Enhancing Coastal Resilience Through Seagrass Ecosystem Engineering: Physical and Ecological Functions of Enhalus acoroides

Enhalus acoroides is a well-known ecosystem engineer in the Indo-Pacific region. In this context, it plays a significant role in the protection of the coastline from coastal erosion and the maintenance of environmental conditions. This study investigates the physical characteristics of Enhalus acoroides and emphasizes their roles in shoreline stabilization and seawater filtration. A field survey was conducted in Prawean Beach, Jepara, Indonesia, using a transect quadrant to estimate the seagrass cover, supported by spatial analysis and a literature review. The results show considerable variation in leaf length, ranging from 30 to 114 cm, while leaf width remains relatively stable, ranging from 1.5 to 2 cm. Seagrass density ranges from 0 to 168 ind/m2, exhibiting strong spatial heterogeneity. The physical characteristics of Enhalus acoroides could reduce the wave energy by approximately 30% compared to smaller seagrass species. Additionally, the meadows play an important role in regulating sediment transport and facilitating the deposition of heavy metal within the substrate. Overall, these findings confirm that Enhalus acoroides functions as an effective natural coastal protector. Its integration into hybrid engineering approaches offers promising potential for coastal nourishment and sustainable shoreline management. Therefore, conserving seagrass habitat represents a crucial nature-based solution for enhancing coastal resilience and mitigating pollution.