LANGUAGE MAKERS A M A Z I N G N AT U R E 20 · t w e n t y Let's read! oBSERVE. Look at the photo. What can you see? Is it a plant or algae? A garden in the sea Neptune grass ( Posidonia oceanica ) grows underwater in the Mediterranean Sea in large "meadows". It requires shallow waters where sunlight can reach the plants in order to carry out photosynthesis. Neptune grass is a plant and, unlike algae, it has roots, leaves and stems. It also produces flowers and fruits. More than 350 marine species live in Neptune grass meadows, where they find food and shelter. The plant is a large producer of oxygen. This keeps the seawater clear and healthy. Neptune grass is called the "lungs of the Mediterranean". Unfortunately, Neptune grass is dying in large quantities. Human activities like sailing and tourism destroy the meadows. Water pollution diminishes the number of healthy plants. Rising sea temperatures also affect the plants. Experts call for the protection of this valuable underwater plant. Let 's save the Neptune grass! READ about Neptune grass. Let's speak! EXPLAIN in your own words why Neptune grass is endangered. DISCUSS with your classmates. Do you know of any other endangered plants? ANSWER the questions. Is Neptune grass a plant? Explain your answer. Where is it found? Why is it important?
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