Researchers at William & Mary are using graph neural networks to predict which microbial communities will best support eelgrass restoration. By matching donor microbes with resident sediment, the team aims to increase the survival rate of seagrass meadows, which are critical for coastal defense and long-term carbon storage. This approach targets the instability of blue carbon ecosystems. Successful restoration prevents the release of stored carbon back into the atmosphere and helps protect shorelines from erosion through more resilient biological foundations.
