British Sign Language Glossaries of Curriculum Terms

BSL Marine Species Glossary - Seagrass (Neptune grass) - definition

Translation:

Hi, I'm here in Falmouth, Cornwall. I want to tell you about a type of Seagrass called 'Neptune Seagrass'. It is often mistaken for seaweed but it's actually a plant, with roots, a stem, small flowers and fruits containing seeds. These seeds are important because when they disperse, they allow the plant to spread. The leaves, which are green and flat, can grow to over a metre in length.

Multiple plants together form seagrass meadows, which offer shelter, food and protection for the animals that live there. Seagrass is important for the environment because it generates oxygen and absorbs carbon dioxide. Neptune Grass isn't found in UK waters but is native to the Mediterranean. However, it is considered a protected species there, as it faces threats from anchoring, pollution and coastal development.