Seagrass

Seagrasses are marine flowering plants adapted to live entirely underwater, forming extensive beds that are a common sight in shallow environments. They typically feature green, strap-like or cylindrical leaves, though some species have oval blades. These leaves commonly grow up to 60 cm (24 in) long, anchored by roots and creeping rhizomes that stabilise the seabed. Dense, clonal meadows form on sheltered sandy or muddy substrates, thriving from the intertidal zone down to depths of 30 metres (100 ft), occasionally deeper in very clear waters.

As primary producers, seagrasses provide food and shelter, acting as critical nursery grounds for numerous fish and invertebrate species. They serve as a primary food source for grazers such as green sea turtles and dugongs. Reproduction occurs both sexually, through submerged flowers and seeds, and asexually via rhizome extension, allowing rapid colonisation of suitable areas.