24/10/2024
Seagrass meadows are common in shallow waters around Belize. What role do they play in marine ecosystems? 💭
👍Seagrass beds form an important nursery habitat for several species of fishes and invertebrates. They are also important feeding grounds for herbivorous grazers, like green turtles, manatees, etc., and for foraging omnivores that may feed on invertebrates and other animals that live amongst the plants.
👎Pollution, destructive fishing practices, and direct physical disturbance threaten seagrass beds around the world, and scientists estimate that as much as 50% of the total area covered by seagrasses has been lost in the last few decades. This represents an incredible loss of coastal, marine habitat.
Join us in protecting and restoring our marine ecosystems using the 🔗 in our bio! 💙🌊