Thalassia hemprichii
Turtle Grass / Baging · Family Hydrocharitaceae
Species Information
Description
Thalassia hemprichii is one of the most common and dominant seagrass species in the Indo-Pacific region. It forms extensive meadows and plays a critical role in coastal ecosystems around Suyac Island.
Morphology
Flat, strap-like leaves 4–15 mm wide and 10–35 cm long with rounded tips. Leaves arise from short rhizomes. Distinct serrated leaf margins near the tip.
Habitat
Found in shallow intertidal and subtidal areas with sandy to muddy substrates. Tolerates varying salinity and light conditions.
Distribution
Indo-Pacific region including Philippines, Indonesia, Japan, Australia, and East Africa.
Ecological Role
Primary food source for sea turtles and dugongs. Provides nursery habitat for juvenile fish and invertebrates. Stabilizes sediments and cycles nutrients.
Coverage Over Time
Survey Records
| Date | Site | Coverage | Density | Canopy Height | Leaf Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 20, 2025 |
Suyac North Bed
SYC-N01
|
55.00%
|
Very Dense | 20.50 cm | Healthy |
| Jan 20, 2025 |
Suyac South Meadow
SYC-S03
|
58.00%
|
Very Dense | 22.00 cm | Healthy |
| Oct 22, 2024 |
Suyac North Bed
SYC-N01
|
52.00%
|
Dense | 19.00 cm | Healthy |
| Jul 18, 2024 |
Suyac North Bed
SYC-N01
|
48.00%
|
Dense | 20.00 cm | Healthy |
| Apr 20, 2024 |
Suyac North Bed
SYC-N01
|
50.00%
|
Dense | 19.50 cm | Healthy |
| Jan 16, 2024 |
Suyac South Meadow
SYC-S03
|
50.00%
|
Dense | 20.00 cm | Healthy |
| Jan 16, 2024 |
Suyac West Bay
SYC-W04
|
15.00%
|
Sparse | 12.00 cm | Slightly Damaged |
| Jan 15, 2024 |
Suyac North Bed
SYC-N01
|
45.00%
|
Dense | 18.50 cm | Healthy |