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This summer, there was a lot of talk about Posidonia oceanica in Sardinia and how it could be endangered by human activities such as illegal fishing and boating. For some time now, MEDSEA has been committed to safeguarding the meadows of Posidonia oceanica with "A Marine Forest to Save the Planet", which are essential for a range of benefits, from regulating sea temperatures to its ability to oxygenate the sea, from its efficiency in sequestering carbon, to its ability to protect biodiversity and be home to numerous plant and animal species, such as fish, especially in their juvenile stages. Not least is the significant role of these meadows in slowing down coastal erosion, which is also due to the effects of climate change.  

That's why when the cover of these essential meadows is destroyed or simply damaged, the harm can be irreversible and incalculable. Posidonia oceanica, endemic to the Mediterranean, is a very delicate plant that grows very slowly, only a few centimeters a year. By damaging - even inadvertently and unintentionally these meadows - for example, with wild anchoring - we compromise what nature has created over centuries. 

To better explain the topic, refute any doubts, and debunk some myths, we have collected some of your most frequent observations: 

Why Posidonia oceanica is a protected species? 

Posidonia oceanica is an endemic marine plant of the Mediterranean Sea - not a seaweed - equipped with stems, roots, leaves, and even reproductive organs, which is why it is defined as a "higher" plant (Phanerogama). It forms extensive underwater meadows, performing numerous ecological functions such as oxygen production, coastal line protection, providing habitat for marine fauna, and contributing to carbon sequestration. Its ecological importance has led to its protection through various regulations, including the Barcelona Convention, national legislation of Mediterranean countries, and the European Natura 2000 network. The main threats to this plant include boat anchoring, pollution, trawling, and coastal urbanisation. 

Where can we find it? 

We can find it from the first few meters of depth from the coastline up to 30-40 meters. 

Can anchors really uproot marine plants like posidonia? 

Yes, boat anchors and chains can physically damage posidonia meadows, a crucial marine plant for the Mediterranean coastal ecosystems. When an anchor is dropped onto the seabed where the meadow is present, it can tear and uproot the leaves, rhizomes, and roots of the posidonia. This physical damage can create "patches" or empty areas within the meadow, which can take years or even decades to regenerate due to the slow growth of posidonia. 

So how should boats regulate themselves when they want to anchor in areas where posidonia is present? 

Boats should follow certain guidelines and best practices when anchoring in areas with posidonia. Many protected marine areas or coastal zones have specific anchoring regulations to protect the marine environment, but even where it isn't explicitly stated, boaters can actively contribute to conserving these valuable meadows and enjoy the sea responsibly. For instance, they can directly visually inspect if the seabed presents a meadow or directly check underwater with a mask where they are anchoring, use buoy fields where available (for example, in Sinis, you can also register online at the buoy field with www.bluemooring.org). Being more informed about the benefits and importance of posidonia and sharing this information with other boaters can help promote sustainable anchoring practices. 

Are there mappings of Posidonia meadows? 

Yes, there are areas, particularly Protected Marine Areas, equipped with digital cartography containing information on posidonia meadows. For example, the Donia app. It's always good practice to check your boat itinerary to plan anchorages. 

Is trawling (illegal) more harmful to the meadows than anchoring? 

Both trawling and unregulated anchoring can have significant impacts on marine habitats if not managed correctly. While trawling can alter large areas of the seabed and negatively affect various species, careless anchoring can damage delicate habitats like posidonia meadows. Both activities, if not regulated and monitored, can lead to long-term damage in the marine environment.