How do seagrass meadows contribute to carbon sequestration?
Seagrass meadows contribute to carbon sequestration by capturing carbon dioxide from the water during photosynthesis and storing it in their biomass and sediments. This process prevents the release of carbon into the atmosphere, effectively acting as a carbon sink, and helping mitigate climate change.
What threats do seagrass meadows face?
Seagrass meadows face threats from coastal development, pollution, climate change, and destructive fishing practices. Nutrient loading from agricultural runoff leads to algal blooms that block sunlight, essential for seagrass growth. Rising sea temperatures and ocean acidification further stress these ecosystems. Physical damage from trawling and boat anchors also disrupts seagrass meadows.
How do seagrass meadows benefit marine biodiversity?
Seagrass meadows provide habitat, food, and nursery grounds for diverse marine species, supporting complex ecosystems. They enhance biodiversity by stabilizing sediment, reducing water turbidity, and improving water quality. Their presence supports a wide range of organisms, including fish, invertebrates, and algae, contributing significantly to marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
How do seagrass meadows improve water quality?
Seagrass meadows improve water quality by filtering pollutants, trapping sediments, and stabilizing the sea floor. Their presence reduces water turbidity, allows sunlight to penetrate, and supports photosynthetic activities. This nutrient cycling process helps in absorbing excess nutrients and reducing harmful algal blooms, thereby maintaining aquatic ecosystem health.
How do seagrass meadows affect climate change?
Seagrass meadows mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their biomass and sediments, a process known as blue carbon sequestration. They sequester carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests, thus playing a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas concentrations.