General Description

Linear leaves with 3 longitudinal veins (1 is prominent). Two to four leaves per shoot. Apex of leaf is rounded and notched. Shoots are short (1-2 cm) and arise from rhizome nodes. Roots occur at nodes of rhizomes. Leaves medium green. Up to 10 cm long (leaves), can be to 60 cm when permanently submerged.

Biology

This species is sensitive to increased nutrient levels in the sediment. It flowers and fruits between October and March. Each plant is both male and female (monecious). This and other species of seagrass are important habitat for many invertebrates, fish and algae. They also provide carbon fixation and are impacted by physical disturbance, pollutants, sedimentation and changes in sea level.

Habitat

Soft sediments, intertidal and shallow subtidal including lagoons and estuaries, sheltered waters, to depth of 1 m.

Soft substrates

Distribution guide

New Zealand and Australia.

Species Group

Seaweeds and seagrasses › Seagrasses

Depth

Shore (0-1 m)
Shallow (1-30 m)

Water Column

On or near sea floor

Max Size

60 cm

Diet

Photosynthetic - sunlight

Commercial Species

No

Global Dispersal

Recorded in Australia

Identify

• Seaweeds and seagrasses

Conservation Status

• DSE Advisory List : Not listed
• EPBC Act 1999 : Not listed
• IUCN Red List : Not listed