Connecting the dots in the Mediterranean: Harnessing Marine Functional Connectivity for resilient seagrass ecosystems

Understanding and enhancing marine functional connectivity (MFC) is essential to sustaining the resilience of Mediterranean coastal ecosystems. Seagrass meadows of Posidonia oceanica, in particular, play a pivotal role by supporting biodiversity, stabilizing coastlines, and facilitating nutrient cycling across fragmented marine habitats. This research leverages advanced hydrodynamic and seed dispersal models, alongside graph theory, to map out critical connectivity pathways for P. oceanica across the Balearic archipelago. Key connectivity hubs emerged, including Alcudia Bay as a primary “sink” area, and strong ecological bridges between islands (e.g., Mallorca-Menorca and Ibiza-Mallorca), which underscore the strategic importance of robust connectivity networks in maintaining ecosystem function. These findings directly inform the design and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), identifying high-impact sites for restoration and conservation that can reinforce connectivity and amplify ecosystem resilience against environmental pressures. By applying an MFC perspective to seagrass conservation, this research provides a foundation for integrated land-sea management and supports sustainable blue growth and restoration strategies in the Mediterranean. The insights gained here guide policymakers and coastal managers toward science-based interventions that maximize ecological connectivity, contributing to the creation of a resilient, interconnected ocean ecosystem that supports both nature and society.