Mapping Indonesian seagrass quality to target blue carbon conservation

A new study has mapped the varying quality of seagrass meadows across central and eastern Indonesia, revealing significant spatial differences in their ecological health. Researchers have identified areas of high-quality seagrass, called hotspots, as well as degraded zones, referred to as coldspots, and isolated patches of resilient ecosystems known as outliers. This mapping effort aims to guide targeted conservation and restoration strategies, recognizing that not all seagrass meadows are equally affected by environmental and human pressures. Led by Rohani Ambo-Rappe, a professor in the Department of Marine Science at Hasanuddin University, the research team developed the Seagrass Ecological Quality Index (SEQI) to assess the condition of 21 seagrass meadows. The study, published in Science of The Total Environment, used five ecological indicators, including seagrass species richness, cover, water clarity, macroalgae cover, and epiphyte cover, to evaluate the health of these underwater grasslands. By integrating these factors with spatial and multivariate analyses, the researchers created a detailed map of ecological quality across the region. The findings showed considerable variation in seagrass condition, with SEQI scores ranging from 0.39 to 0.88. High-quality sites such as Pasi-Gusung, Parak, and Maharayya exhibited rich biodiversity, dense seagrass coverage, and clear waters. Conversely, Lae-Lae recorded the lowest score, marked by sparse seagrass, low species diversity, and poor water clarity. These disparities suggest that some areas are more resilient than others, influenced by local environmental conditions and human activity levels. The study uncovered a pattern of spatial distribution, with central Indonesia showing a mosaic of ecological states. Hotspots, characterized by robust seagrass ecosystems surrounded by similar conditions, include sites like Pasi-Gusung, Liukangloe, Maharayya, and Parak. These areas are considered prime candidates for conservation due to their stable and supportive environments. Coldspots, on the other hand, consist of degraded ecosystems such as Sekotong, Lanjukang, Badi-Alami, Badi-Restorasi, Waboela, and Lapandewa, which require urgent intervention to reverse decline. Outlier sites, such as Bone Batang and Barrang Lompo, displayed relatively healthy ecosystems amid less favorable surroundings. These areas may serve as critical refuges, offering temporary stability in an otherwise deteriorating environment. Their presence underscores the need for localized management approaches, as they may hold unique ecological significance despite being surrounded by less resilient habitats. Lae-Lae and Bonto Bahari represent another category of interest, degraded sites located within larger, healthier seagrass systems. These locations present potential for targeted restoration efforts, as they are embedded in environments that could support recovery if external pressures are mitigated. The identification of such sites highlights the complexity of seagrass ecosystem dynamics and the necessity for nuanced conservation planning. Indonesia’s seagrass meadows play a vital role in global carbon storage, supporting marine biodiversity and protecting coastal communities from erosion and storm damage. With over 660,000 hectares of these ecosystems, the country holds a crucial position in international climate and conservation efforts. However, increasing threats from pollution, overfishing, and climate change necessitate a tailored strategy for preservation. This research marks a step forward in understanding the intricate variability of seagrass health across Indonesia. It emphasizes the importance of spatial awareness in conservation planning, moving away from generalized approaches toward site-specific interventions. As the study demonstrates, effective management must account for the unique characteristics of each seagrass area, ensuring that resources are directed where they will have the greatest impact.