How does dredging affect marine habitat?

Dredging disrupts marine habitats by removing sediment and altering the seabed, which can destroy essential habitats for various species, including fish and invertebrates. The process can resuspend toxic materials buried in the sediment, leading to water quality degradation and harmful effects on marine life. Additionally, increased sedimentation can smother coral reefs and seagrass beds, further compromising biodiversity and ecosystem health. Overall, dredging can have significant, often detrimental, impacts on marine ecosystems.