Seagrasses comprise a critical component of marine coastal ecosystems, presenting a range of benefits to both the ecosystem and coastal communities. Seagrasses are ecosystem-engineers, modifying their environment to create suitable habitats for themselves and for a range of organisms, including the juveniles of many marine species, making them invaluable for aquaculture. Seagrass meadows also help with foreshore stabilization, reducing erosion and buffering coastlines, while also supporting the diets of many organisms, aiding in carbon capture, and partaking in multiple nutrient cycles, including those of sulfur, nitrogen and carbon.

The microbiome of seagrasses may underlie their health and ability to perform their functions. Microbiomes of other marine organisms impact on their overall health, including macroalgae, phytoplankton and corals. Research at the Case Lab is focused on:

• characterization of the microbial diversity and genetic potential within seagrass microbiomes in Singapore

• improving seagrass health by optimising seagrass microbiome leading to habitat protection and restoration

• identify the underlying mechanisms through which the microbiome and seagrass interact via biogeochemical cycling and bioactive molecules