Do you know why Mallorca enjoys those crystal-clear waters that reflect the blue of the sky? The Mediterranean holds a hidden treasure beneath the waves: the seagrass posidonia oceanica. This marine plant, often mistaken for algae, plays a vital role in preserving our marine ecosystem and protecting the coasts. Discover this and other interesting facts about a plant that makes Mallorca a unique destination for travelers from all over the world.
Natural Mediterranean filter: The long green leaves of the posidonia oceanica act as a natural filter for the sea, purifying the water and removing all kinds of contaminants harmful to living beings. Thanks to the action of these plants, the water quality is maintained and balanced, preserving the ecosystem's equilibrium. The conservation and care of these underwater meadows are essential to ensure the sustainability of the Mediterranean region. This is how the crystal-clear waters that define this destination are achieved.
Essential Ecosystem: Known by experts as the "sea forest," posidonia oceanica is essential for the proper development of marine ecosystems in the Mediterranean. This plant forms dense underwater meadows that serve as natural nurseries for various species of fish and other marine creatures. These "forests" provide a safe place for reproduction, shelter, and food, thereby contributing to the ecosystem's proper development. Through activities like diving or snorkeling, travelers can enjoy the spectacle of nature hidden in the Mediterranean.
Protection against erosion: Its role in protecting against erosion is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the beaches and coasts of the Mediterranean Sea. Its dense and strong roots function as a natural anchor in the seabed, holding it firmly in place. It also acts as a natural barrier against surges and erosive forces that would otherwise wear down the Mediterranean coasts. Every effort to preserve them is a step towards protecting those fine sandy beaches characteristic of the island of Mallorca.
Its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 marked a turning point in recognizing the importance of this underwater ecosystem. This event goes beyond the local level and highlights its significance on the international stage, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving this species for current and future generations. Environmental education efforts have been intensified, and awareness programs have been implemented to inform the public about the fragility of this underwater ecosystem.
At Grupo Iberostar, with the creation of the Wave of Change movement, we have been ensuring the health of our seas and working to protect this important underwater plant since 2018.
At Grupo Iberostar, we have joined forces with the Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies (IMEDEA, CSIC-UIB) and the General CSIC Foundation to create the PosiGenome project, which focuses on studying and analyzing the complete genetic code of posidonia oceanica. Through these studies, we help protect this invaluable treasure for the Mediterranean marine ecosystem and raise awareness among all our guests about the incredible role of posidonia oceanica in Mallorca.
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