New seagrass meadow discovered in Northern Ireland by Queen’s PhD student

The newly discovered seagrass (known as eelgrass) meadow – Zostera marina

A remarkable environmental discovery has been made in Northern Ireland’s waters, as a previously unrecorded seagrass meadow has been identified in Strangford Lough — offering fresh hope for climate action and marine conservation.

The find was made by Queen’s University Belfast PhD student Rebekah Bajkó, who used innovative technology from DAERA’s Coastal Observatory to spot unusual patterns beneath the water’s surface in the Narrows at Granagh Bay. What began as a data-led hunch quickly turned into a significant scientific breakthrough.

From data pattern to underwater discovery

While analysing remotely sensed data, Rebekah noticed a distinctive formation in the tide-swept channel and flagged it for further investigation. A local diving club was brought in to explore the site — and what they uncovered exceeded expectations.

Strangford Lough, County Down where a new seagrass meadow has been discovered.

A lush seagrass meadow was discovered, thriving beneath the surface. Marine biologist Bernard Picton captured video footage during the dive, which was later analysed by Dr Christine Morrow as part of DAERA’s Environment Funded Queen’s Marine Biodiversity Data Portal NI project.

Subsequent checks with DAERA confirmed the significance of the find: this seagrass meadow, identified as Zostera marina, had never before been recorded within the Strangford Lough Marine Conservation Zone.

Why seagrass matters

Seagrass meadows are among the planet’s most valuable natural assets. Known as “blue carbon” habitats, they play a crucial role in capturing and storing carbon, helping to mitigate climate change. They also support biodiversity, improve water quality, and provide vital nursery grounds for marine life.

Historically, seagrass was widespread across Northern Ireland’s shallow coastal waters. However, like much of Europe, it has suffered severe decline due to coastal development, pollution, and disease.

This new discovery not only adds to scientific understanding but also strengthens efforts to protect and restore these fragile ecosystems.

Technology driving conservation breakthroughs

Speaking about the discovery, Rebekah Bajkó said:

“I’m delighted to have contributed to this discovery and am really pleased that the technologies available to us are enabling such finds.”

The role of DAERA’s Coastal Observatory has been central, demonstrating how cutting-edge tools can empower researchers to uncover hidden habitats and guide conservation efforts more effectively.

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir praised the collaboration behind the discovery, stating:

“I would like to commend Rebekah and everyone involved in confirming the presence of this previously unknown marine habitat. This is a really good demonstration of DAERA’s Coastal Observatory tool’s capabilities, showcasing how it can empower scientists, such as Rebekah, to pinpoint areas that warrant further investigation and conservation efforts.

“We must understand where our blue carbon habitats are in order to properly manage and protect them. This recent discovery of subtidal seagrass meadow in Strangford Lough contributes to the aims in my Department’s Blue Carbon Action Plan for Northern Ireland 2025-2030 by advancing knowledge of these critical ecosystems.”

National spotlight on a hidden habitat

The discovery has already reached a wider audience, with footage of the seagrass featured in a segment on brent geese at Strangford Lough during BBC’s Winterwatch, which is broadcasting from Northern Ireland for the first time this week.

A discovery with lasting impact

Beyond the scientific excitement, the find represents a meaningful step forward in understanding Northern Ireland’s marine environment. Each newly identified habitat strengthens the case for protection, restoration, and smarter environmental policy.

As efforts continue to map and safeguard blue carbon ecosystems, discoveries like this highlight just how much remains hidden beneath the surface — and how vital it is to find and protect it.

At a glance

• A new seagrass meadow has been discovered in Strangford Lough

• The find was made by Queen’s University Belfast PhD student Rebekah Bajkó

• Discovery was enabled using DAERA’s Coastal Observatory data

• The meadow is located in the Narrows at Granagh Bay

• It is the first recorded instance of this habitat in the Marine Conservation Zone

• The species identified is Zostera marina

• Seagrass is a key “blue carbon” habitat that helps combat climate change

• The discovery supports Northern Ireland’s Blue Carbon Action Plan 2025–2030

• Footage of the meadow featured on BBC’s Winterwatch

• The find highlights the role of technology in modern conservation efforts