Underwater seagrass meadows could help end global malnutrition, scientists say
A study published in Cell Reports Sustainability reveals that fish from seagrass meadows are significantly more nutritionally dense than those from coral reefs. Researchers suggest these underwater fields could be vital in combating malnutrition in coastal communities across East Africa.
Why it matters
This research highlights the importance of seagrass conservation as a sustainable food security strategy for vulnerable populations.
Underwater fields of seagrass could play an important role in fighting malnutrition among vulnerable coastal communities, according to new research published in Cell Reports Sustainability. The study was carried out by scientists from Stockholm University and Project Seagrass. It found that fish caught in seagrass meadows provide a stronger combination of essential nutrients than fish collected from nearby coral reefs.The research team studied fish populations across 20 seagrass meadows and 20 coral reefs along a 3,000-kilometre stretch of the East African coastline, covering areas between Kenya and Mozambique. Millions of people living in these tropical regions depend heavily on fishing for food and income, while many communities continue to face poverty and nutritional challenges.Instead of looking at nutrients separately, researchers examined the overall nutritional value of the fish as a complete food source.
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