What is a key role of sea turtles in marine ecosystems?

The key role of sea turtles in marine ecosystems includes their beneficial impact on seagrass beds and coral reefs through grazing. Sea turtles, particularly species like the green turtle, consume seagrass and algae, which helps to control vegetation growth. By keeping this plant life in check, sea turtles promote the health of the seagrass beds, which are vital habitats for many marine organisms, including fish and invertebrates. Healthy seagrass beds also contribute to coastal protection by stabilizing sediment and reducing erosion.

In coral reef ecosystems, grazing by sea turtles helps to prevent certain algae from dominating and allows for the growth and health of coral organisms. This grazing behavior fosters biodiversity and helps maintain the overall balance within these complex ecosystems. The impact of sea turtles in this context highlights their role as a keystone species, where their presence and activities are crucial for the health and sustainability of marine environments.