Seagrass Decline and Conservation Efforts Worldwide

Seagrass meadows are experiencing decline globally, primarily due to human activities. A recent review published in February 2025 marks this alarming trend. The review indicates that seagrass has been diminishing at a rate of 1-2 per cent annually over the past century. Presently, nearly 5 per cent of seagrass species are classified as endangered. Protecting 30 per cent of existing seagrass by 2030 is crucial. This action could safeguard over 750 fish species, sequester millions of tonnes of carbon, and support coastal communities.

Importance of Seagrass Ecosystems

Seagrass meadows are vital ecosystems. They outperform trees in carbon capture and provide sustenance for millions. Seagrasses can store carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests. They also serve as nurseries for various marine species, including fish, turtles, and dugongs. Seagrass meadows protect marine life and coastal areas from storms and erosion. They contribute to over 20 per cent of global fishery landings, supporting both biodiversity and local economies.

Seagrass in India

India’s coastline, recalculated to approximately 11,098 kilometres, is home to seagrass meadows. The country boasts 16 species of seagrass, primarily found in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep Islands, and the Gulf of Kutch. A 2022 study estimated that India’s seagrass covers 516.59 square kilometres, with an impressive capacity to absorb 434.9 tonnes of carbon dioxide per square kilometre annually. Despite the potential of seagrass in climate action, comprehensive studies on associated biodiversity remain scarce.

Current Threats and Challenges

Seagrass meadows face numerous threats, including pollution from urban and agricultural runoff, coastal development, and tourism. A 2024 study revealed that 54 per cent of surveyed areas along Tamil Nadu’s Manora coast had no seagrass cover, denoting the urgent need for restoration efforts. Although laws exist to protect these ecosystems, enforcement is often inadequate.

Global Restoration Initiatives

Globally, successful seagrass restoration projects have emerged. Approximately 23.9 per cent of known seagrass areas are located within marine protected zones. Nearly 2,000 restoration projects are currently underway. For instance, Virginia has successfully restored 1,700 hectares of Zostera marina, leading to improved invertebrate populations. In India, between 2011 and 2020, researchers restored 14 acres of degraded seagrass areas in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay with an impressive success rate of 85-90 per cent.

Future Directions for Seagrass Conservation

Future conservation efforts must prioritise seagrass protection. Integrating seagrass conservation into broader marine policies is essential. Collaboration among scientists, conservationists, policymakers, and local communities will be crucial for safeguarding these ecosystems. Community-based restoration projects, like those in Palk Bay, demonstrate the potential for eco-friendly methods to support seagrass recovery.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Estimate the impact of seagrass loss on marine biodiversity and coastal communities.
2. Critically discuss the role of seagrass in carbon sequestration compared to terrestrial forests.
3. Examine the effectiveness of current marine protected areas in conserving seagrass ecosystems.
4. Analyse the socio-economic implications of seagrass restoration initiatives in India and globally.

Answer Hints:

1. Estimate the impact of seagrass loss on marine biodiversity and coastal communities.

1. Seagrass meadows support over 750 fish species and 121 threatened marine species.
2. Loss of seagrass leads to decreased fishery landings, affecting local economies reliant on fishing.
3. Seagrass ecosystems provide nurseries for marine life, crucial for maintaining biodiversity.
4. Coastal protection from storms and erosion is compromised, endangering coastal communities.
5. Declining seagrass can lead to loss of habitat for endangered species like dugongs and green turtles.

2. Critically discuss the role of seagrass in carbon sequestration compared to terrestrial forests.

1. Seagrasses can sequester carbon up to 35 times faster than tropical rainforests.
2. They store carbon for thousands of years, contributing to climate mitigation.
3. Seagrass meadows cover less area than forests but are highly efficient in carbon absorption.
4. Despite their effectiveness, seagrass is often overlooked in conservation narratives focused on terrestrial forests.
5. Protecting seagrass contributes to climate goals while enhancing marine biodiversity.

3. Examine the effectiveness of current marine protected areas in conserving seagrass ecosystems.

1. Approximately 23.9% of seagrass areas are located within marine protected zones.
2. Marine protected areas can enhance water quality and reduce human impacts on seagrass.
3. Success stories, like those in Virginia, demonstrate the potential for recovery within protected areas.
4. However, enforcement of protections is often weak, limiting their effectiveness.
5. Comprehensive management strategies are needed to ensure long-term conservation outcomes.

4. Analyse the socio-economic implications of seagrass restoration initiatives in India and globally.

1. Restoration initiatives can improve fishery yields, benefiting local fishing communities economically.
2. Community-based restoration projects promote local involvement and sustainable practices.
3. Seagrass restoration enhances coastal protection, reducing costs associated with storm damage.
4. Successful projects can serve as models for global restoration efforts, attracting funding and support.
5. Integrating seagrass conservation into broader marine policies can lead to sustainable coastal development.