Just like plants on land, they possess functional roots, leaves and flowers. They are found in sandy regions and require sunlight to carry out photosynthesis.
These plants form large meadows also known as seagrass beds in sheltered lagoons protected by coral reefs from strong wave action.
There are five different species reported in Mauritius.
Why are seagrasses important?
Seagrass meadows play an important role in keeping our lagoons healthy.
They are rich ecosystems supporting a large variety of marine life from sea cucumbers-that help filter the sand and release important nutrients into the ocean-to sea turtles who feed on the seagrasses.
The roots of seagrasses help to trap sediments and hence maintain clear water. The roots are complex systems grabbing sand and preventing erosion.
Therefore, seagrass help maintain the beautiful beaches of Mauritius island.
What are the threats to Seagrasses?
Seagrasses are constantly being threatened in Mauritius.
The main threats are cyclones and storm surge, agricultural run-off, coastal infrastructure development, destructive fishing practices, high intensity lagoon activities, among others.
Coastal Erosion in Mauritius
Destruction of mangrove forests and seagrass beds that aid in sediment retention, leads to coastal erosion.
Whilst this accelerated process affects coastal communities, we are also experiencing a loss in biodiversity at an abnormal rate.
Nature-based Solutions
Reef Conservation has a seagrass restoration project to understand and help improve the seagrass ecosystem functions and services.
In selected impacted sites around the island of Mauritius, different techniques for seagrass restoration will be investigated.
The planting of seagrass species and habitat enhancement for biodiversity has not been properly studied in Mauritius so far.
Therefore, successful restoration actions will provide obvious benefits for the coastal communities and ecology of Mauritius.
Want to know more about Seagrasses? Click on the links below :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jembe.2007.06.012
https://doi.org/10.1641/0006-3568(2006)56[987:AGCFSE]2.0.CO;2