Effects of seed tape on eelgrass ( <i>Zostera marina</i> L.) seed germination and seedling development: a study into seed tape sowing technique for seagrass restoration

Abstract Seagrass meadows conservation and restoration are recognized as nature-based solutions for climate change mitigation. Seed-based restoration strategies have gained popularity owing to their potential for large-scale application. Despite an increasing number of successful seagrass restoration efforts, large-scale seeding restoration practices still face challenges, including low sowing efficiency and seedling emergence rates. To address these challenges, this laboratory study investigated the feasibility of adapting terrestrial seed tape sowing technology for seagrass restoration, specifically by examining the effects of seed tape sowing and various tape materials (polylactic acid, polypropylene, cotton, and paper) on Zostera marina L. seed germination and seedling establishment. The findings demonstrated successful eelgrass seed germination and seedling establishment using seed tape, achieving a maximum seedling establishment rate exceeding 80%. Seed tape materials were found to play a vital role in seed germination and seedling growth, primarily attributable to their structural properties rather than their degradation performance. Environmentally friendly cotton and paper tape materials were identified as more suitable for seagrass restoration compared to less readily degradable materials. These results indicate that seed tape sowing technology holds significant potential for large-scale seagrass restoration, offering benefits such as enhanced sowing efficiency through mechanized equipment and improved seed use efficiency. However, this technology requires further optimization and exploration in field settings. This research provides valuable theoretical insights and empirical data to support the application of seed tape sowing technology in seagrass restoration.