Native Eelgrass

Photo Credit: Janna Nichols

Overview

  • Species Common Name Native Eelgrass
  • Species Scientific Name Zostera marina

Ecoregions

Special needs

Native eelgrass occurs only in intertidal and shallow subtidal habitat with soft sediment and adequate light. In Oregon, this species is primarily found in estuaries.

Limiting factors

Availability of suitable habitat is a primary limiting factor for native eelgrass.

Conservation actions

Minimize impacts related to dredging, development, and commercial shellfish mariculture operations. Observe harvest restrictions. Evaluate impacts of sea-level rise.

Key reference or plan

Pacific Coast Groundfish Essential Fish Habitat Pacific Coast Salmon Essential Fish Habitat