Protecting Marine Habitats - Eel Grass | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife

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The diver must be swimming or floating in the water while spearfishing. The use of explosives or bullets attached to the spear ("bang sticks") is prohibited. See Fishing in Washington Rules and Regulations for more information.

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Scuba Diving in Washington
Protecting Marine Habitats

Intro | Eelgrass | Kelp Beds | Mud & Sand | Rocky Habitats

Photos: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4

Eelgrass
Eelgrass is an abundant plant found in sandy and mud habitats along the fringes of Puget Sound. It’s a perennial plant that is firmly rooted in the sediment with green blades measuring a quarter to half an inch in width but growing to as long as a yard. Like plants in land environment, it flowers and sets seed, but all in the saltwater. Eelgrass thrives in the intertidal and typically grows to a depth of 12 feet. Eelgrass thrives in the sun and produces oxygen and nutrients for the nearshore ecosystem. As important, it provides a three dimensional structure in which salmon, other fish, and shellfish can feed and hide. Eelgrass stabilizes the nearshore sand and helps to absorb current and wave energy.