<<

TERRESTRIAL & AQUATIC INVERTEBRATE SURVEY AT LAND NORTH OF TATA STEEL, LLANWERN, NEWPORT

Bowden Hall, Bowden Lane, Marple, Stockport, Cheshire SK6 6ND Tel: 0161 465 8971 [email protected] www.rachelhackingecology.co.uk

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION Page 2

2. METHODOLOGY 3

3. RESULTS 6

4. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS 29

REFERENCES 30

APPENDIX 1 – TERRESTRIAL INVERTEBRATE RAW DATA – TO BE COMPLETED

APPENDIX 2 – AQUATIC INVERTEBRATE RAW DATA

1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Rachel Hacking Ecology Limited was commissioned in 2018 by Mott MacDonald to undertake a terrestrial and aquatic invertebrate survey of linear parcel of land north of Tata Steel, Llanwern, Newport.

1.2 The survey area is approximately 4km in length by 80m in width (see Figure 1). The site currently comprises numerous reens, woodland and scrub with tall, ruderal herb and low-growing ruderal vegetation on ballast. The site lies adjacent to the Gwent Levels – Redwich and Llandevenny Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and 1km from both Gwent Levels – Whitson SSSI and Gwent Levels – Nash and Goldcliff SSSI. The Gwent Levels are renowned for their aquatic and terrestrial invertebrate assemblages.

Figure 1 showing the site north of Tata Steel edged in red

1.4 An invertebrate scoping survey visit was undertaken in May 2018 to assess the site for its suitability to support invertebrate assemblages. Following the scoping visit, recommendations were made to survey a number of the freshwater habitats and stretches of the terrestrial habitats for invertebrates. The results will inform the need for further survey and provide baseline information which will feed into the mitigation and compensation package.

2

2.0 METHODOLOGY

2.1 Following the scoping survey visit, and by assessing habitat information provided by Mott MacDonald, the following terrestrial habitats were sampled: • Tall, Ruderal Vegetation • Bare Ground (Open Mosaic Habitat) • Woodland

2.2 At each of the above sites, the following terrestrial invertebrate survey methods were used:

• Sweep-netting – A robust net was used to sweep the vegetation. For scrub this involved sweeping the net against high branches. Sweeping was also carried out along the ground to collect low-flying invertebrates.

• Hand-searching – This involved searching under fallen wood, in grass tussocks, sieving through the -litter and searching beneath bark.

• Pootering – A pooter was used during all the above methodologies to catch smaller invertebrates which would otherwise have been missed.

2.3 The aquatic sampling took place at 19 reens, which were chosen to provide a good cross-section of reen types on site.

2.4 Where aquatic invertebrate surveying took place, the following methods were used:

• Direct observation - The water surface and emergent vegetation were searched for evidence of egg cocoons, reed and similar genera and evidence of feeding or egg-laying, such as cut sections of floating .

• Pond-netting – The reens were netted for aquatic invertebrates using a heavy-duty pond-net. All sections of the watercourse were netted, including within submerged vegetation and within emergent vegetation, by sweeping the vegetation into the water. The water was netted until no new were being caught.

3

2.5 Surveying concentrated on specific invertebrate orders, all of which contain ecological indicator species. Within some orders, only certain families have been included in the survey due to the habitats present and the survey techniques used across the site. The following terrestrial orders were surveyed for: • Diptera (true ) • Coleoptera (beetles) • (butterflies and day-flying ) • (bees and wasps) • (true bugs – mainly shieldbugs and capsid bugs).

2.6 The aquatic surveys concentrated the following orders: • Tricladida () • Hirudinea (leeches) • (snails and mussels) • Malacostraca (shrimps and hoglice) • Ephemeroptera (mayflies) • Plecoptera (stoneflies) • Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) • Hemiptera (aquatic bugs) • Coleoptera (water beetles) • Megaloptera (alderflies) • Trichoptera (caddisflies) • Lepidoptera (freshwater moths).

2.7 Andy Harmer and Sam Harmer undertook the field work. Two visits were made, in July and August 2018. All survey methods were used during all visits. All invertebrates caught were potted in 70% ethanol to be identified later, unless identification could be made in the field, in which case the was released.

2.8 Following the survey visits, identification of the specimens was undertaken. Rachel Hacking (Principal Ecologist and Cheshire Carabidae recorder) identified the Coleoptera with critical specimens being sent to Mike Denton FRES, a Coleoptera recorder for south Yorkshire. The Diptera specimens were sorted and sent to Stephen Hewitt, an expert Dipterist at Liverpool Museum. Other orders were identified by either Andy Harmer, Rachel Hacking or by other taxonomic experts. All specimens have been retained in the collection of Rachel Hacking.

2.9 The invertebrates are assessed for rarity designations. Red Data Book species are our rarest species and are found in less than 16 10km squares of the National Grid. Nationally Scarce species are known to occur in 100 or fewer 10km squares of the National Grid. If enough is known about the species, i.e. its ecology and distribution, then the Nationally Scarce designation is split into Notable A and Notable B (Na species occur within 16 - 30 10km squares, Nb between 31 – 100 10km

4

squares). Designations are taken from Falk (1991), Foster (2010), Hyman & Parsons (1992) and the NBN Gateway.

2.10 Some species mentioned in the text are considered ‘Local’. These are not scarce but have restricted habitat requirements. Botanical nomenclature follows Stace, 2010. See References for invertebrate nomenclature authors.

Survey Constraints 2.11 On all of the sites, static collection techniques were not used (i.e. pitfall traps, yellow bowl traps or malaise traps). This was for a number of reasons. Either it was not possible to set traps within the ground, given that the majority of the substrate is ballast, or the traps would have been in locations that other protected species exist at, such as Great Crested Newt.

2.12 During some site visits, the weather conditions were not optimum for terrestrial invertebrate survey (e.g. rain or strong winds). Therefore, on some of the visits, invertebrates may have been missed.

2.13 The invertebrate survey guidelines recommend that for an optimal assessment, sites are visited once a month between May and August over a number of years. Given that the sampling took place on site over two close months in one year, it is probable that species were missed.

5

3.0 RESULTS

GENERAL

3.1 A total of 148 species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded across the whole survey area in 2018 (see Table 1 for a breakdown of the totals per taxonomic group).

Table 1. Total number of species (terrestrial) per taxonomic group Taxonomic group: No. of species: Diptera (true flies) 44 Coleoptera (beetles) 44 Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) 16 Hymenoptera (bees, and wasps) 12 Hemiptera (true bugs) 32 TOTAL NO. OF SPECIES 148

3.2 102 species (plus 3 Genera only specimens) of aquatic invertebrate were recorded across the whole survey area in 2018 (see Table 2 for a breakdown of the totals per taxonomic group).

Table 2. Total number of species (aquatic) per taxonomic group Taxonomic group: No. of species: Tricladida (flatworms) 2 Hirudinea (leeches) 4 Mollusca (snails and mussels) 16 + 1 only Malacostraca (shrimps and hoglice) 3 Ephemeroptera (mayflies) 2 Plecoptera (stoneflies) 0 Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies) 9 + 1 Genus only Hemiptera (true bugs) 13 Coleoptera (beetles) 49 + 1 Genus only Megaloptera (alderflies) 1 Trichoptera (caddisflies) 2 Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) 1 TOTAL NO. OF SPECIES 102

3.3 From the terrestrial invertebrate total, no legally protected or Red Data Book species were found.

3.4 Five Nationally Scarce species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded. These were:

inexspectatum - A woodworm which bores in old Ivy Hedera stems. The species has only recently been added to the British list and its range is increasing. This species was recorded from the woodland.

6

• Meligethes fulvipes - A shining black pollen beetle, 2.0-2.4mm long, found on flowers in marshes in southern Britain. This species was recorded from both the tall, ruderal and bare ground habitats.

variegata - A red and black ladybird which is predatory on (Homoptera). Scarce and restricted mainly to dry sandy places, in particular to heathland and the coast. Widespread scattered records around southern Britain but only frequent in the Thames area, in south Wales and in Staffordshire. The species has recently undergone a range expansion and is commoner than its national status indicates. This species was recorded from the bare ground habitat.

nielseni – A (Syrphidae), the larvae of which require coniferous woodland and the adults require a range of flowers. The nearest known record is from Mynydd Du Forest to the north of Newport. This species was recorded from the bare ground habitat.

nagatomii Bright Four-spined Legionnaire – A soldierfly () which is typical of ex-industrial sites. The nearest known record is from Magor Marsh to the east of the site. This species was recorded from the bare ground and woodland habitats.

3.5 From the aquatic invertebrate total, no Red Data Book or Nationally Scarce invertebrates were recorded on the site.

3.6 The results below describe each of the survey sites and the invertebrate interest at each site.

7

TERRESTRIAL SITES

3.7 See Appendix 1 for the raw data from the terrestrial site surveys.

Tall, Ruderal Herb

3.8 The tall, ruderal herb habitat predominantly occurs on the edges of the bare ground/open mosaic habitat, where there has been less recent disturbance (see Photograph 1). In addition, linear stretches of ruderal vegetation occur next to some of the reens (see Photograph 2). Species include Rosebay Willowherb Chamerion angustifolium, Great Mullein Verbascum thapsus, Teasel Dipsacus fullonum, Common Nettle dioica, Greater Burdock Arctium lappa, Greater Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum, Bristly Ox-tongue Picris echioides and saplings of Buddleja Buddleja davidii.

3.9 Up to the time of writing the report, a total of 80 species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded from the tall, ruderal herb habitat. This total includes 22 species of Diptera and 18 species of Coleoptera, including the Nationally Scarce pollen beetle Meligethes fulvipes. Twelve species of Lepidoptera were recorded and 11 species of Hymenoptera, including the Local Short-fringed Mining-bee Andrena dorsata. This species used to be rare but has increased its distribution over the last ten years and is found in the southern half of the UK. Seventeen species of Hemiptera were recorded including the Local true bugs hyoscyami, Rhopalus subrufus and mirmicoides. The non-native bug Nysius huttoni was netted from the tall, ruderal herb habitat. This species is spreading throughout the UK.

Photograph 1 showing the tall, ruderal herb habitat next to bare ground

8

Photograph 2 showing the tall, ruderal herb habitat next to a reen

Bare Ground (Open Mosaic Habitat)

3.10 The bare ground habitat occurs in the far west and far east of the site (see Photographs 3 and 4). Both areas comprise similar floristic diversity and bare ground. Species present are similar to the tall, ruderal vegetation but low-growing due to the regular disturbance, and include Common Ragwort Senecio jacobaea, Winter-cress Barbarea vulgaris, Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg. and Hemlock Water-dropwort Oenanthe crocata.

3.11 At the time of writing the report, a total of 49 species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded from the bare ground habitat. This low number may be due to the sparse cover of vegetation and low species diversity. The total includes 16 species of Diptera, including 2 Nationally Scarce flies; the soldierfly Chorisops nagatomii and the hoverfly Eupeodes nielseni. Fourteen species of Coleopterra were recorded including the Nationally Scarce beetles Meligethes fulvipes and Hippodamia variegata, as well the Local beetles Phyllotreta diademata and Anthocomus rufus. Six species of Lepidoptera were recorded. Four species of Hymenoptera, including the Local Short-fringed Mining-bee Andrena dorsata, were netted. Nine species of Hemiptera were recorded, including the Local true bug Rhopalus subrufus.

9

Photograph 3 showing the bare ground habitat to the west

Photograph 4 showing the bare ground habitat to the east

Woodland

3.12 The site is dominated by broad-leaved woodland, which is wet in places. This has been planted and has developed over ballast and other disturbed ground and is unmanaged, with much natural regeneration (see Photograph 5). In places, the woodland is impenetrable. The woodland floor supports dense Ivy , Bramble Rubus fruticosus agg., Ivy Hedera helix, ferns and saplings. Deadwood occurs and some of the trees support cavities.

10

3.13 At the time of writing the report, a total of 72 species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded from the woodland. This total includes 21 species of Diptera, including the Nationally Scarce soldierly Chorisops nagatomii. 22 species of Coleoptera were recorded, including the Nationally Scarce beetle and the Local beetles plutus, Cryptocephalus fulvus, Phratora vulgatissima, Plagiodera versicolora and Taeniapion urticarium. Four species of Lepidoptera were observed. 22 species of Hemiptera were netted, including the Local true bug Rhopalus subrufus.

Photograph 5 showing the woodland

11

AQUATIC SITES

Reen 2

3.14 Reen 2 is a 15’ wide, deep reen, which is slow-flowing and heavily vegetated (see Photograph 6). The banks are shallow and also well vegetated. Aquatic species include Arrowhead Sagittaria sagittifolia, Reed Sweet-grass maxima and Meadowsweet . The water surface is covered with Common Duckweed minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza.

3.15 A total of 47 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 2. This total included 18 species of Coleoptera and 10 species of Hemiptera. Three species of Local aquatic beetle were netted; Laccophilus hyalinus, Anisosticta 19-punctata (19-spot Ladybird) and Noterus clavicornis. Five species of adult dragonfly and damselfly were observed patrolling Reen 2, including Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea, Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum and Blue-tailed Damselfly Ischnura elegans. No rare species were found at Reen 2.

Photograph 6 showing Reen 2

12

Reen 10 East

3.16 Reen 10 East is a partially shaded 12’ wide reen, which is covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza (see Photograph 7). The banks are steep and covered in ruderal vegetation. Marginal vegetation includes Common Reed , Water-plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica, Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus and Reed Sweet-grass . Submerged include Curled Pondweed Potamogeton crispus, Water Starwort Callitriche sp., and Canadian Waterweed Elodea canadensis.

3.17 A total of 25 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 10 East. This total included eight species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetles Laccobius minutus and Enochrus testaceus. Eight species of Hemiptera were netted and four species of Mollusca were found. No rare species were found.

Photograph 7 showing Reen 10 East

Reen 10 West

3.18 Site 10 West is an open, shallow, 10’ wide reen, which has been recently dredged (see Photograph 8). The banks are shallow and partially bare. Small clusters of Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza occur. Submerged plants include Curled Pondweed Potamogeton crispus, Water Starwort Callitriche sp., and Canadian Waterweed Elodea canadensis. Emergent plant species include Branched Bur-reed Sparganium erectum, Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima, Common Reed Phragmites australis, Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus, Water-plantain Alisma plantago-aquatica and Greater Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum.

13

3.19 A total of 32 species of aquatic invertebrate were netted from Reen 10 West, including 15 species of Coleoptera. This included the Local beetles Anisosticta 19-punctata and Noterus clavicornis. Five species of Mollusca and nine species of Hemiptera were netted. No rare species were found.

Photograph 8 showing Reen 10 West

Reen 11 East

3.20 Reen 11 East is 9’ wide, heavily shaded reen, which is covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza (see Photograph 9). The banks are steep and heavily vegetated.

3.21 A total of 20 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 11 East. This total included five species of Mollusca. Four species of adult Odonata were observed, including Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum and Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella. No rare species were found.

14

Photograph 9 showing Reen 11 East

Reen 11 West

3.22 Reen 11 West is a 9’ wide reen, covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor (see Photograph 10). The banks are steep and heavily vegetated. The reen is partially shaded. Floating vegetation includes Common Duckweed Lemna minor, Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza and Ivy-leaved Duckweed Lemna trisulca. Margonal vegetation includes Water Mint aquatica, Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus, Water- cress Rorippa nasturtium-aquaticum, Soft Rush Juncus effusus, Hard Rush Juncus inflexus, Greater Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum and Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima.

3.23 A total of 29 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 11 West. This total included 13 species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetle Laccophilus minutus. A nymph of Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum was netted, indicating breeding by this species at this reen. Four species of Mollusca were netted, including the Local snail complanatus. No rare species were found.

15

Photograph 10 showing Reen 11 West

Reen 14

3.24 Reen 14 was sampled at its far western end (see Photograph 11). It is a 12’ wide reen with polluted water. The vegetation is coated in ochre or lime substance. Aquatic plant species include Branched Bur-reed Sparganium erectum, Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima and Gypsywort Lycopus europaeus.

3.25 A total of 13 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 14, which included the Local beetle Noterus clavicornis. Four species of adult Odonata were observed at this reen, including Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo, Common Blue Damselfly Enallagma cyathigerum and Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella. No rare species were found.

16

Photograph 11 showing Reen 14

Reen 16 Central

3.26 Reen 16 Central is a 5’ reed, which is heavily shaded (see Photograph 12). The majority of the reed comprises damp soil with twiggy debris and leaf detritus. No aquatic vegetation exists.

3.27 A total of 29 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 16 Central. This total includes 15 species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetles Laccobius minutus and Noterus clavicornis. Six species of Hemiptera were recorded, as well as five species of Mollusca. No rare species were recorded.

17

Photograph 12 showing Reen 16 Central

Reen 16 North-west

3.28 Reen 16 North-west is an open, 15’ wide, deep reen with lush vegetation (see Photograph 13). There is partial open water. The emergent vegetation includes Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima, Bulrush , Common Reed Phragmites australis and Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria.

3.29 A total of 33 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 16 North-west. This total included 12 species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetles Anisosticta 19-punctata, Scirtes hemisphaericus and Noterus clavicornis. Eight species of Hemiptera were recorded. Four species of adult Odonata were observed patrolling, including Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea, Migrant Hawker Aeshna mixta and Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum. No rare species were recorded.

18

Photograph 13 showing Reen 16 North-west

Reen 16 South-west

3.30 Reen 16 South-west is 8’ wide (see Photograph 14). The margins are dominated by Branched Bur-reed Sparganium erectum and Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima. Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza occur on the water surface.

3.31 A total of 37 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 16 South-west. This total included the Local beetle Laccobius minutus. Eight species of Hemiptera were netted as well as six species of Mollusca. Six species of adult Odonata were observed at this reen, including Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea, Migrant Hawker Aeshna mixta, Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella and Blue-tailed Damselfly Ischnura elegans. No rare species were recorded.

Photograph 14 showing Reen 16 South-west

19

Monks Ditch

3.32 Monks Ditch flows through the site in a southerly direction. Substantial vegetation that has established over the years due to silt deposition (see Photograph 15). The open water channel is flanked by bare mud, with dense beds of Bulrush Typha latifolia, Common Reed Phragmites australis and Reed Canary-grass Phalaris arundinacea. The banks are an artificial bund colonised by ruderal vegetation and scrub.

3.33 A total of 47 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded at Monks Ditch. This is the highest number of invertebrates recorded at any of the sample sites. This total included 16 species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetles Enochrus testaceus, Hydroporus tessellatus and Hydroporus striola. The Small China-mark lemnata was recorded from Monks Ditch. This species has aquatic larvae. Seven species of Hemiptera and seven species of Mollusca were netted. Seven species of adult Odonata were observed patrolling Monks Ditch, including Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo, Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum and Common Blue Damselfly Enallagma cyathigerum. No rare species were recorded.

Photograph 15 showing Monks Ditch

Reen 18

3.34 Reen 18 was dry during both survey visits but did hold water during the scoping visit earlier in the year (see Photograph 16). No aquatic sampling was undertaken here.

20

Photograph 16 showing Reen 18

Reen 21

3.35 Reen 21 was sampled at the corner of the reen (see Photograph 17). The reen supports open water with a shaded northern section and a dry reedbed on the eastern section. Open mud occurs where the water level is dropping. Emergent vegetation includes Redshank , Common Reed Phragmites australis, Bulrush Typha latifolia. The water surface is covered in sparse Common Duckweed Lemna minor.

3.36 A total of 29 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded at Reen 21. This total included the Local beetle Laccophilus minutus. Six species of adult Odonata were observed at Reen 21 including Emerald Damselfly Lestes sponsa, Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea and Black-tailed Skimmer Orthetrum cancellatum. No rare species were recorded.

21

Photograph 17 showing Reen 21

Reen 26 South

3.37 Reen 26 South was dry during the 2nd survey visit. Therefore only one survey visit was undertaken at this sample site. The reen is shallow and narrow and mostly shaded. Marginal vegetation includes Reed Sweet- grass Glyceria maxima, Common Reed Phragmites australis and Bulrush Typha latifolia (see Photograph 18). The water surface is covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor.

3.38 A total of 12 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 26 South, including the Local beetle Noterus clavicornis. Two species of Hemiptera were netted and an adult Azure Damselfly Coenagrion puella was observed patrolling the reen. No rare species were recorded.

22

Photograph 18 showing Reen 26 South

Reen 26 North

3.39 Reen 26 North is a 10’ wide reen (see Photograph 19). The water surface is covered with Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza. Emergent vegetation includes Lesser Pond-sedge Carex acutiformis, Soft Rush Juncus effusus, Hard Rush Juncus inflexus, Bulrush Typha latifolia, Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima, Branched Bur-reed Sparganium erectum and Purple Loosestrife salicaria.

3.40 A total of 32 species of aquatic invertebrate were netted from Reen 26 North. This total included nine species of Coleoptera including the local beetle Enochrus testaceus. Eight species of Hemiptera were netted and two species of adult Odonata were observed. These were Common Darter Sympetrum striolatum and Migrant Hawker Aeshna mixta. No rare species were recorded.

23

Photograph 19 showing Reen 26 North

Reen 12 West

3.41 Reen 12 West was dry during the 2nd survey visit, therefore only one survey visit has been undertaken at this reen. Reen 12 West is completely covering in vegetation including Bulrush Typha latifolia, Common Reed Phragmite australis and Greater Willowherb Epilobium hirsutum (see Photograph 20).

3.42 A total of 17 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 12 West. This total included eight species of Coleoptera, including the Local 19-spot Ladybird Anisosticta 19-punctata. Three species of Hemiptera were netted. Four species of adult Odonata were observed, including the Emerald Damselfly Lestes sponsa and Southern Hawker Aeshna cyanea. No rare species were recorded.

24

Photograph 20 showing Reen 12 West

Reen 12 East

3.43 Reen 12 East is a partially shaded 8’ wide reen (see Photograph 21). The water surface is covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza. Marginal vegetation includes Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima and Common Reed Phragmites australis.

3.44 A total of 28 species of aquatic invertebrate were netted from Reen 12 East. This total includes eleven species of Coleoptera, including the Local beetles Enochrus testaceus and Noterus clavicornis. Six species of Hemiptera and five species of Mollusca were netted. No rare species were recorded.

25

Photograph 21 showing Reen 12 East

Reen 13

3.45 Reen 13 is an 8’ wide, shaded reen (see Photograph 22). The water level was low during both visits. The water surface is covered in Common Duckweed Lemna minor and Greater Duckweed Spirodella polyrhiza. Ruderal vegetation, such as Common Nettle , occurs on the banks. Small patches of Common Reed Phragmites australis occur within the water.

3.46 A total of 29 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 13. This total included five species of Hemiptera and six species of Mollusca. The Local beetle 19-spot Ladybird Anisosticta 19-punctata was found here. No rare species were recorded.

26

Photograph 22 showing Reen 13

Reen 16 East

3.47 Reen 16 East is a wide reed with ochre water (see Photograph 23). All submerged plants are covered in a lime-type substance, getting less obvious the further west the reen stretches. Emergent vegetation includes Common Reed Phragmites australis and Reed Sweet-grass Glyceria maxima.

3.48 A total of 37 species of aquatic invertebrate were recorded from Reen 16 East. This total included 12 species of Coleoptera including the Local beetle Noterus clavicornis. Nine species of Hemiptera and seven species of Mollusca were netted. Three species of adult Odonata were observed patrolling the reen, including Migrant Hawker Aeshna mixta. No rare species were recorded.

27

Photograph 23 showing Reen 16 East

Reen 23

3.49 Reen 23 was dry during both survey visits but did hold water during the scoping visit earlier in the year (see Photograph 24). No aquatic sampling was undertaken here. The reen is adjacent the northern boundary and immediately south of the main railway line. Reen 23 is dominated by Lesser Pond-sedge Carex acutiformis with Water Mint Mentha aquatica, Lesser Water-parsnip Berula erecta and Fool’s Water- cress Apium nodiflorum.

Photograph 24 showing Reen 23

28

4.0 SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Three habitats on site were sampled for terrestrial invertebrates and 19 reens were sampled for aquatic invertebrates. Of the terrestrial invertebrates, five Nationally Scarce species were recorded (see Paragraphs 3.3 & 3.4). No rare or Nationally Scarce aquatic species were recorded from the 19 reens. No legally protected invertebrate species were recorded.

4.2 Of the Nationally Scare terrestrial invertebrates found on site, most require flowering plant species, such as umbellifers. A long pollen and nectar season is required, due to the species having either a long flight period or two emergence times. One of the species, Anobium inexspectatum, requires old Ivy stems to bore into.

4.3 The most species-rich terrestrial site was the tall, ruderal herb habitat, with a total of 80 terrestrial invertebrate species recorded, which corresponds to a greater number of flowering plant species in this habitat, compared to the other habitats. A total of 72 species of terrestrial invertebrate were recorded from the woodland. The bare ground recorded the lowest species-richness with 49 species of terrestrial invertebrate recorded. This is due to the sparse cover of vegetation and low botanical species-diversity.

4.3 The aquatic invertebrate assemblage is considered to be of moderate value. Some of the reens are polluted and/or of poor quality. The better quality reens are open, with greater botanical diversity, and these reens support the higher numbers of aquatic invertebrate species.

4.4 Invertebrate mitigation is closely tied to botanical mitigation. Good terrestrial invertebrate habitat includes multiple species of flowering plant, open ground and structural diversity. Keeping sites open can be challenging but it is understood that there will be renewed ballast applications on the site, which will replenish the stock of open mosaic habitat.

4.5 It is recommended that parts of the woodland are retained or that deadwood is removed and placed in mitigation zones, which should also include Ivy. Mitigation zones should also include log piles.

4.6 Some of the aquatic habitats on site require managing. Where reens are heavily shaded, they lack botanical diversity compared to the more open reens. It is recommended that some of the shaded reens are opened up, by removing bankside scrub and trees, to encourage submerged and marginal plants to establish.

29

SELECTED REFERENCES

Chandler, P.J. (1998). A Check List of British : Diptera. Royal Entomological Society of London, Handbook for the Identification of British Insects 12, pt 1.

Duff, A. G. (ed.) Checklist of Beetles of the British Isles, 2008 Edition. Wells: A. G. Duff.

Falk, S.J. (1991). A review of the scarce and threatened Diptera of . Nature Conservancy Council: Peterborough.

Foster, G. (2010). A review of the scarce and threatened Coleoptera of Great Britain, Part 3: Water Beetles. JNCC: Peterborough.

Foster, G. N. & Friday, L. E. (2011). Keys to adults of the water beetles of Britain and (Part 1). Handbooks for the Identification of British Insects Vol. 4 Part 5 Royal Entomological Society

Hyman, P.S. & Parsons, M. (1992). A review of the scarce and threatened Coleoptera of Great Britain, Part 1. JNCC: Peterborough.

Hyman, P.S. & Parsons, M. (1994). A review of the scarce and threatened Coleoptera of Great Britain, Part 2. JNCC: Peterborough.

Macan, . T. (1977). A Key to the British Fresh- and Brackish Water Gastropods. FBA Sci. Publ. 13.

National Biodiversity Network (www.nbn.org.uk)

Recorder 6 Software. (2004). JNCC.

Stace, C. A. (2010). New Flora of the British Isles, 3rd Edition. Cambridge University Press.

30

APPENDIX 1 – TERRESTRIAL INVERTEBRATE RAW DATA

Tall, Bare Species/Site Designation Ruderal Ground Woodland DIPTERA (TRUE FLIES) Tipulidae: Tipula oleracea + Tipula maxima + + Tipula paludosa + Limoniidae: Erioconopa trivialis + + : asiliformis + + Chrysopilus cristatus + Tabanidae: pluvialis + Stratiomyidae: formosa + Nationally Chorisops nagatomii Scarce + + Pachygaster leachii + + + : culiciformis + + + Dolichopodidae: Chrysotus gramineus + Dolichopus simplex + Dolichopus trivialis + Dolichopus wahlbergi + Rhaphium caliginosum + Lonchopteridae: Lonchoptera lutea + Syrphidae: Cheilosia pagana + Cheilosia scutellata + festivum + Episyrphus balteatus + + + Eristalis arbustorum + Eristalis nemorum + + Eristalis tenax + + Eristalinus sepulchralis + + Nationally Eupeodes nielseni Scarce + pendulus + Helophilus trivittatus + Melanostoma scalare + + Neoascia podagrica + Platycheirus rosarum +

Tall, Bare Species/Site Designation Ruderal Ground Woodland Platycheirus scutatus + Rhingia campestris + + Sphaerophoria scripta + Syritta pipiens + + Syrphus ribesii + Volucella pelluscens + : lugubris + Lauxanidae: Peplomyza litura + Sepsidae: Sepsis fulgens + : Opomyza florum + Opomyza germinationis + Scathophagidae: Scathophaga stercoraria + TOTAL DIPTERA 22 16 21 COLEOPTERA: Carabidae: Amara aenea + + Harpalus rufipes + Loricera pilicornis + Nebria brevicollis + Notiophilus biggutatus + Ocys harpaloides + Pterostichus madidus + Pterostichus niger + Oedeomeridae Oedemera nobilis + Staphylinidae: Stenus juno + Scarabaeidae: Aphodius rufipes + Anobiidae: Nationally Anobium inexspectatum Scarce + Malachiidea: Anthocomus rufus Local + Elateridae: haemorrhoidalis + Cantharidae: nigra +

Tall, Bare Species/Site Designation Ruderal Ground Woodland Rhagonycha fulva + + : urticae + Nitidulidae: Meligethes aeneus + + Meligethes carinulatus + + Nationally Meligethes fulvipes Scarce + + : Byturus tomentosus + : Adalia bipunctata - 2-spot + Coccinella septempunctata - 7-spot + + + Harmonia axyridis - Harlequin + + Nationally Hippodamia variegata Scarce + Rhizobius lophanthae + : Cortinicara gibbosa + + Tenebrionidae: Lagria hirta + Chrysomelidae: lythri + concinna + + Crepidodera plutus Local + Cryptocephalus fulvus Local + Longitarsus jacobaeae + + Longitarsus luridus + Longitarsus succineus + Phratora vulgatissima Local + Phyllotreta diademata Local + Plagiodera versicolora Local + Apionidae: Protapion apricans + Taeniapion urticarium Local + : Ceutorhynchus obstrictus + Mecinus pascuorum + Parethelcus pollinarius + TOTAL COLEOPTERA 18 14 22 LEPIDOPTERA Aglais urticae - Small Tortoiseshell + Anthocharis cardamines - Orange-tip + + +

Tall, Bare Species/Site Designation Ruderal Ground Woodland Autographa gramma - Silver Y + Gonepteryx rhamni - Brimstone + Inachis io - Peacock + + Maniola jurtina - Meadow Brown + + + Ochlodes sylvanus - Large Skipper + Pararge aegeria - Speckled Wood + + Pieris brassicae - Large White + + Pieris napi - Green-veined White + Pieris rapae - Small White + + Polygonia c-album - Comma + Polyommatus icarus - Common Blue + + Tyria jacobaeae - Cinnibar Moth () + + Vanessa atalanta - Red Admiral + Vanessa cardui - Painted Lady + TOTAL LEPIDOPTERA 12 6 4 HYMENOPTERA Andrenidae: Andrena dorsata Local + + Colletidae: Hylaeus communis + + : podagricus + Halictidae: Lasioglossum smeathmanellum + + + Formicidae: Myrmica rubra + + + Lasius niger + Apidae: Apis mellifera + Bombus hypnorum + Bombus lapidarius + Bombus lucorum + Bombus pascuorum + Bombus terrestris + TOTAL HYMENOPTERA 11 4 3 HEMIPTERA : alni + + Neophilaenus lineatus + Philaenus spumarius + + + : vagabundus + :

Tall, Bare Species/Site Designation Ruderal Ground Woodland Local + Rhopalus subrufus Local + + + : Local + Cicadellidae: Aphrodes makarovi + + Eupteryx cyclops + Eupteryx urticae + Eupteryx aurata + Evacanthus interruptus + Lygaeidae: urticae + Kleidocerys resedae + Scolopostethus cf. thomsoni + + Nysius ericae + + Nysius huttoni Non-native + Anthocoridae: Anthocoris nemorum + Orius niger + : alpestris + + Dicyphus epilobii + stysi + Liocoris tripustulatus + + + Lygocoris pabulinus + + Neolygus viridis + Orthops campestris + + + Orthotylus marginalis + Plagiognathus arbustorum + + Acanthosomatidae: Acanthosoma haemorrhoidale - Hawthorn Shieldbug + : Dolycoris baccarum - Hairy Shieldbug + + Palomena prasina - Green Shieldbug + + TOTAL HEMIPTERA 17 9 22

TOTAL TERRESTRIAL INVERTEBRATES PER SITE 80 49 72

APPENDIX 2 – AQUATIC INVERTEBRATE RAW DATA

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729

TRICLADIDA: lacteum Polycelis tenuis/nigra x x x x x x x Total Tricladida: 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 HIRUDINEA: Erpobdella octoculata x x x x x Glossiphonia complanata Helobdella stagnalis Theromyzon tessulatum x x x Total Hirudinea: 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 1 MOLLUSCA: Deroceras laeve x x Potamopyrgus jenkinsi Lymnaea peregra x x x x x x x Physa acuta x Physa fontinalis x x x Anisus leucostoma Anisus vortex x x x x x x Armiger crista contortus x x Hippeutis complanatus L x x Planorbis carinatus x x x x Planorbis planorbis x Pisidium sp. Sphaerium corneum x x

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729 Sphaerium lacustre x x Oxyloma pfeifferi x x x Bythinia tentaculata x x x x x Total Mollusca: 6 4 5 5 4 1 5 4 6 MALACOSTRACA: aquaticus x x x x x x Crangonyx pseudogracilis x x x x x pulex Total Malocastraca: 2 1 0 2 2 0 0 2 2 EPHEMEROPTERA: Cloeon dipterum x x x x x Ephemerella ignita Total Ephemeroptera: 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 MEGALOPTERA: Sialis lutaria x Total Megaloptera 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ODONATA: Aeshna sp. x Aeshna cyanea x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Aeshna mixta x Adult x Adult x Adult Orthetrum cancellatum x Adult x Adult x Adult Sympetrum striolatum x Adult x Adult x Calopteryx virgo x Adult Coenagrion puella x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Enallagma cyathigerum x Adult x Adult Ischnura elegans x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult X Adult x Adult x Adult

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729 Lestes sponsa Total Odonata: 5 1 2 4 4 4 2 4 6 HEMIPTERA: Corixa punctata x x x x linnaei x x x x x x x x x x x Sigara distincta x Sigara dorsalis x x x x x Sigara lateralis x x Gerris lacustris x x x x x Hydrometra stagnorum x x x x x x Ilyocoris cimicoides x x x x x x Nepa cinerea x x x x x Notonecta glauca x x x x x x Plea leachii x x Microvelia reticulata x x x x Total Hemiptera: 10 8 9 1 4 3 6 8 8 LEPIDOPTERA: Total Lepidoptera: TRICHOPTERA: Limnephilus flavicornis agg. x x Sericostoma personatum case Total Trichoptera: 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 COLEOPTERA: substriatus x

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729 Gyrinus urinator Gyrinus sp. (not caught) x heydeni x Haliplus lineatocollis Haliplus ruficollis x x Haliplus - ruficollis group x x x x x Noterus clavicornis L x x x x x Dytiscus sp. (larva) x x x x Platambus maculatus Rhantus suturalis x x bipustulatus x x x x x x Agabus sturmii x x x x x Ilybius ater x x x Ilybius quadriguttatus x x x Laccophilus minutus L x Laccophilus hyalinus L x Hydroporus angustatus x x x Hydroporus palustris x x x Hydroporus planus Hydroporus pubescens x Hydroporus striola L Hydroporus tessellatus L Hydroglyphus geminus x Hygrotus inaequalis x x x x Hyphydrus ovatus x x x x x x

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729 globulus x x x x x x x x x x x x x Coelostoma orbiculare Cymbiodyta marginella x Enochrus testaceus L x Helochares lividus x x brevipalpis x x Helophorus grandis x x x x Helophorus obscurus x Helophorus minutus x x Helophorus minutus agg. x x x Helophorus obscurus agg. x x Laccobius bipunctatus x x x Laccobius minutus L x x x Ochthebius dilatatus Ochthebius minimus x Scirtes hemisphaericus L x (larva only) Phaedon armoraciae x Anisosticta 19-punctata L x x x rufa x Total Coleoptera: 18 8 15 5 13 5 15 12 11 Total Invertebrates 47 25 32 20 29 13 29 33 37

16 North- 16 South- REEN NUMBER 2 10 East 10 West 11 East 11 West 14 16 Central west west GRID REFERENCE ST29718695 ST38998711 ST38858710 ST38768716 ST38708717 ST37088728 ST36968728 ST36788731 ST36758729 Ordinary newt species x x x x 10 spined stickleback x x x x x x x 3 spined stickleback x x x x x

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 DRY 2nd DRY 2nd DRY visit visit DRY TRICLADIDA: Dendrocoelum lacteum x x Polycelis tenuis/nigra x x x x x x x Total Tricladida: 1 0 2 1 1 0 2 1 1 0 HIRUDINEA: Erpobdella octoculata x x x x x Glossiphonia complanata x Helobdella stagnalis x x Theromyzon tessulatum x Total Hirudinea: 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 2 1 0 MOLLUSCA: Deroceras laeve x x x x x x x x Potamopyrgus jenkinsi x Lymnaea peregra x x x x x Physa acuta x x Physa fontinalis x x x x

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 Anisus leucostoma x x x Anisus vortex x x Armiger crista x x Bathyomphalus contortus x Hippeutis complanatus L Planorbis carinatus x x x Planorbis planorbis Pisidium sp. x Sphaerium corneum x x Sphaerium lacustre x Oxyloma pfeifferi x x x x Bythinia tentaculata x Total Mollusca: 7 0 6 2 5 2 5 6 7 0 MALACOSTRACA: Asellus aquaticus x x x x x x Crangonyx pseudogracilis x x x x Gammarus pulex x Total Malocastraca: 2 0 2 1 2 0 0 2 2 0 EPHEMEROPTERA: Cloeon dipterum x x x x x Ephemerella ignita x Total Ephemeroptera: 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 MEGALOPTERA: Sialis lutaria x

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 Total Megaloptera 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 ODONATA: Aeshna cyanea x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Aeshna mixta x Adult x Adult x Adult Orthetrum cancellatum x Adult x Adult Sympetrum striolatum x Adult x Adult Calopteryx virgo x Adult x Adult Coenagrion puella x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Enallagma cyathigerum x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Ischnura elegans x Adult x Adult X Adult x Adult Lestes sponsa x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult x Adult Total Odonata: 7 0 6 1 2 4 3 4 3 0 HEMIPTERA: Corixa punctata x x x Hesperocorixa sahlbergi x x x x x x x Sigara distincta x Sigara dorsalis x x x Sigara lateralis Gerris lacustris x x x x x x Hydrometra stagnorum x x x x Ilyocoris cimicoides x x x x x Nepa cinerea x x x x Notonecta glauca x x x

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 Plea leachii x x Microvelia reticulata x x x x x x Total Hemiptera: 7 0 4 2 8 3 6 5 9 0 LEPIDOPTERA: Cataclysta lemnata x x Total Lepidoptera: 1 1 TRICHOPTERA: Limnephilus flavicornis agg. x x Sericostoma personatum case x Total Trichoptera: 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 COLEOPTERA: Gyrinus urinator x Gyrinus sp. (not caught) x Haliplus heydeni Haliplus lineatocollis x Haliplus ruficollis x x Haliplus - ruficollis group x x x Noterus clavicornis L x x x x Dytiscus sp. (larva) x Colymbetes fuscus x Platambus maculatus x Rhantus suturalis Agabus bipustulatus x x x

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 Agabus sturmii x x x Ilybius ater x Ilybius quadriguttatus Laccophilus minutus L x Laccophilus hyalinus L Hydroporus angustatus x Hydroporus palustris x x Hydroporus planus x Hydroporus pubescens x Hydroporus striola L x Hydroporus tessellatus L x x Hydroglyphus geminus Hygrotus inaequalis x x x Hyphydrus ovatus x x Anacaena globulus x x x x Anacaena limbata x x x x x x Anacaena lutescens Coelostoma orbiculare x Cymbiodyta marginella x Enochrus testaceus L x x x Helochares lividus x x x Helophorus brevipalpis x Helophorus grandis x x Helophorus obscurus Helophorus minutus

Monks REEN NUMBER Ditch 18 21 26 South 26 North 12 West 12 East 13 16 East 23 GRID REFERENCE ST36598733 ST36528733 ST35528741 ST35258741 ST35258747 ST37948719 ST38308718 ST37758721 ST37008729 ST35388746 Helophorus minutus agg. x x x x Helophorus obscurus agg. x Hydrobius fuscipes x x x Laccobius bipunctatus x Laccobius minutus L Ochthebius dilatatus x Ochthebius minimus x Scirtes hemisphaericus L Scirtidae (larva only) x Phaedon armoraciae x x x Anisosticta 19- punctata L x x x x Total Coleoptera: 16 0 7 5 9 8 11 8 12 0 Total Invertebrates 47 0 29 12 32 17 28 29 37 0

Ordinary newt species 10 spined stickleback x x x x x 3 spined stickleback x x x x x