Selection of Zostera Marina L. Ecotypes for transplanting

The restoration and enhancement of eelgrass meadows are becoming common place in coastal marshes and bays. Eelgrass (Zostera marina) research has demonstrated that the species has several ecotypes each with different biomass, morphology and habitat dependent phenoptypes. Transplanting success and ecosystem enhancement can be improved with the proper selection of suitable ecotypes. Applicable selection criteria include the desired outcome phenotype, habitat characteristics, cost and logistics of transplanting. In habitats where more that one ecotype can survive selection can be based on desirable structural and functional aspects of the resultant eelgrass habitat.