We in the Bay Islands take great pride in preserving and protecting our environment and we appreciate your help in doing so. Keep the reef beautiful for all!
Coral reefs are one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, supporting a vast array of marine life.
To preserve and protect coral reefs, it is essential to understand the interconnectedness of the ecosystem and the critical role that other habitats, such as seagrass and mangroves, play in supporting the coral reef and the wider ecosystem.
Seagrass is a flowering plant that grows in shallow marine environments. Seagrass meadows provide important habitat for a diverse range of marine life, including juvenile fish, sea turtles, and dugongs. Seagrass also plays a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Seagrass meadows help to stabilize sediment and reduce erosion, preventing sediment from smothering coral reefs. Seagrass also absorbs nutrients, which reduces the amount of nutrients that flow into the coral reef ecosystem, preventing harmful algal blooms and maintaining water quality.
Mangroves are trees that grow in coastal intertidal zones, where land meets the sea. Mangroves provide habitat for a range of marine life, including fish, crabs, and mollusks. Mangroves also play a crucial role in protecting the shoreline from erosion and storms. The root systems of mangroves help to stabilize sediment, preventing erosion and providing a natural buffer against storms and tidal waves. Mangroves also absorb nutrients, which helps to maintain water quality and prevent harmful algal blooms.
