The Posidonia

L'Hospitalet de l'Infant is located on one of the best-preserved stretches of coastline on the coast of Tarragona, and part of the marine area is classified as a Natura 2000 Network area (Nature Network). In this sense, the coast of the municipality is home to large meadows of posidonia (Posidonia oceanica), of great ecological value.

Posidonia is a marine plant that is of great importance for the ecosystem of seas and beaches. It is good for several reasons:

• Coastal stability: Posidonia meadows act as natural anchors, helping to retain sand and prevent coastal erosion. This protects beaches and maintains the balance of the coastline.
• Marine habitat: Posidonia creates a rich and diverse habitat for many marine species. Many fish, crustaceans and other organisms find shelter and food in these meadows, contributing to marine biodiversity.
• Water filtration: Posidonia roots and leaves help to clarify seawater by retaining suspended particles and filtering out polluting nutrients.
• Carbon catchment: Posidonia is a plant that captures carbon dioxide (CO2 ) from the atmosphere and stores carbon in its tissue, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Posidonia only grows in clean and pure waters. Another example of the quality of the marine waters of L'Hospitalet de l'Infant and Vall de Llors.