While the world marvels at coral reefs and charismatic marine giants, an unsung hero sways quietly beneath the surface. Say hello to seagrass. Overlooked, often misunderstood, and at times even removed for the sake of postcard-perfect turquoise waters, these submerged meadows hold the key to resilience, regeneration, and renewal.
Dr Nisha Caretta Goldsworthy, Research Coordinator for the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI) at Six Senses Laamu, is on a mission to shift perceptions. Her work is transforming seagrass from an ecological footnote to an ecosystem lifeline and, in doing so, is redefining what it means to grow gently but powerfully.
The Quiet Force Holding the Ocean Together
“People are drawn to coral reefs or marine megafauna like manta rays,” Dr Nisha says. “But seagrass quietly supports the very foundation of marine life, and most people don’t even know it exists.” Beyond its unassuming appearance, seagrass performs essential ecological functions: it stores carbon, stabilises shorelines, filters pollution, supports fisheries, and provides vital habitat to everything from juvenile reef fish to grazing sea turtles. “It’s a full ecosystem,” she explains, “but it’s often seen as something to remove.”
In the Maldives, seagrass is frequently mistaken for seaweed or seen as spoiling the ‘perfect’ ocean view. Add cultural myths passed down over generations, and it’s no wonder the ecosystem has become invisible. “Changing those perceptions is one of the most important parts of our work,” she says.
What the Meadows Reveal
Snorkelling through Laamu’s protected seagrass zones, you’ll witness moments that feel stitched together by wonder. Think turtles gliding through the blades, rays foraging in the sand, oxygen bubbles rising like underwater snow. “It’s calm,” says Dr Nisha. “But always full of possibility.”
Since Six Senses Laamu began protecting its seagrass in 2019, MUI has recorded a doubling in megafauna sightings within those zones. Guests now report seeing turtles and rays from their villas, and locals are beginning to see the meadows with new eyes, too. “Through our Hello Hallu education programme, we’ve seen Maldivian school students go from fearing seagrass to feeling awe,” she says. “Watching that shift in real time is the most moving part of what we do.”
Slow Science, Strong Change
For Dr Nisha, seagrass is more than an ecological focus. It’s a metaphor for change. “Science is slow. Advocacy is slow. But it builds,” she reflects. “And that’s the power of seagrass, it doesn’t shout, but it sustains.” Today, MUI is supporting a national movement. Laamu was the pilot site for Protect Maldives Seagrass, and Six Senses Laamu helped form the Seagrass Industry Leaders Group with Maldives Resilient Reefs. The goal? Encourage every resort to protect at least 80% of their seagrass or raise awareness if none exists. So far, 17 resorts have pledged. “We’re showing that luxury tourism and thriving ecosystems aren’t in conflict. They can co-exist.”
Lightbulb Moments
Back on land, guests who once saw seagrass as murky or messy now describe it as one of the highlights of their trip. “Guided snorkels tend to flip the switch,” says Dr Nisha. “They see the life, the movement, the importance. Then they hear that some resorts still remove it sometimes by laying plastic to smother it, and they’re shocked.” To track this shift, the team even mines guest reviews for mentions of seagrass. Over 90% express positive sentiment, with many linking it to a greater understanding of marine life. “That’s a huge win,” she says.
What You Can Do
Seagrass is global. You don’t have to be in the Maldives to make a difference. Dr Nisha’s advice?
“Support destinations that protect their ecosystems. Ask questions. Share what you’ve learned. Even a Tripadvisor comment can shift norms.” Your influence as a guest goes further than you think.
A Personal Shift
Dr Nisha never planned to become a seagrass advocate. Her PhD focused on gobies, tiny reef fish, and coral ecology. “But once I saw how everything connected back to these meadows, I couldn’t ignore it.” What started as a side project has become a new professional mission. “This work has shaped who I am,” she says. “Seagrass has shown me that change doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.”
In many ways, that quiet strength reflects Dr Nisha’s own path. “Seagrass holds everything together. And I think a lot of us, especially women in science, can relate to that.”
Seagrass isn’t just the ocean’s carpet. It’s a living force that cleans our seas, shelters marine life, and breathes oxygen into every tide.
Instagram: @sixsenseslaamu
Website: sixsenses.com
