In an interview with Pasifika Environews, Assistant Professor in Fisheries, College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry at Fiji National University (FNU), Dr Shalini Singh highlights the crucial role of seagrass meadows in the marine ecosystem.

Dr Singh emphasised that in the Pacific, seagrasses play a vital role in coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and habitat for marine life.

However, they are facing numerous threats, including sedimentation and nutrient pollution, which can harm their health and lead to their death.

She highlights that collaboration between local communities, researchers, and organisations is crucial to protect these ecosystems. In Fiji, for example, monitoring seagrass health and implementing conservation efforts are essential to safeguard these critical ecosystems.