Seagrass is a type of flowering plant that grows in shallow coastal waters around the world. Unlike seaweed, which is a type of algae, seagrass has true roots, stems, and leaves. It plays a crucial role in marine ecosystems by providing habitat and food for various marine animals, including manatees and sea turtles. Seagrass meadows also help improve water quality by trapping sediments and absorbing nutrients. They are important for carbon storage, helping to mitigate climate change. However, seagrass habitats are threatened by pollution, coastal development, and climate change, making their conservation essential for marine health.