Posidonia is a crucial and beneficial species for the mediterranean, learn how to preserve it.
Posidonia Oceanica is one of the oldest living organisms on the planet, perhaps even dating back 200,000 years. It is a marine plant found in the Mediterranean Sea that forms meadows between the surface and 40 metres deep. Also known as seagrass, it has a vital role in filtering sediments, thus raising the oxygen quality of the underwater ecosystem, and providing food and shelter to hundreds of marine plants and animals including starfish, sea urchins, sponges, sea horses and molluscs.
This plant is indispensable for the dynamics of the Mediterranean Sea as, due to the abundance of this species, it generates more white sand formed by small organisms that live among the Posidonia. It is worth highlighting the rich biodiversity that inhabits this plant as it serves as protection for the most vulnerable species and as a nutrient.
The Mediterranean Sea is known for its crystal waters thanks to the function of Posidonia, which supports the seabed to maintain and balance the waters . Undoubtedly one of the most important aspects of the Posidonia is the absorption of CO2 and the emission of oxygen, making it the lungs of the Mediterranean .
The Mediterranean has an extraordinary marine ecosystem and a great diversity of species that together make the sea warm and clean. The marine life is quite curious and mysterious, in the Mediterranean there is an endemic species called Posidonia that many do not know the fundamental role it plays in the sea.
Posidonia meadows are the lungs of the sea . They absorb enormous amounts of CO2 ; indeed, about half of the oxygen we breathe is produced underwater . These meadows are responsible for the transparency of the Mediterranean waters and the beauty and biodiversity of their landscapes . During the winter, posidonia protects the beaches and dune areas from erosion, as well as maintaining the quality of the sand. For the last 5 decades, data indicates that between 13% and 40% of seagrasses have been lost . This is an alarming statistic as sea grass grows very slowly, at a rate of just 2cm per year.
It is therefore essential for us all to take urgent action to take care of posidonia and its marine ecosystem, and spread awareness among our yachting community in Mediterranean waters . This concerns us all – if there is not enough green, we cannot enjoy the blue!
Protect our posidonia:
- Know the regulation regarding ecological mooring buoys, assistance services and anchorage surveillance such as those existing in the natural marine parks around the Balearic Islands.
- Sail with navigation charts and use the available apps that indicate restrictions in protected areas where yachts cannot moor and release anchor.
- Always use ecological products on board, both personal items such as soap, shampoo and sunscreen, and eco-friendly cleaning products for the yacht.
- Discharge sewage carefully in designated locations.
- If you are going to fish, use methods that respect the seabed.
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Safe anchoring to preserve posidonia
If you are onboard your superyacht, remember these simple tips to avoid erosion of the seabed and damage to Posidonia by anchoring , which is not only incorrect but also forbidden.
One of the key points to bear in mind is to observe the seabed before anchoring , always look for visible and clear areas . One tip is to try to anchor on a buoy , always following the previous step. There are a few factors to consider before anchoring, such as the length of the anchor chain , the length of your vessel and the wind direction to avoid erosion.
Once your superyacht is anchored in a safe area, any desired activities should be carried out with respect for marine life . In addition, if you are in a protected area noise should be moderated.
Once activities have finished, the anchor must be collected vertically to avoid the deterioration and erosion of the Posidonia on the seabed. On the other hand, the bilge must be emptied in the port , thus avoiding contamination of the seabed and marine life. The waste is landfilled in the port and not on beaches in order to reduce massive generation of waste.
If you are planning to sail in the Mediterranean or specifically the Balearics, kindly find below a list of websites and apps to find out and check at all times whether anchoring is allowed in the area or if Posidonia is present:
If you are navigating or planning to navigate in areas rich in posidonia, do not hesitate to contact us at Evolution Yacht Agents for detailed advice on mooring and navigation and of course, any questions or requirements you may have about posidonia or anchoring spots , contact our team at palma@evolutionagents.com who will be delighted to provide necessary advice.
Evolution Yacht Agents is the leading-edge team of professionals dedicated to providing assured and quality support and services to yachts in Spanish waters.
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