What is the importance of seagrass in the ocean's ecosystem?

Seagrasses are a critical component of the ocean's ecosystem. They are important nursery habitats and provide food and shelter for many marine organisms. Seagrasses produce oxygen through photosynthesis and help to stabilize the sediment on the ocean floor. They are also an important carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Seagrass meadows are some of the most productive ecosystems on earth, producing organic matter at a rate comparable to or exceeding that of agricultural crops. This organic matter supports a diverse array of marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. Seagrass meadows also act as a natural filtration system, helping to improve water quality by trapping sediments and pollutants.