It Takes Two: Eelgrass And Clams Can Reduce Coastal Erosion!

What We Can't Sea

It takes two! Eelgrass and clams can reduce coastal erosion. Listen to this episode to see how these amazing creatures help keep our coasts healthy and strong.

"Coastal ecosystems are among the most degraded on the planet, due to climate change and development. In particular, coastal erosion (or the removal of rock, soils, and sands) leads to habitat and property loss. As climate change continues to worsen, sea level rise and intense storms are likely to make these losses worse. Some coastal species, like eelgrass and bivalves, may be able to help by increasing habitat stability in coastal ecosystems. Vegetation and bivalves can create physically complex habitats, which help to stabilize the sediment and reduce erosion. Waves and water flow can erode sediment on the bottom of the ocean, and grasses in particular can help reduce that flow. Bivalves can also help by acting as a physical structure that reduces flow. Because these different species often inhabit the same environments, they could have interactive effects on sediment stability as well."

0.00

5.00