Types

• While there are 52 seagrass species found throughout the world, Florida is home to just seven varieties. Turtle grass is the most common seagrass in Florida, followed by manatee grass, shoal grass and widgeon grass. Paddle grass, Johnson's seagrass and star grass are less populous in the state and are smaller and more fragile than the other varieties found in Florida.
  
  

Function

• Florida seagrasses provide a habitat and protection for many animals and provide food for marine animals such as manatees. Seagrass also supports the marine environment by preventing erosion of shorelines, stabilizing the sea floor and serving as a water filter for debris particles.
  
  

Warning

• Seagrass in Florida has been disappearing rapidly as a result of decreased water quality, dredging projects and other events, notes the Department of Environmental Protection. The loss of seagrass impacts the coastal environment and animal habitats.