Wrack N’ Roll: The Ecological Role of Beach Wrack

Abstract

Beach wrack is the stinky weed that gets washed up on the beach after a big storm. This weed is made up of old marine plants such as seaweeds and seagrasses, and it gets washed up onto beaches all over the world. Although it can be ugly and smell like rotten eggs, it is very important for the health of our beaches. Lots of tiny animals make their homes in beach wrack, while others feed on it or use it as a hunting ground for their favorite snacks. This feeding frenzy produces nutrients through animal poop and bones, which get delivered back into the water and help to keep our oceans healthy. Coastal development and beach cleaning upset these natural processes and can impact the ecosystems that make our beaches so great.