Seagrass Restoration Efforts Revive Biodiversity at Merambong Shoal in Malaysia
Seagrass restoration in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, has shown promising results with a survival rate of 66% for transplanted seedlings. Over a decade, researchers from the University of Putra Malaysia monitored recovery efforts on the Merambong Shoal after significant damage from development. Their work led to the natural colonization of nine additional seagrass species, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. The study highlights the importance of diverse species planting and calls for improved regulations on seagrass conservation.

In Malaysia's Johor Bahru, seagrass restoration has progressed after damage from a 2014 land reclamation project. The University of Putra Malaysia led a decade-long study (2015-2025) at Merambong Shoal, focusing on transplanting seedlings from multiple seagrass species.
Their approach achieved a 66% survival rate and the natural return of nine additional species, increasing local biodiversity. The study emphasizes the need for regulations on seagrass protection, paralleling existing policies for coral reefs and mangroves, as seagrass ecosystems are vital for carbon sequestration and biodiversity.




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