Seagrasses are vital ecosystems that provide numerous benefits, including carbon sequestration, habitat provision, and coastal protection. In Portugal, Zostera noltei is a dominant seagrass species that plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. However, it is facing significant declines due to climate change and anthropogenic disturbances. To address this issue, some transplantation techniques have been tested to restore Z. noltei populations. This study aimed to evaluate the physiological effects of transplanting Z. noltei from the lower intertidal ecotype into a receptor site with similar conditions during the winter season, in the Ria Formosa coastal lagoon, Portugal. Physiological parameters, such as oxidative damage, antioxidant activity, soluble sugars, starch, and photosynthetic pigments, were assessed to evaluate plant health and adaptability.
Preliminary results showed that the transplanted plants exhibited comparable physiological parameters to the donor population, indicating their adaptability to the new environment. These findings suggest that using donor sites with similar environmental characteristics can enhance transplantation success. Understanding the physiological responses of Z. noltei to transplantation is crucial for the implementation of effective restoration strategies. This research contributes to the body of knowledge concerning seagrass restoration and emphasizes the importance of conserving and restoring seagrass meadows for their ecological and economic value.
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