LLamil Ruiz González
There are several factors that affect the integrity of seagrasses, both in the Jardines de la Reina archipelago and in Jardines del Rey, a situation that can damage biodiversity in these ecosystems, so the studies carried out to find out their state of conservation are vital.
Claudia Bustamante López, a specialist in marine vegetation at the Cayo Coco Coastal Ecosystem Research Center, reports that among the elements that most affect the so-called submerged meadows are intense waves and extreme weather events such as hurricanes of great intensity, in the case of natural factors.
On the other hand, among the anthropic components, dredging actions prevail, activities linked to tourism and the dragging of anchors and fishing gear by fishing boats, an influence that, according to experts, already exceeds the effect of natural elements and requires greater control.
Bustamante López affirms that it is therefore necessary to increase the protection measures of an ecosystem that, although it does not attract the same attention as others such as coral reefs, is essential to guarantee life on the planet, and consequently, the survival of all human beings.