Author: Ostenf.
Bibliography: Bot. Tidsskr. 24: 260 (1901)
Year: 1901
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Halophila
Vegetable: False
Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. Oceans
The Caribbean seagrass, scientifically known as Halophila decipiens, is an important aquatic plant commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world’s oceans. Described by Ostenfeld in the 1901 publication of “Botanisk Tidsskrift” (volume 24, page 260), this marine plant belongs to the Hydrocharitaceae family, a group that includes various other marine and freshwater plants.
Halophila decipiens is characterized by its delicate, grass-like appearance, featuring ribbon-like leaves that form small, dense patches on the ocean floor. Unlike many larger seagrasses, the Caribbean seagrass tends to grow in shallow, sandy or muddy substrates, and its flexible structure helps it thrive in different underwater environments. It can tolerate varying light conditions and can often be found at depths where sunlight can still penetrate to support photosynthesis.
The ecological role of the Caribbean seagrass is significant; it contributes to the stabilization of the seabed, reducing erosion by trapping sediments with its root system. Additionally, it provides critical habitats for a variety of marine life, including juvenile fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates. These seagrass meadows are veritable underwater nurseries, supporting biodiversity and enhancing the productivity of marine ecosystems.
Furthermore, Halophila decipiens plays a key role in carbon sequestration. Like other seagrasses, it has the ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the water, thus mitigating the effects of climate change by storing carbon in its tissues and the surrounding sediment.
The presence of Halophila decipiens is also an indicator of the health of marine environments. Healthy seagrass beds often indicate good water quality since these plants are sensitive to pollutants and changes in the marine environment. Conservation efforts are essential for protecting these valuable ecosystems, particularly given the threats posed by human activities such as coastal development, water pollution, and climate change.
In summary, the Caribbean seagrass (Halophila decipiens) is a vital component of tropical and subtropical marine ecosystems. Its contributions to habitat formation, biodiversity support, and carbon sequestration underscore the importance of preserving and studying these delicate underwater meadows.
Eng: caribbean seagrass, paddle grass, tapegrass, species code: hd
Por: grama-marinha
Nld: zeegrass
En: Caribbean seagrass, Caribbean Sea-Grass, Paddle grass, Tapegrass, Species code: Hd, Caribbean Waterweed
Nl: Zeegrass
Pt: Grama-marinha
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Our Dive Team (cc-by)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Our Dive Team (cc-by)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Growth habit: Forb/herb
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