Sea Grass Facts
- Sea grass plays several important roles in its environment. Not only does it provide many marine species with cover and food, it also helps stabilize the ocean bottom and maintain the water quality. Sea turtles, parrotfish and surgeon fish all graze on seagrass, and stingrays, and pink shrimp dwell in the sea grass beds or on the edges to take advantage of the cover and food provided.
- Though sea grass is regularly mistaken for seaweed, there are many differences between the two types of plants. Where sea grass produces flowers, fruits and seeds, seaweed produces spores; and where sea grass has deep roots, seaweed simply clings to hard surfaces.
- Many factors can adversely affect the growth of sea grass. Natural threats against sea grass include waves and flood which can uproot it or animals like the manatee and sea turtle which can overgraze a sea grass bed. Human threats include dredging and boating, which uproot the plants, and polluted runoff, which can cloud the water and keep the sea grass from getting the light that they need. Docks and boats can also shade the beds, causing the plants to die from lack of light.
- According to Brevard County's Natural Resources Management Office, there are several methods for preserving and protecting sea grass beds. Storm water control and nutrient management can keep the sea grass growing well, and preservation of upland and wetland buffers can prevent uprooting. Similarly, the institution of slow speed zones can prevent damage from boat propellers while also preventing sediment from being kicked up in the water.
- The Fish and Wildlife Research Institute has several tips for what individuals can do to protect sea grass. They recommend the avoidance of boating through shallow grass beds. Similarly, consider building docks with grating rather than planks to allow sunlight to reach the beds. Apply fertilizers and pesticides with care, so that they do not contribute to excessive chemicals in water run-off.
