The 4-human related
threats to seagrasses are caused mostly by human development. The most common
are: Excessive dredging, careless boating, chemical waste in the sewers, and
garbage.
a. Excessive dredging due to the accommodation
of building houses or other facilities that need proper sewage disposal
has caused the destruction of many seagrasses and mangrove communities in the
United States.
b. Careless boating by boaters in the area who
are not familiar with the local waters destroy the seagrasses with their
propellers. To further prevent destruction, they are encouraged by the local
government to familiarize themselves with the area and prevent boating in shallow
waters where seagrasses are found.
c. Chemicals found in the sewage system that
leak cause the growth of excessive algae and bacteria. When this happens, they
cover the surface area of the water causing little to no sunlight to appear
underwater and reach the
seagrasses. When this happens, seagrasses lack the capacity to produce oxygen
through photosynthesis. Not only does this affect seagrasses but also marine
life, when algae and bacteria build up they suck the oxygen that is necessary
for the survival of various marine animals.
d. Garbage that decompose in land or in water
produce poisonous chemicals that are also a threat not only to seagrasses but
also to other marine life.
