Scientific name: Zostera marina

Common name(s): Eelgrass

Name as shown in Phylogenes: Eelgrass

Ploidy: Diploid

Description:

Zostera marina or eelgrass, is the most widespread polyphyletic subtidal monocot seagrass of the Zosteraceae family. Found in most continents with the exception of Antarctica, eelgrass controls erosion by dampening ocean wave and wind currents that impact shorelines around the world. Eelgrass contributes to highly productive ecosystems and is able to nurture several marine species including fish and invertebrates. It is valued as a tool for carbon sequestration, and bioremediation of aquatic systems.

The study of eelgrass has provided insight into its complex adaptation evolutionary history and adaptations to marine conditions, such as cell wall modifications.

Reference(s):

Olsen JL, et al. The genome of the seagrass Zostera marina reveals angiosperm adaptation to the sea. Nature. 2016 Feb 18;530(7590):331-5. doi: 10.1038/nature16548.

Genome Database(s):

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