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The secret evolution of seagrass: How to return from land plants to the ocean?
In the shallow sea, dazzling seagrass beds are not only one of the most beautiful underwater scenery, but also one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Seagrass, a type of marine plant that evolved from land plants, continues to perform vital ecological functions in this vast ocean. These seagrasses have irreplaceable value in protecting coastal environments, promoting biodiversity and combating climate change. However, with the intensification of human activities, these precious marine ecosystems are facing unprecedented threats.
Seagrass beds are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, providing habitat and food sources comparable to coral reefs.
The evolution of seagrass
Seagrass is an angiosperm, and its origins can be traced back to marine algae about 100 million years ago. These once land-dwelling plants adapted to the marine environment and returned to the water, forming today's seagrass beds. These seagrasses take root in the sandy or muddy bottoms of shallow waters, providing shelter and food for a variety of marine life.
Ecological functions and importance
Seagrass beds are not only home to rare species such as seahorses, sea turtles and manatees, but also form the basis of the important food chain. The photosynthesis of these algae absorbs carbon dioxide and releases oxygen, supporting the surrounding waters. Seagrass beds are also where many fish species grow as larvae, and many fisheries rely on these habitats to maintain their resources.
As various human activities put pressure on the ocean, about 20% of the world's seagrass beds have disappeared, causing profound impacts on marine ecosystems.
Carbon storage capacity of seagrass
Another important function of seagrass is as a carbon sink, with its carbon storage capacity per hectare reaching twice that of green forests. As global climate change intensifies, seagrass beds can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide every year, providing important support for global climate regulation. Seagrass beds worldwide are estimated to store up to 19.9 billion tons of organic carbon.
The impact of human activities
However, seagrass beds are facing man-made threats from pollution, overfishing and ecological damage. Seagrass beds are being destroyed at a rate of about three square meters per second, which will not only affect biodiversity but also reduce ecosystem services.
The loss of seagrass beds will directly impact global fisheries and food security, further exacerbating poverty in coastal communities.
Protection and restoration
With such a huge threat, efforts to protect and restore seagrass beds are vital. International protection of seagrass is gradually increasing, and many regions have begun seagrass restoration projects in an attempt to restore their ecological balance and biodiversity. However, achieving such a goal requires joint efforts from all walks of life, including cooperation from governments, scientific research institutions, communities and civil society groups.
Conclusion
As a unique plant carrying life and carbon storage capabilities, seagrass plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecology. As humans' impact on the marine environment increases, can we find appropriate ways to protect and restore these marine treasures?
