Unlike most other studies of seagrass growth, which have simply looked at the overall proportion of seeds that reach maturity as adult plants, the research team carefully followed the progress of their seeds at each step from germination to seed-dependent, seed–independent, and established seedlings. Identifying the different bottlenecks that impact early life-stage transitions will allow researchers to better target the processes most responsive to management. These bottlenecks may be unique for each seagrass species and for particular locations. For details, read the full story.