The Indo-Pacific bioregion showcases a diverse array of seagrass species, with unique life history traits. These traits vary widely and may be used during restoration efforts to enhance planting success. Planting mature seagrass fragments is an established restoration technique; weighted fragments observed the highest success score in a global analysis of seagrass restoration techniques. Most (68%) of the studies in this analysis were from temperate regions. The investigation into tropical seagrass restoration remains relatively underexplored.
We trialled fragment-based planting techniques on two tropical Australian seagrass species, Halodule uninervis and Thalassia hemprichii with contrasting life history traits to assess suitable restoration methods. Fragments were either pinned directly into the seabed using bamboo stakes or attached to weights and dropped onto the seabed. Planting materials will be trialled under different exposure conditions to further identify the optimum planting technique for the desired species and restoration site. Survival and growth metrics will be evaluated to develop effective restoration strategies for these species whilst factoring in associated cost and effort. Here we present the initial findings of these studies and practical insights to enhance tropical seagrass restoration practices.