TIMES RECORD • November 4, 2024
Eelgrass, or Zostera marina, is found along the Atlantic coast from Chesapeake Bay to Maine, but its population has declined drastically in recent years. According to the state Department of Environmental Protection, more than 50% of native eelgrass has receded. Many factors have contributed, from stormwater pollution to invasive green crabs munching on the grass beds. Hidden out of sight, the aquatic plant plays a key role in coastal environments and has captured the attention of scientists. Ecologically, it provides a habitat for dozens of juvenile species, from striped bass and blue crabs to lobsters, mussels and bay scallops. Local scientists are embarking on an underwater climate solution — a pilot-scale restoration of eelgrass to capture carbon emissions and mitigate effects.