DISCOVERING A MALDIVES UNSUNG HERO : SEAGRASS
When thinking of the Maldives What do you think of? Pure white beaches, a turquoise ocean and vibrant coral reefs are probably top of the list. But beneath these iconic images there is an ecosystem that is often overlooked but is vital to the survival of the Maldives and the world; seagrass meadows.
These dense underwater parks may not be the usual glossy travel guide photograph, but the importance of these meadows is unparalleled. Seagrass acts as a natural barrier to prevent erosion. It absorbs nutrients from coastal run-off and stabilizes sediment helping to keep the water clear. It provides a safe haven for a wide range of marine life and is a food substance for many. In fact seagrass meadows are rated the third most valuable ecosystem globally, on a per hectare basis and therefore surely can be considered as the hero of the Maldives’ fragile marine environment.
WHAT IS SEAGRASS?
Seagrass shouldn’t be confused with seaweed. Seagrass is actually an underwater plant that evolved from land plants and processes leaves, flowers, seeds, roots, and connective tissues. Like land plants seagrass reproduces through flowers, fruits, seeds, and spores. Seagrass has a complex root system which anchors to the seabed, in so doing stabilizing the seafloor. Through this root system, seagrass pulls nutrients and minerals from the sediment.
Unlike land plants, seagrass does not have a strong stem to hold itself up, instead they are supported by the buoyancy of the water that surrounds them. As you snorkel or dive over an area of sea grass, you will notice the gentle rhythmic movement of the blades as they move with the water. This fluid movement not only adds to the beauty of this unsung marine environment, but it also provides essential habitat for countless species to hide and find food.
WHY IS SEAGRASS SO IMPORTANT?
Although seagrass may not immediately be seen to be as attractive as coral reefs, it’s ecological contributions are profound:
Natural coastal protection: Seagrass roots help stabilize the ocean floor and protect islands from beach and storm erosion. In a country where the highest natural point is only 2.4 meters, this is truly life-saving.
Carbon, Zinc and Oxygen Plant: These plants absorb carbon dioxide. Reducing greenhouse gases and producing oxygen through photosynthesis which helps to fight climate change. Seagrass meadows account for more than 10% of ocean global carbon storage whilst covering only 0.1% of the ocean floor. According to Seagrass Watch seagrass can store carbon 35 times faster than rainforests.
Marine Animal Nursery: Seagrass meadows provide food and shelter for a variety of marine life. Including green sea turtles, stingrays and important fish species. More specifically, 100,000 fish can live in just 1 hectare of seagrass and an adult green turtle will consume around two kilograms of seagrass every day!
Biodiversity hotspots: In addition to the 8 species of seagrass in the Maldives, these grasslands are also home to unique marine life, including seahorses, crabs and many species of fish not normally found in coral reef habitats.
A VANISHING TREASURE
Around the world, seagrass the size of a football field is lost every 30 minutes due to human activity. According to the United Nations, seagrass meadows are among the least protected coastal ecosystems , with only 26% of recorded seagrass meadows found within marine protected areas, compared with 40% of coral reefs and 43% of mangroves.
Tourism plays a key role in the decline in the Maldives. In their commitment to creating “perfect” beaches, many resorts remove seagrass by picking it up or covering it with sand and plastic tarps. In addition, land reclamation, dredging, improper waste management, rising sea temperatures due to climate change, and unregulated fishing also threaten these ecosystems.
TURNING THE TIDE : SEAGRASS CONSERVATION
In response to these threats local NGO Maldives Resilient Reefs (MMR) launched a campaign to protect the seagrass meadows of the Maldives. Launched on World Algae Day 2019, a campaign in conjunction with Maldives Underwater Initiative and the Blue Sea Foundation aimed to change the tourism industry’s perception of seagrass.
The campaign encouraged resorts nationwide to commit to protecting at least 80% of the seagrass around their islands, emphasizing its importance for the environment, tourism, fisheries, and the livelihoods of those relying on these resources. Six Senses Laamu led by example, showcasing how seagrass can enhance guest experiences rather than being seen as a drawback.
Over 1,600 individuals from both local and international communities pledged their support for protecting seagrass in the Maldives and importantly, the Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism endorsed the initiative to end the removal of seagrass beds.
Resort Partnership: More than 36 resorts have pledged to protect more than 655,000 square meters of seagrass, the area of more than 90 football fields.
Raise Awareness: The campaign shows that seagrass can co-exist with tourism. Enhance the guest experience and promote sustainable practices. Who doesn’t want to find an illusive seahorse or observe turtles feeding?
Guest Participation: Travelers are encouraged to support resorts that conserve seagrass and share their appreciation for this unique ecosystem during their stay.
In a more recent study published in May 2024, Matthew Floyd, PhD Candidate, Marine Ecology, Northumbria University, Newcastle, found that seagrass in the Maldives had expanded three-fold over the last two decades. He also discovered that seagrass was surprisingly three times more likely to be found next to inhabited local islands, rather than uninhabited, raising the question does seagrass benefit from living close to humans?
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP?
Whether you’re planning a trip to the Maldives or simply want to make a difference, here’s how you can help:
Support Seagrass-Friendly Resorts: Choose accommodation that prioritize seagrass conservation and mention its positive impact in your guest review.
Dive Into Seagrass Meadows: Explore these underwater wonders by snorkeling or scuba diving during your stay and capture photos for research.
Sign up to Seagrass Citizen Science Program: Divers and snorkelers can participate in important research by submitting their photographs and findings to the Seagrass Spotter database. This citizen science initiative helps researchers track and protect seagrass habitats.
Spread the Word: Share the importance of seagrass meadows with fellow travelers and encourage responsible tourism practices.
Keep updated with ongoing efforts: Visit Protect Maldives Seagrass and join the movement to protect these natural treasures.
Finally, when you take to the air and view the Maldives archipelago from your seaplane or domestic flight transfer or even as you arrive and depart on your international flight, look out for the handful of dark areas standing out against the aquamarine blue lagoons. Remember that despite their insignificant appearance they are vitally important to the seas surrounding them and house an entire ecosystem within them.
Want to learn more about seagrass? Join us on our Whale Shark Conservation Cruise or our South Male Island Hopping Tour, where we actively explore a seagrass meadow.
