Principles and concepts about seagrasses: Towards a sustainable future for seagrass ecosystems

Abstract

Seagrasses grow in shallow marine and estuarine environments worldwide, providing multiple ecosystem services. However, a global trend of seagrass loss has been documented. Thus, increasing awareness of seagrass value is crucial for the sustainability of these vital ecosystems. This study aims to contribute to the creation of a seagrass-literate society, by defining key principles and concepts in relation to seagrasses that a seagrass-literate person should know. Six principles about seagrasses were defined. Each one is underpinned by a set of concepts. These principles and concepts concern key issues of seagrass biology (Principles 1-4), value (Principles 3-5), loss and protection (Principle 5), and research (Principle 6). Seagrass principles and concepts can be primarily used for educational purposes and as a practical resource to policy- and decision- makers. Our attempt could stimulate a collaborative effort of scientists and educators, aiming to improve the recommended principles and concepts, and to contribute to seagrass conservation.

Keywords: Environmental awareness; Marine angiosperms; Ocean literacy; Seagrass conservation; Seagrass loss; Seagrass value.