Seagrass contributions

These underwater flowering plants also support local livelihoods, promote biodiversity, and enrich the cultural practices of coastal communities.

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Seagrass ecosystems play a vital role in supporting the livelihoods and well-being of Pacific Islander communities by providing essential goods and perceived benefits. The strong cultural ties that Pacific Islanders have with these ecosystems likely inspire their guardianship efforts to counteract local anthropogenic pressures.

The goods and benefits derived from seagrass ecosystems—referred to as Material Supply Chain Products (SCPs)—encompass a range of resources, from providing juvenile habitats essential for fisheries to facilitating the collection of ornamental animals. In the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs), the material contribution most frequently recognised is the provision of food for herbivores, including fish, dugongs, and turtles. This is followed by the provision of nursery habitats for fish and invertebrates, opportunities for intertidal gleaning (primarily of invertebrates), and sustenance for detritivores. Collectively, these contributions play a vital role in enhancing food security and supporting the livelihoods of Pacific Islanders.

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Food

Seagrass serves as a critical food source for various herbivores other than fish and invertebrates, including green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and dugongs (Dugong dugon). These species are specialised members of the seagrass community, providing essential protein and holding significant cultural value for Pacific Islanders.

habitat

In the Pacific Island Countries and Territories (PICTs), another material contribution is nursery habitats for fish and invertebrates, intertidal gleaning for food—primarily invertebrates—and sustenance for detritivores. Collectively, these components play a vital role in supporting food security and livelihoods for Pacific Islanders.

medicinal

Seagrass is utilised in pharmaceutical and traditional medicine practices throughout Melanesia and Micronesia. In Yap, Chuuk, and Pohnpei, Enhalus acoroides is noted for its application as a "protective medicine" for women preparing to enter the ocean. Additionally, in Solomon Islands, the Enhalus leaves are used as a remedy to alleviate pain associated with fish stings.