These seagrass beds are made up of three main species: Zostera marina, Zostera noltei, and Ruppia maritima. Zostera marina is the most common and provides the majority of the biomass in the beds. Seagrass beds in this area are some of the largest in Ireland and are believed to be the most important forage fish nursery on the Atlantic coast of Europe.

The videos show the competition between invasive Wireweed and native Seagrass. Local Curragheen moss pickers remember much greater meadows of Seagrass and no wireweed

The Maharees and Tralee Bay seagrass beds are also home to a variety of other marine life, including crustaceans, sea snails, and worms. They also provide a vital feeding ground for important commercial fish species such as sea bass, mullet, and plaice.

Threats to Seagrass

Unfortunately, seagrass beds are vulnerable to a range of threats including pollution, invasive species, climate change, and over-fishing. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these important ecosystems, including creating marine protected areas and reducing nutrient pollution in coastal waters.

Overall, the seagrass beds near the Maharees and Tralee Bay in County Kerry are an important part of the local coastal ecosystem, providing crucial habitat for a variety of marine life and supporting important commercial fish species. Efforts must be continued to protect these habitats and ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.