Biomass potential of eelgrass(Zostera marinaL.)

Abstract

Several phenomena related with the biomass potential of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) are reviewed. Data on the spatial and temporal distribution of the species are presented and treated in detail in relation to the effects of several factors (e.g., height in the (sub)littoral, temperature, light), which in turn influence the vegetative morphology and biomass. The temporary presence of reproductive shoots and the phenological differences between annual and perennial populations related with differences in habitat selection strongly affect the seasonal variation in biomass. Methods applied for biomass determination in terms of fresh, dry, and ash‐free dry weights are presented and discussed and the results critically compared. In addition, methods and results related with indirect estimates of standing stock are discussed.