Seagrasses

Seagrasses are unique and fascinating additions to marine aquariums, especially those that aim to replicate natural coastal and lagoon ecosystems. Unlike macroalgae, seagrasses are true flowering plants (angiosperms) that have adapted to live submerged in seawater. They play a crucial role in marine environments by providing habitat and food for a variety of marine life, from small invertebrates to larger fish species. Seagrasses also help stabilize sediment and improve water quality by filtering pollutants and cycling nutrients.

In an aquarium setting, seagrasses require specific conditions to thrive. They need a deep sand bed for their root systems, moderate to high lighting to support photosynthesis, and stable water parameters. The most commonly kept species in aquariums include Thalassia testudinum, Halophila ovalis, and Zostera marina. These species can be challenging to maintain, but their benefits to the aquarium ecosystem make them worthwhile for dedicated hobbyists.

It's important to ensure that the aquarium has sufficient nutrients, particularly iron, and to avoid herbivorous fish that may graze on the seagrasses. Regular trimming and maintenance are also necessary to prevent overgrowth and to keep the plants healthy. Hobbyists interested in seagrasses should be prepared for the additional care and attention these plants require, but the rewards include a more naturalistic and biologically diverse aquarium.

1. 
   Common name: Fine sea grass

   Scientific name: Halodule uninervis
2. Common name: Shoal Grass

   Scientific name: Halodule wrightii
3. 
   Common name: seagrass

   Scientific name: Halophila ovalis
4. Common name: Species code: hn

   Scientific name: Halophila spinulosa
5. 
   Common name: manatee grass

   Scientific name: Syringodium filiforme
6. 
   Common name: Turtle Grass

   Scientific name: Thalassia testudinum
7. 
   Common name: common eel-grass

   Scientific name: Zostera marina
8. 
   Common name: dwarf eelgrass

   Scientific name: Zostera noltii