SCUBA OCTOBER 2024 issue 149 | Page 41

A cormorant sits regally atop its underwater rock palace
UKDIVING
Seasearch volunteers survey the seagrass beyond Newlyn harbour wall
unaware of the enchanting marine gardens just offshore from the terrestrial flowerbeds and fishponds , despite their importance to local biodiversity and ecology . It made perfect sense to partner with Shannon , whose underwater images have captivated marine enthusiasts and competition judges alike for years . Together , we are working to bring the Helford Estuary ’ s story to the surface of public consciousness .”
The pair have been diving together and exploring the Helford Estuary for the past seven years . “ It ’ s a land of green and blue , and a jewel in the county ’ s crown of diving ,” says Tara . “ There are few places in the UK where you surface from a gentle dive in turquoise waters to a vista of white sand lined by dense , emerald pines and eucalypts like something from the Mediterranean – the Helford is truly special .”
Seagrass meadows are vital ‘ nurseries ’ for many species , including catsharks
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