Meadows of Neptune: Part II
The underwater forests around the Balearics have captivated generations as we’ve journeyed over turquoise waters of impossible hue, a colour created by the seabed’s green carpet, or snorkelled amongst the Posidonia blades. “The Lungs of the Ocean”, these meadows are a major source of life providing shelter for many marine species, producing huge amounts of oxygen whilst removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and acting as a barrier reef structure to protect beaches too. The clarity of the Mediterranean around Spain’s archipelago is due to the filtering of the water by the grass itself. A natural superpower, its properties used for the relief of respiratory diseases and as a disinfectant, Posidonia is the only aquatic flowering plant in the world and at 100,000 years old, an incredible relic of the ancient world.
Diving in, groupers, morays, starfish, squid, painted combers, gobies and whole schools of salema can be spotted swimming through the meadows. The most biodiverse marine ecosystem in the world, the Posidonia undulates with the current of the water and large leaves from its “rhizome” stems form a canopy under which many species of young fish, crustaceans and cephalopods nestle; the herbarium acting as a nursery for baby species to grow. It’s a colourful and active world beneath the surface but because the water is so clear, there is much that can be seen from above too. Taking a kayak along the coast of Ibiza or Menorca, caves and hidden beaches await to be explored and the marine life along the way can be viewed undisturbed. SUPs are also perfect for getting closer to the activity below as you glide quietly over the water.
While Summer is the obvious popular time to holiday in the Mediterranean especially for families, the Spring or Autumn months are more refreshing. The weather isn’t as hot but it’s still deliciously warm and full of sunshine. With less crowds, blossom or turning leaves, it’s thought of locally as more beautiful too. In the Summertime, the Posidonia meadows have the highest organic activity filled with epiphytes and smaller microorganisms attracting the bigger fish, so the snorkelling is exciting. However, with the higher seasonal temperature, the plants take on a brownish tone, especially in the shallower areas. More tranquil times of the year are exceptional as you might find the meadows all to yourself, plus Posidonia flowering occurs in late Autumn and fresh green sprays are seen in Spring.
Whatever time of year you plan to visit the Balearics, it is important that plans for mooring and anchoring are put in place before you travel to our exquisite corner of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s always best to opt for spots where buoys have been installed so there is no damage to the plants that grow along the ocean’s floor. To be ultra-prepared, you can reserve these here. If it is absolutely essential to use an anchor, we encourage visitors to choose an area completely free of Posidonia. Please check charts, satellite images, and user-generated info on navigation systems to identify white sand areas and contours which signify there is no green below. There are apps, tools, and resources that can help you identify these safe zones and some places even have Posidonia control boats that you can radio to help find an appropriate anchor spot. If in doubt, arrive at your destination in the daylight hours so you can see for yourself where the white sandy parts are to drop anchor. Both your anchor and chain should be in sand, not dragged along Neptune’s precious lawns. These are safeguarded for the health of the sea and the world beyond, for mindful exploration and the next generation.
Contact the Komodo team to find out more information on where to anchor among the Balearic Islands or the best place to snorkel from the shore. When it comes to the oceans, we are here to help.
