Seagrass Conservation

Context:

A recent study in Nature highlighted that seagrasses are declining at 1–2% annually, with around 5% of species endangered due to human activities.

The study emphasizes the need to protect 30% of seagrass habitats by 2030 to preserve marine biodiversity.

Relevance:

GS-03 (Environment)

Key Highlights about Seagrasses

About Seagrasses:

Seagrasses are submerged marine flowering plants found in shallow coastal waters (bays and lagoons).
They conduct photosynthesis and reproduce both sexually (underwater pollination) and asexually (through rhizomes).

Threats to Seagrass:

Pollution from industrial and agricultural waste, coastal development, and rising ocean temperatures due to climate change.
Weak enforcement of conservation laws further endangers seagrass meadows.

Conservation Status:

India’s seagrass meadows cover 516.59 sq km, mainly in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep, and the Gulf of Kutch.
India restored 14 acres of seagrass in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay (85–90% success rate).

Prelims Question:

Consider the following statements regarding seagrasses:

Seagrasses are marine flowering plants that grow only in deep ocean waters.

They can reproduce both sexually through underwater pollination and asexually through rhizomes.

India’s major seagrass meadows are located in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and the Sundarbans.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(d) 2 only

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Statement 2 is correct: seagrasses reproduce sexually through underwater pollination and asexually through rhizomes.

Statement 3 is correct: Major seagrass meadows in India are found in the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Bay (but not the Sundarbans).

Statement 1 is incorrect: seagrasses grow in shallow coastal waters, not deep ocean waters.