Abstract Seagrass conservation and management requires scientific understanding of spatial and temporal variability, information that is currently limited for the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). Here, we analysed seagrass presence based on previous reports, herbarium collections and stakeholder knowledge, combined with field characterization in Golfo Dulce, southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Seagrasses were found at multiple locations along a narrow border close to shore and in up to 6 m depth within Golfo Dulce, dating back to 1969. Two seagrass species were found, Halophila baillonii and Halodule beaudettei. Seagrass biomass values for Golfo Dulce (12.0 ± 8.5 g DW m−2) were lower and water nutrient concentrations were higher than previously reported in the gulf. Shoot density (1513 ± 767 shoots m−2) was similar to previous reports. Stable isotope values in seagrass were −11.3 ± 1.0‰ δ13C and 1.2 ± 0.9‰ δ15N; while those in sediments were −26.1 ± 1.3 and 2.5 ± 0.9‰. In Golfo Dulce, isotopic values of both seagrass species do not overlap with other known primary producers. Management strategies should aim to minimize known seagrass stressors, protect potential seagrass habitat, and take into account the dynamic life strategies of the two seagrass species found.

中文翻译：

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哥斯达黎加南太平洋沿岸的海草特征：历史、植被和环境

摘要 海草保护和管理需要对空间和时间变化的科学理解，而目前东热带太平洋 (ETP) 的信息有限。在这里，我们根据之前的报告、植物标本收集和利益相关者的知识，结合哥斯达黎加南太平洋沿岸戈尔福杜尔塞的实地特征分析了海草的存在。1969 年，在靠近海岸的狭窄边界的多个位置发现了海草，在 Golfo Dulce 内深度达 6 m。发现了两种海草，Halophila Bailonii 和 Halodule beaudettei。Golfo Dulce 的海草生物量值 (12.0 ± 8.5 g DW m-2) 较低，水养分浓度高于先前在海湾地区报告的浓度。芽密度（1513 ± 767 芽 m−2）与之前的报告相似。海草中的稳定同位素值为 -11.3 ± 1.0‰ δ13C 和 1.2 ± 0.9‰ δ15N；而沉积物中的分别为-26.1±1.3和2.5±0.9‰。在 Golfo Dulce，两种海草物种的同位素值与其他已知的初级生产者不重叠。管理策略应旨在最大限度地减少已知的海草压力源，保护潜在的海草栖息地，并考虑发现的两种海草物种的动态生活策略。