Researchers in Saudi Arabia and the Bahamas have discovered an innovative method to locate seagrass meadows: using green turtles and other sea creatures to guide them. By attaching satellite tags to female turtles while they nest on beaches, scientists have been able to track their movements and identify areas with seagrass. The turtles have proven to be incredibly reliable, accurate, and cost-effective, even more so than advanced technology and public databases. The study revealed 34 new seagrass sites in the Red Sea, increasing the region’s known area by 13%. Seagrass meadows play a critical role in carbon capture and storage, making their conservation crucial. The use of turtles as “guides” offers a significant advantage over other methods, which can be expensive and inaccurate. The study provides valuable data for conservation efforts in the Red Sea and highlights the importance of innovative approaches to protect the environment and economies.
A groundbreaking discovery in Saudi Arabia, fueled by the unlikeliest of creatures, has unearthed a massive carbon sink.
