Geomorphic gradients in shallow seagrass carbon stocks

Seagrass meadows are important sinks of organic carbon (Corg), in particular the near-surface Corg pool (? 15 cm) compared to deeper sediments. Near-surface is highly susceptible disturbance and loss atmosphere, however, inadequate accounting for variability this limits their uptake into frameworks. We therefore investigated spatial seagrass biomass across different geomorphic (estuary, lagoonal reef-associated) community typologies (pioneer persistent). stock vegetated areas (25.78 Mg ha?1 ± 26.64) was twice that from unvegetated (14.27 15.86), reinforcing paradigm presence enhances stocks. Lagoonal reef-associated showed similar stocks (p > 0.05), which were substantially higher < 0.05) than estuary meadows. Likewise, persistent communities (Cymodocea dominance) stored pioneer (Halophila Halodule dominance). Linear regression models significant but weak relationships between cover, shoot density standing with stocks, whereas strong observed matter, dry bulk median grain size. The results highlight need resolution assessments better understand local regional variability, order inform conservation policy.