Investigating an epidemic of seagrass wasting disease in Palau

Seagrass meadows reduce coastal erosion, serve as nurseries for marine organisms, store carbon, improve water quality, and reduce pathogens linked to human disease. Marine diseases like seagrass wasting disease (SWD) pose an emerging threat to these ecosystems but are notoriously tricky to track. Previous research has focused on eelgrass in temperate zones, but a better understanding of tropical seagrass and its vulnerabilities to marine disease is essential to prevent losses and restore crucial ecosystems. This project will bring together a team with expertise in field ecology and molecular biology to investigate the causes of SWD in Palau’s tropical seagrass ecosystems. In collaboration with the Palau International Coral Reef Center, the researchers will generate critical new insights into the drivers of SWD and its impact on overall seagrass meadow health. They will share knowledge with local communities in Palau to develop monitoring efforts.