From Coral Reefs to Seagrass Meadows
At Florida Oceanographic Society, we believe that to protect the ocean, we must first understand its story. Florida’s nearshore oceanic ecosystems — the habitats just off our coasts — have changed dramatically over time. Once stretching across clear, shallow waters filled with coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and fish-filled lagoons, these ecosystems are vital not only for marine life but also for the people who call Florida home.
A Rich and Diverse Past
For thousands of years, Florida’s nearshore waters have supported a web of life unlike anywhere else in the world. Warm ocean currents from the Gulf Stream brought nutrients that helped coral reefs, sponges, and seagrass beds flourish. These habitats acted as nurseries for fish, feeding grounds for sea turtles and manatees, and natural barriers that protected the coast from storms.
Native peoples and early settlers relied on these healthy waters for food, tools, and transportation. The ocean wasn’t just a resource — it was a way of life.
[Learn more about the history of the Indian River Lagoon and St. Lucie Estuary →]
When Things Began to Change
Over the past century, Florida’s coastline has transformed. As more people moved to coastal areas, activities like dredging, coastal construction, and pollution began to alter the natural balance of our ocean ecosystems.
Sediment from development buried coral reefs. Pollution and nutrient runoff fueled algal blooms, clouding the water and blocking sunlight from reaching seagrass beds. Rising water temperatures and ocean acidification made it harder for corals and shellfish to grow.
These combined pressures caused many nearshore habitats — from the Florida Reef Tract to the seagrass meadows of the Indian River Lagoon — to shrink or disappear entirely.
[See how we’re research team is laying the groundwork for restoring seagrass and oyster reefs →]
The Ripple Effect
When these ecosystems decline, everything connected to them suffers. Coral reefs and seagrass beds support thousands of species, from tiny crustaceans to large predators like sharks. They also protect our shorelines from erosion and provide billions of dollars in economic value through tourism and recreation.
As Florida’s ocean habitats weakened, so did the balance of marine life. Fewer fish, struggling reefs, and declining water quality became signs that the health of the ocean — and our own well-being — were at risk.
[Learn how water quality affects coastal ecosystems →]
A Future Worth Fighting For
Today, conservation and restoration efforts are helping turn the tide. Across Florida, scientists, volunteers, and organizations like Florida Oceanographic Society are rebuilding and protecting these fragile ecosystems.
Through our Living Docks, oyster reef restoration, and seagrass recovery programs, we’re working to improve water quality and restore vital nearshore habitats. Every reef we rebuild and every seagrass bed we plant brings life back to the coast and helps stabilize the environment for generations to come.
[Discover our Living Docks and habitat restoration projects →]
Why Nearshore Ecosystems Matter
Florida’s nearshore oceanic ecosystems — from the coral reefs of the Keys to the seagrass meadows along the Treasure Coast — are some of the most productive and valuable environments on Earth. They provide food, shelter, and protection for marine life and serve as a natural defense for coastal communities.
By supporting education, research, and advocacy through Florida Oceanographic Society, you’re helping safeguard these vital habitats. Together, we can ensure that Florida’s ocean ecosystems remain vibrant, healthy, and full of life.
[Join us in protecting Florida’s oceans and coasts →]
