Ecomare

The species of plants found in harbors are the same found growing on dams and dikes. Jetties, pontoons and car tires serving as fenders along the piers are simple forms of solid bottoms. Dams and dikes are exposed to open sea, whereas harbors are more protected. This is more suitable for common seaweed species, such as sea lettuce and red bryozoan. The exotic species Japanese sargassum was imported via the shipping industry (and therefore stems from harbors). Even phytoplankton, on which harbor fauna feeds, is found in large quantities. If a harbor is badly polluted, the flora will disappear and consequently much of the fauna.