Protecting
Maldives Seagrass
Seagrass is the unsung hero of the ocean.
Although it gets less attention than coral reefs, seagrass is just as important in securing a healthy future for the Maldives.
Explore this module to learn about what seagrass does for us and why it is under threat.
Watch the video below to get to know seagrass a little better.
Now you know the basics of seagrass biology, take a look at the infographic below to learn how seagrass supports people, nature and climate.
Sadly, seagrass is an undervalued ecosystem in the Maldives, and is considered as a nuisance, rather than celebrated for its importance.
Learn about the threats to seagrass in the infographic below.
Want to know that we are doing to help Maldives’ seagrass?
Read the campaign spotlight below.
Campaign
Spotlight
Many resorts across the Maldives still remove their seagrass.
In 2019, we launched a campaign to raise awareness about the importance of seagrass and how it benefits tourism.
We asked resorts to protect at least 80% of their seagrass meadow to benefit the environment, tourism, fisheries and our communities.
The campaign was a success! Over 30 resorts joined the pledge and together protected around 830,000 square meters of seagrass meadow.
Visit this website to learn more.
Seagrass
Science
Have you got what it takes to be a seagrass citizen scientist?
Across the globe, ordinary people are helping protect seagrass using the “Seagrass Spotter” app or web portal.
Step-by-step guide:
- Download the app to your phone or open the web portal.
- Create an account and sign in.
- Select “New Sighting” on the app or “Sightings” on the web portal.
- Take a photo or upload it from your camera roll.
- Follow the instructions to locate and identify the seagrass.
Now scientists can analyse your data to better understand seagrass habitats!
Use the infographic below to help you identify seagrass species in the Maldives.
Identifying
seagrass
Identifying seagrass
in the Maldives
What can you do to help
protect Maldives seagrass?
- Spread the message! Tell your friends about seagrass.
- Discover the biodiversity in seagrass and share your photos on social media tagging #ProtectMaldivesSeagrass
- Advocate against seagrass removal of your local seagrass meadow
- Support organisations that promote seagrass such as Maldives Resilient Reefs.
- Get involved in citizen science projects in your area through the Seagrass spotter app.
- Minimise your carbon footprint and plastic pollution.
Test your
knowledge
Time to take the quiz!
You must answer all ten questions correctly to earn your prized catch.