Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Honeycomb Worm alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast

Report to English Nature

Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies University of Hull

November 2002

Institute of Estuarine & Coastal

Studies (IECS) The University of Hull Cottingham Road Hull HU6 7RX UK

Tel: +44 (0)1482 465667 or 465661 Fax/Tel: +44 (0)1482 465001

E-mail: [email protected] Author(s): JH Allen, I Billings, N Cutts, M Elliott Web site: http://www.hull.ac.uk/iecs Report: Z122-F-2002

English Nature

Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Honeycomb Worm Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast

November 2002

Reference No: Z122-F-2002

For and on behalf of the Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies

Approved by: ______Signed: ______Position: ______Date: ______

This report has been prepared by the Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies, with all reasonable care, skill and attention to detail as set within the terms of the Contract with the client.

We disclaim any responsibility to the client and others in respect of any matters outside the scope of the above.

This is a confidential report to the client and we accept no responsibility of whatsoever nature to third parties to whom this report, or any part thereof, is made known. Any such party relies on the report at their own risk.

Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ...... I

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1 1.1 Background ...... 1 1.2 Introduction...... 1 1.3 Eastern Irish Sea (Marine Nature Conservation Review: Region 13)...... 1 1.4 Current Status...... 2

2. INTRODUCTION...... 3 2.1 Approach...... 3 2.2 Aims & Objectives...... 3 2.3 Methodology ...... 4 2.4 Outputs...... 5

3. STUDY AREA...... 6 3.1 Introduction...... 6 3.2 Sub-Areas...... 11 3.2.1 Sub Area 1...... 11 3.2.2 Sub-Area 2 ...... 16 3.2.3 Sub-Area 3 ...... 18 3.2.4 Sub-Area 4 ...... 19 3.2.5 Sub-Area 5 ...... 21 3.3 Summary ...... 22

4. LITERATURE REVIEW ...... 23 4.1 General Introduction ...... 23 4.2 Distribution ...... 24 4.3 Environmental Requirements...... 26 4.3.1 Physical Environment ...... 26 4.3.2 Vertical Distribution/Depth...... 27 4.3.3 Hydrography ...... 27 4.3.4 Suspended Sediment ...... 27 4.3.5 Temperature ...... 27 4.3.6 Salinity ...... 28 4.4 Physical Characteristics ...... 28 4.5 Population Dynamics ...... 29 4.7 Associated Community ...... 32 4.8 Natural Events...... 35 4.9 Human Impacts ...... 37

5. DATA COLLECTION ...... 40 5.1 Historical Data ...... 40 5.2 Aerial Photographs...... 40 5.2.1 ...... 40

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5.2.2 Barrow, Duddon & Drigg...... 41 5.2.3 South Solway ...... 41 5.2.4 North Solway ...... 42 5.3 Summary ...... 43

6. FIELD SURVEY...... 45 6.1 Introduction...... 45 6.2 Survey Areas...... 45 6.2.1 North Wales/South Lancs. Coast...... 45 Dee Estuary ...... 45 6.2.2 Morecambe Bay Area...... 45 6.2.3 Coast...... 46 6.2.4 South (English) ...... 47 6.3 Methodology...... 48 6.3.1 Pre-survey Data Set-up and Analysis...... 48 6.3.2 Ground Survey Using Global Positioning Systems ...... 50 6.3.3 Transect Survey and Quadrat Sampling...... 53 6.3.4 Post-Survey Data Processing and Analysis...... 53

7. RESULTS OF FIELD SURVEY ...... 59 7.1 North Wales/South Lancashire Coast ...... 59 7.2 Morecambe Bay Area ...... 59 7.3 Cumbria Coast...... 62 7.4 South (English) Solway Coast ...... 79

8. DISCUSSION ...... 90 8.1 Spatial and Temporal Variation of Reefs...... 91 8.2 Conservation & Current Status ...... 96 8.3 Conclusions...... 100

9. REFERENCES...... 101

APPENDIX 1: CONSERVATION DESIGNATIONS IN MNCR REGION 13...... 107

APPENDIX 2: SPECIES DATA PROVIDED BY THE CUMBRIAN SEA FISHERIES COMMITTEE SHORE SURVEY 2000 (LANCASTER, 2000)...... 110

APPENDIX 3: FINDINGS FROM HISTORICAL FIELD SURVEYING AND GENERAL OBSERVATIONS MADE OF SABELLARIA ALVEOLATA IN REGION 13 OVER THE PAST 100 YEARS...... 113

APPENDIX 4: INITIAL ANALYSIS OF AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS...... 120

APPENDIX 5: COMMENTS ON AERIAL PHOTGRAPHS (HAMMOND, PERS COMM, 2001)...... 127

APPENDIX 5: IDENTIFICATION OF SITES OF POTENTIAL S.ALVEOLATA HABITAT IN REGION 13 FROM AERIAL PHOTO ANALYSIS...... 129

APPENDIX 6: SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS OF THE FIELD SURVEY...... 131

APPENDIX 7. NATIONAL AND CUMBRIAN HABITAT ACTION PLANS FOR S. ALVEOLATA REEFS...... 135

Page ii Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1.1 Background This study, commissioned by English Nature, aims to provide further knowledge of the honeycomb worm Sabellaria alveolata along the Eastern Irish Sea Coast (Marine Nature Conservation Review: Region 13, through the mapping, condition and conservation assessment of the current status and future development of the biogenic reef forming species.

1.2 Introduction S. alveolata is a sedentary, tube-dwelling most commonly found on rocky substrata in the lower shore and shallow subtidal zones of marine and estuarine areas. It is essentially a southern species, found around the Mediterranean, and in Britain S. alveolata is at its northernmost extent. S. alveolata favours fairly exposed conditions and relatively high water current velocities with high suspended sediment load. It requires a hard substratum (rock, boulders or scar ground) on which to form and is commonly found in sandy areas intermingled with rocks and pebbles. The species is a suspension feeder and takes phytoplankton, zooplankton and resuspended microphytobenthos.

The individuals live in tubes, which they build as they grow. Following settlement on hard substratum the worms begin to build the tubes, attached at one end but open at the other for collection of food particles and material for building. Dense congregations of S. alveolata tubes form large biogenic reef structures, which can be up to a metre thick and take the form of hummocks, sheets or more massive formations. S. alveolata reefs provide a unique habitat for associated species, for example creating rockpools, within which species including shore crabs, common starfish and red pool algae may commonly be found. Although young, dense reefs tend to be very species poor, older reefs have a much higher species diversity and may be associated with 40 to 50 different species of plant and . Commonly associated with older S. alveolata reefs are species of the macroalgae Enteromorpha and Ulva, together with barnacles, dogwhelks and mussels. There is some evidence of differences in community structure between different reef forms but little is known of predators and natural enemies.

The species, especially when forming dense reef structures, is one of the most ecologically important biogenic reef-forming species in British waters. Biogenic reefs can have a number of important effects on the physical environment and can provide a unique habitat for any associated community. The reefs can stabilise sands, gravels and stones; the tubes provide a hard substratum for the attachment of sessile organisms; they provide a diversity of crevices, surfaces and sediments for colonisation; and accumulated faeces, pseudofaeces and other sediments may provide an important source of food for other organisms. For these reasons, biogenic reefs are included as a sub-feature of the specific ‘marine reefs’ habitat defined in Annex I of the Habitats Directive.

1.3 Eastern Irish Sea (Marine Nature Conservation Review: Region 13) S. alveolata is present in Britain along the south and west coasts. Limited in extent, the species is found no further north than the and not usually east of the Isle of Wight. Along the eastern Irish Sea coast the species is found in a variety of locations, most notably at Heysham in Morecambe Bay, along the Cumbrian coast, particularly at Drigg and further north towards , and along the coasts of the Solway Firth.

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Parts of Region 13 are of exceptional interest for their varied and diverse flora and fauna including six rare and fourteen scarce marine benthic species, particularly where rocky substratum predominates as described in the MNCR Region 13 summary report (Barnes et al., 1996). Rare and scarce species include sponges, hydroids, bryozoans, soft corals, and echiurid worms, anemones, seaweeds and sea slugs, snails and sea squirts in addition to a number of important commercial fisheries along with numerous terrestrial and wetland habitats supporting important invertebrate communities and wildfowl and seabird populations. Areas of rocky substratum in the region include those occurring along the Cumbrian coast that represent the most extensive rocky shores in Northwest . The presence in these areas of S. alveolata is of considered to be of national importance (English Nature, 1994) and the species has recently been included in Biodiversity Action Plans for Cumbria and the Solway. Boulder clay scar grounds or scars, such as occur in the Solway Estuary, are also known to support the species. Whilst a number of SAC, SSSI, RAMSAR sites and other designated/non designated areas are to be found in the region many of the S. alveolata populations lie outside these.

1.4 Current Status S. alveolata exhibits natural temporal and spatial variability and there is evidence to suggest there has been a significant contraction in range on parts of the British coastline (Cunningham et al., 1984) most notably the south coast up to the mid 1980s. Causes of these changes are unknown and it is difficult to assess the true significance of a decline, given the development of the species elsewhere. For example, the reefs off Heysham appear to have expanded over recent years and now dominate around two hectares of boulder scar where the species had been absent (or not recorded as present in abundance) for 30 years, possibly due to changes in the hydrodynamic regime/coastal defence works.

Current factors affecting S. alveolata habitat include: their susceptibility to extreme cold, the threat of long term burial by sand, damage through trampling, competition for space with the common mussel Mytilus edulis and problems of naturally variable recruitment. Although protection of intertidal S. alveolata reefs can be achieved through SSSI designation, many reefs lie outside such designated areas. There is presently a lack of information on S. alveolata reefs in Britain. Information about the distribution, stability, nature and rate of decline and rate of (re)establishment and recovery of the species is needed, in order to devise a management strategy to maintain and where appropriate enhance the quality and extent of the reefs along the British coastline.

S. alveolata was recorded at numerous locations in sub-areas 2 to 4 of MNCR Region 13 particularly along the Cumbria and south Solway coast with over 3771981 sq. metres (or over 377 ha) of reef recorded in the current study. No firm figure for the total UK resource is avialbel but the reef systems in Region 13 are over twice that recorded around the Welsh coast (P. Brazier pers. comm.) and as a very rough estimate may make up between 10-20% of the total UK resource. Much of the reef was in moderate to good quality with many areas containing a mixture of relict/senescent and newer forms indicating cyclical processes of development and decay although at a broader level most historical sites contain healthy populations today. Whilst at some areas e.g. Point the populations of S. alveolata are declining somewhat (due in part to an increased dominance by the mussel Mytilus edulis) whilst at other areas (e.g. Heysham) the species has undergone a period of expansion. Overall, it would appear that the outlook for the species in MNCR Region 13 is generally good and it is considered that S. alveolata will colonise and inhabit any suitable substrate along Region 13 where hydrodynamic conditions allow - particularly north of Morecambe Bay although as this is at the extreme northern end of the distribution they are liable to show a degree of natural variability which needs to be taken into account when assess the status of the species.

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2. INTRODUCTION

2.1 Approach S. alveolata reefs are a priority habitat in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (Tranche 2 Action Plans Volume 5 - maritime species and habitats. UK Biodiversity Group, 1999). S. alveolata reefs occur in MNCR Region 13 (Northern Irish Sea: Colwyn Bay to Stranraer including the Isle of Man) in the Solway Firth, along the Drigg coast and in Morecambe Bay. In Region 13 the reefs are of national nature conservation importance (Cumbrian coast) and are present in cSAC European Marine Sites (Solway, Drigg and Morecambe Bay). S. alveolata reefs are covered by a Cumbria HAP and are included in the Dumfries & Galloway BAP.

Improved information is required by English Nature on the extent and quality of S. alveolata reefs in Region 13, in order to:-

• deliver a key action of the National and Cumbrian S. alveolata HAPs;

• inform the baseline condition assessment for S. alveolata reefs in three cSAC sites and to better understand natural temporal and spatial changes in reefs and to help identify any new or revised management measures which may be needed to safeguard them;

• identify the extent and quality of S. alveolata reefs elsewhere on the Cumbrian coast outside of these European marine sites and to assess their conservation requirements;

• enable a conservation evaluation of the requirements of the representation of S. alveolata within SSSI to be made against the JNCC’s guidelines for the selection of intertidal SSSI;

• help English Nature and others provide advice on measures to promote awareness and safeguard of S. alveolata reefs including through oil pollution sensitivity mapping, etc.

2.2 Aims & Objectives The aim of this work is to provide further information to supplement the current knowledge of S. alveolata reefs in Region 13.

This work gathers information from a number of sources, from previous observations, aerial photographs and field survey, using published and unpublished information, in order to improve the existing knowledge of S. alveolata. It includes:-

• a literature review of available information on the distribution, structure and associated wildlife interests of S. alveolata reefs;

• mapping the distribution of S. alveolata reefs along the English coastline of the eastern Irish Sea and comparing with earlier survey data available to assess spatial and temporal changes;

• recording the structure of the reefs and the wildlife interests associated and assessment of temporal and spatial changes;

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• assessing the conservation importance of the reefs in local, regional, UK and European contexts and identifying any additional conservation measures which may need to be taken to conserve the S. alveolata reefs and associated interests;

• assessing the value of air photographs in mapping the extent and quality of S. alveolata reefs.

2.3 Methodology The work will be undertaken in stages, as indicated in the schematic below.

A1 A2 A3

A4

B

B1 B2

B3 B4 C

B5

Where:- A1 – Desk Study, A2 – Aerial Photos, A3 – Maps & A4 – Survey Sites B – Survey (B1 – Survey Plan/Logistics, B2 – Site Recording, B3 – Field Notes/DGPS, B4 – Photographic Record, B5 – Sub-sampling) C – Post-Survey (Data Treatment, GIS Analysis Report, etc.)

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2.4 Outputs Outputs from this work will include:

• a report detailing the main components of the work, including a review of available literature and survey data (and including further components detailed below);

• an analysis and initial reef mapping of the area from existing aerial photographs;

• a set of maps (hard copy and digital) following field surveying, detailing the distribution, extent and quality of intertidal S. alveolata reefs in the area;

• an analysis of the spatial and temporal variability of S. alveolata reefs in the area;

• a conservation assessment of S. alveolata reefs in the area;

• a set of transparencies which illustrate the range, quality and extent of S. alveolata and associated species in the area; and

• an evaluation of the role of air photography in the mapping of distribution and condition of intertidal S. alveolata (for future reference).

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3. STUDY AREA

3.1 Introduction This study on the reefs of the Honeycomb Worm S. alveolata focuses on the existence of the species in MNCR Region 13 - the British coastline bordering the eastern Irish Sea, from Great Ormes Head to the Mull of Galloway (Figure 1). As identified in the MNCR Coastal Directories Series, Region 13 includes the north Wales coast eastward of the Clwyd boundary, Liverpool and Morecambe Bays, the coast of Cumbria, the south coast of Dumfries and Galloway including the Solway Firth and the Isle of Man (Doody, 1996).

Dumfries Dumfries & Galloway Annan Loch Ryan

Moricambe Stranraer Kirkcudbright Bay Wig town Silloth Solway Firth North Channel Wig town Luce Bay Bay Penrith Working ton

Mull of Galloway Cumbria St Bees Whitehaven Head

Ravenglass Barrow-in- Kendal furness Isle of Man

Morecambe Walney Island Lancaster Morecambe Bay Heysham

Fleetwood Lancashire

Blackpool

Lytham St Anne's Preston

Southport Sefton Coast Formby Bolton Crosby Liverpool Bay Bootle Hilbre Island Liverpool Region 13 Merseyside Boundary Rhyl Mersey Estuary Dee Estuary Birkenhead Colwyn Bay Bangor 0 20 40 Clw yd Chester Cheshire kilometres Caernarfon

Figure 1. MNCR Region 13 - showing major towns and other coastal locations. The region contains some 1,191 km of coastline, 6.3% of the UK total, and includes several of the most important estuaries in the UK (Davidson et al., 1991). With a varied landscape, the region contains some major infrastructure developments including the city of Liverpool and industry at the head of the Dee, plus the coastal resorts of north Wales, Southport and Blackpool. By contrast, the north of the region is much more rural, with a considerable amount of agricultural land use.

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The landscape of Region 13 is dominated by large amounts of glacial till ranging in age from Pleistocene to younger Holocene (British Geological Survey, 1996). The region can be considered in two broad areas: the rocky shores and cliffs of the outer, westernmost coast and the low-lying, soft- coast areas in between and further east (Figure 2). The few exposures of rock in the region are concentrated at St Bees Head and along the Southwest coast of Scotland, while the coasts of the south and east are comprised mostly of softer sediments. The region contains the only occurrences of coastal limestone pavement in Great Britain, around the northern end of Morecambe Bay (Keddie, 1996). Geomorphological processes affect the region’s landscape and longshore drift is an important feature in the development of coastal systems. However, human intervention has over a long period of time greatly modified these natural systems, especially around the region’s major estuaries.

Stratigraphy Rock Types Igneous Rocks Jurassic Shale & Limestone Granite Triassic Sandstone, shale, evaporite Andesite Permian Sandstone, shale, evaporite Permo-Triassic Greywacke, siltstone, shale Structures Fault Westphalian Shale, sandstone, coral Namurian Sandstone & Shale Dinantia Limestone & Sandstone Basement Metamorphosed sediments & volcanics

Figure 2. Onshore coastal geology (From British Geological Survey, 1996). The seabed of the region is covered by a variety of mobile sediments, with sandy deposits predominating offshore from north Wales and off the coasts of Lancashire and Cumbria (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Sediments ranging in grade from mud to sandy gravel overly extensive deposits of

Page 7 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature till, laid down during the last glacial period, which may be over 100m thick in places (British Geological Survey, 1996) (Map 3). Muddier deposits cover the seabed of the Solway Estuary and in a southerly direction from St Bees Head. There are limited outcrops of bedrock on the seabed and the distribution is largely a product of the action of tides, current and waves (Lee & Ramster, 1981).

Key to seabed sediment symbols mS Muddy Sand msG Muddy Sandy gravel M Mud gmS Gravelly Muddy Sand sG Sandy Gravel sM Sandy Mud gS Gravelly Sand Outcrop of bedrock

gM Gravelly Mud G Gravel Limit of data S Sand mG Muddy Gravel

Map 3 Offshore sea bed sediments (British Geological Survey, 1996).

The estuaries of Region 13 represent almost a quarter of the total UK estuarine area, more than half of the estuarine area on the British west coast and 7.5% of that of north-west Europe (Davidson et al., 1991). These estuarine areas and the habitats and species they support are of major conservation interest and are the focus of many of the numerous conservation designations in the region.

Over 80% of the coast in the Northwest, from the River Dee to the Solway, is designated for its wildlife (Table 1 & Appendix 1). Conservation designations covering the region include Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Local Nature Reserves (LNR), National Nature Reserves (NNR), Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Heritage Coasts (Table 1). European designations include Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Areas (SPA). International

Page 8 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature designations include Ramsar Sites and Biosphere Reserves whilst UK designations include SSSIs and National Nature Reserves (NNRs) and these are shown in (Figure 4).

Table 1: Summary of site protection in Region 13 (adapted from Keddie, 1996).

Number of Protected Sites Area Covered by Site Protection Region GB Coast % of GB Region (ha) GB Coast % of GB Total (ha) Total Biosphere Reserves 1 8 12.5 5,469 27,243 20.1 Ramsar Sites 6 53 11.3 56,410 276,263 20.4 Special Protection Areas 7 78 9.0 55,239 292,363 19.1 Environmentally Sensitive Areas 2.5 17 14.7 433,900 1,397,545 31.0 Geological Conservation Review 32 980 3.3 n/ap n/ap n/ap National Nature Reserves 7 79 8.8 13,420 86,708 15.5 Sites of Special Scientific Interest 80 1,183 6.8 122,547 700,781 17.5 Marine Consultation Areas 0.5 29 1.7 2,080 111,896 1.9

Areas of Special Protection 3 23 13.0 n/av n/av n/av

Limestone Pavement Orders 17 17 100.0 1,022 1,022 100.0

Bass Nursery Areas 2 34 5.9 n/av n/av n/av

Regulating Orders 1 8 12.5 4,047 94,584 4.3

The Ministry of Defence 7 110 6.4 6,166 53,409 11.5

National Scenic Areas 3 27 11.1 19,100 745,800 2.6

National Parks 1 6 16.7 229,200 745,000 30.8

Heritage Coasts 1 45 2.2 6(km) 1,539 0.4

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty 2 24 8.3 19,000 899,900 2.1

Local Nature Reserves 8 94 8.5 832 13,300 6.3

Country Parks 4 34 11.8 106 4,441 2.4

Regional Landscape Designations 5 63 7.9 65,997 508,124 13.0

The National Trust 12 444 2.7 767 62,648 1.2

Manx National Heritage 14 14 100.0 738 738 100.0

RSPB 9 81 11.1 8,115 38,680 21.0

Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust 1 6 16.7 726 1,585 45.8

The Wildlife Trusts 26 216 12.0 1,605 25,417 6.9

Sensitive Marine Areas 4 27 14.8 n/av n/av n/av

Woodland Trust 10 64 15.6 94 1,458 6.4

Candidate Coastal/marine SACs 6 71 8.5 n/av n/av n/av

Candidate Coastal/Terrestrial SACs 4 40 10.0 n/av n/av n/av

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Biosphere reserv e

NNR Sites

Ramsar Sites SAC sites

Region 13 Region 13 Boundary Boundary

0 20 40 0 20 40 kilometres kilometres

SSSI sites SPA sites

Region 13 Region 13 Boundary Boundary

0 20 40 0 20 40 kilometres kilometres

Figure 4. Sites designated under international/national Conventions/Directives (source English Nature 2002). The region’s limestone pavements located within the Morecambe Bay area are of particular importance and are a priority habitat under the EC Habitats and Species Directive. Other areas of interest include significant sections of the region’s coast with shingle shores (for example, on the western side of Walney Island, Cumbria), a landform that is important for both its geomorphological and its biological interest.

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Because of the variety of habitats present in Region 13, the area is important for a wide range of rare and scarce flora and fauna. Some of the larger sites in the region are important, either nationally or internationally, for both lower and higher plants. For amphibians and reptiles, the region’s sand dunes provide one of the most important areas in Great Britain, after the south coast. The coast is nationally important for many of its coastal invertebrate species and is internationally important for its bird life (all the region’s estuaries are important areas for wintering wildfowl).

Parts of the region are of exceptional interest for their rare and scarce marine benthic species, particularly where rocky substratum predominates. Six rare and fourteen scarce species have been recorded in the region, many around the Isle of Man (Irving et al., 1996). There are also commercially important populations of Crustacea including the lobster Homarus gammarus, the brown shrimp Crangon crangon and the Dublin Bay Prawn Nephrops norvegicus. Commerical populations of mollusc also exist including the edible cockle Cerastoderma edule, the mussel Mytilus edulis the queen and common scallop (Pecten maximus and Aequipecten opercularis) and native and pacific oyster (Ostrea edulis and Crassostrea gigas). A number of commercial fisheries also operate in the area for both pelagic and demersal fish (Pawson & Robson, 1996). The intertidal and seabed benthic communities are also important in the area and whilst they cannot be described in full here, Irving et al. (1996) summarises the most important features. Whilst the conservation interest of much of the intertidal region is primarily for productivity rather than biodiversity (Irving et al., 1996) the areas of rocky substratum in Region 13 whilst relatively limited in contrast to the UK include those occurring along the Cumbrian coast that represent the most extensive rocky shores in Northwest of England. Gravel/cobble or boulder clay scar grounds or ‘scars’, such as occur in the Solway Firth and the Cumbria coast are known to support communities typical of sublittoral rocky areas, with a biomass of one to two orders of magnitude greater than on adjacent sands (Perkins, 1981) and it is these habitats which provide the ideal habitat for S. alveolata.

3.2 Sub-Areas In order to describe the environmental characteristics of Region 13 and to assess the distribution of S. alveolata the region has been divided into 5 sub-areas as shown in Figure 5.

3.2.1 SUB AREA 1

Sub-area 1, the most southerly of the region, covers Colwyn Bay on the North Wales coast up to Blackpool on the south west coast of Lancashire. It includes the coasts of Merseyside and Cheshire and the Estuaries of the Dee, Mersey and Ribble. The coastline in the south of this area is relatively low-lying and formed primarily of soft Permian sandstones, overlain by till and extensive Holocene deposits (Figure 2). To the West there are some rock forms of the carboniferous limestone, which dominate the Great Orme, but these form only small headlands around Colwyn Bay. From the Mersey to the Ribble the coastline is dominated by sand dunes backed by and northwards towards Fleetwood alluvium and till are more extensive (British Geological Survey, 1996). On the Fylde coast, the sand dune system is well developed (Dargie, 1996). Apart from selected sites on the north Wales coast, there are few sites where shingle occurs in this area and the Merseyside and south Lancashire coasts are virtually devoid of any shingle (Randall, 1996). Along this coast there are few cliffs and the nearest outcrops of bedrock are a distance offshore (British Geological Survey, 1996).

As the northern Irish Sea is relatively land-locked, the Clwyd coast is considerably protected from the area’s dominant westerly winds (British Geological Survey, 1996). In addition, the restricted fetch of waves in the Irish Sea results in restricted wave heights and consequently the coast is not exposed to such extreme wave energy. However, it is open to winds from the Northwest sector, as is the coast

Page 11 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature from the Dee northwards. Offshore, the water is relatively shallow and Liverpool Bay in particular has a gently shelving coastal zone (Figure 6). Tidal currents are generally weak in this area, becoming stronger only in the Mersey Estuary, due to its funnelling effect (Figure 7). Tidal range varies, but can reach 8.0m on mean spring tides at the mouth of the Dee Estuary (Figure 8). Surface water temperatures increase slightly from west to east in summer (Figure 9), but decrease in winter (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Bottom water temperatures fluctuate from 7˚C in the winter and 12˚C in the summer (Lee & Ramster, 1981). The mean surface salinity of seawater decreases eastwards, owing to riverine input and coastal runoff (Figure 10). Mean bottom salinity varies very little and is on average 34 psu (Lee & Ramster, 1981).

Dumfries & Gallow ay Dumfries

Annan Loch Ryan 1

Moricambe Stranraer Kirkcudbright Bay Carlisle Wig town Silloth Solway Firth North Channel Luce Bay Wig town Maryport Bay Penrith Working ton

Mull of Galloway 2 Whitehaven Cumbria St Bees Head

Ravenglass Kendal

Barrow-in- furness 4 Isle of 3 Man

Morecambe Walney Island Lancaster

Morecambe Heysham Bay Fleetwood Lancashire Blackpool

Preston Lytham St Anne's 5

Southport Sefton Coast Formby Bolton Crosby Liverpool Bay Bootle Hilbre Island Liverpool Region 13 Merseyside Boundary Rhyl Mersey Estuary Dee Estuary Birkenhead Colwyn Bay 0 20 40 Bangor Clw yd Chester Cheshire kilometres Caernarfon

Figure 5. Sub-areas of MNCR region 13. Along the coast from Colwyn Bay to the Mersey there is a moderate to high transport rate for sand and a low transport rate for shingle, in an easterly direction (Figure 11). Tidal currents transport

Page 12 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature sediments - predominantly fine sand and silt - into the Dee and Mersey Estuaries. Sediment transport around these estuaries is highly complex (British geological Survey, 1996). Along the coast from the Mersey to Fleetwood there is a high rate of northerly sand transport and onshore movement of fine sand and silt into the estuaries. South of Blackpool, shingle travels south along the coast into the Ribble Estuary. Coastal erosion is largely restricted in this area by extensive protection measures that exist along much of the coast from Llandudno eastwards to the Mersey and northwards (British Geological Survey, 1996). However, some of the coast’s natural defences are being eroded (for example at Formby, just north of the Mersey) (www.nwcoastline.org, 07/01). The general pattern throughout this area is of an eroding coast, with sediment accretion in the adjoining estuaries. In the Dee Estuary for example, sediment accretes and there is development of saltmarsh (British Geological Survey, 1996). Many places along this coastline are below the level of the highest tides (Figure 12) and depend on flood protection, sometimes naturally provided by sand dunes and often reinforced by artificial coastal defences (BGS, 1996).

North Channel

Lune Deep

St Georges Channel

Bathymetric contours in metres. Figures on the deep side of the line

Figure 6. Bathymetry (British Geological Survey, 1996. Modified from Barnes et al., 1996).

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2.5 1

5 2 3

4 1 3 3 7.5 2 2 3.5

3 4 2

2

1 4.5

5 8 2

2 7

6.5 7.5 5.5 6

5 2

Region 13 Region 13 8 Boundary Boundary

2

0 20 40 0 20 40 kilometres kilometres

Figure 7. Mean tidal current speed (knots) Figure 8. Tidal range (m) at mean spring at mean spring tides (Lee & Ramster, 1989). tides (Sager & Sammler, 1968).

13.5

13

14 34.25

13.5

6.5

7 34.25 33 33

5.0 32 32 7.5 14 14.5 34 15.5 15 34 31 5.5

16 Summer Summer

Winter Winter

Region 13 Region 13 Boundary Boundary

0 20 40 0 20 40 kilometres kilometres Figure 9. Mean surface water temperature Figure 10.Mean surface salinity (g/kg total dissolved salt) (Lee & Ramster, 1981). (Lee & Ramster, 1981).

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A CE

6d CE CE 7 11e CE

CE

CE 11d 11c

CE

Drift Divide CE Sediment Sink

Sub-cell boundary 11b Net Drift direction A Variable Net Drift direction

A Coastal Accretion CE Coastal Erosion 11a A

Region 13 A Boundary

A

0 20 40 kilometres

Figure 11. Sediment transport in Region 13 (British Geological Survey, 1996).

1.0

0.5

Estimated current rates (mm/y r) of isostatic mov ement

Land below 5m susceptible to f looding

Area f looded at Towy n, Feb 1990 (arrowed) 0.0 Region 13 Boundary

0 20 40 kilometres

Figure 12. Areas below 5m above CD and susceptible to flooding (Shennan, 1989).

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This area is particularly important for sand dunes, with major concentrations in north Wales and along the Sefton Coast (BGS, 1996) as shown in Figure 13. Vegetated sand dunes in the area are of moderate national importance, with Clwyd and Merseyside having approximately 46% of the total resource of Region 13 (Dargie, 1993 & 1995). With little exposed bed rock and few boulder/cobble scar grounds along the coastline, S. alveolata reefs are not commonly found in this area, although two sites have been documented in the past near Colwyn Bay, at the western limit of the area (MNCR database; Wilson, 1950) and also at Hilbre Island off the Dee Estuary (Hedman, 1919). It is believed that the species may have been present at one time, but has since suffered considerable contraction in the area.

Moss of Cree

Torrs Warren

Mull of Galloway

St Bees Head

Morecambe Walney Bay Island

Wyre Estuary

Ribble Estuary

Major Estuaries Predominantly cliffed coast Mersey Raised beach Estuary Sand dunes Low-lying alluvium Dee Estuary Glacial deposits Outcrop of early Holocene peat

Figure 13. Major coastal landforms (British Geological Survey, 1996. Modified from Barnes et al., 1996).

3.2.2 SUB-AREA 2

Sub-area 2 covers the coast from Blackpool on the south Lancashire coast to just east of Barrow-in- Furness on the southernmost tip of Cumbria. It includes the expansive Morecambe Bay area and the Wyre, Lune and Kent estuaries. Much of this area is low-lying and has extensive areas of intertidal sand/mud flats and saltmarsh (Doody, 1996). Morecambe Bay, which is the largest estuarine area in England after the Wash, has the largest area of intertidal mud and sand of any site in the UK (310km2) (Davidson et al., 1991).

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There are limited outcrops of bedrock along the coast in this area. The northern coast of Morecambe Bay is more rugged than the south, being formed of folded and faulted rocks of Carboniferous/Silurian age and there are steep limestone outcrops in places, for example at Arnside (British Geological Survey, 1996). The Cartmel and Milnthorpe Sands of the northern shores (the estuaries of the Leven and Kent Rivers respectively) are infilled with alluvium, though exposed bedrock reaches the coast in places (Figure 2).

Being semi-enclosed, Morecambe Bay is relatively protected from stormy weather conditions, especially those in winter, where prevailing southwest winds and their associated waves are reduced by the land mass of Ireland. The Bay itself is broad and shallow (www.nwcoastine.org, 07/01) and much of the land offshore slopes gently, rarely reaching depths of 40m (Lee & Ramster, 1981). The exception however is the Lune Deeps, at the entrance to Morecambe Bay, where depths of 80m or more occur (Figure 6). (The Deeps channel is a glacial feature – a kettlehole - that has not been filled by more recent deposits). Tidal currents in Morecambe Bay are generally weak, around 2 knots (Figure 7), although tidal range is fairly high, sometimes 8m or more (Figure 8). Mean surface water temperatures are around 5˚C in winter, rising to 16˚C in summer (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Temperatures will be highest within the Bay during the summer (Figure 9). Bottom water temperatures are around 5-7˚C in winter and 12-16˚C in summer (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Mean surface salinity of seawater is from 32 psu downwards, slightly higher in summer than in winter (Figure 10).

Sediment transport in the area is in a predominantly northerly direction and there is an onshore movement of fine sand and silt into Morecambe Bay (Figure 11). Sediment movement within the Bay is however fairly low (British Geological Survey, 1996). Coastal erosion takes place along the southern shore of Morecambe Bay, just north of Fleetwood, and accretion and saltmarsh development occurs in places, particularly towards the north east of the Bay. Where muds and silts settle, they form banks and marshes, the shapes of which are modified by meandering river channels. The natural defences of shingle, sand and saltmarsh are all important. At a number of places along the coastline the land is lower than the highest recorded tide and thus the area relies upon flood protection, either naturally occurring or by artificial coastal defences (Figure 12). Parts of the area that lie below 5m and are potentially susceptible to flooding, include much of the shore of the Lune Estuary and Morecambe Bay to the north. Coastal defence and protection measures in this area include sea/flood defences and man-made coast protection lengths, and almost the entire length of the coastline is protected (Figure 14).

Conservation is a high priority in the Bay, with significant areas of important habitat including sand and mud flats and limestone pavement. Morecambe Bay is covered by a number of conservation designations, which reflect its international importance as a wildlife site with a rich and diverse heritage. In 1996 it was designated a Special Protection Area (SPA) under the EU Wild Birds Directive to protect the large numbers of birds that migrate to Morecambe Bay in autumn and spring to feed on the mud-flats. It is also a candidate Special Area of Conservation (SAC) under the EU Habitats & Species Directive for its outstanding examples of saltmarsh, characteristic of north-west England, as well as the rare plants, like glasswort, that colonise its shingle beaches. Areas of seashore and sea within the Morecambe Bay SPA and cSAC form the Morecambe Bay European Marine Site.

Towards the south of Morecambe Bay, off the coast near Heysham, some of the largest and most impressive reefs of S. alveolata have been documented (Woombs, 1997 & 1999). These reefs have colonised patches of exposed cobble and shingle which occur approximately 1km offshore and include the south-west end of Foot Skear. The development/expansion of S. alveolata reefs in this

Page 17 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature location is examined in the current study and some authors have concluded its development may be linked to the construction of coast protection works (Brason, 1997). However, the long-established presence of large areas of mussel bed adjacent to the reefs may limit future reef development (pers. obs.).

Sea/Flood def ence Man-made coast Protection lengths

Region 13 Boundary

0 20 40 kilometres

Figure 14. Locations of coastal defence works (MAFF, 1994).

3.2.3 SUB-AREA 3

Sub-area 3 includes the southern part of the Cumbrian coast to the west of Morecambe Bay, stretching north to St Bees Head, where the northern Cumbrian coast then forms the south bank of the Solway Estuary, and includes the Isle of Walney (nr. Barrow) and the estuaries of the Esk and Duddon Rivers. In this area the low-lying, gently sloping landscape that dominates Region 13 is broken in places by exposed hard substratum and cliff outcrops (Figure 12). Along the coast near Drigg are a series of scar grounds and at St Bees Head, the northern extent of the area, there are cliffs where extensive outcrops of bedrock are exposed. This Triassic sandstone feature is the most

Page 18 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature prominent and significant landform of the area and over 300 feet in height. Inshore, the sea bed is mostly sandy, with a small amount of muddy sand in the north of the area (Figure 3). Offshore, layers of mud of varying thickness overly glacial till which fills over-deepened valleys off the coast (British Geological Survey, 1996).

The sea bed slopes gradually offshore and the sea is generally shallow (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Mean tidal current speeds are not exceptional and rarely exceed 2 knots (Figure 7). The very low tidal currents off the coast at St Bees Head have resulted in the accumulation of mud belts (Figure 3), which lie offshore in-between the muddy gravel of the central Irish Sea and the sandy deposits near the coast (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Tidal range at mean spring tides is relatively high, around 7.5m (Figure 8). Part of the area is fairly sheltered, with wave exposure slightly more on the exposed outcrop of St Bees Head. Average water temperature is around 15.5˚C in summer, falling over 10 degrees to 5.0˚C in summer (Figure 9). Salinity ranges from 31 psu near the mouth of Morecambe Bay to 32 psu further north along the coast of Cumbria (Map 10).

Sediment transport is in two directions along the coast in this area (Figure 11). Firstly, sediment is moved northwards on the open coast, from the northern entrance of Morecambe Bay up to St Bees Head. Secondly, sediment is transported south, down towards Walney Island and east into Morecambe Bay. Sediment tends to accrete at the mouth of the Esk, where sand dunes are present (Dargie, 1996). Coastal erosion occurs northwards along the Cumbrian coast and also on the seaward side of the Isle of Walney.

This area contains a diversity of habitat, including large estuarine areas, sand dunes and cliffs (Figure 13). Lowland peat can be found relatively undisturbed in the inner reaches of some of the estuaries along the Cumbrian coast (British Geological Survey, 1996). The estuaries of the Duddon and Esk Rivers both have a significant amount of intertidal area and are important for saltmarsh vegetation (Gee, 1996). The Esk, the only bar-built estuary in Region 13, has formed behind the major sand dune systems at Drigg Point. The sand dune systems of this area are of great interest, forming a variety of different types including mobile and semi-fixed dunes, acidic and neutral fixed grasslands and dune slack and scrub communities (Dargie, 1996). Sand dune and saltmarsh habitats in the Esk and Duddon estuaries are particularly important for the natterjack toad Bufo calamita, a rare amphibian protected by SSSI, LNR and NNR designation on the Cumbrian coast.

Fringing beaches are located along the coast throughout the area and vegetated shingle is present at near the mouth of the Duddon estuary (Randall, 1996) and concentrated at South Walney and Foulney Island. The area is also important for its coastal lagoons, particularly at South Walney and Cavendish Dock, with 85% of the Region’s total being found along the south Cumbrian coast (Barnes & Bamber, 1996). The shores of this area contain clusters of exposed shingle and boulders, although the extent of littoral rock is limited. Parts of the Cumbrian coast have been noted for the presence of S. alveolata reefs along the lower shore, in particular at sites just off the coast near Drigg, where the fairly extensive reefs of S. alveolata are considered to be of great importance (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999).

3.2.4 SUB-AREA 4

The Solway is a vertically homogeneous body of water, a well-mixed estuary from surface to bottom (Perkins, 1973). The south Solway Firth, as defined for the purposes of this work, is from St Bees Head to just south of the border between England and Scotland, including all of the northern Cumbrian coast bordering the Solway Firth and the coastal towns of Whitehaven, Workington,

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Maryport and Silloth. Its major rivers are the Derwent and Eden, which drain part of the .

The coastline from St Bees Head to Maryport is formed of till cliffs fronted by a boulder-rich beach and north of St Bees Head bedrock is exposed in places in a narrow coastal strip (British Geological Survey, 1996). Further north along the southern Solway coast the land is predominantly low-lying and is largely devoid of exposed rock. The coasts of the Solway are made of terraced alluvium, overlain in places by peat. The intertidal part of the estuary is a complex of low, largely mobile sand banks and in places are some isolated shingle areas (Perkins, 1973). Offshore, mobile sediments range from sandy mud to sandy gravel (Figure 3). The Solway Firth has a generally sandy nature and stony bottoms are limited in extent, forming only a small proportion of the total area of the sea bed in the outer Solway (Perkins, 1973).

Water depths off the southern shores of the Solway rarely exceed 20m (Lee & Ramster, 1981) and tidal currents are generally weak, being on average 2-3 knots on mean spring tides (Figure 7). However, in the inner Solway currents can increase from 2 knots up to 5 knots on mean spring tides. Tidal range is fairly large, being on average 7.5m on mean spring tides (Figure 8). Perkins (1973) recorded tidal rise in the Solway Firth is around 25ft (7.62m) and 20ft (6.1m) on spring and neap tides respectively at Whitehaven. Surface water temperatures at the mouth of the estuary are on average 15.5˚C in summer and 5.0˚C in winter (Figure 9). Bottom water temperatures are around 5- 7˚C and 12-16˚C in winter and summer respectively (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Mean surface salinity in the outer Solway is around 32-33psu in winter and around the same in summer (Lee & Ramster). Surface water salinity may vary from 32-33 psu at the mouth of the Solway to considerably lower near the head of the estuary (Figure 10). In summer, salinity will increase in the inner Solway whereas in winter it will decrease slightly. Salinity range is greater in surface waters and tends to be lower in spring and summer and greater in autumn and winter, showing marked fluctuations within each period depending upon run-off from the land (Perkins, 1973).

To the north of St Bees Head sediment transport is largely in a north-easterly direction, along the coast and into the Solway Estuary (Figure 11). Sediment is also transported into the smaller estuaries along the coast. The upper-mid Solway acts as a sediment sink and considerable accretion of sediments occurs at the head of the Estuary (British Geological Survey, 1996). Perkins (1973) suggested that in the Solway there is a distinct onshore movement of sand that can be observed during the summer towards the outer estuary and the reverse process can be noted in winter. Apart from some of the features at high shore levels seaward from Grune Point, there is little evidence of longshore drift on these shores (Perkins, 1973). One feature to note is the presence of a developing re-curved spit at Grune Point itself. Coastal erosion is widespread along the beaches at Whitehaven, Workington and Maryport on the northern Cumbrian coast. This is a result of the movement of sediment north-east into the Solway Firth. Evidence provided may suggest however that the forces of beach drifting are relatively weak even at high shore levels (Perkins, 1973).

The Solway coast designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1964 covers an area from Rockcliffe Marsh west of Carlisle to north of Maryport, covering an area of around 115km2 (Keddie, 1996). It is an internationally important landscape, containing a variety of fragile habitats and many Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The main features of this stretch of the Solway coast for which the area is most renowned are the salt marshes and sand dunes (Dargie, 1996; Hill, 1996). There are some exposed scar grounds along the coast in this area, most notably on the Cumbrian shore, running from Bay in the south to Silloth in the north and these areas have been noted for the presence of S. alveolata (Perkins, 1973). However, it is believed that growth of the species

Page 20 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature may have been limited where industrial and sewage effluents were most concentrated (around the Whitehaven-Workington-Maryport area) although this may simply have been due to a lack of suitable habitat (Hartnoll et al., 1998).

3.2.5 SUB-AREA 5

Sub-area 5 includes the northern shore of the Solway Firth running west from the Scottish border at Gretna to the Mull of Galloway. The estuaries of the Annan, Nith and Dee rivers feed into the inner Estuary, whilst in the outer Estuary the large embayments of Wigtown Bay and Luce Bay are prominent features. The coast in this part of the region is rocky, formed from a complex of older rocks and there are cliffs at the Mull of Galloway and in places further east towards Mersehead Sands (British Geological Survey, 1996). Offshore, sediments vary from sandy mud to muddy sandy gravel, with much of the Solway being predominantly sandy (Figure 3). Rocky seabed occurs along the north shore from Heston Island and Balcary Point to the Mull of Galloway (Perkins, 1973).

The bed of the Solway Estuary is gently sloping and relatively shallow, with water depths in the inner Solway up to 20m and in the outer Solway up to 40m (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Tidal range in the inner estuary is large, around 7.5m, but this is slightly less in the outer Solway, around 5.5-6.5m (Figure 8). Perkins (1973) suggested that tidal rise is 29ft (8.84m) and 20ft (6.1m) on spring and neap tides respectively at Annan and 23ft (7.01m) and 17ft (5.18m) on spring and neap tides respectively at Kirkcudbright. At Powfoot, the flood and ebb tides have a duration of four and eight hours respectively, with a maximum speed of six knots on the flood tide and a disparity of 2.5 knots between the maximum flood and ebb tide current velocities (Perkins, 1973). Average tidal current speed on mean spring tides is fairly low in the outer estuary, a maximum of 2 knots, falling to 1 knot in the large embayments (Figure 7). In the inner Solway, average current speeds may increase towards the head of the estuary, up to a maximum of 5 knots. Mean surface water temperature is around 5oC in the inner Solway, but may be up to 7-7.5oC in the outer estuary in the winter (Map 10). In the summer, temperatures may rise to 16oC in the inner estuary and 13-14oC in the outer estuary (an increase of 11 and 7-7.5 ˚C respectively) (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Bottom water temperatures are on average 7˚C and 12oC in winter and summer respectively (Lee & Ramster, 1981). Mean surface salinity of sea water in the inner Solway is around 32-33psu in summer, dropping slightly to 31-32 psu in winter (Figure 10). In the outer Solway, salinity may be 1-2psu higher in both summer and winter.

Sediment transport is in an easterly direction along the north bank of the Inner Solway to the sediment trap at the head of the estuary (Figure 11). In the outer Solway, sediment is transported east from the Mull of Galloway and there is a variable net transport movement in Luce Bay (British Geological Survey, 1996). Overall, the process of beach drifting in the Solway Firth is largely negligible, when compared with the amounts of sediment moved in other systems (Perkins, 1973). The terraced nature of the Solway coastline makes the area less liable to flooding than coasts along the southern shores of the region and hence the lack of coastal defence works in this area (Figure 14).

The littoral zone is predominantly sedimentary in this area with hard substratum habitats and communities are found only at selected sites (Covey & Emblow, 1992). Saltmarsh occurs in the more sheltered areas along the northern coast of the Solway, sometimes at the head of estuaries and bays (Hill, 1996). The area is dominated by Zostera and Salicornia species, which form in distinct zones, markedly developed (Perkins, 1973). The Eelgrass Zostera marina was recorded by Perkins (1988) in Auchencairn Bay and the Loch Ryan area has been designated a statutory Marine Consultation Area (MCA) on account of the species.

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In addition, the coast contains a moderate length of cliff-top habitat, although cliff sections tend to be fairly short (Figure 13). The cliffs are exposed to wind and sea salt spray and are colonised by maritime grassland (Dargie, 1996). Sand dune habitats are not common along the coast of the inner Solway and the only significant area is in Luce Bay, to the westernmost of the region. S. alveolata has been found at a few selected sites in this area, usually associated with scar ground for example at Powfoot and Howgarth Scars (Perkins, 1973; Cutts & Hemingway, 1995; Hammond, 2000).

In the outer Solway, the sea bed is much more varied in character and it has a more varied and rich fauna than the inner Solway (Davidson, 1996). A vagile epifauna is present, which represents the source of the forms which invade the inner Solway in the more favourable months of the year (Perkins, 1973). The areas of stony ground are characterised by the bivalve mollusc Modiolus modiolus and the cherry-red sea squirt Dendrodoa grossularia. Although these two species characterise the fauna of these grounds, many other notable organisms occur in association with them, including S. alveolata, which may inhabit some areas of sea bed and exert a stabilising influence in the area (Perkins, 1973). Areas of subtidal S. alveolata have also been recorded off the English Coast between Maryport and Silloth by Cutts and Hemingway (1996) but it is not known how extensive these subtidal populations area.

3.3 Summary MNCR Region 13, from the Great Orme to the Mull of Galloway, is naturally diverse and rich in important fauna and flora. The variety of habitats support a wide range of rare and scarce species of plants and animal and whilst it is not possible in the current study to examine in detail the flora and fauna of the region there are numerous sites which are of national, or even international, importance for their wildlife (Table 1).

The species S. alveolata, although not widespread throughout the UK, is also found in selected sites along the coast in Region 13. S. alveolata reefs, which form in areas with moderate to strong tidal currents and a good supply of water borne sediment for tube building (e.g. the mouth of Morecambe Bay or off the Cumbrian coast and in the Solway Estuary). These reefs are one of the most important biogenic reef types in inshore British waters (Holt et al., 1998). As such, the species has been classified as a distinct ecological unit by the Marine Nature Conservation Review (MNCR) and is a specific marine habitat as defined in Annex I of the Habitats Directive (1992). However, the reefs within Region 13 have been relatively little studied, compared with those found in the Severn Estuary and Bristol Channel, and many areas of reef lie in unprotected areas (Holt et al., 1998). The biology of the species is discussed in Section 4 with an analysis of their distribution along the English coast of Region 13 given in Section 7.

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4. LITERATURE REVIEW

4.1 General Introduction S. alveolata, the 'honeycomb worm' is a sedentary, tube-dwelling polychaete most commonly found on rocky substrata in the lower shore and shallow subtidal zones of marine and estuarine areas (Holt et al., 1998). Showing a Lusitanian distribution in the UK, S. alveolata occurs predominantly in south-western British waters, extending eastwards to the Isle of Wight and northwards to the Mull of Galloway (Gubbay, 1988). S. alveolata favours fairly exposed conditions with relatively high water current velocities where the water holds a high load of sand and food particles in suspension. It requires a hard substratum (rock, boulders or scar ground) on which to form reefs and is commonly found in sandy areas intermingled with rocks and pebbles (Holt et al., 1998).

The individuals live in tubes, which they build as they grow. Following settlement on hard substratum the worms begin to build the tubes, attached at one end but open at the other for collection of food particles and material for building (Wilson, 1971; Gruet, 1986). Dense congregations of S. alveolata tubes form large biogenic reef structures which have been described as “Solid, massive structures created by accumulations of organisms, usually rising from the seabed, or at least clearly forming a substantial, discrete community or habitat which is very different from the surrounding seabed. The structure of the reef may be composed almost entirely of the reef building organism and its tubes or shells, or it may to some degree be composed of sediments, stones and shells bound together by the organisms” (Holt et al., 1998).

S. alveolata reefs provide a specialised habitat for other organisms and where present may be associated with an increased diversity of species (Mettam et al., 1989). Although young, dense reefs tend to be very species poor, older reefs have much higher species diversity and may be associated with 40 to 50 different species of plant and animal (Wilson, 1971; Perkins, 1988; Woombs, 1999). Often associated with older S. alveolata reefs are species of the macroalgae Enteromorpha and Ulva and commonly the reef complexes create rock pools, within which species including red algae, shore crabs and common starfish may be found.

The integrity of S. alveolata reef structures is most greatly affected by strong wave action (Wilson, 1971). Reefs are also particularly susceptible to very severe winters and heavy frost may kill entire colonies (Crisp, 1964; Wilson, 1971). Additionally, S. alveolata reefs may suffer from burial as a result of large movements of sand, which can be tolerated for days or even weeks but which in time will be fatal (Cunningham et al., 1984). Little is known of human impacts on S. alveolata reefs, but it is understood that inshore fisheries, particularly shrimp trawling, may damage subtidal reefs (Vorberg, 2000). Trampling may also damage intertidal reefs (Cunningham et al., 1984). Additionally, bait diggers will sometimes target S. alveolata, breaking open the tubes and collecting the worms from inside (pers.obs.). S. alveolata reefs can themselves be a hazard to inshore shipping (Holt et al., 1998).

The species, especially when forming dense reef structures, is one of the most ecologically important biogenic reef forming species in British waters (Holt et al., 1998). Biogenic reefs can have a number of important effects on the physical environment, stabilising sands, gravels and stones, and may provide a unique habitat for the associated community (Mettam et al., 1989). The tubes provide a hard substratum for the attachment of sessile organisms; they provide a diversity of crevices, surfaces and sediments for colonisation; and accumulated faeces, pseudofaeces and other sediments may provide an important source of food for other organisms (Holt et al., 1998). Most importantly, S.

Page 23 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature alveolata reefs change an essentially 2D substratum into 3D, with subsequent affects to water movements and sediment dynamics. For these reasons, biogenic reefs have been included as a sub- feature of the specific ‘marine reefs’ habitat defined in Annex I of the Habitats Directive.

4.2 Distribution There is limited information on the global geographical extent of S. alveolata, although a study of by Kirtley & Tanner (1968) noted the family as present between 72onorth and 53osouth. S. alveolata is known to occur in local abundance on many parts of the coast of north-west Europe, including the English Channel (Lucas & Lefevre, 1956; Mathieu, 1967; Vovelle, 1965) the eastern Atlantic coast (Wilson, 1971 & 1974; Gruet, 1972 & 1977; Anadon, 1980) and the western Mediterranean coast (Molinier & Picard, 1953; Taramelli-Rivosecchi, 1961) as shown in Figure 15.

Figure 15. Global distribution of Sabellaria alveolata (source: Marlin database).

Being essentially a warmer water species, S. alveolata has a relatively restricted distribution in Britain, occurring almost exclusively along the south and west coasts, between South Devon and the Solway Firth (Gubbay, 1988) as shown in Figure 16. In the south west of the UK a number of areas of S. alveolata have been documented, for example in the Severn Estuary, although it is thought there has been some reduction in species range in this area (Purchon, 1948; Mettam et al., 1989). The species has been noted conspicuously absent from much of west Cornwall, but has commonly been found in Duckpool, N.Cornwall and Dawlish, S.Devon (Wilson, 1971, 1974). In Wales, a number of areas of S. alveolata have been identified, including some in Cardigan Bay and some on the Gower peninsula and in Dunraven Bay (MNCR database, 02/01). In the north of England and in Scotland, the species has been documented in Morecambe Bay, along the Drigg coast, in the Solway Firth and along the coast in Luce Bay (Cunningham et al., 1984; Woombs, 1997 & 1999; Hammond, 2000). In Northern Ireland, S. alveolata has been reported on the Down coast at Rossglass and Glassdrumman Port (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999).

S. alveolata is known to exist at various sites in MNCR Region 13 (Great Ormes Head to the Mull of Galloway) (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999). However, recorded observations of the species in this area are not as extensive as for the Severn Estuary and Cornwall coast, where Wilson (1929, 1968a & b, 1970, 1971, 1974, 1976) carried out pioneering work on the species. Wilson recorded the presence of S. alveolata in Colwyn Bay on the north Wales coast and the southern part of Region 13 in the 1950s. However, Cunningham et al., (1984) indicated in their studies of the same area in the 1980s

Page 24 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature that the species was entirely absent. S. alveolata was once recorded abundant at Hilbre Island in the Dee Estuary, where Herdman (1919) noted the species “encrusting stones in sheets”, “rising in places to form massive hummocks and outstanding reefs many yards in extent”. Cunningham et al. (1984) found in later studies however that the species had suffered severe decline and was absent from this area.

UK Distribution of S. alveolata (Marlin Database) MNCR Data Historical Data f rom Cunningham (1984)

Figure 16. Distribution of Sabellaria alveolata in UK waters (source: Cunningham et al., (1984); Holt et al., (1998); MNCR database; MarLIN database).

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The presence of S. alveolata off the coast near Heysham in Morecambe Bay has been documented (Woombs, 1999, Hammond, pers.comm.) and Cunningham et al., (1984) recorded the presence of the species at that location in the early 1960s. However, Cunningham et al., (1984) and Jones (1984) recorded no S. alveolata reefs at Heysham in 1984. Consequently, the present large reef complex near Heysham may in fact be a more recent development..

Changes in the overall distribution of S. alveolata in Region 13 over the last 40 years are uncertain, but Cunnigham et al., (1984) believed that any changes in Sabellaria distribution will have been minimal and fluctuations most probably localised. No causal factor was put forward by Cunningham et al. (1984) for any changes in distribution and abundance in the region. Furthermore, the natural variability of the species means that some variation in the overall distribution and extent of S. alveolata in any given area is inevitable. In Region 13, variability is also likely to be influenced by the highly mobile sediments which are moved around the eastern Irish Sea coast and particularly the Solway Firth (Perkins, 1973).

4.3 Environmental Requirements

4.3.1 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

S. alveolata requires a hard substratum on which to form (rock, boulders or scar ground) and reefs can form on anything from pebbles to bedrock (Holt et al., 1998). Mettam et al., (1989) working on S. alveolata in the Severn Estuary, confirmed this association with the finding that the distribution of the species was directly related to differences in substratum - wherever there was an exposure of bedrock or stabilised boulders, S. alveolata occurred, but the species was absent wherever there was a substantial cover of mud or sand.

S. alveolata is often found in sandy areas intermingled with rocks and pebbles (Cunningham et al., 1984) and as Badve (1996) observed, S. alveolata commonly inhabits the intertidal rocky areas that are characterised by high water turbulence, strong currents and minimum sedimentation. However, S. alveolata has also been known to settle in areas devoid of a hard substratum, but where the sand has been stabilised sufficiently well by the sand mason Lanice conchilega to allow subsequent colonisation by the species (Larsonneur, 1984). The presence of a suitable substratum is essential in encouraging the active settlement of the larvae of S. alveolata, which are stimulated to settle on calcareous substrata but will also settle on non-calcareous substrata (Wilson, 1968b).

The presence of S. alveolata is often but not exclusively associated with boulder scars (Woombs, 1999). Scar grounds are areas of coarser sediment such as pebbles, cobbles and boulders which are raised above the level of the surrounding sand, but which may be frequently covered or scoured by the sand. These coarse sediments often occur in patches where they have been formed usually by erosion of boulder clays and other glacial deposits (Solway Firth Partnership, 1996). Scar grounds provide S. alveolata with the solid substratum the individuals require to establish colonies. However, they are also relatively mobile environments and are therefore susceptible to change. Often, the species will be limited to a thin covering over cobbles and boulders, forming thick reefs only in areas of stable exposed bed rock (Mettam et al., 1989).

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4.3.2 VERTICAL DISTRIBUTION/DEPTH

S. alveolata is found mainly on the bottom third of the shoreline, where most of the exposed hard substratum is found (Holt et al., 1998). Wilson (1971) found the species present only on the very lowest part of the shore, areas exposed only by spring tides. Extensive shallow subtidal reefs have been documented in the Severn Estuary and have been known to form in waters up to 20m deep (Purchon, 1948; Mettam et al., 1989). Quite widespread although patchy subtidal S. alveolata reefs were seen in this area extending beyond the level of a very large spring tide (Perkins, 1981). Herdman (1919) also documented reefs extending subtidally at Hilbre Island in the Dee Estuary some 80 years ago. Allen et al., (1991) observing Cumbrian shores, reported hummocks present up to just below MHWN and in some areas, S. alveolata was reported present relatively high up the shore. The precise location of the species on a shore will be the result of a combination of factors, driven by the location of exposed hard substratum and exposure to water movement and adequate sediment supply.

4.3.3 HYDROGRAPHY

S. alveolata favours fairly exposed conditions and relatively high water current velocities, where the water holds a high load of sand and food particles in suspension (Holt et al., 1998). S. alveolata requires exposure to water of sufficient intensity to suspend coarse sand particles, making them available for building (Gruet, 1971). The movement of water, which may consist of waves or currents (waves more important in British waters), is also required for the acquisition of food particles. The distribution of the larvae of S. alveolata is affected considerably by the movement of water and local hydrography can influence settlement and thus the future of the species (Holt et al., 1998)

Denny (1988) has stated that wave action is one of the main factors influencing the establishment and development of intertidal and shallow subtidal benthic communities. Just as S. alveolata utilises strong wave action in the construction of reefs, it is also vulnerable to wave action, which represents a constant stressor.

4.3.4 SUSPENDED SEDIMENT

An adequate supply of suspended coarse sediment is essential for the development of S. alveolata colonies, as it is these sediments that provide the building materials for the tubes that the worms construct around them as they grow (Holt et al., 1998). The supply of sediment to an area will be affected by both the availability of that sediment and the speed and direction of water movement in the surrounding area. Any variation in sediment supply may have a marked effect on the survival of an established S. alveolata colony. Deprived of sediment, colonies may be stunted in their development, whereas a heavy influx in suspended material may result in smothering of the species, unable to survive long periods of inundation by sand and eventually becoming buried (Cunningham et al., 1984). However, in such cases for the species may relocate nearby where the sediment supply is more suitable.

4.3.5 TEMPERATURE

High summer temperatures are unlikely to be a problem in British waters for S. alveolata, but cold winters may have severe effects on populations. Gruet (1982) documented that growth of S. alveolata was severely restricted below 5oC. Crisp (1964) noted heavy losses of S. alveolata due to the severe winter of 1962-62, especially in the south of England and Wales – some colonies were depleted by half and others were destroyed completely, with survival best on lower shores. Wilson

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(1971) found less severe effects at Duckpool, but nonetheless reported almost complete mortalities of some colonies, mainly at higher shore levels. Gubbay (1988) recorded further loss of reef as a result of the very cold winter of 1984. With warmer temperatures, growth rates of S. alveolata increase as temperatures rise, up to a maximum of 20o C (Gruet, 1982). In a study of the species at Hinkley Point in Somerset, Babmer & Irving (1993) found that reefs were significantly larger in size in the cooling water outlow from Hinkley Point Power Stations than elsewhere and concluded that S. alveolata can maintain higher metabolism and tube building activity owing to a more equable temperature during winter months.

4.3.6 SALINITY

There have been few investigations made into the salinity requirements of S. alveolata. However, it is generally acknowledged that S. alveolata prefers higher salinities, around 30psu, meaning that it is a stenohaline marine species.

4.4 Physical Characteristics S. alveolata lives, when adult, inside self-constructed tubes, juxtaposition of which forms large littoral reefs along the coast (Figure 17). The reefs of S. alveolata are complex structures. The tubes of individual worms are around 4-8cm in length, exhibiting a slight, gradual increase in diameter towards the top (Badve, 1996). Herdman (1919) suggested the average tube diameter of individual worms was one tenth of an inch (0.25cm). Wilson (1971) observed in his studies of S. alveolata reefs at Duckpool, Cornwall, that one year from settlement, most worms from an average colony have tube openings of around 2.75mm in diameter. After 2 years, this could be expected to be around 3.25mm and after 3 years around 3.75mm. Four and five year-old worms can be expected to have tube openings ranging from about 4.0-5.0mm in diameter (double that suggested by Herdman, 1919).

Figure 17. S. alveolata Tubes (K. Hiscock. MarLIN website) & Reef Stuctures (IECS, 2001) The tubes are formed from sand particles and fragments of molluscan shells held together by a mucous secretion (Holt et al., 1998). Other fragments, including diatoms and fine grains of quartz, may also be incorporated in the tube walls (Badve, 1996). In studies of S. alveolata reefs on the southern shore of the Severn Estuary, Horne (1982) found that building materials included foraminifera, ostracod valves and even coloured polystyrene spherules up to 1mm in diameter. The tubes are rough externally but fairly smooth internally, having a mucous lining inside. Although the tubes are strong, individuals have to continuously apply a mucous lining to maintain the tube structure (Badve, 1996). Development of the tubes varies depending upon depth and temperature of water, with growth rate increasing with rising temperature, up to a maximum of 20oC (Gruet, 1982).

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Observing Sabellariids along the coast of India, Badve (1996) noted that in deeper water growth rate is dense and the height of the tubes increases considerably. It has been observed that building of the tubes is likely to occur only when the reefs are covered by the tide (Bamber & Irving, 1997).

The tubes of individuals sometimes occur in relative isolation and at low densities a few may be found on rocks or pebbles, attached to the substratum along their length (pers.obs.). At greater densities competition for space results in overlapping of tubes and may cause the tubes to build outwards (Gruet, 1982). Large colonies of S. alveolata tend to occur in Britain in one of three forms, defined by Gruet (1982) as sheets, hummocks and reefs. As ‘sheets’ on low-lying beaches where the type of substratum is more or less homogeneous, the tubes overlap and lie at an acute angle to the substratum surface. Where the substratum is more heterogeneous, for example where boulders and rocks outcrop sand or shingle, the tubes radiate from and may lie perpendicular to the substratum, forming ‘hummocks’. These sheets and hummocks may remain relatively isolated or may form expansive reef complexes. Maintenance of these biogenic reef formations is heavily dependent upon new larval settlement and future growth and development.

As Gruet (1986) recorded, the structural development of S. alveolata reefs depends on many factors, which have a positive (increasing), or negative (destructive) role. The main physical factor is hydrodynamics. As Gruet (1986) discovered whilst studying the species on the Normandy coast, wave action has an especially positive role in reef enlargement but also has a negative role in the erosion of reefs by hydraulic forces. The importance of the intensity of the main biological factor (recruitment) in allowing maximum occupation of the substratum and regulating colony height was also highlighted. Other biological factors, which have a negative impact on S. alveolata reefs, include predation by fishes, including Blennius sp. and shore crabs Carcinus maenas (e.g. Wilson, 1971; Bamber & Irving, 1993). Predation by crabs, usually from May to September, produces cavities in the reef structure, which then become liable to erosion.

4.5 Population Dynamics In general, S. alveolata is a long-lived species, with individuals surviving typically three to five years and sometimes even seven to ten years (Wilson, 1974; Gruet, 1982). However, the age of a reef structure is not necessarily related to the age of the population living at that time. Reef structures are the product of a succession of many generations of worms and may therefore be many years older than their current population of living worms. Similarly, the morphology of a reef is not directly related with the age of the living population, rather, it is influenced by important physical and biological factors.

Gruet (1986) working in the Mont St Michel Bay in Normandy towards the end of the 1970s and the beginning of the 1980s found some very interesting changes in reef morphology over a period of 10 years. It was discovered that S. alveolata reefs can evolve in cycles, with development occurring in an initial period of settlement (an ‘implantation’ phase with massive planktonic settlement), a period of growth, a high platform stage, a destruction period and the beginning of a new growth period. Gruet’s model of the main stages of reef development may accurately describe the evolution of S. alveolata reefs in certain locations (Figure 18). At other locations, only one phase or stage may be seen after several years of observation, or the cycle may be spread out for longer than the little over 10 years observed in the Mont Saint Michel Bay some 20 years ago (Gruet, 1982).

Changes in the horizontal extent of S. alveolata reefs during the various phases of development are limited mostly to small blocks breaking off and colonisation by newly settled worms, which are often

Page 29 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature found more numerous on the sides of reefs. On the whole, the general outline of a reef will show little change, with slight extensions or reductions of the general contour around a central nucleus that does not move a great deal (Gruet, 1986).

Changes in the population structure of a reef will reflect stages of development in reef morphology. Work undertaken by Gruet (1986), suggests that in a period of growth, the average age of an individual worm will be around 1-3 years. After a period of heavy settlement, where the tubes of the young worms are so dense that they kill large numbers of underlying older worms, the average age of worms will be lower. After a few successive light recruitments, the population will begin to grow older. Lifespan is dictated by reproductive age, physical disturbance and the presence of predators (Gruet, 1986). The ability of newly settled young to survive the first phase of attachment and consolidation is essential. Many young will be washed or battered off their rocks or killed off by burial or frost. Once established however, individuals are relatively long-lived (Wilson, 1974).

REPRODUCTION

PLANKTONIC LARVAE

1 PRIMARY SETTLEMENT PHASE

STAGES OF PRIMARY SETTLEMENTS Infrequent STAGES OF EXTENSIVE SHEETS Frequent

SECONDARY 2 GROWTH PHASE SETTLEMENT STAGES OF HUMMOCKS, BALLS ON TUBES Very Frequent 3 STAGNATION PHASE STAGES OF BARRIERS Less Frequent

STAGES OF PLATFORMS Rare

4 DESTRUCTION PHASE

PARTIAL DESTRUCTION TOTAL DESTRUCTION Rare, return to original substratum

Figure 18. Suggested development of S. alveolata reefs (after Gruet, 1982).

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4.6 Biology & Ecology S. alveolata (Figure 19) is a sedentary, tube-dwelling polychaete with many morphological differences between the anterior and posterior ends of the body (McIntosh, 1922; Fauvel, 1927; Hartman, 1944; in Gruet, 1984). The anterior region is comprised of three regions: an anterior region proper, a thoracic region of 2 setigers and a parathoracic region of 3 setigers. The posterior region is subdivided into an abdominal part of about 30 setigers and a caudal appendage terminating in the anus (Gruet, 1984). The precise number of segments in each region is well defined in the young worms. In the anterior region of the worm there are different specialised organs for the collecting of food, for harvesting, sorting and ‘positioning’ the sand grains for tube building, and for secreting the mucous substances used in construction of the tube (Vovelle, 1965; in Gruet, 1984).

Figure 19. Views of S. alveolata removed from its tube. Source: Senckenberg Centre for Biodiversity Research (left) & K. Hiscock published on the MarLIN website (right). Vovelle (1965) demonstrated that the worms use the numerous tentacles or buccal filaments in order to collect grains of sand which are then channelled along to the mouth. When sand grains reach the mouth, they are either evacuated forward, having been ‘licked’ for their food value or are transferred to the ‘building organ’, where an organic cement is secreted and the grains are positioned on to the rim of the pre-existing tube (Gruet, 1984). In a study investigating the ‘choice’ of grains by the building organ, Gruet (1984) established a link between the size of the building organ of the worm (related to age) and that of the sand grains used by the worm to build its tube. Gruet found that the height of the building organ increases predictably as the animal grows, growing fairly rapidly during the first three years of the worms’ life and slowing down thereafter. This increase in height is directly related to an increase in diameter of the sand grains used to build the tubes, with grain size increasing from fine to coarser material as the worms age (Gruet, 1984).

S. alveolata is a suspension feeder (Porras et al., 1996). Hence intertidal S. alveolata feeds when covered by the tide, by extracting fine suspended matter and phytoplankton from the surrounding seawater. Water is drawn in through the tentacles and a crude sorting mechanism operates, whereby particles too large to be ingested are diverted by palps and are transferred to provide tube building materials (Wells, 1970). S. alveolata is particularly well adapted to this mode of feeding hence their preferred location in relatively high-energy environments (Okamura, 1990; Mann & Lazier, 1991).

Adult S. alveolata have separate sexes and produce their gametes on a broadly seasonal basis or in response to physical disturbances (Curtis, 1978, in Pawlik, 1988). There is a short summer spawning season during July, the exact timing depending upon location and factors such as water temperature (Wilson, 1968). The larvae of S. alveolata can spend from 6 weeks to 8 months feeding in the plankton. This results in a period of settlement taking place between late August and the following

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May (Wilson, 1968). The larvae of S. alveolata were found by Wilson (1968) to be on average 500µm in length, with a maximum length of up to 700µm. Pawlik (1988) observed that S. alveolata larvae were on average 625µm and up to a maximum of 690µm in length. Following metamorphosis larvae then settle, after the loss of larval characteristics and the immediate initiation of sand tube construction (Pawlik, 1988).

S. alveolata is a gregarious settler and the larvae settle preferentially on active colonies or the remains of old colonies (Eckelbarger, 1978; Pawlik, 1988). Wilson (1968, 1970) suggested that the strongest stimulus for the larva to metamorphose and settle is contact with living reefs or their remains, as well as with tubes of recently settled larvae. Wilson (1968, 1970) also observed that the tubes of long- dead colonies retained some capacity to induce larval metamorphosis, although much less so than recently constructed tubes. Working on larval settlement of gregarious Sabellariid , Pawlik (1988) observed that the substance responsible for the enhanced metamorphosis of S. alveolata on conspecific tube sand was unknown, but confirmed that the basal remnants of damaged or destroyed colonies are most likely to stimulate larval settlement. Recruitment in this manner helps to establish a succession of generations that ensures reef persistence over long periods of time (Porras et al., 1996). Intensity of settlement can vary hugely from one year to the next however, having a direct affect on the long-term success of the species, as larval recruitment leads to a major reef growth phase.

4.7 Associated Community Due to the persistence of S. alveolata over long periods of time, reefs develop a community by providing the necessary habitat structure and hence they may be referred to as Bioconstructors (Naylor & Viles, 2000). For example, reef formations may restrict drainage of the lower shore, creating rockpools and therefore increasing the associated species diversity (Holt et al., 1998). Reefs provide shelter from physical and chemical stresses, serve as obstacles for foraging predators and interfering competitors, and modify the availability of resources and the rate of their acquisition (Porras et al., 1996).

Working on the Severn Estuary, Mettam et al. (1989) found that the presence of S. alveolata was associated with a diversity of species. In parts of the channel and estuary where currents were strongest, the benthos appeared to be impoverished, with epifauna and infauna often absent. Where S. alveolata was present however, the species appeared to provide the structured habitat required for the development of a benthic community in an environment which would otherwise be physically disturbed to the point of being defaunated by sediment mobility and tidal scour (Mettam et al., 1989). Mettam et al. (1989) also considered that reefs that provide for the (possibly transient) establishment of communities in an environment of extreme physical disturbance could persist for years after the death of the original worms. This makes S. alveolata an especially important and influential species of the intertidal and shallow subtidal coastal zones.

Young and actively growing reefs tend to completely dominate the littoral zone (Figure 20). Older colonies and their remains however provide a much more suitable substratum for algal settlement, including Fucus sp. Palmaria palmata, Polysiphonia sp., Ceramium sp., Enteromorpha sp. and Ulva lactuca (Figure 21). Young colonies usually tend to remain free of algae whereas the tubes of the older colonies and their remains are often too few to prevent the settlement of algae. With time including barnacles, dogwhelks, winkles and bivalves may colonise eroding reefs. Small polychaetes such as Fabricia stellaris, Golfingia sp. and Syllidae predators may also live in older

Page 32 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature reefs and Blennies (Blennius sp.), small crabs and other crustacea may be found within crevices (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999).

Figure 20. Low species diversity associated with S. alveolata reef (IECS, June 2001).

Figure 21. Algal growth associated with S. alveolata reef (K. Hiscock published on the MarLIN website). Some of the earlier recordings of the species assemblage of S. alveolata reefs include those of Gruet (1982), who listed several species of crevice fauna associated with S. alveolata, notably polychaetes and crustaceans, and Wilson (1971), who recorded finding shore crabs (Carcinus maenas) and

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Blennies in crevices in S. alveolata colonies at Duckpool in Cornwall. Horne (1982), found that in a sample from intertidal S. alveolata reefs, a total of 199 ostracods were present. 78.4% of the individuals were of the species Hemicythere villosa. 7 other species were also present, including Cythere lutea and Semicytherura sp. in low numbers. In another sample of tubes however, only 51 ostracods were present, in addition to copepods, halacariids, nematodes and chironomid larvae (Horne, 1982). Killeen & Light (2000) similarly investigated the role of S. alveolata tubes as a host for gastropods (Noemiamea dolioliformis and Graphis albida). Studies of the British Isles and along the north coast of France revealed a recurring relationship between S. alveolata and the two marine snails. Although it is thought that few pyramidellids are host-specific, studies showed that living individuals of N. dolioliformis were only ever associated with S. alveolata. A relationship between G. albida and S. alveolata was also seen (Killeen & Light, 2000).

Cunningham et al., (1984), investigating the associated flora and fauna of S. alveolata reefs in selected locations along the UK coastline, reaffirmed that actively growing S. alveolata colonies appear to out-compete all other littoral species for space and therefore tend to form essentially monospecific communities. They also found that the remains of S. alveolata provide an attractive substratum for the settlement of mussels (M. edulis) and the occurrence of old S. alveolata reefs covered by mussels appeared to strongly suggests the existence of a S. alveolata/Mytilus succession (Cunningham et al., 1984). Commonly, large settlements of Mytilus spat will settle on older S. alveolata colonies, covering the worms and gradually smothering them, until eventually the reef collapses and the area becomes dominated by Mytilus (Allen et al., 1999; Hammond, 2000).

In their studies of the associated community of S. alveolata reefs in the Mediterranean, Porras et al. (1996) found a total of 27 taxa present over a total of 13 sites where reef presence had earlier been recorded. They discovered that in developing reefs, only Syllidae, Nainereis laevigata and Theostomata oerstedi were present and relatively abundant, along with S. alveolata. Eulalia viridis, Cirratulidae, Terebella lapidaria, Hydroides dianthus and Pomatoceros lamarcki were also found, but much less abundant. Exclusive to eroded reefs were Eumida sanguinea, Harmothoe sp., Pholoe synophthalmica, Lysidice ninetta, Lumbrineris funchalensis, Lumbrineris inflata, Ophiodromus pallidus, Polydora cornuta, Prionospio cirrifera, Pherusa sp., Lanice conchilega, Sabellidae, Hydroides elegans, Hydroides helmata and Hydroides dirampha (Porras et al., 1996). Four feeding guilds were found: carnivores (omnivores included), subsurface deposit feeders, surface deposit feeders and suspension feeders. Suspension feeders were the most abundant feeding guild, representing 50% of the total number of species recorded. Carnivores were the second feeding group in order of abundance, followed by surface deposit feeders, with subsurface deposit feeders the least abundant (Porras et al., 1996). In developing reefs, S. alveolata was largely dominant and provided little opportunity for other suspension feeders to colonise the reefs. In eroding reefs, the high structural complexity due to the existence of holes, crevices and patches denuded of tubes, provides further niches, diverse shelter opportunities and modes of food acquisition (Menge & Sutherland, 1976). These findings appear to reinforce the view of Gruet (1971) that species richness is highest in the eroding phase of reef development.

In recent studies on the associated communities of rocky skears in Morecambe Bay, Woombs (1997 & 1999) identified the species assemblage commonly found with S. alveolata reefs. Woombs (1997) found that coarse scar ground sediments support relatively extensive colonies of S. alveolata, as well as other species, which are often typically characteristic of subtidal rocky habitats but which are able to extend into the intertidal on the scars. However, developing S. alveolata rarely appears to exist alongside the barnacles Semibalanus balanoides and Elminius modestus, the first colonisers of scar grounds, presumably as the tubes of the polychaetes out-compete the barnacles for food and space.

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Due to the dominance of S. alveolata in the lower eulittoral, the flora and macrofauna were found to be generally poor (Woombs, 1999). It was observed that where S. alveolata was in its prime, it almost smothered other species out of existence. Where smaller reefs were present, S. alveolata was associated with Lanice conchilega and ephemeral green seaweeds. The most common species found in association with S. alveolata reefs around Foot Skear in Morecambe Bay included Lanice conchilega, M. edulis and Sabella pavonina (associated with both developing and eroded/smaller reefs) and Ascidiella scabra, Carcinus maenas and Littorina littorea (associated only with eroded/smaller reefs) (Woombs, 1999). Associated with both were small amounts of the algae Enteromorpha and Ulva sp. and occasionally, where S .alveolata was less dense, the following were present: Arenicola marina, Asterias rubens, Balanus crenatus, Elminius modestus, Electra pilosa, Pomatoceros triqueter, Sagartia elegans, Metridium senile, Semibalanus balanoides, barnacles and encrusting bryozoans.

In a study of the fisheries of Morecambe Bay, Jones & Clare (1987) recorded that the most abundant fish species found in the intertidal along the entire eastern Irish Sea, the common goby, Pomatoschistus microps, is frequently found in shore pools often associated with S. alveolata. Cumbria Sea Fisheries Committee conducts an annual ecological survey of rocky shore sites along the Cumbrian coast, which gives an overview of the shore life along the coastline. This information gives an insight into the associated species of S. alveolata reefs where the species is found either abundant or frequent on the lower shore at sites on the Cumbrian coast (Appendix 1).

Porras et al. (1996) hypothesised that during the transition from developed to eroded reefs, species number increases by addition (not by replacement) of taxa. Connell (1978) suggested that this transition is the result of numerous stress events that occur following the early phases of reef development. Disturbances that include mechanical erosion by wave forces, bioerosion by burrowing organisms, predation on S. alveolata and massive settlement of S. alveolata larvae (that re-sets succession to initial stages) play an important role in the transition of a reef and influence the organisation of the associated community (Connell, 1978). In this way, species richness in eroded reefs may result from interruptions and enhancements of succession, with disturbances providing colonisation opportunities for competitors (Porras et al., 1996). A similar process is likely to occur with the other S. alveolata species found around the UK - S. spinulosa. However, whereas well developed populations of S. alveolata can lead to a reduction in species richness this is not generally true for S. spinulosa which tends to form loose aggregations rather than the dense reefs of S. alveolata. Consequently in areas of the North Sea high populations of S. spinulosa stabilise the sediment without smothering it and provide numerous niches which allow a richer population of other benthic organisms to develop (Allen, 2000).

4.8 Natural Events Where dominant, Sabellaria alveolata has very few predators such that its colonies, unless they become damaged or destroyed, are relatively long-lived. There is no account of bird predation on S. alveolata reefs and the most common predators on S. alveolata reefs are marine organisms including crabs, carnivorous gastropods or carnivorous polychaetes (Holt et al., 1998). Killeen & Light (2000), inferred that not only do the gastropods Noemiamea dolioliformis and Graphis albida exhibit an association with S. alveolata, but that they actually feed on the worms inside the tubes. Wilson (1971) documented that the Phyllodocidae worms Eulalia viridis and Phyllodoce lamelligera are occasionally found in crevices in colonies, or dwelling in empty tubes, although their role as a predator is unconfirmed.

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Bamber & Irving (1971) found that Carcinus maenas was a predator on sections of S. alveolata reef in Somerset, and remains of the species were found in the stomachs of crabs from shores at Sellafield, Cumbria (Taylor et al., 1961). Bamber & Irving (1993) also found crab predation occurred on S. alveolata reefs at Hinkley Point. Attack by crabs creates cracks and crevices in reef structures, which once created become sites of weakness, more susceptible to erosion. Wilson (1971) observed that C. maenas, together with Cancer pagrus and Pilumnus hirtellus, may occasionally be found inside cavities tunnelled between rock and tubes, and may enlarge them even if they did not originally create them. He also observed that pieces of colonies brought back from the shore and kept in laboratory tanks have sometimes contained recently settled crabs. These crabs have subsequently fed on the worms, growing larger, until eventually the piece of colony has been demolished into fragments. However, to what extent the crabs feed on the worms in this manner is not known (Wilson, 1971).

S. alveolata has also been found in the guts of Blennius pholis on shores at Sellafield, Cumbria (Taylor et al., 1962) and in plaice, sole and lemon sole, taken from the Solway Firth (Williams et al., 1965), indicating that they too use reefs as a feeding ground (Perkins, 1986). Herdman (1919) indicated that flatfish such as plaice and sole could easily obtain the worms from by destroying the sand tubes. However, as highlighted by Holt et al. (1998), this seems to disregard the fact that the worms are known to be able to retract considerable distances down into the tubes and therefore predators may find it difficult to extract the worms so easily from dense reef structures.

The stability of S. alveolata reefs is influenced by interactions with other species. Cunningham et al., (1984) suggested that the presence of M. edulis adjacent to S. alveolata reefs indicated a S. alveolata/Mytilus succession. Perkins (1988) found heavy settlement of mussel spat on S. alveolata reefs in Cumbria to cause a marked deterioration in the quality of the reefs. Observation of reefs from Heysham, Morecambe Bay, where Mytilus exists where S. alveolata reefs are less dominant, older or slightly eroded, appears to confirm this unstable interaction between the two species (Holt at al., 1998).

S. alveolata reefs will be sensitive to variations in the density of predators and competitors (Holt et al., 1998). Although relatively little is known of the potential changes in populations of predators and competitors, it is thought that sensitivity to such changes may be an important consideration in the stability of S. alveolata reefs.

S. alveolata is inherently variable in recruitment. Factors that affect recruitment include lowered fecundity due to environmental factors such as temperature and food supply, reduced larval supply due to loss of reefs in neighbouring areas and lack of larval supply due to the hydrographic regime (Holt et al., 1998). As recruitment is essential to maintaining the extent and quality of a reef, and although the species can tolerate occasional periods of low recruitment, successive periods of low recruitment will be detrimental to the longevity of S. alveolata reefs. Furthermore, recruitment of S. alveolata is aided by the ability of larvae to detect either suitable sediment type or the presence of adult S. alveolata before settlement occurs.

The stability of S. alveolata reefs is influenced greatly by hydrodynamic factors, primarily water movement and sediment regime. The greatest threat to the survival of S. alveolata reefs is thought to be the same as that which encourages its initial development. High energy wave action can damage S. alveolata reefs, detecting weaknesses in reef structure, causing erosion and eventually the break-up of reefs. Once initially damaged, S. alveolata reefs can decline relatively quickly, becoming colonised first by algae then followed by others, for example Mytilus edulis. However, declining

Page 36 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature colonies may be re-built with new growth and larval settlement, but this will depend largely upon the extent of change to the hydrodynamic regime.

A change in the hydrodynamic regime will often affect sand supply, a large-scale change in which may result in burial of S. alveolata reefs by sand. Periodic, short-term burial - a few days or even weeks - may be tolerated by S. alveolata (Wilson, 1971). However, longer-term smothering from sand may be fatal. Burial of intertidal scar grounds may occur in areas with highly mobile sediments and S. alveolata occurring on these grounds is at a fairly high risk of being lost completely, or at best re-establishing itself in another part of the area (Allen et al., 1999). Burial of reefs along UK shores has been recorded on the Cumbrian coast (Perkins, 1967) and Holt et al. (1998) have claimed that it is more than likely to be a common occurrence elsewhere. Porras et al. (1996) mentioned that although subject to burial in this manner, S. alveolata reefs buried by a natural accumulation of sand tend to recover relatively rapidly (within a few years).

S. alveolata reefs are vulnerable to variations in temperature, more specifically to very cold winters, particularly along UK coasts, where the species is at its northernmost extent. During the cold winter of 1962 –63, losses were noted particularly in north and south Wales and in Lyme Bay (Crisp, 1964). However, Cunningham et al. (1984) found in their re-surveying that these reefs appeared to have recovered fully by 1984. It is observed that the affects of extremely low temperatures will be particularly evident at higher shore levels (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999).

Extreme temperatures also have the potential to indirectly alter community structures (Holt et al., 1998). Since there appears to be some sort of competition between S. alveolata and M. edulis (see Cunningham et al., 1984, earlier) and these have different temperature tolerances, it may be possible that low temperatures will play a part in determining which of these species dominates (Holt et al., 1998). Similarly, inter-annual variations in temperature will affect recruitment success of species differentially and in turn affect colonisation and competition between species.

4.9 Human Impacts S. alveolata reefs are sensitive and vulnerable to a number of human influences (Holt et al., 1998). As S. alveolata is sensitive to long-term changes in sediment regime, a modified sediment regime, influenced by human activities, may encourage the development of new reefs. Brason (1997), suggested that the emergence of S. alveolata reefs along the coast in Morecambe Bay may be due to the erection of adjacent sea defences. Holt et al. (1998) document evidence from Lumb & Andrews (pers.comm.) that newly constructed groynes off Morecambe have produced a coarser sediment regime which has allowed S. alveolata to colonise boulder and cobble grounds in place of Mytilus, which was previously dominant.

However, a modified sediment regime may also have negative affects on the species. Work undertaken by Porras et al. (1996) on 23 separate reef sites in the Mediterranean between 1989 and 1994 indicated the loss of S. alveolata reefs at 3 of the sites. They reported that the most common cause of these losses was the construction of sea walls and marinas/harbours, as well as beach nourishment projects. There were also losses attributable to natural causes, such as river floods or natural sand accumulation, but in such cases recovery of the species after the event was relatively rapid and more successful (Porras et al., 1996).

It is understood that on more open coasts sea defences may reduce or interrupt the supply of sand to neighbouring areas, which may lead to a reduced availability of sand and therefore reduced

Page 37 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature development of S. alveolata reefs (Holt et al., 1998). Holt et al. (1998) suggested that parts of the Cumbrian and Welsh coasts might be susceptible to changes of this nature.

Direct impacts of human activity on S. alveolata reefs include the affect of trampling and bait digging on S. alveolata. Previous studies have suggested that the tubes of S. alveolata are very tough and not easily damaged by the activities of trampling by humans. Alternative evidence indicates that the tube aggregates are rather soft and can be loosened easily from the substratum, thus making them susceptible to damage from trampling (Badve, 1996). Cunningham et al. (1984) showed fairly rapid recovery of S. alveolata from single trampling events of a light to moderate nature and no real extensive damage was evident. However, Mitchell (1984) observed that where more continual trampling had occurred, for example on popular beaches in Brittany, there were gaps in the S. alveolata reefs where a clear ‘path’ had been established. Damage to S. alveolata reefs has also been observed by use of the worms for fishing bait, the reefs being attacked usually with a knife and the worms removed from the tubes. This practice has been observed at Heysham, Morecambe Bay (pers. obs.) and it is likely to occur at other sites around the UK coast. However, the affects are thought most probably to be limited and on a local scale (UK Biodiversity Group, 1999).

Fishing activities may affect S. alveolata reefs in a variety of ways. Subtidal reefs may be damaged by beam trawling and a study of the affects of shrimp trawling on subtidal S. alveolata in the Wadden Sea concluded that this kind of activity can reduce the integrity of S. alveolata reefs. In the UK these findings relate in particular to subtidal S. spinulosa reefs however and less to S. alveolata reefs, as the species is more commonly found in the intertidal around the UK. However, some subtidal reefs have been documented in the Severn Estuary (Mettam et al., 1989) and the outer part of the Wash (P. Gilliland, English Nature, pers. comm.).

It has been observed that intertidal S. alveolata reefs in Brittany have been adversely affected by mussel cultivation (Holt et al., 1998). The reefs were affected in three ways. They were smothered by faeces and pseudofaeces (though it was not clear if this resulted in any harm), small mussels dislodged from the ropes and lodged in the reefs, breaking up the surface as they grew, and commercial collection of these mussels from the reef causing trampling damage (Mitchell, 1984). In the UK, the mussel fishery (although not commercially cultivated) has had an affect on S. alveolata reefs in places, for example in Morecambe Bay (pers. obs.). However, mussel fisheries on the Solway Firth rely considerably upon traditional collection methods (by hand) and do not involve large-scale dredging (B.Cook, Sea Fisheries Committee, pers.comm.).

The North Western and North Wales Sea Fisheries Committee are aware of intertidal S. alveolata present in Region 13 and that the species occurs on the south side of Morecambe Bay, on the seaward extremity of a commercial mussel bed (B.Cook, pers.comm.). The NW SFC has mapped this using GPS and (at the time of writing) have closed this area to mussel fishing in order to protect the worm reefs. They are also aware of reports of extensive S. alveolata in the Cumbria SFC District, again associated with mussel beds (B.Cook, pers.comm.).

There have been suggestions that pollution affects S. alveolata reefs, for example Mitchell (1984), suggested that the research carried out by Cunningham et al., (1984) was initiated due to “reports of the species vanishing from some areas due to pollution”. Pollution is however only one possible cause hypothesised for the retraction of the species in particular localities (siltation and cold winters also being suggested) (Craggs, 1982). Hartnoll et al. (1998) have recorded that S. alveolata reefs are present in lower abundance on the part of the Cumbrian coastline where industrial and sewage

Page 38 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature effluents are most concentrated (around the Whithaven-Workington-Maryport area) but that this may also be due to a lack of suitable habitat.

Bamber & Irving (1993) found that growth of S. alveolata reefs around the site of a cooling water outfall at Hinkley Point on the Severn Estuary was influenced by the slightly warmer discharge water. During cold winters, growth of the tubes will tend to slow down (see Badve, 1996). However, growth of the tubes near the cooling water outfall at Hinkley Point, where the water temperature was raised by around 8-10oc, was significantly greater than at a nearby control site (although the size of the individual worms seemed to be unaffected). Importantly, any affects of winter frost were significantly reduced around the cooling water outlet. In addition, as the reefs near the outfall were larger, they supported a greater density and diversity of associated fauna (Bamber & Irving 1993).

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5. DATA COLLECTION

The present study on Sabellaria alveolata reefs involves the collection of information relating to the distribution, extent and quality of S. alveolata along the English coast in Region 13. The collection of information involves three main stages:

• Stage 1 Collection of historical survey data/observations (Region 13);

• Stage 2 Analysis of aerial photographs (Fleetwood to the Solway);

• Stage 3 Collection of field data from surveys (Dee Estuary to the Solway – English coast).

5.1 Historical Data Findings from field surveying and general observations made of S. alveolata in Region 13 over the past 100 years have been collected and a summary of information provided (Appendix 2). The map of recorded observations of S. alveolata in the region (Figure 16) give in the previous section indicated the comparatively large amount of information available on the species in the Solway Firth and along the Cumbrian coast. Further information has been provided by provided by Hammond (2000), along with others (e.g. Perkins, 1973; Lancaster, 2000; B.Green, Cumbria MCS, pers.comm.). Although there are significant gaps in the knowledge of S. alveolata reefs along this section of the UK coastline, these records indicate the presence of the species in the area and some give some account of the quality and extent of the S. alveolata reefs throughout region 13.

5.2 Aerial Photographs Building on information gathered from historical records, analysis of aerial photographs will provide more current data on the presence of S. alveolata reefs in Region 13. Aerial photographs covering the coastline of Region 13 from the Mull of Galloway on the westernmost of the Solway Estuary in the north, to the South Lancashire coast north of Blackpool in the south, have been analysed for the presence of S. alveolata and the findings summarised in Appendices 4 to 7. Aerial photographs not initially provided including those for a large part of the Cumbrian coast, have not been included at this stage and the photographs from this area were checked during the survey.

5.2.1 MORECAMBE BAY

Aerial photographs for the Morecambe Bay area, covering the coastline just south of Fleetwood, through the eastern shore of Morecambe Bay, to Point on the northern shore of the Bay, just south of Grange-Over-Sands, were analysed. Many of the photographs show sandy beaches, with or without areas of saltmarsh (Appendix 4). Very few photographs indicate any exposed rocky ground that could potentially be S. alveolata habitat.

From initial analysis, 10 sites indicating potential S. alveolata habitat were proposed. Hammond (pers.comm.) confirmed that some of these sites could be discounted, as they were extremely unlikely to provide suitable habitat for S. alveolata (Appendix 5). A total of 7 sites were proposed therefore, as potential areas of S. alveolata habitat (Table 2).

Page 40 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Table 2. Sites in Morecambe Bay proposed from analysis of aerial photographs.

Photo No. Location (photo ref.)

069 345,570m 475,040m 096 344,810m 465,110m 100 341,490m 462,520m 341,430m 464,030m 105 341,410m 463,100m 120 342,620m 453,370m 141 333,960m 448,890m 194 335,490m 443,310m

5.2.2 BARROW, DUDDON & DRIGG

Aerial photographs for the Barrow coastline, covering the area west from Humphrey Head Point in Morecambe Bay to just south of the Duddon Estuary, including the Isle of Walney, were analysed. Photographs of this area show a variety of habitat including a good deal of coarser scar ground, particularly around the Isle of Walney (Appendix 4). The majority of aerial photographs for the Duddon Estuary show no indication of any harder substratum that may potentially indicate the presence of S. alveolata habitat. Aerial photographs of the Cumbrian coast indicate the presence of likely S. alveolata habitat in selected locations including the coastline near Seascale, Sellafield and Drigg. (Table 3).

Table 3. Sites along the Barrow & Drigg coast proposed from analysis of aerial photographs.

Photo Location (photo ref.)

Barrow 027 325,740m 464,370m 030 325,180m 464,380m 032 323,740m 465,570m 043 323,620m 465,690m 034 323,360m 463,450m 321,200m 463,750m 025 324,970m 463,650m 050 320,090m 463,650m 052 319,310m 464,430m 054 318,740m 465,140m 060 317,970m 466,690m 062 317,130m 468,550m 100 317,090m 469,000m 098 316,450m 470,640m 106 316,640m 472,670m 104 316,030m 471,210m 094 318,230m 474,130m 064 318,520m 470,540m Drigg 213 307,390m 488,560m 222 307,150m 493,660m 224 307,200m 493,810m 124 306,080m 496,120m 237 304,050m 498,310m 303,720m 500,470m

5.2.3 SOUTH SOLWAY

Aerial photographs of the south Solway, from St Bees Head to the head of the Solway Estuary, indicate some areas of coarse sediment that could potentially be S. alveolata habitat. These coarser areas, typically scar grounds, are often the site of S. alveolata (Table 4). However, not all photographs were available rectified for GIS so the remainder were examined by eye during the field survey.

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Table 4. Sites on the South Solway coast proposed from analysis of aerial photographs.

Photo Location (photo ref.)

064 306,070m 547,270m 067 307,100m 545,100m 060 307,310m 550,170m 058 308,380m 551,390m 087 314,830m 559,640m 005 299,790m 558,820m

5.2.4 NORTH SOLWAY

The aerial photographs available of the North Solway cover a relatively small proportion of the entire coastline from the head of the Estuary to the Mull of Galloway. In the photographs which are available few sites of exposed intertidal rocky ground are apparent and the majority of the aerial photographs show little sign of potential S. alveolata habitat as shown in Table 5. Sites that may be of interest however, include Powfoot, Howgarth and Brewing Scars, located on the inner Solway Firth(Appendix 4).

Table 5. Sites on the North Solway coast proposed from analysis of aerial photographs.

Photo Location (photo ref.) 005 299,790m 558,820m

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5.3 Summary

A summary of sites of known or potential S. alveolata habitat in Region 13, based on historical information, data search and analysis of aerial photographs, is provided in Table 6 below. Table 6 includes the comments of Hammond (pers.comm.) and provides the information upon which the field survey visits will be based.

Table 6. Potential sites of S. alveolata habitat in Region 13. Area/Site Comments N Wales/S Lancs Coast Great Ormes Head MNCR database indicates presence of species. No recent observations. Requires confirmation. Dee Estuary Historical evidence for presence of species. Few recent observations. Requires confirmation. Morecambe Bay Area Photo 69 Presence of S. alveolata not known, will be visited Photo 96 Presence of S. alveolata not known, will be visited Photo 100 Presence of species doubtful, but will be visited Photo 105 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited Photo 120 Presence of S. alveolata not known, but will be visited Photo 141 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited 194 Presence of S. alveolata not known, but will be visited Cumbrian Coast Barrow Photo 27 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 30 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 32 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 43 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 27 S. alveolata interest. All will be checked Photo 34 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 25 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 50 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 52 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 54 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 60 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 62 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 100 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 98 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 106 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 104 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 94 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 64 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked

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Area/Site Comments Drigg Photo 213 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited Photo 213 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited Photo 224 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited. Photo 124 No known S. alveolata but scars will be checked Photo 237 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited N Cumbria Coast Siddick Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NX 998319 Flimby Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 015343 Risehow Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 023358 Moss Bay Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NX 988264 Maryport Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited Bankend Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 045389 Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 062396 Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 073424 Allonby North Lodge Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 070435 Dubmill Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 070455 Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 065471 Ellison’s Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 052473 Catherine Hole Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 082518 Brow Scar Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 148595 St Bees Head Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NX 943150 Nethertown Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NX 984073 Sellafield Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 017034 Seascale Presence of S. alveolata known and will be visited NY 032011

South (English) Solway Coast Photo 64 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 67 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 60 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 58 S. alveolata interest. Will be checked Photo 87 No known S. alveolata, but will be checked

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6. FIELD SURVEY

6.1 Introduction Historical data search and analysis of aerial photographs provide the background for this work on the distribution, extent and quality of S. alveolata in region 13. In order to assess the current status of S. alveolata in the region, field surveying of the reefs was required. Based on information gathered in the data search and indicated by the aerial photographs, the areas where S. alveolata is most likely to be present were identified (Table 6). These areas formed the main survey sites to be visited during the field surveying.

6.2 Survey Areas For the purposes of field surveying, 4 areas were initially, between the Dee Estuary and the English coast of the Solway. These areas were: 1, from slightly west of the Dee Estuary to Blackpool on the Lancashire coast; 2, the Morecambe Bay coast, from just north of Blackpool to east of Barrow on the south Cumbrian coast; 3, north on the Cumbrian coast, including Barrow and the Isle of Walney, to just south of St Bees Head; and 4, along the south bank of the Solway (the English Solway coast), including the north coast of Cumbria.

6.2.1 NORTH WALES/SOUTH LANCS. COAST

S. alveolata was once found abundant in the Dee Estuary and historical reports of two sites of S. alveolata habitat have been documented near Colwyn Bay, on the north coast of Wales. More recently however, the species has not commonly been found along the coast in this area although, as aerial photographs do not cover the area, the present situation is somewhat unclear. Based solely on the initial data search therefore, it is believed that S. alveolata is largely absent from this area.

Great Ormes Head Information from the MNCR database indicates that S. alveolata is or has been present in this location. However, there have been no recent observations of the species in the area.

Dee Estuary

Historical information suggests that S. alveolata was once present in this location e.g. at Hilbre Island. However, there have been no recent observations of the species in the area.

6.2.2 MORECAMBE BAY AREA

Fleetwood/Knott-End-on-Sea Aerial photographs of the Fleetwood area indicated the presence of some coarse ground near the mouth of the River Wyre. OS maps of the area confirm this and suggest that there is similar coarse ground in nearby locations. However, it is believed that the area near the river mouth is most probably mussel bed and other areas are too high up the shore to be S. alveolata habitat (e.g. at Rossall Point, SD310477). Field survey undertaken.

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Mouth of River Lune OS maps indicated there are two areas of coarse ground on either side of the River Lune, Plover Scar on the south bank and Hall End Skear on the north. Aerial photographs confirm these areas of coarse ground and potential S. alveolata habitats. Field survey undertaken.

Heysham Sands Towards the south of Morecambe Bay, near Heysham, large S. alveolata reefs have been documented - historical records and recent observations have repeatedly remarked on the extent of the S. alveolata reefs off the coast in this area. Aerial photographs of this area suggest the presence of mussel beds, but also areas of S. alveolata habitat. Field survey undertaken.

Morecambe There are a few small areas of coarser sediment, indicated by OS maps and aerial photographs. It is probably unlikely that these areas will provide habitat for S. alveolata, especially so as they occur fairly high up the shore. Field survey undertaken.

Far Arnside Aerial photographs for this area indicated a small area of rougher ground, amongst the surrounding saltmarsh. It is highly unlikely that this will amount to potential S. alveolata habitat. Field survey undertaken.

Ulverston Sands Wadhead Scar is indicated on the map as coarser sediment and aerial photographs suggest that there may be small areas of coarse ground in this location. Field survey undertaken.

Ulverston - Barrow Elbow Scar, Moat Scar, Newbiggin Scar, Leonard Scar and Point of Comfort Scar are all indicated as coarser ground on the map. Aerial photographs indicated some areas of coarse ground and a field survey was undertaken.

Foulney Island Treshwood Scar, Barren Point Scar, High Bottom, Corner Stones and Foulney Twist are areas of coarse ground surrounding Foulney Island. Aerial photographs confirmed this. Field survey undertaken.

6.2.3 CUMBRIA COAST

S. alveolata reefs have been recorded present along the shores of Cumbria, mostly associated with areas of scar ground. The species has been found in abundance at sites off the coast near Drigg, and at sites near Sellafield and Seascale. Field survey undertaken at all these sites.

Barrow/Isle of Walney There are a number of areas of scar grounds around the southern Cumbrian Coast and there are many around the Isle of Walney. OS Maps indicate the presence of coarser ground at sites along the coast and aerial photographs suggested that these may be potential S. alveolata habitat. Field survey

Page 46 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature undertaken but many small scars were apparent on the low shore and time did not permit a survey of all of these at low water.

Duddon Sands From historical information and aerial photography it appears that there are no real sites of potential S. alveolata habitat in this area. A brief field survey was undertaken where access was possible but many areas unsurveyed.

Annaside Banks Annaside Banks is an area of coarser ground covering approximately 8km of coastline from Gutterby Spa in the south to Tarn Bay in the north. Here, the beach is rather narrow and from OS maps it appears that scar covers the entire area, from the upper shore downwards. Aerial photographs confirmed the presence of coarse ground and the site was surveyed.

Drigg There are historical records of S. alveolata reefs off the coast near Drigg and recent observations confirm that the species is present in this location. The main site is Barn Scar, a fairly large area of coarser ground indicated on OS maps and identified by aerial photographs. Field survey undertaken.

Seascale/Sellafield It is noted that S. alveolata may exist along the coast in this area, from just south of Seascale to north of Sellafield, and further north around Nethertown. The major areas of coarser ground include Whitriggs Scar. A field survey was undertaken for the reefs at Sellafield and a brief visit made to Whitriggs Scar.

6.2.4 SOUTH (ENGLISH) SOLWAY COAST

It is known that S. alveolata reefs have been present along this coastline. Field surveying involved a number of visits to areas of coarse ground covering a large part of the long, relatively narrow beach along the coastline from St Bees Head to Bowness on the Solway Firth.

Whitehaven - Workington Just south of Workington is Moss Bay, an area of coarser ground that may be potential S. alveolata habitat. Time did not permit a full survey of this area and suitable habitats were only briefly checked.

Workington - Maryport OS maps indicated that from Workington to Maryport there is a fairly extensive coverage of coarser sediment, extending approximately 8 km along the coast. Aerial photographs of the area confirmed this. Field survey undertaken.

Maryport - Silloth This area includes a number of sites along the coast where scar ground dominates, including Dubmill Scar (at Dubmill Point), Stinking Crag, Beck Scar and Lowhagstock Scar. Slightly further north is Bank, Grune Point, Stenor Scar, Longdyke Scar and other smaller areas north of Silloth. Aerial photographs confirmed presence of suitable habitat and a field survey undertaken. However

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Risehow Scar (Sth Maryport) and Maryport Pier was not fully surveyed due to time spent on adjacent areas where S. alveolata was known to exist in abundance.

6.3 Methodology Survey methodologies for biogenic reefs and S. alveolata in particular will vary due to a number of factors including survey rationale and the specific issues to be addressed by the survey. For example methodologies used for surveillance purposes or as part of an overall biotope survey will differ in detail from those used for more rigorous monitoring and such issues are discussed in Davies (2000). In the present context methodologies will be defined for determining the distribution, extent, health and associated biological/environmental characteristics of the S. alveolata populations. However, to some extent precise methodologies will be dependant on, and determined by, the size, type and shore position of the S. alveolata communities under investigation. In general terms survey methodologies for monitoring reef attributes are given in Davies (2000) and in terms of biogenic reef such as S. alveolata in (Holt et al., 1998). The current survey falls into the class of intermediate scale of monitoring although some reference to local distribution/individual reef distribution is required for more rigorous statistical analysis of change. For the purpose of this study survey techniques fall into three broad categories:

• Air photo interpretation, fixed viewpoint photography or remote sensing

• Ground survey with Positioning systems. Using DGPS or Real Time Kinematic system

• Transect survey and quadrat sampling.

All the above techniques have been discussed in both generic terms and in detail by Davies (2000) and the following describes procedures within the context of the current study.

A series of field surveying methods were tested by IECS at the Heysham site during the summer 2001, incorporating the basic methodology recommended by MNCR (1997), and with reference to Davies (2000) and Holt (2000). The methods were refined over several visits to the site, and a working methodology employed for the Morecambe Bay area. Further process tweaks were then applied in order to address the differing forms and extent of the species and the final methodology, as outlined below. This methodology was applied along the Cumbrian coast and the Solway Firth.

6.3.1 PRE-SURVEY DATA SET-UP AND ANALYSIS

Prior to the commencement of fieldwork, a detailed desk study was undertaken, including the collation of data on the extent and ecology of S. alveolata in the region, and at a wider level, around the UK coast. Where available, aerial photographs were input into GIS and overlain Admiralty charts for the coast, and potential sites of S. alveolata identified in conjunction with OS maps for the coastline, and existing spatial information from published and grey sources.

Using these data, a field survey programme was drawn together identifying likely and potential sites of occurrence, as well as others which although not currently identified as a potential area, required checking. A programme of survey dates was then drawn-up, in order to utilise the lowest spring tides during the year. It was intended that a working methodology be identified during the spring, and then amended as appropriate, with the main survey (of the key area around the Cumbria coast), undertaken during the summer, in order to maximise tide states and daylight hours.

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However, the outbreak of Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD) meant that the programme required substantial modification with no access to the Cumbrian coast possible during the summer. The methodology was therefore trialed at the Heysham site, as this area was free of FMD and did not require any access over field systems. In addition, it was possible to check the other potential sites in the south of the region as these had similar access possibilities. However, the main survey of the Cumbrian/Solway coast was delayed until the autumn, when access along the majority of rights of way had been lifted. Unfortunately, delay of the survey till the autumn-spring period meant that the amount of survey time per tide was severely curtailed due to the reduced hours of daylight and consequently it was necessary to prioritise surveys to the most extensive or well known areas. Consequently some areas of the coast were not fully surveyed or only briefly checked namely: Flimby scar, Risehow Scar, Moss Bay/Cunning Point, St Bees Head cliffs and Whitriggs Scar.

6.3.2.1 Air Photo Interpretation Rectified air photos were input into the MapInfo GIS system overlain onto OS raster map supplied by EN and as described in section 5.2, these were used to identify potential areas of S. alveolata which were then digitised to produce a set of tables containing wireframe drawings which were overlain the OS basemap in order to aid survey planning. In the present study the available aerial photographs and scanned geo-referenced images were analysed in MAPINFO TM in conjunction with the boundaries derived from DGPS. The original (hard copy) aerial photos were also examined using a stereoscopic viewer to identify if S. alveolata could be identified directly from the air photos. In addition to evaluating the raw and scanned images by eye a number of photogrammetric filters, classification techniques and stereoscopic analyses were carried out on sample photographs and compared with the DGPS boundaries using software such as MapImagery TM (ER Mapper TM application software for MapInfo TM).

The results of this showed that whilst some large reef structures were visible on the raw photographs using a stereoscope the boundaries where difficult to ascertain with any certainty. Low lying reefs, those interspersed with boulders and cobbles or with low coverage were not easily identifiable by eye particularly when algal coverage was high and these problems were compounded when analysis of scanned images was carried out. Analysis of scanned images with photogrammetric software (e.g. MapImagery TM ) was hampered by pixellation and use of various filters and other techniques did not produce accurate results which tallied with the boundaries derived by DGPS even when scanned at high resolution. In essence, the available aerial photographs of the Cumbria coast were not of sufficient resolution to identify areas of S. alveolata with the necessary precision or certainty.

However, If higher resolution aerial photographs were available, due to the characteristics of S. alveolata beds, both in terms of size/height/shape and colour, it is anticipated that photogrammetric techniques with proprietary software e.g. ER Mapper TM, MapImagery TM, ERDAS Imagine TM would allow the accurate quantification of the extent of S. alveolata. Consequently, whilst not in the remit of the current study the use of low level aerial photography of individual reefs/scars at better than 1:1000 resolution would allow individual reef formation and cover to be identified and quantified. Such techniques however would still be hampered at sites with a low-lying ground cover of S. alveolata especially if heavily silted or covered in algae. In any case analysis based on aerial photographs would need to be ground-truthed in order to assess health and associated biota. Other remote sensing systems e.g. satellite imagery, CASI, LIDAR may also have some potential for mapping purposes and the use of remote operated planes/cameras has also been suggested, these being able to cover all but the largest reefs with relative speed and safety, whilst fixed viewpoint photography on land could also be used for smaller reefs. In order to allow accurate ortho- rectification of such photos, reference points of known position would be required on the ground

Page 49 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature within the field of view such that precise and repeatable geo-referencing of the photographs would be possible. The position and ideally height of the control points would have to be accurately measured (sub-metre accuracy) e.g. using Real Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS to allow accurate ortho- rectification.

6.3.2 GROUND SURVEY USING GLOBAL POSITIONING SYSTEMS

In order to measure the extent of S. alveolata populations on the ground, the simplest method requires the use of a Global Positoning System (GPS) and logger and allows the boundary or the central; point of a S. alveolata reef to be recorded on a logger for subsequent download onto PC. However there are inherent long-term accuracy issues using GPS alone, even with Selective Availability switched off, and on the current study a differential GPS was required to give the required accuracy of 1-5m. Standard GPS may also give this accuracy at any given time but due to changes in atmospheric conditions may only give a 30m accuracy over time. IECS used the ORMTEC GIS412 portable dGPS, with software and logger developed by the company specifically for this project. This system provides continuous or point logging facilities using the IALA network of differential beacons, and giving a temporal repeatable accuracy of between <3m with the data subsequently downloaded onto a PC for input into MapInfo.

WGS84 was used as the projection for the survey, which may subsequently be converted to other systems e.g. OSGB36 or projections such as OS National Grid . Further details on GPS are given in Davies (2000) and on the Ordnance Survey web site. Other GPS such as Real Time Kinematic (RTK) GPS are also available giving accuracy to the centimetric scale but such accuracy may be redundant/misleading in many areas where S. alveolata boundaries are not distinct. However they may be useful for establishing accurate reference/control points in some cases as outlined in Section 6.3.3. Whilst surveys will generally be carried out on foot, offshore/inaccessible areas may have to be reached using hovercraft or quad bike. For the current survey, most areas were surveyed on foot as this is considered to be the most accurate and least damaging method of coverage. However some areas of offshore/low shore scar were surveyed by hovercraft, as they were either unreachable on foot, too extensive to cover effectively or too far from the shore to allow a safe working tidal window on foot.

Having identified areas of S. alveolata two basic methodologies may be employed depending on the nature of the S. alveolata to be surveyed.

• Continuous logging of boundaries for S. alveolata reefs over a certain size (approx. 100sq. feet or 10m2)

• Point logging of S. alveolata reefs less than a certain size (approx. 100sq. feet or 10m2)

Whilst the above guidelines and size limits suggested by EN form the basis for survey methodology they have subsequently been modified following trial visits to several survey areas, in order to provide a more rigorous and workable survey methodology. In order to accurately define the distribution and extent of S. alveolata it is also necessary to outline the various forms of S. alveolata encountered in the field as follows:

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1. Individual reefs of well developed S. alveolata forming continuous colonies (>90% coverage) < 10 m2 in area, generally >30cm height (but at least >10cm) and sufficiently separated from other reefs in order to justify individual status (see points 3-5).

2. Individual reefs of well developed S. alveolata forming continuous colonies or platforms (>90% coverage) > 10 m2 in area and >30cm in height.

3. Recognisable areas of S. alveolata over 10m2 with patchy distribution (>50% coverage). Individual patches of S. alveolata are of varying size but forming recognisable reef structures (e.g. >10cm diameter/height) and forming a recognisable area as opposed to discrete individual reefs (type 1). The critical distance between individual S. alveolata patches used to differentiate between an area and an individual reef will vary depending on the size of the area as a whole and best judgement will be required to determine this, although <2m was found to be applicable during the survey.

4. Areas of S. alveolata over 10m2 in area with very patchy distribution (20-50% coverage) but still forming a recognisable area of reef structures (>10cm diameter/height) as opposed to discrete type 1 reefs. The critical distance between individual S. alveolata patches used to differentiate between an area and an individual reef will vary depending on the size of the area as a whole and best judgement will be required to determine this although <5-10m was found to be applicable during the current survey.

5. Dispersed areas of S. alveolata over 10m2 in area with extremely patchy distribution and very low coverage (<20% coverage) but forming a recognisable area of proper reef structures (>10cm diameter/height) as opposed to discrete reef patches (type 1). The critical distance between individual S. alveolata patches used to differentiate between an area and an individual reef will vary depending on the size of the area but between 10m-20m was found to be applicable during the current survey. However, best judgement will be required to determine whether reefs in areas of very low coverage e.g. <10% should be considered as individual type 1 reefs and this will be dependant on the size of the areas and the time available for logging of individual points.

6. Low lying patches/areas of S. alveolata often forming ‘barnacle’ like coverage on rocks/sediment and may include juvenile forms following settlement. Although this type of reef generally occurs at the margins of more developed reefs in relatively low abundance, the coverage may be highly variable (10-100%) and may in some areas form the entire reef. The above guidelines for extent and patchiness apply.

7. Low lying heavily silted and predominantly dead areas of relict S. alveolata. Although this type of reef generally occurs at the margins of more developed reefs in relatively low abundance, the coverage may be highly variable (10-100%) and may in some areas form the entire reef. The above guidelines for extent and patchiness apply.

** Example photographs will be produced with text.

Whilst the forms of S. alveolata outlined above cover most situations the differences between them (type, patchiness, fragmentedness, colonisation) will inevitably vary from one area to the next and best judgement is required to determine the differences between the various forms. However in terms of the field methodology such differences are relatively unimportant with any discrete

Page 51 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature reefs/patches/areas less than 10m2 logged as points and all other reefs/patches/areas logged continuously around their boundary.

Classifying S. alveolata in terms of areas or patches of varying coverage as opposed to merely logging individual reefs as either points or boundaries is required, otherwise at some locations many 1000s of individual points would be required to map the S. alveolata, often at levels of resolution above that of the dGPS. Furthermore, in order to faithfully represent S. alveolata distribution on a map some type of classification scheme in terms of coverage/health would be required.

Following the identification of an area of S. alveolata reef, either a single point is logged for smaller discrete areas (as near as possible to the centre of the reef without causing damage) or a set of points are continuously logged along the boundary of the larger reef areas. In some areas the boundary is diffuse and it is advised that a path is logged within a 5m band along the outermost areas of S. alveolata which consist of at least 10% of coverage whilst plotting any outliers as points if practicable (time and access). Points derived from continuous logging should be taken every 5m which is approximately every 1-2 seconds at walking pace. In many areas a well developed reef (type 1) will be bordered by areas of other reef types and if practicable secondary boundaries of other reef types should be logged in order to allow some contouring of the reef.

In larger reef areas which often extend for several kilometres, accurate boundaries for various types of coverage may be impracticable given time and tide constraints, but if possible boundaries depicting type 1 reefs should be logged with a secondary boundary of other reef types mapped around it if they area of sufficient size to warrant measurement (e.g. over 20% of total area of reef). Logging of secondary reef areas may be done continuously or if this is not possible then approximate points of extent may be logged or as a last resort the extent of secondary reef areas may be judged by eye. Other methods in section 6.3.5 are described for quantifying coverage across extensive reef areas including monitoring transects across or along the reef in order to define changes in distribution and coverage.

In addition to plotting the extent of reefs additional information should also be taken on the nature of the reef in terms of coverage and height (as used to determine reef type above), health (e.g. % of live worms in reef), general reef structure and associated flora, fauna and habitat. An assessment of health and any potential damage from human activity should be logged. At each site surveyed, details of the area including name, position and physiographic features should be recorded using standard MNCR biotope forms. Annotated field sketches should be made and, where present, the distribution, extent, type, form and state of S. alveolata should be recorded using forms prepared by IECS and approved by English Nature (copies provided in Appendix 8). A visual survey of the habitat is to be made and photographic evidence of S. alveolata reefs to be taken with photographs taken at logged positions for each area/reef type.. Where appropriate, small samples may be taken from the reefs and stored for laboratory identification (this will be done mainly to identify any fauna associated with the tubes, but also to observe the health/composition of the community).

Field surveys were undertaken by teams of IECS staff, all of whom have had experience of intertidal shore surveying. All staff were briefed on the survey methodology prior to the study, although this methodology evolved to some extent during the programme. Health & Safety issues were also addressed, as well as the precautions for FMD. In order to maximise survey conditions, and ensure safe working, the best tidal conditions were identified using local tide tables and propriety software e.g. TotalTideTM from the UK Hydrographic Office. Optimum dates were selected, in order to allow greatest intertidal site exposure during daylight hours and ensure a maximum safe working time.

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6.3.3 TRANSECT SURVEY AND QUADRAT SAMPLING

Methodologies for transect surveys and quadrate sampling are outlined in Davies et al., (2001) and Holt et al., (1998). Whist not applied in the current survey such techniques could be used to quantify coverage and allow statistical analysis of change over extensive reefs or at reefs where more specific information is required. For example percentage coverage of a 5m2 area could be assessed along a number of transects across the reef at regular intervals e.g. 10m for a 100 wide reef.

Coverage could be assessed by eye or from a number of quadrats. Positions of the transects would be logged by dGPS and allow repeatable measurements of S. alveolata coverage over time. Alternatively representative points over the reef could be identified using a stratified random sampling approach and at these points (logged by dGPS) Coverage over a 5m2 square area could be identified. In addition, in patchy areas a set of transects could be plotted and the presence/position along the transect of S. alveolata could be recorded across a 5m swathe along the transect. Such methods and others described in detail by Holt et al. (1998) may be used as secondary methods to mapping of boundaries by dGPS to allow more rigorous analysis of temporal variation in S. alveolata coverage and distribution if required by EN in future surveys of the area.

6.3.4 POST-SURVEY DATA PROCESSING AND ANALYSIS

Following collection of field data on each survey day field notes were tabulated, sketch maps annotated onto OS maps and data points logged from dGPS downloaded onto laptop PC. On return from survey, data points were imported into MapInfo and overlain OS base maps and ARCs Skipper Admiralty charts to ascertain coverage and allow the next phase of survey work to be planned.

On completion of field work, S. alveolata boundaries were digitised using DGPS points as a template with aerial photographs, field notes etc. used for additional information and notation. Digitising of boundaries followed EN guidelines.

The results of the IECS Sabellaria survey of the eastern Irish Sea coast are presented below on a geographic basis running from the southern end of the Sector (Great Orme, North Wales) to the Northern end (, Cumbria coast). Notes from each target area where S. alveolata was present are given along with suitable photographs and maps showing distribution of S. alveolata according to the types outline in section X along with other relevant target notes. In order to put the distribution of S. alveolata into a wider geographic context, Maps 1 to 5 show the position of the more detailed maps referred to the field notes.

Page 53 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Map 6. Heysham Sands Sabellaria Type 6 (Foot Skear) Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Map 1. Sabellaria map 6: Heysham Sands Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of (Foot Skear). Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 54 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Map 9. Walney Island: Tummer Hill Scar.

Map 8. Walney Island: Loverholme Bed

Map 7. Walney Island. Cross Dyke Scar

Map 7 insert SE Point

Map 2. Sabellaria maps 7-9: Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Walney Island. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 55 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Map 11. Tarn Point/Annaside

Map 10. Gutterby Spa/ Hole

Map 3. Sabellaria maps 10-11: Tarn Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Point to Gutterby Spa/ Hole. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 56 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Map 14. Nethertown to St Bees Town.

Map 13. Sellafield

Map 12. Drigg/Barn Scar.

Map 4. Sabellaria maps 12-14: St Bees Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Head to Barn Scar. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 57 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4

Sabellaria Type 4-5 Map 18. Dubmill Point, Ellison Scar Sabellaria Type 5 & Beckfoot/Catherine Scar Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Map 17. Allonby Bay

Map 16. MaryPort Golf Course

Map 15. Siddick to St Helens

Map 5. Sabellaria maps 15-18: Siddick Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of to Dubmill Point & Ellison Scar. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 58 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

7. RESULTS OF FIELD SURVEY

The results of the IECS Sabellaria survey of the eastern Irish Sea coast are presented below on a geographic basis running from the southern end of the Sector (Great Orme, North Wales) to the Northern end (Beckfoot, Cumbria coast). Notes from each target area where S. alveolata was present are given along with suitable photographs and maps showing distribution of S. alveolata according to the types outline in section 6 along with other relevant target notes. In order to put the distribution of S. alveolata into a wider geographic context, Maps 1 to 5 show the position of the more detailed maps referred to the field notes.

7.1 North Wales/South Lancashire Coast Great Orme and Colwyn Bay Surveyed, due to possible extensive coverage on rocky shore east of the Great Orme (Llandudno). However site was found to be covered by super-abundant barnacles on all surfaces, and this, together with the cover of sand trapped in the interstices, gave the appearance of an extensive reef. No reef structures were observed along the bay. 7.2 Morecambe Bay Area Fleetwood/Knott-End-on-Sea SD 490335

Possible S. alveolata near the mouth of the River Wyre, but suspected mussel bed. Visit confirmed the presence of large patches of mussel and medium-sized cobble areas in and near the river mouth. Area was predominantly muddy with some anoxic upper shore areas. Unlikely S. alveolata habitat and no evidence of the species in the area.

Mouth of River Lune SD 540424

Possible S. alveolata on Plover Scar. Visit revealed area considerably smaller than appearance on maps and aerial photos. Area quite high up shore and predominantly sandy. Area fairly sparse with a depleted flora and fauna. A few small, low-lying pebbles and cobbles in a mainly muddy-sand environment. No evidence of S. alveolata in the area.

Heysham Sands SD410630

S. alveolata historically present in the area off the coast near Heysham (Foot Skear). Visit confirmed the presence of large colonies of the species and also established the presence of large mussel beds. S. alveolata found adjacent to and just west of the main area of mussel bed.

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Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Reef 3a. Good quality type 2 Sabellaria plateau within surronding reef. Sabellaria Type 5 100% coverage and >60% occupancy. 118 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Reef 3b. Poor quality and sparse type 6-7 Sabellaria Sabellaria Type 7 on Landward side of main reef. 20-60% coverage with much dead/relict Sabellaria and <20% occupancy Reef 4. Small unsurveyed area of by live Sabellaria. Approx. 9122 sq m area. type 4-5? reef on Knot End.

Reef 2. Small area of type 3 Sabellaria in relatively good condition and 20-30% coverage. 194.5 sq m area.

Reef 1. Small Area of Type 3 Sabellaria in good condition often in standing water. 329.5 sq m area.

Reef 3f. Good quality type 2 Sabellaria Reef 3c. Good quality type 3 Sabellaria plateau within surronding reef. 100% under/in standing water with 60% coverage coverage and >60% occupancy. and >50% occupancy. Approx. 641.9 sq m area. 1126 sq m area. Reef 3d. Good quality type 2 Sabellaria plateau within surronding reef. 100% coverage and >60% occupancy. 1054 sq m area.

Reef 3e. Band of good quality Sabellaria of type 2-3 with >70% coverage and 60% occupancy. 7667 sq m area.

Map 6. Heysham Sands, Foot Skear Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of and Knot End. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 60 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Nearest the coast the area was sandy, becoming more muddy seawards. Pebbles and stones, forming scar ground area, were found anywhere from 250-400m from the upper shore. The main scar ground lying approximately 1km from the shore was extensive. On the outer fringes of this area were mature Mytilus and further seaward there were more juvenile mussel beds. On the seaward extent of the mussel beds were clumps of S. alveolata, the smallest being on the shoreward side and the largest further seaward. There was a general increase in size with distance out from the shore, the clumps becoming much larger on the seaward fringe. A small amount of S. alveolata reef (<1000 sq. metres) was observed extending out into the shallow subtidal on Knot End.

S. alveolata was observed in an area totalling approximately 21253 sq. m (Map 6.). Three main areas of S. alveolata were observed - one large area (the most seaward) and two smaller areas further shoreward. More isolated areas were also located and were considered separate from the larger reef complexes. The smaller, isolated clumps of S. alveolata were often found clustered on singular, small rocks or boulders.

The first area of S. alveolata (reef 1) was recorded nearest to the shore at SD 408629. Approximately 330 sq. metre in area with type 3 S. alveolata, it was in good condition (>50% living worms), occurring as small hummocks or forming blankets over the bed. 50% of the S. alveolata was found submerged in pools of water, where there was also evidence of faeces and pseudofaeces. Some clumps on the shoreward side showed signs of minor erosion. Average height was around 20cm, with some clumps reaching 30-40cm). Very little associated fauna and flora was found in this area, with little algal cover and few other species evident. Some Lanice conchilega was present in pools, along with juvenile goby and burrowing anemones. A small amount of Enteromorpha sp. was also present in shallow pools. A large Lanice bed was also noted further upshore from the main bed.

Further seaward was a second, smaller area, recorded at SD 407629 (reef 2). This area of type 3 S. alveolata was closer to low water mark and was characterised by a few fairly isolated hummocks of S. alveolata, the whole area being no more than 200 sq. m. The species, although not extremely abundant in the area, was in relatively good condition, with few signs of erosion.

Towards the subtidal channel was the largest area of S. alveolata (reef 3) which covered 19729 sq. m. On the outermost of the area to the north, west and south (reef 3e) was a zone where S. alveolata was predominantly abundant, with clumps on average 0.5 - 1.5m tall, of good quality type 2-3 S. alveolata showing little signs of erosion and >60% occupancy. Within these outer areas extensive elevated platforms of type 2 S. alveolata were evident (reefs 3a and 3f) which were the largest single S. alveolata structures identified during the survey. Another type 2 reef was found to the SE of the main reef (reef 3c).

The most seaward fringe of this zone was characterised by smaller patches of S. alveolata which were by comparison, of much deteriorated quality and showed evidence of erosion. The innermost of the area was almost relic (reef 3b), with most S. alveolata of type 6-7 and heavily decayed or dead with some erosion of the hummocks. This zone was approximately 9122 sq. m in area and had generally low occupancy by live worms (<20%). This zone was also dominated by large amounts of juvenile mussels and recent spat settlement, with the openings of the tubes being used as a settlement point by the juvenile mussels. Some areas of mostly decayed S. alveolata (20-40% alive) had a high proportion of mussels (40-50%) with some Enteromorpha and other algae (10%) in amongst clumps of tubes. There was evidence of smothering by sand/silt. On the landward side on the main reef was an area of type 3 reef in good condition (>50% occupancy) and around 60% coverage (reef 3c).

Page 61 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Around the fringes of the main reef area were considerable numbers of Lanice conchilega, as well as some hydroid coverage and a small amount of algae. Where S. alveolata was dominant, the area was virtually devoid of any associated flora or fauna. However, other species were found in pools created by the reefs, for example Carcinus maenas, Cancer pagurus and Asterias rubens. In some of the deeper pools, small gobies were present. Where small rocks were exposed, they were often covered by barnacles Semibalanus balanoides.

Morecambe (North) SD443652

Possible S. alveolata habitat, but unlikely. Visit confirmed that area was small, exposed scar ground fairly high up the shore. No S. alveolata present.

Ulverston Sands SD308745

Wadhead Scar. Possible S. alveolata habitat. Visit confirmed that area was relatively small exposed scar ground, quite dry and fairly high up the shore, with little flora or fauna. No S. alveolata present.

Elbow to Point of Comfort Scars SD287712 to SD263678

Series of small scars along the coast from Ulverston Sands to Roosebeck Sands. Possible S. alveolata habitat. Visit confirmed that area was relatively small exposed scar ground, quite dry and fairly high up the shore, with little flora or fauna. No S. alveolata present.

Foulney Island SD250637

Large amount of scar ground exposed around Foulney Island area. Visit to area and survey of Rampside Sands south of Barrow showed a large extensive scar/mussel bed running from Foulney Island to the low water mark. Often very high abundance of mussels with fucoid cover on muddy sand. Extensive coverage of Lanice conchilega on the low shore but no S. alveolata present.

7.3 Cumbria Coast Maps 7-9. Isle of Walney SD167697 to SD195640

On Cross Dike Scar (map 7) at the southern end of Walney Island there were three main scar grounds. Reef 1 occupied 4031 sq. metres and had 30% coverage with 20% occupancy (type 4). Reef 2 had less than 30% coverage, 20% occupancy (type 4-5) and occupied an area of 32230 sq. metres with

Page 62 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Sabellaria on cobbles in standing water. Reef 3 covered an area of 33040 sq. metres and had 30-50% coverage on cobbles (type 4) with 15-20% occupancy. All the reefs in this area were of moderate- poor quality with hummocks of Sabellaria up to 0.3m high and 0.5m wide, which were generally covered by Fucus serratus (30% -70% cover), on the low shore.

At Loverholme Bed and Nanny Point (map 8) in the mid section of Walney Isalnd a number of moderate sized reef areas were present around low water. Reefs 1 to 9 ranged from 88 to 11770 sq. metres and were generally type 3 reefs with coverage varying from 60 to 80% and occupancy generally over 50%. Fucus serratus, and Ulva have patchy coverage on the reefs with 4 having 20% cover by Mytilus. The low shore areas of the reefs often showed signs of erosion. Reef 10 had type 4 Sabellaria with less than 50% coverage. The seaward fringe of this reef was quite badly eroded with a cover of sediment and the main reef was low lying with heavy Fucus serratus cover.

At Tummer Hill Scar and Hollow Scar (map 9) further north numerous small reefs were evident from mid to low water. The beach was covered by areas of cobbles cover the upper to mid shore with some areas of scar stretching down to the low water mark. Upper and mid shore areas were relatively barren although surveying of areas of scar on the mid to lower shore of the northern coast of the Isle of Walney found the presence of S. alveolata. On the mid shore approximately 200-500m down the beach a number of small good quality reefs were evident ranging from 50 to 655 sq. metres in area (reefs 1,2,3,4,5,6,8 and 9). Generally, coverage was high (>70% with larger consolidated reef areas of >90% coverage) with Sabellaria types 2and 3 dominant. On many reefs considerable patches of algae (Enteromorpha sp. and Fucus vesiculosus) were present along with occasional clumps of Mytilus. S. alveolata was generally in good condition with 40-60% living worms. Diversity of associated taxa was relatively low although Carcinus maenas, Littorina saxatilis, L. littorea, L. littoralis, Nucella lapillus, Corallina officinalis and Flustra foliacea were recorded. On the very low shore at reef 7, areas of heavily silted, impoverished low lying S. alveolata with only 10% living worms (reefs 7a,b,d,e,f) surrounded a healthier type 3 reef (reef 7c) with 70-90% coverage and 40- 60% occupancy.

Page 63 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Reef 3. Type 4 Sabellaria on cobbles with 30-50% coverage and 15-20% occupancy. Moderate quality. 33040 sq m area.

Reef 2. Area of poor quality type 4-5 Sabellaria in standing water on cobbles with <30% coverage and 20% occupancy. 60-70% fucoid cover on low shore. 32230 sq m area.

p7 p8 p5 Reef 1. Small area of type 4 Sabellaria p6 p4 in pool on cobbles. Approx. 30% coverage and 20% occupancy with 30-50% fucoid p3 cover. 4031 sq m area.

p2

p1

To SE Point. Walney Island

p0

SE Point. Walney Island

Map 7. Walney Island: Cross Dyke Scar Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of & SE Point (insert). Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 64 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

p

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Reef 10. Area of type 4 Sabellaria with Fixed Boundary <50% coverage. Seaward fringe heavily silted and main section of reef with high Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary fucoid cover and low lying variable quality Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria. 4068 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 p1 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Reef 4. Good quality type 3 Sabellaria reef Sabellaria Type 6 Reef 9. Variable quality type 3 with 80% cover and 70% occupancy. Patchy Sabellaria Type 6-7 reef with 60-80% coverage and fucoid cover (30%) and some Ulva (10%) with bare patches of cobbly sand 20% coverage of Mytilus interspersed/overgrowing Sabellaria Type 7 within reef. Low shore showing the Sabellaria. 4706 sq m area. some signs of erosion and fucoid cover. 7673 sq m area.

Reef 8. Good quality type 3 reef with approx. 80% cover and >50% occupancy. Some erosion on seaward fringe. 11770 sq m area.

Reef 2. Small reef area with type 3 Sabellaria. 70% coverage and 60% occupancy. Reef 7. Good quality type 3 Sabellaria reef 1811 sq m area. with 80% cover and >50% occupancy. patchy fucoid cover (30%) and some Ulva (10%). 1315.sq m area.

Reef 6. Good quality type 3 Sabellaria reef with 70% cover and 80% occupancy. 1743 sq m area.

Reef 5. Good quality type 3 Sabellaria reef with 70% cover and 80% occupancy. 892.6 sq m area.

Reef 3. Small reef area with type 3 Sabellaria. 70% coverage and 60% occupancy. 1581 sq m area.

Reef 1. Small reef area with type 3 Sabellaria. 70% coverage and 60% occupancy. 88.47 sq m area.

Map 8. Walney Island: Nanny Point & Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Loverholme Bed. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 65 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5

Sabellaria Type 5 Reef 9. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria and >90% coverage. Sabellaria Type 5-6 40-60% occupancy of Sabellaria. Sabellaria Type 6 53.83 sq m area Sabellaria Type 6-7 Reef 8. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria Type 7 Sabellaria and >90% coverage. 40-60% occupancy of Sabellaria. 419 sq m area.

Reef 7e. Poor quality areas of type 7 Sabellaria with 10% occupancy. Reef 7d. Poor quality areas of type 7 Approx 33.59 sq m. Sabellaria with 10% occupancy. Reef 6. Small reef area with type 2 Approx. 483.3 sq m area. Sabellaria and >90% coverage. 40-60% occupancy of Sabellaria. Reef 7f. Poor quality areas of type 7 117 sq m area. Sabellaria with 10% occupancy. Reef 7c. Small reef area with type 3 Approx. 51.81 sq m area. Sabellaria. 70-90% coverage and 40-60% occupancy. Approx 975.5 sq m area.

Reef 5. Small reef area with type 2 Reef 7b. Poor quality areas of type 7 Sabellaria and 128.8 sq m area. Sabellaria with 10% occupancy. Approx. 363.9 sq m area.

Reef 7a. Poor quality areas of type 7 Sabellaria with 10% occupancy. Approx 852.1 sq. m area

Reef 4. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria and >90% coverage. 40-60% occupancy of Sabellaria. 48.31 sq m area.

Reef 3b. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria and >90% coverage. 40-60% Reef 3c. Small reef area with type 3 occupancy of Sabellaria. 219.8 sq m area. Sabellaria. 70-90% coverage and 40-60% occupancy. 515.1 sq m area.

Reef 3a. Small reef area with type 3 Sabellaria. 70-90% coverage and 40-60% occupancy. Reef 1. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria. 655.4 sq m area. >90% coverage and 40-60% occupancy. 107.2 sq m area.

Reef 2. Small reef area with type 2 Sabellaria. >90% coverage and 40-60% occupancy. 276.4 sq m area

p1

Map 9. Walney Island: Tummer Hill Scar Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of & Hollow Scar. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 66 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

On Southend and Hilpsford Scars and at Haws Point no S. alveolata were recorded. Around Piel Island there were occasional cobbles and boulders with Fucus, but no S. alveolata. At Head Scar, Conger Stones, Long Barrow and Barren Point Scar there was a large mussel bed with occasional boulders. High Bottom was mostly sandy but with occasional clumps of mussels. SW of Roosebeck Sand there were juvenile Mytilus. At White Horse Scar there were a number of small scattered hummocks and encrusted rocks/boulders at mid to low water (p1 to p8).

Off the southern coast of the Isle of Walney at South East Point (Map 7 insert) several small clumps of S. alveolata, approximately 0.25m2 were found on a concrete groyne at mid tide level (p0). The clumps were in good condition and may have been relatively newly established with 70% occupancy. Occasional Patella sp., together with a very small amount of Ulva lactuca were found but no other organisms were noted. Fucoids were present around the area, but not among clumps of S. alveolata.

Map 10. Gutterby Spa to Annaside Banks SD100843 to 085867

Expansive area of scar ground extending along the coast on Annaside Banks, from Tarn Point to Gutterby Spa. Approximately 400m from upper shore, from the south side of Annaside Banks, S. alveolata present. Small areas in the southern section of this large area of scar ground, patchy, around 2m2 area. S. alveolata on low-lying cobbles, with small clumps around 15cm high and 20cm radius (p1-17). S. alveolata fairly low-lying and quite sparse (20% coverage). A further 1km from- 19) the first small patches of S. alveolata, some larger areas 15cm high and 50cm radius (p. Clumps are around 5-10m apart. Evidence of silting and some degradation. In this area S. alveolata is present in some larger clumps, 1m across and 50cm high. Fairly continuous S. alveolata to the north.

At the edge of the main scar ground, S. alveolata is present in larger patches and in good condition. Associated are F. vesiculosus and Enteromorpha. Moving northwards along the extensive scar ground, a reef of type 3-4 S. alveolata is present (reef 1) with coverage of at least 50% and with condition and coverage of the S. alveolata increasing to the north. In total the reef covers 18930 sq. metres and individual clumps measure up to 5-7m in circumference, 0.5-1m high and are in very good condition. S. alveolata reaches 50-70% coverage and associated are Enteromorpha, F. vesiculosus, Arenicola, barnacles, Ulva lactuca, Nucella lapillus, Littorina littorea. In some areas there is evidence of silting particularly on the upper shore where coverage decreases to 30-50%. On the lower edges there is evidence of new colonisation, with smaller tubes on top of larger ones, particularly on the very outer edge of reef system. There is a section where S. alveolata ceases to dominate and mussel bed extends from the eastern limit of the S. alveolata up to the high shore. The mussels are generally immature, with some adults nearest to the S. alveolata reef.

Page 67 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7

Sabellaria Type 7 p19 Reef 3. Sabellaria of type 6 in standing water with 20-30% coverage. 2166 sq m area.

p18

Reef 2. Sabellaria of type 4 with some standing water and 50% coverage. Mussels dominant torwards landward fringe. 1926 sq m area.

Reef 1. Good condition type 3 Sabellaria reef with >70% cover decreasing to 30-50% cover torward landward fringe where mussels dominate. 18930 sq m area.

p3-p17. Area of Approx. 3850 sq m with occasional small 2 sq m patches of Sabellaria.

p2 p1

Map 10. Gutterby Spa & Bog Hole. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 68 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

S. alveolata also extends up beach and two small reefs are found in areas of standing water (reefs 2 and 3). Reef 2 is of type 4 with 50% coverage over an area of 1926 sq. metres whilst reef 3 is at the very upper shore and consists of type 6 S. alveolata with 20-30% coverage and is associated with Chondrus crispus, Corallina corallina and some small mussels. Littorina species and red seaweed were also found along with Carcinus maenas in pools.

Map 11. Selker Bay & Tarn Point SD078880 to 075900

Numerous reefs of moderate to good quality S. alveolata are present along the beach from Annaside to Tarn point with the largest reef present between Selker and Tarn Point. To the north a small reef of S. alveolata present approximately 200m down beach (reef 11). An area of 3769 sq. metres with type 4 S. alveolata area comprised reef 11 with 2 main patches approximately 5m apart, surrounded by smaller areas. S. alveolata was low-lying, cauliflower-like approximately 10-15cm high and covered by muddy sand at edges with Ulva and Enteromorpha present. The reef was in moderate condition with some areas of standing water. The upper shore/landward fringe comprised of type 6 reef with silt/sand deposition on most of the S. alveolata.

Reefs 1 and 2 were good quality reefs with reef 1 covering 74330 sq. metres (type 2-3) and reef 2 (type 2) covering 14130 sq. metres. Both reefs potentially extended below low water with large hummocks of S. alveolata and >90% coverage. The southern most end of reef 1 had poorer quality Sabellaria with 30-50% coverage.

Reef 3 formed a continuous bed over 29100 sq. metres possibly extending into the subtidal. Hummocks of S. alveolata with >90% coverage were present over the majority of the reef but becoming sparse (30-50% cover) with cobbles at edges of the bed (type 6). Fucus vesiculosus was common on the reef. At p10 and p11 S. alveolata hummocks of 1-2 m diameter were present between patches of cobbles and surrounded by small low lying patches of Sabellaria of <0.5 m diameter.

Reef 4 was a strip of S. alveolata 5-10 m across in hummocks 5-10 m apart on cobbles extending down the beach and possibly beyond low water. The reef is relatively continuous (>90%) with hummocks of low lying S. alveolata about 0.2m high and areas of type 6 Sabellaria (30-50% cover) at the fringes of the reef. The total area of the reef is 1597 sq. metres.

Page 69 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Reef 11. Area of moderately good quality Sabellaria decreases landward Fixed Boundary to type 6 on fringe. 3769 sq m area. Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Reef 10. Area of moderately good quality Sabellaria type 3-4 with Sabellaria Type 2-3 50-90% coverage. Quality Sabellaria Type 3 decreases landward to type 6 on fringe. 38410 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Reef 9e. Band of Sabellaria Type 5-6 poor quality Sabellaria Reef 9a. Large area of generally Sabellaria Type 6 (type 6-7) at seaward good quality Sabelleria reef of fringe with some erosion. type 2-3 with 70-90% coverage. Sabellaria Type 6-7 Approx. 16100 sq m area. Approx. 280200 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 7 Reef 9b. Band of type relatively good quality type 4 Sabellaria on cobbles becoming silted Reef 9d. Band of poor quality Sabellaria (type 6-7) with some cover by Enteromorpha, fucoids and at seaward fringe with some erosion. Mytlius at landward fringe. Approx. 44310 sq m area. Approx. 4996 sq m area.

Reef 9c. Band of poor quality Sabellaria (type 6-7) at seaward fringe with some erosion. Approx. 9370 sq m area.

Reef 8. Sabellaria type 2-3 in good condition with >70% coverage and increasing to south. May extend beyond low water. Mussel beds dominate at southern end. 13520 sq m area.

Reef 7. Patchy strips of moderate quality Sabellaria type 3-4 with variable cover of 30-60%. Some type 6/7 at low shore. Areas of sand between Sabellaria and Reef 4b. Small Area with occasional patches Enteromorpha, Ulva and fucoids covering or hummocks of Sabellaria. Where present reef at northern end. 22600 sq m area. good conditon but low coverage. Approx. 974.8 sq m area.

Reef 6. Good quality Sabelleria reef of type 2/3 with coverage varying between 50-90%. May extend beyond low water. 54590 sq m area. p9 Reef 5. Variable Sabellaria reef, generally of type 2-3 (>80% cover) with 10m patches of type 6 (30-60% cover). May extend beyond low water. 6366 sq m area.

Reef 4. Variable strip of Sabelleria extending down the intertidal zone. Coverage generally p10 >90% (Type 2) but with areas of type 6 p11 (30-50% cover) at fringes of reef. 1597 sq m area.

Reef 3. Good quality type 2-3 reef with >90% coverage and some areas of type 6 reef (30-50% cover) at fringe of reef on cobbles. May extend beyond low water. 29100 sq m area.

Reef 2. Good quality type 2-3 reef with >90% coverage. May extend beyond low water. 14130 sq m area.

Reef 1. Good quality type 2/3 reef with >90% coverage to north and 30-50% coverage to south. May extend beyond low water. 74330 sq m area.

Map 11. Tarn Point/Selker Bay & Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Annaside. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 70 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Reef 5 covered an area of 6366 sq. metres and the bed extends about 50-100 m along the shore with a high coverage (>80%) of Sabellaria (type 2-3 reef). The reef is generally formed by hummocks 0.5- 1m high and 1–2m wide some patches 10 m wide, 0.7 m high and 5 m apart with some coverage by Ulva lactuca. There are also small areas of low lying type 6 S. alveolata which are 0.5-1m high and 1–2m wide. Boulders are present on the upper shore with abundant Littorina sp. whilst the reef on the southern boundary covered in Enteromorpha. The reef may extend further into the subtidal.

Reef 6 covered approximately 54590 sq. metres and was a continuous stretch of good quality reef (type 2-3). At the upper shore coverage varied between 50%-90% and the height of the reef varied from 10cm – 60cm. The reef had high coverage by Enteromorpha and fucoids and bordered onto mussel beds. At the southern end sandy patches were present between the S. alveolata. At low water bed reef was in good condition becoming sparser inland. Hummocks were 0.3-0.5 m high with small 2-3 m diameter areas of sand between very large areas of S. alveolata. The reef potentially extended beyond low water and the lowest 10m of the reef was covered by F. serratus, Enteromorpha and Palmaria palmata. There were areas of S. alveolata approximately 5 sq. metres in area which were covered in silt with F. vesiculosus instead of F. serratus. There were signs of erosion on edge of reef but generally the reef was in good condition. At the southern most end of the reef the S. alveolata was no longer continuous with hummocks of between 5-15 m wide were present with gaps of around 5m between each hummock. At p9 Small hummocks approximately 60cm high and ranging from 0.5-1 sq. metres were present surrounded by cobbles with some Enteromorpha. Occasional hummocks were present from low water to 100m up the beach.

In Reef 7 S. alveolata was found in patchy strips of moderate quality (type 3-4). Hummocks of S. alveolata approximately 1-1.5 m across and 0.3 m high were found with coverage increasing to the south. Fucus vesiculosus, Enteromorpha sp. and Littorina littorea covered parts of the reef, particularly to the north. Mature mussels were present on rocks and were abundant in a small number of patches. Nucella lapillus was also present. South of the reef area, mussel beds dominate. At the low shore to the north Enteromorpha sp. and Ulva lactuca cover the reef which is made up of strips approx. 5m wide with 5-10 m wide patches of sand between. The seaward fringe also showed some signs of erosion with type 6-7 S. alveolata. In total reef 7 covered 22600 sq. metres area.

Reef 7b was a continuation of reef 7, comprising of small clumps, and hummocks of S. alveolata. Where the Sabellaria was present it was in good condition but overall there was low coverage. Hummocks were between 2 to 5m wide, up to 10m long and >0.5m high with 15 metres between hummocks on the low shore decreasing to 5-10 metres apart further up the shore. There were patches of Fucus serratus on some S. alveolata and further down the shore some of the S. alveolata is low lying, covered in silt with cover by Enteromorpha sp. At low water edge low lying S. alveolata is found on rocks and cobbles and in hummocks within the sandy bars. Soma patches had cover by U. lactuca and F. vesiculosus. Reef 8 covered an area of 13520 sq. metres and may extend in patches beyond low water. The S. alveolata was type 2-3 with over 70% coverage of hummocks 20-30cm high covered in Fucus vesiculosus with littorinids and gobies in pools. The reef was generally in good condition with some sedimentation although the Sabellaria is not smothered. To the south mussel beds dominate and encroach onto the reef.

Reef 9 is the most extensive reef in the region covering an area of 354976 sq. metres. The main reef area (reef 9a) was comprised of good quality type 2-3 S. alveolata which contained hummocks of S. alveolata, around 30cm high with fairly continuous patches of around 10-20cm diameter and only 1-2 m in between patches. Coverage was 70-90% increasing toward the low shore. However at the low water fringe of the reef there were areas of low-lying, sparse, type 6-7 S. alveolata colonising cobbles

Page 71 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature with low occupancy and anoxic sediment (reefs 9c, 9d and 9e). Areas of sand (30-50m) between low shore S. alveolata extend around 50m up the shore before turning into low-lying sheet-like S. alveolata.

Further up the shore a low-lying form of relatively good quality, type 4 S. alveolata formed a band along the top of the main reef (reef 9b). This area had around 50% cover and was generally sparser that the main reef with S. alveolata on cobbles with some smothering by muddy sand and occasional cover by Enteromorpha, fucoids and Mytilus. Reef 10 extends approximately 300m down shore and is comprised of type 3-4 S. alveolata covering an area of 38410 sq. metres. The main area of S. alveolata has 50-90% coverage and was in moderately good condition with low-lying (20cm high) cauliflower-like clumps in approximately 2-10m apart. Condition of the reef deteriorated to type 6 on the upper shore which was comprised of very low-lying, sparse patches for around 30m on cobbles. The reef had considerable areas of standing water with patches of reef covered in Enteromorpha.

Map 12. Drigg SD044985

Nearest the shore, to the SE of the main reef an elongated bed of Sabellaria was recorded (reef 1a). This featured good quality reef structure with cauliflower type structures 40cm high and with 20cm high extended platforms 10m wide and 20m long. Mytilus beds surrounded much of the area on the seaward side, with abundant barnacle coverage and occasional Pomatoceros. However an area of clean cobbles was also observed, together with some edge erosion to the bed, suggesting an are of high wave action. Again littorinids dominated the site, with few other macrofauna. At the eastern side of the main bed (reef 1b) an area of sparse S. alveolata was evident with 10-20% coverage and 20-30% occupancy. The borders of this area were diffuse an difficult to track and over the entire area littorinids were abundant. In general the Sabellaria cover was around 50-60% with occupancy between 40-50%. At the extreme southern end, a developing sandbank was covering the upper shore side of the bed were occupancy reduced to 30%.

The largest area of S. alveolata centred around a radar calibration marker on the mid shore (reef 2). In the centre area of the reef (reef 2b) there was patchy cover of between 40-60% with areas of standing water and fucoid cover. At the south-western side of this area, type 4 S. alveolata was found on cobbles (reef 2a) with Sabellaria less than 20cm high, with an occupancy of around 30%, although some patches featured as low as 10% occupancy. Rockpools were also present, with abundant littorinids and barnacle cover was also very high, to superabundant immediately beyond the Sabellaria fringe. To the west of the area were Mytilus beds, with superabundant littorinids within the Sabellaria, as well as a recent Mytilus spat fall. At the northern side of the bed (reef 2c) cover was between 10-30% but generally around 25%, with an increasing size and abundance of Sabellaria

Page 72 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature clumps towards the north-west. Occupancy of live worms in this area was between 10-20%. Overall reef 2 covered an area of 56393 sq. metres.

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Reef 4. Area of type 2-3 Sabellaria in good condition with clumps of up to 70cm high with up to 80% cover to the south and slightly lower coverage and poorer condition to the north. May extend beyond low water. 17630 sq m area.

Reef 3. Sabellaria type 4 with between 20-35% coverage and in moderate to poor p1 condition <30% occupancy. Mussel beds to the south and fucoids to the north. 14130 sq m area.

Reef 2c. Sabellaria reef of poor/low quality with diffuse borders and sparse Sabellaria (10-30% coverage) with 10-20% occupancy of Sabellaria. Approx. 4173 sq m area.

Reef 2b. Sabellaria type 3-4 with low forms of 40-60% coverage and areas of standing water and fucoids. 30-40% occurence of Sabellaria. Approx. 39610 sq m area

Reef 2a. Sabelleria type 4 to SW of main reef with 30-50% cover on cobbles <20cm high. Some erosion evident with occupancy of 10-30%. Approx 12610 sq m area.

Reef 1b. Sabellaria reef of moderate /low quality (type 4-5) with diffuse borders Reef 1a. Sabellaria reef of type 2-3. and sparse Sabellaria (10-30% coverage) 60% coverage of good quality Sabellaria with 10-20% occupancy of Sabellaria. with solid reefs of 10-20m long and 40cm Approx 7472 sq m area. high. 50-60% occupancy down to 30% to the SE where some smothering by sand and erosion has occured. Approx. 14800 sq m area

Map 12. Drigg/Barn Scar. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 73 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

To the north side of the main scar, Sabellaria stretches out to low water but is in poor condition and is present in association with mussel bed and barnacles (reef 3). The reef occupies 14130 sq. metres with patchy coverage (20-35%) and the reef is in moderate to poor condition with <30% occupancy. Along the north of the area, Sabellaria is covered in Fucus vesiculosus, Enteromorpha, Corallina and littorinids. Sabellaria along the southern boundary occurs among rocks and boulders, with mussel beds dominant. Small dispersed clumps of Sabellaria occurred on the seaward half of scar ground with 20-50% cover.

Further north of the main Drigg Scar, a fourth reef was situated toward low water covering approximately 17630 sq. metres with up to 80% coverage of Sabellaria (reef 4). In some areas Sabellaria is 70cm or more in height and there are large hummocks in good condition. Sabellaria extended further out than could be mapped on the tide and may extend beyond low water. Very little associated fauna was found at this lower level, with little algal cover and few other species evident. Some Asterias rubens and littorinids were found at low water. Further up the shore the Sabellaria formed hummocks of 70 – 80cm in height but with greater Enteromorpha cover. Coverage of Sabellaria decreased slightly to the north and the reef became intersected with rock pools and small boulders with the Sabellaria ranging in condition from very good to moderately poor.

Map 13. Seascale/Sellafield NY037005 to NY008044

Reef 1 was the largest reef occupying an area of 37020 sq. metres. Patches of type 3 Sabellaria were interspersed with boulders. The reef appeared to be a good Oystercatcher feeding area and whilst there was little cover by fucoids there was some coverage by Enteromorpha. Coverage varied from 50-75% with dispersed patches in the middle of the reef of approximately 20cm high, 50cm wide and 1-4m in length forming long waves of S. alveolata with wide sandbars intersecting. These patches were generally orientated in an E to W direction. On the upper shore the reef was interspersed with sand with some sediment cover. Generally, the S. alveolata occurred in rock pools with some coverage by Ulva and fucoids. Some S. alveolata to north of the reef appeared to be in poor condition and possibly relict.

Reef 2 was a small reef on the midshore covering an area of 1334 sq. metres. The reef was in average condition with 50-75% cover (type 3). There was some Enteromorpha cover with a patch of type 2 Sabellaria within the main reef. Reef 3 ran along the southern boundary of pipeline with S. alveolata in moderately good condition on reaching low water. The reef structures were approximately 80cm tall and 2m wide at low water on geotextiles. The Sabellaria became sparser on the midshore with littorinids and mussel beds interspersed with the reef. The reef became heavily silted on the mid- upper shore. In general coverage varied from 25-50% and the reef occupied an area of 4960 sq. metres.

Reef 4 was a linear type 4 reef on the northern side of the pipeline on the low shore. A linear strip of S. alveolata is formed on the geotextile of the pipeline boundary in good condition, especially on reaching low water. The reef was approximately 70cm high and 2m wide covering an area of 304.6 sq. metres with occasional fucoids and littorinids. The reef was in moderately good condition on the midshore with 25-50% cover and some erosion was noted. Reef 5 was a linear type 4 reef to the north of the pipeline. Some established good patches of S. alveolata among rock pools, around 60cm in height and patches ranging from 1sq. metre to 7 sq. metres. Littorinids, barnacles and dogwhelks are found in abundance and mussel beds encroaching over S. alveolata on the southern boundary.

Page 74 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 p8 Sabellaria Type 6-7

Sabellaria Type 7 p7

Reef 17. Area of type 7 Sabellaria with 20% cover. 487.4 sq m area. Reef 16. Type 7 Sabellaria reef with 20-50% coverage. 1361 sq m area. Reef 15. Type 3 Sabellaria reef with 50-70% cover. 1031 sq m area. p6 Reef 14. Variable type 3-4 reef with 80% cover on low shore, 30-50% cover p5 on the mid shore reef and type 7 reef (<50%) on the upper shore margin. 5133 sq m area. p4 Reef 13. Area of type 3 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. p3 228.8 sq m area

Reef 12. Type 7 Sabelleria reef with 30% p2 cover. SW corner with 80% cover (type 4-5). 7070 sq m area.

Reef 11. Type 7 Sabellaria with relatively high coverage (50-70%). 4810 sq m area.

Reef 10. Type 7 Sabellaria with <50% cover. 1037 sq m area. p1

Reef 9. Type 4 Sabellaria with >70% cover. 3285 sq m area. Reef 8. Sabellaria type 6 with 30-50% cover. 3164 sq m area.

Reef 7. Area of type 3 Sabellaria with over 70% cover. Lower coverage (type 6) on 5m boundary around reef. 4356 sq m area.

Reef 6. Area of type 3 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. Lower coverage (50%) on upper shore. 1786 sq m area.

Reef 5. Area of type 4 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. 1125 sq m area.

Reef 4. Area of type 4 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. 304.6 sq m area.

Reef 3. Area of type 4 Sabellaria with <50% cover. 4960 sq m area.

Reef 2. Area of type 3 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. 1334 sq m area.

Reef 1. Area of type 3 Sabellaria with 50-75% cover. 37020 sq m area.

Map 13. Sellafield/River Ehen. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 75 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

The reef covers 1125 sq. metres and is in average to good condition with 25-50% cover. Some erosion noted on the lower shore.

Reef 6 was a band of low lying S. alveolata approximately 1786 sq. metres in area. In general coverage was quite high with between 50-75% coverage of type 3 S. alveolata. Towards low water and in the middle of the bed hummocks of 0.4-0.5m diameter and 0.2m high were present, approximately 1 m apart. There were also other patches of between 0.1-0.15m which were present on cobbles, and were either very eroded, or in early stages of colonisation with the diameter of the tubes being very small.

Reef 7 was a reef directly to the north of reef 6 with type 3 Sabellaria in hummocks up to 0.2 m high. Enteromorpha covered the hummocks with U. lactuca covering lower lying Sabellaria in pools. An outer boundary (5 m) of very low lying Sabellaria on cobble covered in silt with dense Fucus vesiculosus and in parts, showing signs of erosion (type 6) was also present. Generally coverage was high (>70%) with the reef covering an area of 4356 sq. metres.

Reef 8 was adjacent to reef 6 but was in poor condition with low lying type 6 Sabellaria in pools, covered by U. lactuca and F. vesiculosus. Coverage varied from between 30-50% and in total the reef occupied 3164 sq. metres. Reef 9 to the north of reef 8 covered an area of 3164 sq. metres with type 4 Sabellaria forming hummocks covered by Enteromorpha and F. vesiculosus. A large pool approximately 10m long and 5m wide was present in the centre of the bed. Coverage varied between 30-50%.

Reef 10 was a sparse, low lying, eroded type 7 Sabellaria reef on cobbles. Very poor condition with <50% cover with many areas covered in sediment. In total the reef covered 1037 sq. metres. Reefs 11 and 12 were mid-shore type 7 reefs occupying 4810 and 7070 sq. metres respectively. Both reefs were in poor condition with areas of anoxic sediment. Reef 11 had a relatively high coverage (50- 70%) whilst reef 12 generally had 30% coverage with the exception of the SW corner which had a coverage of 80% (type 4-5) and some recent settlement. The majority of the area consisted of cobbles with low-lying Sabellaria, which was predominantly relict.

Reef 13 was a small area (228.8 sq. metres) area of type 3 Sabellaria with 50%-75% cover. The reef was in good condition with hummocks 0.2m high and 0.5m wide less than 1 m apart. There was a high level of Enteromorpha coverage over the reef. Reef 14 was a moderately large area (5133 sq. metres) of predominantly type 3-4 Sabellaria with variable coverage. On the landward side much of the Sabellaria was relict with <50% coverage whilst healthy hummocks of Sabellaria were present on the seaward side (80% cover). The middle section of the reef comprised of Sabellaria on cobbles, covered by F. vesiculosus with 30-50% cover).

Reef 15 was a small area (1031 sq. metres) of type 2 Sabellaria comprised of ribbons of Sabellaria hummocks about 0.3 m high. The reef has coverage varying from 50-70% with a small area on the low shore of low-lying Sabellaria colonising cobbles. Reefs 16 and 17 were small areas (1361 and 487.4 sq. metres respectively) of low-lying type 7 Sabellaria on cobbles. Much of the Sabellaria is relict and badly eroded and coverage varies from 20-50%.

There are potentially small areas of Sabellaria to the north and the skear ground extends to the cliffs due to restricted access and time it wasn’t possible to assess whether any Sabellaria was present. Whitriggs scar was briefly visited and no major forms noted but the area was not surveyed fully.

Page 76 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Map 14. Nethertown to St Bees NX995064 to NX967106

The section of coast is characterised by a beach of predominately boulders with patches of sand, particularly on the lower shore. Between Nethertown and St Bees, S. alveolata was present in a band running from the mid shore down to low water (where the substratum is suitable). In areas of large boulders, the reef was found to be of insufficient height to form an identifiable raised structure, and instead fills in the gaps between the boulders to a certain level. Due to the reefs diffuse boundaries, the variability in Sabellaria type and coverage and its size (4 kms in length and varied from between 10m to 300m in width) the area was difficult to map, particularly as much of the substrate comprised of large cobbles and boulders. Consequently the area has been treated as one large reef with any variation noted where possible. The main reef (reef 1) covered approximately 842538 sq. metres. Reef 1a to the south comprised of type 2-3 Sabellaria with 50-80% cover decreasing to <30% (type 7) at the southern boundary.

Reef 1b and 1d formed the bulk of the reef and was a highly variable area with diffuse boundaries and generally type 4-5 Sabellaria with 10-40% cover and 30-40% occupancy. Coverage decreases to 20% at the fringe of the reef and areas of denser type 3 reef are found the middle of the bed. Off from Middletown the reef was in quite good condition, but largely filling in the gaps between boulders, and not colonising the smaller cobbles and sand patches of the upper shore. Conversation with local residents suggested that there had been increased siltation along this reach, which had lead to the loss of reef cover. North of Middletown the boulder field becomes more extensive and the survey identified a reduced coverage by S. alveolata. Although present and in reasonable health with around 30-40% occupancy here, percentage cover was judged to be around 20%, largely due to the presence of large boulders, with some areas featuring a lower level of cover.

Towards St Bees, percentage coverage increases, with a reduction in boulder height and increase in structure height. An area of approximately 200m by 150m at the extreme northern edge of the boulder field was found to support an extensive platform structure, with c. 70% coverage in the low shore and 50% on the mid shore, and reasonable occupancy at around 40% on the edges. Occupancy was probably greater towards the centre, but could not be assessed without damage to the reef structure. The upper shore was not colonised by S. alveolata but did support an abundant fucoid bed, which extended onto the upper shore, covering much of the S. alveolata. It is not clear whether the increased level of cover by fucoids was restricting colonisation by S. alveolata on the upper shore, or whether distribution was being driven by physical factors. Colonisation of the upper shore by S. alveolata with an absence of fucoid cover was noted further down the reach towards Nethertown, although this reef was in very poor condition.

Page 77 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Reef 3. Type 2-3 sabellaria with good Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m coverage (70%) but Fixed Boundary some fucoid cover and Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary moderate occupancy (40%). 3664 sq m area Sabellaria Type 2 Reef 2b. Type 2-3 sabellaria with good coverage (70%) on fish trap. 730 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Reef 2a. Type 2-3 sabellaria with good Sabellaria Type 3-4 coverage (70%) on fish trap. 728.3 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

Reef 1e. Type 2-3 Sabellaria with good coverage (70%) but some fucoid cover and moderate occupancy (40%). 16220 sq m area.

Reef 1d. Highly variable extensive Sabellaria Reef 1f. Poor quality, badly eroded reef of bed with diffuse borders. Generally type 4-5 type 7. Some healthier Sabellaria on cobbles with 10-40% cover and 30-40% occupancy. but most dead/relict. Coverage decreases to <20% at borders with Approx. 14840 sq m area. some denser Sabellaria (Type 3?) in centre of reef. Approx 655700 sq m

Reef 1c. Cover of type 2-3 Sabellaria on pipeline 5-10m wide with 80% coverage. 1358 sq m area.

Reef 1b. Highly variable extensive Sabellaria bed with diffuse borders. Generally type 4-5 with 10-40% cover and 30-40% occupancy. Coverage decreases to <20% at borders with some denser Sabellaria (Type 3?) in centre of reef. 134000 sq m area. Reef 1a. Type 2-3 Sabellaria with 50-80% cover decreasing to <30% cover (type 7) at southern boundary. 35260 sq m area.

Map 14. Nethertown to St Bees Town. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 78 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Reef 1c was an area of type 2-3 Sabellaria on a pipeline 5-10m wide with 80% coverage. Reef 1e was located to the north of the main reef and was generally denser than the majority of the reef with type 2-3 Sabellaria and 70% coverage. Reef 1f was an area of poor quality Sabellaria (type 7) which was badly eroded and mainly relict but with some slightly healthier Sabellaria on cobbles. Reef 2 comprised of type 2-3 Sabellaria on fish traps with 70% coverage. Reef 3 was a small area (3664 sq. metres) of type 2-3 Sabellaria with 70% coverage, 30-40% occupancy and some fucoid cover to the north of the main reef.

7.4 South (English) Solway Coast Map 15. Siddick to St Helens Approx. NX995315 to NY013332

This area featured several distinct reefs, generally low lying on cobbles, but with occasional more developed ‘cauliflower’ examples. The majority of the reef is found from the lower mid to extreme low shore (and in the sub-tidal fringe).

An extensive reef (31040 sq. metres) featuring both the ‘cauliflower’ and encrusting forms (reef 1b) with the site bisected by an effluent pipe discharging to the low water. The pipe itself was extensively colonised by S. alveolata (60% coverage of type 3-4) to the exclusion of other species, however in the area of the discharge, there was an impoverished fauna. The majority of the reef had 60% coverage with 40% occupancy and was generally type 3-4. At the landward margin of the reef were areas of type 7 Sabellaria with some smothering by sediment and Mytilus (reef 1a).

To the north a small reef of ‘cauliflower’ form was present on a cobble scar (reef 2), featuring a low species diversity. The agglomerations were largely less than 10cm high and less than 30cm in diameter. Coverage was between 40-50% with <50% occupancy and the area of the reef was 3967 sq. metres.

The area as a whole featured less extensive or developed areas of S. alveolata than immediately north at St Helens, with the species restricted to generally low lying form less than 30cm in elevation. Again species diversity was found to be low, except towards the extreme low shore where a subtidal community with echinoderms and Laminaria predominated. Areas of the reef with Mytilus beds had developed an associated fauna, which increased diversity, but in general were in poor condition. Notably the effluent discharge was seen to have a depressing effect on reef development with the area immediately adjacent to the outfall absent of S. alveolata, as well as most other species, although Halichondria was present and the pipe itself was abundantly colonised by S. alveolata.

Page 79 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Reef 3g. Type 2 Sabellaria. 100% coverage Sabellaria Type 3-4 with 50-60% occupancy. Approx. 18250 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Reef 3f. Type 7 Poor quality largely relict Sabellaria Type 5 Sabelleria covered by fucoids and some Sabellaria Type 5-6 Mytilus. Poor occupancy (20%) but with large formsof type 2/3 with high coverage Sabellaria Type 6 (100%). Approx. 15170 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 6-7 Reef 3e. Band of type 6 Sabellaria. Sabellaria Type 7 Varying coverage of low forms decreasing from 90% to 10% to north. Juvenile Sabellaria settled to North. Approx. 29430 sq m area.

Reef 3d. Type 7 Sabellaria with some smothering by muddy sand and Mytilus with some fucoids. Approx. 18050 sq m area.

Reef 3c. Type 2-3 Sabellaria with 50%-60%coverage and 30%-40% occupancy. Approx. 99340 sq m area.

Reef 3b. Eroding type 3-4 Sabellaria with quite large forms 30cm high. less than 50% coverage and 10% occupancy. Approx. 7320 sq m area.

Reef 3a. Badly eroded type 7 Sabellaria. 10% occupancy. Approx 20230 sq m area.

Reef 2. Low forms (10cm high) of type 3-4 Sabellaria with 40-50% coverage and <50% occupancy. 3967 sq m area.

Pipeline with Type 3-4 Sabellaria with 60% coverage and 40% occupancy and impoverished area at mouth of pipe. Approx. 397.8 sq m area.

Reef 1b. Type 3-4 Sabellaria with 60% coverage and 40% occupancy and some areas of Mytilus. 31040 sq m area.

Reef 1a. Type 7 Sabellaria at landward fringe of reef with some smothering by sediment and Mytilus. Approx. 841.5 sq m area.

Map 15. Siddick to St Helens. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 80 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Abundant S. alveolata colonies were recorded along the reach with several extensive interconnected reefs often overlying cobble scar ground. The reef was generally restricted in distribution from the mid to low shore, but extended into the sub-tidal in some areas. At the southern end of the site, much of the reef was found to be in ‘cauliflower’ form with substantial erosion and low tube occupancy. Towards the centre of the main reef system there was an extensive plateaux form of S. alveolata with occupancy of over 50% (reef 3c). However for the reef in general, most patches of S. alveolata were approximately 1-3m by 1m around 50cm high. A lot of tubes were empty when a small section was broken off, with approximately 30%-40% of tubes occupied. However further signs of erosion were noted along the lower shore for much of the southern section of the site and in some clumps there was only 20-30% occupancy. This area occupied approximately 99340 sq. metres.

Further north by 100m, but within the same reef system a sandy lower shore embayment was noted, featuring patches of better quality S. alveolata. The area was quite muddy in places, with S. alveolata mainly low lying, approximately 30cm high at a maximum. The S. alveolata in the area had an appearance ‘like cauliflower heads’, and was associated with Laminaria. In some places, there was only <10% occupancy of the hummocks which were apparently being eroded (possibly by wave action), with the presence of Laminaria holdfasts increasing the erosion/break-up rate.

Although generally featuring a low diversity, species associated with the S. alveolata, particularly in the lower shore included fucoid cover (F. ceranoides), periwinkles, Mytilus, Actinia sp., Carcinus maenas, Littorina saxatilis, L. littorea, L. littoralis, Nucella lapillus, Mytilus edulis, Buccinum undulatum, Halichondria panicea, Asterias rubens, Corallina officinalis, Flustra foliacea, Laminaria digitata and Chondrus crispus.

The lower shore of the central area to the south of the reef (reef 3a) featured a cobble substratum with very small S. alveolata having colonised cobbles, only a few mm high (type 7). The tubes of individuals are approximately 1-2mm in diameter and occupancy could not be accurately assessed. A zone 50m upshore from the low water mark continued to feature this small form, with increasing patches of the ‘cauliflower’ form although initially much of it eroded. Towards mid shore the reef graded into better quality reef, which had tubes of larger individuals up to 1cm in diameter. A decrease in species diversity was seen with increased elevation up the shore. On low shore in the middle of the reef an increase in Sabellaria (type 3-4) was noted with up to 50% coverage but with only 10% occupancy (reef 3b). Further north a band of low quality type 6 Sabellaria extended northwards beyond low water (reef 3e). This area had variable coverage ranging from 90% at the southern end to 10% at the northern end. This area was characterised by a fringe of cobble with what appears to be very young S. alveolata, with adult, extensive areas of S. alveolata towards the middle of the reef, forming a distinctive ridge parallel to the coast. The lower shore/sub-tidal fringe was characterised by abundant Echinodermata and patches of Laminaria.

Page 81 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

On the upper shore of the main reef of the main reef, F. serratus was increasingly common, together with amounts of Ulva lactuca and Enteromorpha (reef 3d). Areas of S. alveolata were increasingly sporadic and predominantly in the low ‘barnacle’ form, colonising the cobbles (type 7) on the landward side of the reef. Some F. vesiculosus and F. spiralis were also present, and in some areas there was smothering by weed and sand. To the south the upper shore area of the main reef was found to be in better condition, featuring ‘cauliflower’ form to a height of over 20cm, a greater tube occupancy, and with Mytilus only occasional present.

This upper shore area of the northern section of the main reef (reef 3f) featured S. alveolata in hummocks, approximately 50cm high, with substantial fucoid colonisation, with some areas of S. alveolata entirely covered by the weed, and apparently in poor condition with low definition around the tube entrances. There was also some Mytilus coverage overlying the S. alveolata, with the colony found to be in poor condition but with very high coverage (up to 100%) and quite large (type 2-3) structures which were largely relict. Areas without Mytilus coverage were partly smothered by sand, which had accreted at the back of the reef. The seaward side of this reef had a very high coverage of Sabellaria (up to 100%) but in much better condition (type 2) with good occupancy (50-60%).

Map 16. Maryport Golf Course Position 54 44.2327/3 28.8270

Another extensive reef area running from Museum Scar / Seabrows Scar past Bankend and the golf course, with several separate reef sites along the mid to low shore and extending out into the sub tidal. The reefs extend along the lower shore from 1km north of Maryport to Allonby, and feature both ‘cauliflower’ and low colonising forms, as well as more extensive platforms and eroding areas. In general the reefs were found to be in good condition with up to 50% of tubes occupied, although on the periphery of the site, occupation rates were lower. Within the reach there were several medium sized reefs of c. 250m length, a number of small reefs up to 100m diameter, with the main reef extending over 2000m along the low shore, and generally between 200m-300m wide.

As with other reef sites along the coast, species diversity was generally poor, but increased towards the low water mark and into the subtidal with abundant Echinodermata – abundant Asterias rubens (Common Starfish), common Crossaster papposus (Sun Star) and occasional Solaster endeca (Purple Sun Star) and Henricia oculata (Bloody Henry), together with sponges, predominantly abundant Halichondria panicea (Breadcrumb Sponge) and anenomes Actinia equina (Beadlet Anenome), Actinia fragacea (Strawberry Anemone), Anemonia viridis (Snakelocks Anemone). Littorinids and Nucella were also common within the reef system, and towards the subtidal, Laminaria digitata and Flustra foliacea were also common. Within the reef, patches of Mytilus were also present, and density of coverage varied across the reef.

Page 82 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

The southern reef (reef 1) of the reach featured generally low lying S. alveolata (<15cm), often in the small ‘cauliflower’ form up to 20cm in diameter over lying a cobble/pebble scar covering an area of 27740 sq. metres). In general it was in good condition with an occupancy of around 50% and between 60-70% coverage (type 3), although some signs of erosion were noted on the lower shore periphery. The reef stretched into the subtidal and around the intertidal/subtidal fringe diversity increased with a number of beadlet anemone sp. and common and sun starfish. Towards the north of this reef the clumps increased in size to 1m, and in height to 50cm.

The second medium sized reef immediately north of reef 1 (reef 3) featured larger clumps of S. alveolata (c 50cm –100cm diameter and 50cm high) with a coverage of 60-70% (type 2). Again tube occupancy was assessed as good (50%), but associated species diversity was lower than reef 1 and limited to barnacle coverage of cobbles with littorinids. Reef 2 occupied 27580 sq. metres. Two small distinct reefs was recorded north of this (reefs 3 and 4) featuring smaller clumps of S. alveolata than reef 2 with agglomerations of Sabellaria over lying cobbles. The S. alveolata was again of good quality with 50% occupancy but lower coverage between 30-50% (type 3-4) with reef structures achieving an elevation of up to 40cm. Associated species diversity was again low.

The most extensive reef (reef 5) was recorded between Bank End and Swarthy Hill, stretching for over 2km along the low shore and into the subtidal. This extensive area featured both low ‘cauliflower’ and higher plateau forms in varying condition, with some erosion in the low shore/subtidal zone, with additional or causal deterioration from Laminaria digitata and saccharina) holdfasts. The majority of the reef (reef 5c) featured S. alveolata in reasonable quality with over 60% cover and over 60% occupancy. This area covered 219000 sq. metres with type 2-3 Sabellaria over the majority of the area. The low shore/subtidal fringe (reefs 5b and 5d) featured areas of abundant Laminaria, and in these zones the Common and Sun Stars were abundant to superabundant with between 10-20 Asterias per m2. Other starfish present in this zone included Crossaster papposus, Solaster endeca, Henricia oculata, and Stichastrella rosea. Coverage in this area was lower than the main reef with many areas eroded and in low quality (type 7). On the upper shore fringe of the reef poor quality areas of Sabellaria were found (reef 5a and 5e) with smothering by muddy sand and fucoids. Towards the northern edge of reef 4 the hummocks increased in size to over 50cm in places, with a good occupancy of over 50%. For the most part the beds appeared to overly cobbles, although some development out into the sand was noted. Although characterised by good quality hummocks, the area also featured patches of open sand within the reef, assessed at 10% of total area. In addition, occasional uncolonised large boulders were observed with abundant Nucella and littorinids. In these cases, it appears that their grazing inhibited colonisation, but that they were unable to graze effectively on the individual hummocks themselves. Occasional clumps of S. alveolata were recorded upshore from this reef, although this zone was largely colonised by Mytilus, to the exclusion of S. alveolata.

South of the main reefs smaller patches of Sabellaria were also noted but not surveyed. North of the main reef were a number of smaller reefs of variable quality. Reefs 7 and 10 were of type 3 covering an area of 2405 and 8111 sq. metres respectively. Reefs 6, 8, 9 and 11 were smaller areas of type 3-4 reefs generally less than 1000 sq. metres in area.

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Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Reef 11. Type 3/4 Sabellaria with some Sabellaria Type 2 smothering by sand and mussels. 1023 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Reef 10. Patchy type 3 Sabellaria grading to type 7 on upper shore edge. Sabellaria Type 3-4 Approximately 40% live worms and 20-50% coverage. 8111 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 4 Reef 9. Type 3/4 Sabellaria with Sabellaria Type 4-5 some smothering by sand and mussels. 94.32 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 5 Reef 8. Type 3/4 Sabellaria with Sabellaria Type 5-6 some smothering by sand and mussels. 117.3 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 6 Reef 7. Patchy type 3 Sabellaria Sabellaria Type 6-7 grading to type 7 on upper shore edge. Approximately 40% occupancy Sabellaria Type 7 & 20-50% coverage. 2405 sq m area.

Reef 5d. Eroded Sabellaria Type 7. Kelp bed at low water. Approx 6462 sq m area. Reef 5c. Type 2/3 Sabellaria with >60% Reef 6. Type 3/4 Sabellaria with cover. Erosion and kelp holdfasts on some smothering by sand and lowshore. Smothering by muddy sand mussels. 479.4 sq m area. on upper shore.Patches of bare sand within reef. >60% occupancy. 219100 sq m area.

Reef 5b. Eroded Sabellaria Type 7. Reef 5e. Type 7 Sabellaria with Kelp bed at low water. smothering by muddy sand and Approx 12740 sq m area. fucoids. Approx. 8892 sq m area

Reef 4. Type 3-4 Sabellaria. Similar to reef to south with Sabellaria on cobbles. 50% occupancy but lower coverage 30-50%. 641.6 sq m area.

Reef 3. Type 3-4 Sabellaria. Similar to reef to south with Sabellaria on cobbles. 50% occupancy but lower coverage 30-50%. 3497 sq m area. Reef 5a. Type 7 Sabellaria with smothering by muddy sand and Reef 2. Type 3 Sabellaria colonising fucoids. Approx. 8385 sq m area. boulders 20-50cm high. 60-70% coverage with 50% occupancy. Poorer quality on upper shore with some erosion on low shore. 27580 sq m area.

Reef 1. Type 3 Sabellaria colonising boulders 20cm high. 60-70% coverage with 50% occupancy. Poorer quality on upper shore with some erosion on low shore. 27740 sq m area.

Map 16. Maryport Golf Course and Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Museum Scar, Seabrow Scar and Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast. Bank End Scar. Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 84 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Map 17. Allonby Bay

This are featured an extensive elongate bed of S. alveolata, running along a cobble band on the low shore for c. 3km. In general the reef was of reasonable condition featuring low clumps of around 20cm height on a cobble substratum. Some areas of erosion were noted on both the upper and lower edges, with occasional smothering by fucoid and Mytilus on the upper shore of the southern section. Reef 1 to the south was divided into two main areas with reef 1b of type 3 Sabellaria with 50-60% coverage and 40% occupancy. At the southern end of the reef, on the seaward side, some erosion of the bed was observed, with Laminaria also present. Structures were between 5 and 50cm, and generally around 30cm with a 30-40% occupancy. Specimens were adult, with openings of between 5-10mm, structures increasing in size with distance north along the shore. A large number of Actinia were recorded, together with Asterias spp., Chondrus crispus, Palmaria palmata and Laminaria digitata, an assemblage similar to that of the sublittoral fringe of the reef along the Maryport Golf course frontage. The bed continued to run north-east along the low water mark, with patches of Laminaria, and erosion, as well as occasional embayments running upshore by c. 10m. Towards the centre of the reef on the southern section a number of large platforms of type 2-3. alveolata had developed (reef 1a) in a semi-continuous band in the centre of the reef. In general the size of the structures increased in this area , as did tube diameter (to c. 10mm). Occupancy increased to over 50%. Platforms in the centre of the bed were generally between 3-5m wide and 50-100cm high. And extended approximately in 150m length, parallel to the shore. The northern sector of reef 1 (reef 1c) was generally of lower quality with lower coverage (30-50% cover and <40% occupancy) This area of reef covered an area of approximately 45200 sq. metres.

The inland edge of the reefs were generally similar to that of the tidal fringe. However Enteromorpha was more common, in some patches smothering the reef, together with increased fucoid cover. The southern sector featured increasing cover by Fucoids and Mytilus, with up to 70% covered in some area, and occupancy down to less than 30%. Towards the extreme southern tip, erosion appeared to be occurring along the inland edge, possibly drainage scour, with mature Mytilus common, together with barnacles, Enteromorpha, Ulva and Palmaria. Reefs 2 and 3 were similar to the northern end of reef 1 comprising of type 4 Sabellaria with patchy low lying reef structures with 30-50% coverage and below 40% occupancy. Reefs 2 and 3 covered an area of 30410 and 39110 sq. metres respectively. At the northern end of the area a number of small type 3 reefs were present (reefs 5, 6 and 7) with reefs 5 and 6 less than 100 sq. metres in area and reef 7 occupying 1740 sq. metres. These areas were generally in good condition with over 50% occupancy and approximately 50% coverage.

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Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Reef 7. Small area of good quality type 3 Sabellaria with >50% coverage. 30-50% Fixed Boundary occupancy. 1740 sq m area. Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary Sabellaria Type 2 Reef 6. Small area of good quality type 3 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria with >50% coverage. 30-50% occupancy. 19.51 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Reef 5. Small area of good quality type 3 Sabellaria with >50% coverage. 30-50% Sabellaria Type 4 occupancy. 71.71 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 4-5 Reef 4. Small area of good quality Sabellaria Type 5 type 3 Sabellaria with >50% coverage. Sabellaria Type 5-6 30-50% occupancy. 167.4 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 6 Reef 3. Extensive area of very patchy Sabellaria Type 6-7 type 4 Sabellaria. 30-50%coverage and Sabellaria Type 7 <40% occupancy. 39110 sq m area.

Reef 2. Extensive very patchy low lying type 4 reef. 30-50% coverage. 30-50% occupancy. 30410 sq m area.

Reef 1c. Type 4 Sabellaria continuing from reef directly to south but becoming a very patchy low lying reef. with 30-50% coverage and <40% occupancy. 45200sq m area.

Reef 1b. Extensive Type 3 Sabellaria reef with area of Type 2 to North and in the centre of the reef. Generally 50-60% coverage and 40% occupancy. 77720 sq m area.

Reef 1a. Denser type 2-3 Sabellaria within surrounding type 3 reef. 4849 sq m area.

Map 17. Allonby Bay. Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

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Map 18. Dubmill and Ellison Scar (Approx. NY075473) & Beckfoot/Catherine Scar (Approx. NY085497)

At Dubmill Point and Ellison Scar (reefs 1-3) S. alveolata was present covering an area of approximately 511400 and 318730 sq. metres respectively. At Dubmill Point coverage was generally low inshore (10-15%) with Sabellaria encrusting rocks and cobbles (type 5) exhibiting a sheet morphology with very occasional clumps (maximum radius of 15cm and 15cm in height). The species was noted to be in poor condition with 10% worms and some evidence of damage/decay. Further offshore and at Ellison Scar the reef was in better condition with boulders and cobble on a muddy sand/mud substratum with the majority of the rocks/cobbles covered in low-lying S. alveolata and 30-50% occupancy and up to 50% coverage (type 4-5) with some hummocks and other larger structures. Mussel beds were interspersed with the reefs particularly at Dubmill Point and Sabellaria was not present where Mytilus dominated. Associated species included barnacles such as Semibalanus balanoides encrusting rocks, sponges - Halichondria sp., Nucella lapillus, occasional Buccinum undatum and Dotidae (Nudibranchia) and some algal growth, mainly Ulvae and Fucus.

The intertidal area increases substantially towards Silloth and the Lowhagstock/Catherine Scar area. No S. alveolata were visible in the vicinity of the site, although aerial photograph analysis prior to the survey indicated that a reef/scar was present in the area. The scar ground featured occasional barnacle covered boulders, a large mussel bed with muddy sand, Enteromorpha covered cobbles and pools of standing water with littorinids. The site has apparently been subject to significant accretion in recent years, and is not a characteristic ‘scar’, but rather a boulder field with areas of Mytilus bed. Generally, boulders are 50-70cm diameter were covered in barnacles and Mytilus (semi-mature– mature). Some Flustra and Enteromorpha, littorinids were also noted, as well as occasional F. vesiculosus.

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To the south of this area small patches of S. alveolata were observed (p1 to p11) on boulders generally less than 10cm in diameter. There were also some small patches approximately in the sand between the boulders. At Stinking Crag these occasional clumps of S. alveolata on rocks were generally found in areas of standing water or shallow drainage channels and these small patches of Sabellaria generally had 25-30% occupancy. Further north an area of reef was found at low water adjacent to the Beckfoot bouy (reef 4) with 10-15% coverage (type 5-6) and 10% occupancy adjacent to mussel beds. This area was 14260 sq. metres in area and was near the site where Catherine Hole Scar used to exist (marked Catherine Scar on the admiralty charts) and is possibly a relic of the original scar/reef system.

Page 88 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Key Sabellaria Type 1 <10 sq m Fixed Boundary Reef 4. Sabellaria type 5/6 with 10-15% coverage. 10% occupancy. Adjacent to Diffuse/Uncertain Boundary mussel beds. 14260 sq m area. Sabellaria Type 2 Sabellaria Type 2-3 Sabellaria Type 3 Sabellaria Type 3-4 Sabellaria Type 4 Sabellaria Type 4-5 Sabellaria Type 5 Sabellaria Type 5-6 Sabellaria Type 6 Sabellaria Type 6-7 Sabellaria Type 7

p9 p7p8 p6 p11 p5 p10 Reef 3. Sabellaria type 4-5. 10-15% coverage p4 inshore & up to 50% coverage offshore. Poorer quality inshore with 10% live worms. p2 p3 Better quality offshore with 30-50% live worms. p1 Interspersed with mussel beds. 308900 sq m area.

Reef 2. Sabellaria type 4-5. 10-15% coverage inshore and up to 50% coverage offshore. Poorer quality inshore with 10% live worms. Better quality offshore with 30-50% live worms. Interspersed with mussel beds. 9830 sq m area.

Reef 1. Sabellaria type 5. 10-15% coverage. Poorer quality inshore with 10% live worms. Better quality offshore with 30-50% live worms. Interspersed with mussel beds. 511400 sq m area.

Map 18. Dubmill Point, Ellison Scar Project: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment of & Beckfoot/Catherine Scar. Sabellaria alveolata Reefs on the Eastern Irish Sea Coast.

Client: English Nature.

Date: 01/03/02. Drawn By: JHA

Page 89 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

8. DISCUSSION

The current project on the honeycomb worm Sabellaria alveolata considers the distribution, extent and condition of S. alveolata reefs in MNCR Region 13 (the Eastern Irish Sea Coast). Carried out by the Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies for English Nature, this research provides further knowledge of the species in Region 13 through historical data collection and literature review, analysis of aerial photographs and field survey and mapping. Providing a profile of the current status and future development of the biogenic reef-forming species in this area, it provides some of the information currently lacking on S. alveolata reefs in the UK.

The honeycomb worm, a sedentary tube-dwelling polychaete found on rocky substratum in lower shore and shallow subtidal marine and estuarine areas, is essentially a warmer-water species and in Britain it is at its northernmost extent. With a set of fairly specific habitat requirements including an exposed hard substratum, relatively high water current velocities and high suspended sediment load, S. alveolata has a relatively restricted distribution around the UK coastline. Present only along the south and west coasts, the species is found along the western coast, no further north than the Solway Firth and not east of the Isle of Wight. Although limited in extent, S. alveolata is considered to be one of the most important biogenic reef-forming species in British waters.

S. alveolata is present in a number of areas along the Eastern Irish Sea Coast. Records document the species present off the coast near Heysham in Morecambe Bay, along the southern Cumbria coast (Gutterby Spa, Annaside Banks and Selker Bay) and the Northern Cumbria coast/ southern Solway Firth (Nethertown, Maryport). Aerial photographs highlight the numerous areas of scar ground often associated with the species around much of the Cumbrian coast, some of which have been found to support extensive reef structures of S. alveolata.

Field surveying of numerous stretches of coastline in Region 13 found many locations where S. alveolata is present and some areas where the species occurs extensively. Of the 1,191 km of coastline in the region, S. alveolata is not present in the majority of the area and is noticeably absent from the coastline running north from Great Orme’s Head to Morecambe Bay. Along the Cumbrian coastline, however, the species is relatively common, present in varying levels of abundance at a number of different locations. The survey methodology employed involved the use of aerial photographs and historic data to assess potential areas of S. alveolata habitat, which was followed by field surveys utilising DGPS to map the extent of the reefs.

In order to facilitate this the reefs were broken into 7 core types, which described their size, extent, coverage and health. This information in addition to logged positional data derived from DGPS and other field notes on habitat type, associated species etc. were used to draw polygons showing S. alveolata distribution onto OS raster base maps. In addition aerial photographs were examined in order to assess their usefulness in mapping reef distribution. It was found that whilst some larger reef structures where visible from the photos they were not of sufficient resolution (particularly when taking into account pixellation of scanned images) to identify robust boundaries for the majority of the Sabelleria reefs identified. This was particularly the case when low lying forms were present or when reefs were part of boulder/cobbles fields or covered with marine flora. Nevertheless, the use of aerial photographs were highlighted as being extremely useful for survey planning and if photographs of sufficient resolution were available could allow highly detailed mapping of reef distribution and if used in conjunction with photogrammetric techniques an extremely analysis of coverage, form and vegetation cover may be possible.

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8.1 Spatial and Temporal Variation of Reefs Sabellaria reefs were identified and mapped at the following areas:

• Heysham Sands 21253 sq. metres. • Walney Island 110251 sq. metres • Gutterby Spa & Bog Hole 23022 sq. metres • Annaside Bank/Tarn Point 614363 sq. metres. • Drigg/Barn Scar 110425 sq. metres • Sellafield 78493 sq. metres • St Bees to Nethertown 847660 sq. metres • Siddick to St Helens 244037 sq. metres • Maryport 327267 sq. metres • Allonby Bay 606088 sq. metres • Dubmill Point, Ellison Scar & Beckfoot 844390 sq. metres

A more detailed description of the distribution of S. alveolata is given Appendix 6 and summarised below in Table 7. At Heysham, in South Morecambe Bay, there is a well-developed reef area, where S. alveolata has extended on scar ground (Foot Skear) near the subtidal channel. At this location the species has developed areas of extensive interlocking reef structure, but there are also smaller areas within where the species is present intermittently. S. alveolata is good quality, Type 2 or 2/3 on the seaward extent of the reef formation, deteriorating to Type 6/7 in a band further landward.

Along the West Coast of the Isle of Walney, Nr. Barrow, there are a number of areas where S. alveolata is present. In a few locations, the species dominates the scar ground at lower shore with well-developed reef structures, reaching over 30,000 sq. metres in places e.g. in the middle section at Nanny Point & Loverholme Bed). Other, smaller patches areas are interspersed and occur at various locations along the mid to south sections of the island whilst the scars to the north of the island appeared to be less populated but these areas were also less surveyed due to time constraints. Landward reef areas are often less well developed, with low encrustation of S. alveolata, and Mytilus edulis dominates in some areas. Seaward, reefs often show signs of erosion and at the low water mark are sometimes heavily silted. In general, S. alveolata is good to moderate quality, of Type 2 to 5, but with some small areas of Type 6/7, where quality is reduced/poor.

Along the South Cumbrian coastline, from Gutterby Spa to Tarn Point, there is extensive scar ground (approximately 6km long), upon which S. alveolata is present in abundance (although not continually). In places, the species is particularly dominant and exhibits very well developed reef complexes, which extended over 1km along the coast. Seaward areas of reef occasionally show signs of erosion and landward there are patches where Mytilus dominate. On the southern section of this scar ground, around Gutterby Spa, there a few small patches of S. alveolata reef, of moderate to poor quality Type 4 or 6 covering less than 25,000 sq. metres. North from Annaside Banks to Tarn Point, S. alveolata is generally of good quality Type 2 to 3 and forms large, continuous reef areas of up to 280,200sq. metres and covers 614363 sq. metres in total.

Just North of this area, off the coast near Drigg, there is a distinct S. alveolata reef development on Barn Scar. The species is present here in a few well-developed reef areas, but interspersed with more patchy areas. Areas furthest seaward show some signs of erosion and where Mytilus is present, S.

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alveolata decline. S. alveolata is generally of Type 2/3 in the main reef with Type 4/5 at the margins and outlying reefs. Quality is generally moderate to good.

Table 7. Spatial variation in S. alveolata reefs along MNCR region 13 sub-areas 2-4.

Reef type and approx. abundance class P S C-A F-C O-F R-C R-O Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Total

Heysham Sands 2298 1165.9 1000 9122 21253 (Foot Skear) 7667

Walney Island Sth. x 37071 69301 - Cross Dyke Scar 32230

Walney Island Mid 1 x 31580.5 4068 35648.5 Nanny Point/Loverholme Bed

Walney Island Mid 2 1370 2146 1785 5301 Tummer Hill Scar

Gutterby Spa x 18930 1926 2166 23022 & Bog Hole

Tarn Point & x 14130 44310 30466 613388 Annaside 459703 64779

Drigg & Barn Scar 32430 26740 110425 39610 11645

Sellafield / River Ehen x 45756 9675 3164 14765 78493 5133

Nethertown to St Bees 57960 789700 847660

Siddick to St Helens 18250 29430 54292 189745 99340 42725

Maryport Golf Course 65836 5852 36479 327267 219100

Allonby Bay 79719 521520 606088 4849 Dubmill Point 521230 844390 Ellison Scar 308900 Beckfoot/Catherine Scar x 14260 Units in sq. metres. SA -Super Abundant. A- abundant. C - common. F - frequent. O - occasional. R - Rare. P - Present.

Off the coast at Seascale and Sellafield, S. alveolata is present in a number of reefs along the intertidal zone, often in bands running down the beach from E to W. The reefs are of variable condition, with some algal cover and evidence of siltation in a few places. Patches are mainly well dispersed over the area and no continuous, extensive reef complexes are present. S. alveolata is mostly Type 3 to 4, but with some areas Type 6 and 7.

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Further north along the Cumbrian coastline, S. alveolata is present in a number of areas. Along the coast from St Bees Town to Nethertown, a series of well-developed extensive reef structures occur on boulder/cobbles fields. S. alveolata is generally of Type 4/5, moderate quality, but with small areas of Type 2/3 and one of Type 7. Reef areas along this stretch of coastline cover 847600 sq. metres in total.

Off the coast from Siddick to St Helens, S. alveolata reef structures are present, but are less extensive than those further south, showing particularly poor condition where Mytilus is present. Some relatively well-developed S. alveolata reefs occur on scar ground but signs of erosion are visible on more seaward sections. Reefs are found in two smaller areas and one larger more extensive reef complex. Variable quality and coverage with type 2/3 S. alveolata, in an area 99,340 sq. metres, but also a number of patches of Type 6 and 7 (an area of 53,450m2 in total) with a total coverage of 244037 sq. metres.

S. alveolata reefs are present along the Northern Cumbrian coastline, associated mostly with scar ground. Reefs extend along the Maryport to Allonby coast and are generally in good condition, except in places where condition deteriorates due to erosion or smothering by sediment and marine flora. Off the coast from Maryport Golf Course, S. alveolata is present as type 2/3 and in generally good quality but with a proportion of relict reef structure which is often overgrown by younger forms or algae. Small areas of type 3 are located to the north and south and patches of poor quality type 7 along the margins of the main reef.

At Allonby, an extensive S. alveolata reef complex occurs, in moderate condition, but with some signs of erosion on both the upper and lower shore fringes. Coverage and condition decrease northwards and some very good quality type 2-3 reef is present in the centre of the southern most reef system. S. alveolata is generally of Type 3 to 4, good to moderate quality and variable (30-60%) coverage. Further north, at Dubmill Point and Ellison Scar, S. alveolata is present mainly in relatively low-density (10-30%) interspersed with mussel beds at Dubmill Point. The species is absent from areas where Mytilus dominate and S. alveolata is present mainly as Type 5 or 6 and in poor condition at Dubmill Point.

At Ellison Scar Sabellaria is more common particularly toward low water where coverage and quality increases and the species may be common to abundant over most of the area types 4 to 5 dominate. However, the reefs cover a large area, e.g. 511,400 sq. metres at Dubmill Point and access was difficult particularly at Ellison Scar and it is possible that better quality reef is evident further offshore than the area surveyed but only visible at extreme low spring tides. A small type 5-6 reef is present to the north of the area at low water near the Beckfoot buoy adjacent to where Catherine Scar (Catherine Hole Scar) was situated before it was covered in sand - possibly a relic from the previous scar? Various other small patches of reef are located around/in Lowhagstock Scar.

As a whole, along the coast in Region 13, S. alveolata exhibits particularly well-developed reef structures at Nethertown, Tarn Point, Selker Bay and Annaside Banks south of St Bees Head and at Maryport and Allonby area in North Cumbria. Along other sections of the coastline, the species is present in areas with exposed scar ground between mid-low water.

In terms of the temporal variation in reefs a number of surveys have noted the presence, distribution and abundance of S. alveolata along the Cumbrian coast over the past century. Unfortunately, due to the difference in survey methods quantitative comparisons of coverage and distribution cannot easily be made from the data available. However, at a presence-absence level it is possible to show where S.

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alveolata has been recorded in previous surveys in comparison with the current study and this information is given in Appendix 3 and summarised below in Tables 8 and 9. Table 8.2 shows the relative abundance of S. alveolata recorded at varying locations over the past 40 years whilst Table 8.3 shows the presence or absence of S. alveolata over the same time scale at the main S. alveolata sites. Due to the differing survey techniques it is difficult to derive a quantitative estimate of historical change along the Cumbria coast but some general trends are apparent.

Table 8. Summary of current and historical abundance of S. alveolata along the Cumbria coast.

199 197 197 197 196 196 195 2001-2002 2000 1998-99 7 1989-91 1984 8 4 0 1 0 9 Heysham Sands (Foot Skear) R-S A N R-N F-O O Inshore from Foot Skear N R-C

Walney Island Sth. O-C, P N Walney Island Mid 1 C-A, P Walney Island Mid 2 R-S

Gutterby Spa & Bog Hole P-A O-F-A Tarn Point & Annaside P-A A R-C A-S-A

Drigg Point, River Esk not surveyed R-A Barn Scar F-S O-C A

Seascale, Whitriggs Scar N? C-SA O Sellafield / River Ehen P-S O-F O

Nethertown to St Bees Town O/F-S O-A A St Bees Head. South Head not surveyed O R-F O

Cunning Point not surveyed O Moss Bay not surveyed O Siddick to St Helens R-S O-F R-O-F Nth of St Helens at Flimby N? O

Sth Maryport & Risehow Scar N? A Nth Maryport Scars C O-F-A Maryport Golf Course R-S A C A-S-A

Allonby Bay F-S C A A

Dubmill Point P-O F-A C O-F Ellison Scar O-C A Units in sq. metres. SA -Super Abundant. A- abundant. C - common. F - frequent. O - occasional. R - Rare. P - Present. N = Not Present. N? = Not recorded but unsure - incompletely surveyed.

At the majority of locations where S. alveolata have been recorded historically the current study showed that populations of S. alveolata are still present in approximately the same levels of abundance (although no estimate of area is possible). At some areas however some change is evident for example the populations at Dubmill Point seem to have reduced in general abundance with an accompanying increase in dominance of mussels. The abundance of Sabellaria at Ellison Scar also does not appear to be as high in the current study as in previous years but given its location and the time available to survey the area per tide this may be due to incomplete data. Other areas which have reduced in size some previous years include Risehow scar south of Maryport and the scars at St Bees

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Head. These were historically abundant (in 1989-91 for Risehow Scar and pre 1960 for St Bees Head) but have now reduced considerably (Hammond, 2000). It was not possible to survey the cliffs at St Bees Head in the current study and Risehow scar was only briefly examined and no significant populations of Sabellaria recorded. Populations have reduced in size between 1999 and 2000 at Siddick due to storm damage (Lancaster, 2000) and areas of eroded reef were apparent at the low shore in the current study. Another area in region 13 which have historically supported S. alveolata is Hilbre Island off the Dee estuary which had abundant Sabellaria in 1919 (Herdman, 1919) but has since been absent.

Table 9. Summary of presence/absence of S. alveolata along the Cumbria coast.

2001-2002 2000 1998-99 1997 1989-91 1984 1978 1974 1970 1961 1960 1959

Heysham y y n y y y Walney Island y n Annaside & Tarn Bay y y y River Esk ? y Drigg & Barn Scar y y y Seascale, Whitriggs Scar n? y y Sellafield / River Ehen y y y Nethertown to St Bees y y y y Cunning Point & Moss Bay ? y Siddick to St Helens y y y Maryport y y y y Allonby Bay y y y y Dubmill Point & Ellison Scar y y y y

Some areas have shown an increase in population of S. alveolata for example at Heysham sands (Foot Skear) the species declined from 1961 and was absent until the late 1990s and currently occupies an area of over 2 hectares. At Walney Island little historical data exists but no Sabellaria has been recorded for the area previous to the existing study (although subtidal populations in Piel Channel have been recorded (WA Marine, 1998 & 1999) and it is possible that the area is under going a period of expansion in terms of its Sabellaria populations. Recently, small reefs of S. alveolata have been recorded on the Piers at Maryport (Hammond, 2000) although it is not known if these are long term structures.

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8.2 Conservation & Current Status S. alveolata is recognised as an important biogenic reef forming species along the British coastline and has been included in the UK’s Biodiversity Action Plan. A species with a limited distribution in Britain, S. alveolata is the keystone species of the unique S.alv habitat (MNCR habitat classification). S. alveolata reefs provide the intertidal and uppermost subtidal zones with increased stability, variety of habitat and biodiversity. However, S. alveolata reefs are subject to natural variation and are susceptible to change, including expansion and possible instability, which may be influenced by human activities and interference.

There is evidence of a significant contraction in range of S. alveolata reefs along the southern UK coastline over a period of 20 years until 1984 (Cunningham, 1984). Declines have been reported in the south west of the country, along the Cornish coast and in the upper parts of the Bristol channel. There has also been a decline in the species from the North Wales coast and the Dee Estuary (Cunningham , 1984, Herdman, 1919). The reason for this contraction in S. alveolata reefs is unclear and particularly difficult to assess, given the natural variability of the species. At the same time, however, the species has been re-colonising areas where it has been absent for years, for example off the coast near Heysham (in Morecambe Bay), where S. alveolata reefs currently dominate over two hectares of boulder scar.

Provisions for conserving intertidal S. alveolata can be made under SSSI designations. S. alveolata reefs also occur as a sub-feature of Annex 1 of the Habitats Directive (intertidal mudflats and sandflats) and are present in a number of candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSACs). However, a considerable amount of intertidal S. alveolata lies outside of these designated areas and, whilst cited as an important community type by both the Marine Conservation Society and the Nature Conservancy Council (Gubbay, 1988; Davidson et al., 1991), no statutory conservation assessment has yet been made. As such, improved information on the extent and quality of the S. alveolata reefs of UK coastal waters is required in order to understand and appreciate the status of the species in this country, as well as its natural dynamics and sensitivity to human influences. Sabellaria alveolata reefs are also provided for under national and local Habitat Action Plans and action plan objectives and targets have been set in order maintain the extent and quality of S. alveolata reefs and re-establish reefs in five areas where they were formerly present under the national BAP. Associated habitat action plans in the Cumbria BAP of relevance to S. alveolata are Phase I. Coastal Habitats and Phase II - Intertidal rocky shores and reefs with estuaries/embayments and Intertidal rocky shore and reefs of the open coast. Full copies of the National Habitat Action Plan for S. alveolata and the Cumbrian Biodiversity Action Plan for S. alveolata reefs are given in Appendix 7.

In the context of the UK the S. alveolata reefs in Region 13 (and in particular along the Cumbrian/Lancashire coast in sub-areas 2-4) form a significant component of the UK resource. The Cumbrian Biodiversity Action Plan for S. alveolata reefs states that the Cumbrian coast holds the most numerous and extensive reefs in Britain particular between Duddon Estuary and Dubmill Point and further north between Maryport and Allonby. S. alveolata has been recorded along approximately 28 km of the Cumbrian/south Solway coast with significant populations of S. alveolata covering an area of approximately 3771000 sq. metres or 377 hectares. It is not known how much S. alveolata exists on the North Solway coast in terms of total area but from the literature it would seem that there is considerably less than on the Cumbria/ south Solway coast. Consequently ,it is considered that sub-areas 2-4 of MNCR Region13 make up the bulk of the S. alveolata resource in Region 13 as a whole.

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Nationally, no precise figure for the total area of S. alveolata has been reported. However, between 95-115 ha of S. alveolata is currently present along the Welsh coast (Brazier 2002, pers. comm.) and given the length of the Cumbrian/Lancashire coast along which S. alveolata is found in relation to other parts of the UK coast where the species has been recorded it is estimated the S. alveolata populations inhabiting sub-areas 2-4 in region 13 may make up at least 10% and possibly 20% of the UK resource. However, such estimates are very broad and detailed surveys of the other UK populations of S. alveolata need to be carried out in order to obtain an accurate assessment of the UK resource.

As a rough guide to quality the reefs in region 13 have been divided into 3 groups on the basis of the reef types shown on the distribution maps. Reefs of type 2 and 3 are considered ‘good quality’, types 4-5 are ‘moderate quality’ and types 6 and 7 are ‘reduced-poor quality’. However, the general morphology of the reefs as described in groups 1-7 is not necessarily a guide to quality as in large areas of type 2-3 reef it is difficult to assess accurately how much of the reef structure are alive and how much is dead/senescent. Assessment of the proportion of live worms at the reefs was by necessity generally made at the fringes of the reefs and this is further hampered by the large amounts of algae strewn over many reefs. However, whilst the groupings given can only be used as a guide they do give some indication of the existing and historical health of the reefs. Table 10 shows the relative proportion of these groups in the survey area.

Table 10. Quality of the S. alveolata reef in sub-area 2-4 of MNCR region 13.

Area Good Moderate Reduced/Poor Heysham Sands (Foot Skear) 11131 (52%) 1000 (5%) 9122 (43%) Walney Island Sth. 0 69301 (100%) 0 Walney Island Mid 1 31581 (89%) 4068 (11%) 0 Walney Island Mid 2 3516 (66%) 0 1785 (34%) Gutterby Spa & Bog Hole 18930 (82%) 1926 (8%) 2166 (9%) Tarn Point & Annaside 14130 (2%) 109089 (18%) 30466 (5%) 459703 (75%) Drigg & Barn Scar 32430 (29%) 38385 (35%) 0 39610 (36%) Sellafield / River Ehen 60564 (77%) 0 17929 (23%) Nethertown to St Bees 57960 (7%) 789700 (93%) 0 Siddick to St Helens 117590 (48%) 0 83722 (42%) 42725 (18%) Maryport Golf Course 284936 (87%) 5852 (2%) 36479 (11%) Allonby Bay 84568 (14%) 521520 (86%) 0 Ellison Scar & Dubmill Point 0 830130 (100%) 0 Beckfoot/Catherine Scar 0 14260 (100%)

Total 717335 (18.7%) 2370971 (62%) 181669 (4.7%) 542038 (14.2%) 14260 (0.4%) Units in sq. metres

Table 8.4 shows that the majority of the reefs in region 13 sub-areas 2-4 (95%) were of moderate to good quality with 717335 sq. metres (72 ha) of good quality reef, 2369971 sq. metres of moderate quality reef (237 ha) and 542038 sq. metres of good to moderate quality reef (54 ha). A much lower proportion of reduced/poor quality reef was found (5% of total area) with 181669 sq. metres of reduced/poor quality reef was found (18 ha) and 14260 sq. metres of moderate to reduced/poor quality reef (14 ha). In general the largest areas of good quality reef were found at Maryport golf

Page 97 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature course and Siddick with 284936 sq. metres (285 ha) and 117590 sq. metres (118 ha) respectively although these areas also had high proportions of poor quality reef (364798 sq. metres and 83722 sq. metres respectively). Furthermore, whilst the reefs at Maryport and Siddick had the largest proportion of good (type 2-3) reef structures it was difficult to ascertain exactly how much was actually live as the area was highly variable with large reef platforms and hummocks (type 2-3) with high coverage but containing a mixture of live and dead reef and numerous areas of overgrowth of new Sabellaria which indicates a mixture of old and new reef structures in agreement with Hammond (2000).

Large areas of moderate to good quality reef was also evident between Tarn Point to Annaside with 582922 sq. metres recorded. Dubmill scar and Ellison scar had no good quality reef recorded. Ellison Scar has historically had a very good Sabellaria reef (Hammond, 2000) although due to time/tide constraints it was not possible to cover the entire reef so some areas of good quality reef may have been missed. Furthermore the position of the reef recorded in the current study does not extend as far offshore as historically recorded and as shown on admiralty charts and is was noted that reef quality increased significantly toward low water so it is possible that though the areas was surveyed on spring tides there are significant areas of good quality Sabellaria reef only exposed on extremely low spring tides. Maryport golf course and Mid Walney Island 1 (Nanny Point & Loverholme Bed) had the highest proportion of good quality reef (87% and 89% respectively) whilst Dubmill Point, Siddick and Heysham had the highest proportions of reduced/low quality reef (100%, 42% and 43% respectively although at the latter 2 reefs a high proportion of good quality reef (48% and 52% respectively) was also present.

Overall, the results of the current study would indicate that along English coast of MNCR region 13 significant S. alveolata reefs exist primarily along the Cumbria and Lancashire coast althougn some reefs have historically been recorded elsewhere (e.g. Conwy Bay and Hibre Island). These reefs range from small (e.g. at Gutterby Spa) to extremely extensive e.g. those at Maryport, Allonby, Nethertown and Selker Bay. Whilst coverage at quality/health of the reefs are variable they would generally appear to be in moderate to good health and many of the sites where S. alveolata is present today are also areas where the species existed historically with reefs often comprising of a mixture of old and new forms. At many of these sites the species continues to thrive although at certain areas of St Bees Head at Dubmill Point historically good areas have declined. At St Bees Head prior to the mid 1950s a thriving population declined due to pollution and storm damage and at present a much smaller population is present. At Dubmill Point the area is now heavily overgrown with mussels and algae and the future for the species at this location would seem limited. Hammond (2000) noted that many of the reef systems along the Cumbria coast were affected by industrial and sewage pollution in the latter half of the 20th century and went into decline. However, Hammond concludes by stating that the future for most of the reefs in the area is probably good and given the improvements in water quality over recent years this is likely to be the case. Furthermore, at many reefs the juvenile forms of Sabellaria present indicate that settlement is taking place and many of the reefs contain old/senescent structures with overgrowth of new Sabellaria.

As outlined previously, the factors which affect the development and sustainability of these reefs including trampling/fishing activities (possibly an issue at Ellison Scar), competition with other taxa e.g. Mytilus edulis/algae (Dubmill Point), pollution, storm damage (evident at many areas), temperature variations and variations in the sedimentological and hydrodynamic regime. The latter two factors may be particularly important as the S. alveolata reefs along the Cumbria/Solway coast are at the northern limit of their distribution and are prone to heavy mortalities in cold winters, particularly higher up the shore as the species prefers elevated winter temperatures between 8-10°C

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(Holt et al., 1998). This assists in the establishment of other taxa with different temperature preferences e.g. Mussels. Changes in hydrodynamic regime also affect the populations in terms of dispersal/supply of larvae and in the levels of water borne sediment required for tube building. An increase in deposition at an area can have devastating implications for the species although they can tolerate some smothering by sediment. For, example Catherine Hole Scar on the Cumbrian coast and the colonies at Rough Scar and Brewing Scar on the Solway disappeared completely in the mid 1990s when the scars were completely covered in sand (Allen et al., 1999; Cutts & Hemingway, 1996). The current study showed the presence of a small scar at the extreme low water at the end of Catherine Scar (Catherine Hole Scar) near the Beckfoot bouy which is possibly a relic of a former colony. The re-establishment of Sabellaria at Heysham, particularly after 1995 following many years of absence has been attributed by some authors to the increase in sediment load, coarsening of the sediment regime and other hydrodynamic changes due to the construction of sea defences at Morecambe (Brason, 1997).

Evidence suggests that Sabellaria reefs are inherently instable and exhibit cyclical behaviour with periods of development and decay over a time span of around five years (Gruet, 1986; Perkins, 1988). Whilst this is probably true in many areas in terms of individual reef structures/complexes (as evident by the mixture of old and new reef structures) at a broader level, many of the reefs in region 13 appear to have been relatively long lived and most historical sites still have living populations S. alveolata in moderate to good condition. As outlined previously some areas have exhibited a decline in quality e.g. Dubmill Point whilst others (Heysham and possibly Walney Island) are undergoing a period of expansion. Clearly, whilst the current study would suggest that current status and outlook for the species in Region 13 is in generally good, given the potential instability of the species and the impact the species has upon the ecosystem the status of S. alveolata in Region 13 needs to be closely monitored. Given the relative lack of historical quantitative data on the extent and coverage of the species it is suggested that repeat surveys be carried at least once every five years in conjunction with more detailed studies using transect/quadrats, preferably at sites where previous studies have been undertaken. Furthermore, whilst some of the reefs are found in statutory sites, many are not as shown in Table 11. For example the large reef complexes at Tarn Point, Nethertown, Siddick and Maryport and Allonby lie outside neighbouring SSSIs and SACs and it is recommended that the representation of S. alveolata in statutory and non-statutory sites is reviewed and existing statutory sites expanded to include adjacent reef complexes where necessary for monitoring purposes.

Table 11. Location of S. alveolata reefs with reference to statutory sites.

Reef Complex Statutory Sites Heysham Sands (Foot Skear) Morecambe Bay SSSI, SAC, SPA, RAMSAR Walney Island Sth. Sth Walney & Piel Flats SSSI Walney Island Mid No Walney Island Nth No Gutterby Spa & Bog Hole Southern section - No. Northern section adjacent to Annaside SSSI Tarn Point & Annaside Southern section - adjacent to Annaside SSSI. Northern Section - No. Drigg & Barn Scar Drigg Coast SAC & SSSI Sellafield / River Ehen No Nethertown to St Bees Town No apart from the northern tip of reef which is in the adjacent St Bees Head SSSI Siddick to St Helens No Maryport Golf Course No Allonby Bay No Dubmill Point No Ellison Scar & Catherine Scar Solway Firth SAC

It is also suggested that the following areas be monitored as they were not fully surveyed in the current study: Risehow Scar, Flimby scar, Moss Bay and Cunning Point, St Bees Head Cliffs and

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Seascale -Whitriggs Scar. No major developments of S. alveolata were noted at these locations but time did not permit a full study and historically the species has been recorded here so any future monitoring should include these sites. Furthermore, access was restricted to the coast below Bogs Hole/Gutterby Spa to Haverigg Point and whilst no S. alveolata has been reported from here either in the current study or historically, the presence of the species cannot be ruled out. There are also numerous patchy areas of small scars on Walney Island often only exposed at low water. It was not possible to access all of these at low water so further occurrences of Sabellaria may be possible.

8.3 Conclusions In Region 13 S. alveolata is generally present where there is exposed hard substratum, including pebbles, cobbles and boulders particularly between mid to low water. Occasionally, the species is found at higher tidal elevations but in these situation distribution is patchy, with lower coverage and occupancy and with poorly developed reef structure. Where S. alveolata dominates, there are generally few associated species although at the subtidal fringe a higher proportion of epifauna may be evident. Algae are generally very common on the reefs (mainly Fucus spp., Enteromorpha intestinalis and Ulva lactuca) and where algal cover is most dense, the condition of S. alveolata often deteriorates. On the seaward extreme of reefs, there is occasionally evidence of erosion, caused by strong wind and wave action, and there are often signs of siltation. S. alveolata reefs often occur alongside beds of Mytilus edulis and there is evidence that mussel spat settle and build on the reefs. Other common taxa include typical intertidal hard substrate species such as shore crabs Carcinus maenas, barnacles (predominantly Semibalanus balanoides), limpets (Patella vulgata) and periwinkles (Littorina spp.).

S. alveolata was recorded at numerous locations in sub-areas 2 to 4 of MNCR Region 13 particularly along the Cumbria coast with over 3771981 sq. metres (or over 377 ha) of reef recorded in the current study. Much of the reef was in moderate to good quality with many areas containing a mixture of old and newer forms indicating cyclical processes of development and decay although at a broader level most historical sites contain healthy populations today. Whilst at some areas e.g. Dubmill Point the populations of S. alveolata are declining somewhat whilst at other areas (e.g. Heysham) the species has undergone a period of expansion. Overall, it would appear that the outlook for the species in Region 13 is generally good and it is considered that S. alveolata will colonise and inhabit any suitable substrate along Region 13 where hydrodynamic conditions allow - particularly north of Morecambe. However, some areas of scar ground which would seem potential settlement sites are uninhabited. The reasons for this are unclear but presumably as Sabellaria can actively settle on suitable substrate or on areas of existing settlement this may be due to local variations in the hydrodynamic regime, stochastic recruitment process and competition from other taxa or removal by wave action/ storm events and fluctuation sin winter temperatures. In terms of the field survey methodology, the available aerial photographs, while useful, were not of sufficient resolution to be used as a mapping tool in terms of determining accurate boundaries although they were invaluable in terms of survey planning. The method employed to monitor the distribution of the S. alveolata reefs worked well and the use of DGPS was critical in obtaining accurate boundaries. However, the method was time consuming and in larger areas with diffuse boundaries and a high variability of cover the method could not be employed in detail for all forms of reef. In such areas transect and quadrat surveys in conjunction with high resolution aerial photographs would be useful in order to accurately map such reefs and allow statistically robust analysis of change.

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Irving, R.A., Jones, D.R., Holt, T.J. & Hawkins, S.J. (1996). Chapter 4.2 The Sea Bed. In: Coasts and seas of the United Kingdom. Region 13 Northern Irish Sea: Colwyn Bay to Stranraer, including the Isle of Man, ed. by J.H. Barne, C.F. Robson, S.S. Kaznowska, J.P. Doody & N.C. Davidson, 73- 82. Peterborough Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

Killeen, I.J. & Light, J.M. (2000). S. alveolata, a polychaete host for the gastropods Noemiamea dolioliformis and Graphis albida. J. Mar. Biol. Ass. U.K., 80, 571-573.

Kirtley, D.W. (1968). The reef builders. Nat. Hist. N.Y., 77, 40-45.

Kirtley, D.W. & Tanner, W.F. (1968). Sabellariid worms: builders of a major reef type. Journ.Sedim.Petrol., 38, 73-78.

Lewis, J.R. (1964). The Ecology of Rocky Shores. The English Universities press Ltd., London.

Main, M.B. & Nelson, W.G. (1988). Tolerance of the sabellariid polychaete Phragmatopoma lapidosa Kinberg to burial, turbidity and hydrogen sulphide. Marine Environmental Research, 26, 39-55.

Mettam, C. (1992). The influence of S. alveolata reef on sublittoral community structure. Polychaete Research Newsletter, 14, 3.

Mettam, C., Conneely, M.E. & White, S.J. (1994). Benthic macrofauna and sediments in the Severn Estuary. Biological Journal of the Linnean Society of London, 51, 71-81.

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Nature Conservancy Council. (1990). Marine Consultation Areas: Scotland. Nature Conservancy Council, Edinburgh.

Pawson, M.G and Robson, G.F. Chapter 5.5 Exploited Sea-Bed Species. In: Coasts and seas of the United Kingdom. Region 13 Northern Irish Sea: Colwyn Bay to Stranraer, including the Isle of Man, ed. by J.H. Barne, C.F. Robson, S.S. Kaznowska, J.P. Doody & N.C. Davidson, 108-112. Peterborough Joint Nature Conservation Committee.

Pawlik, J.R. (1988). Larval settlement and metamorphosis of two gregarious sabellariid polychaetes: Sabellaria alveolata compared with Phragmatopoma californica. J. Mar. Biol. Assessment. U.K., 68, 101-124.

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Perkins, E.J. (1973). The marine fauna and flora of the Solway Firth. Dumfries. Dumfries and Galloway natural history and Antiquarian Society.

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Porras, R, Bataller, J.V., Murgui, E. & Torregrosa, M.T. (1996). Trophic structure and community composition of polychaetes inhabiting some Sabellaria alveolata reefs along the Valencia gulf coast, western Mediterranean. P.S.Z.N.I: Marine Ecology, 17 (4), 583-602.

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Wolff, W.J. (1973). The estuary as a habitat. An analysis of data on the soft-bottom macrofauna of the estuarine area of the rivers Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt. Zoologische Verhandelingen. Rijksmuseum Van Natuurlijke Historie, Netherlands. No. 126.

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Woombs, M. (1997). Intertidal survey of biotopes on rocky scars in Morecambe Bay. A report for English Nature. WA Marine & Environment.

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APPENDIX 1: CONSERVATION DESIGNATIONS IN MNCR REGION 13

Reason For Site Grid Ref. Designation Designation Newton Marsh SD456292 SSSI Wet Grassland Gronant to Talacre SJ 296844 SSSI Sand Dunes Hoylake Dunes SJ 207873 SPA, SSSI Sand Dunes Wirral Coast & Wallasey Golf Course SJ 277927 SSSI Sand Dunes Seaforth to Hightown SD 297018 SSSI Sand Dunes Cabin Hill to Lifeboat Road SD 275070 SSSI Sand Dunes Formby Point SD 282091 SSSI Sand Dunes Formby Golf Course to Woodvale Aerodrome SD 282099 SSSI Sand Dunes Ainsdale NNR SD 286119 NNR, SSSI Sand Dunes Ainsdale LNR SD 298129 LNR, SSSI Sand Dunes Birkdale Hills SD 320164 LNR, SSSI Sand Dunes Southport Dunes SD 354207 SSSI Sand Dunes South Walney SD 213622 WT, SSSI Sand Dunes North Walney SD 172718 NNR, SSSI Sand Dunes Sandscale Haws SD 192753 NT, SSSI Sand Dunes Dunnerholme to Askham in Furness SD 212788 SSSI Sand Dunes Haverigg Haws SD 143783 SSSI Sand Dunes Eskmeals Dunes SD 077939 WT, LNR, NP, SSSI Sand Dunes Seascale to Drigg SD 052992 LNR, NP, SSSI Sand Dunes Silloth/Maryport Allonby to Maryport NY 074409 AONB Sand Dunes Silloth/Maryport Mawbray Banks South NY 080466 AONB, SSSI Sand Dunes Silloth/Maryport Mawbray Banks North NY 086483 AONB, SSSI Sand Dunes Silloth/Maryport - Wolsty Bank NY 097517 AONB, SSSI Sand Dunes Silloth/Maryport Silloth Golf Course NY 103525 AONB, SSSI Sand Dunes Torrs Warren NX 148550 SSSI Sand Dunes Llandulas SH 930783 SSSI Shale Sites Gronant SS 100850 SSSI Shale Sites Foulney SD 240650 SSSI Shale Site South Walney SSSI Shale Site North Walney SD 177724 SSSI, NNR Shale Site Grune Point NY 140560 SSSI, SPA Shale Site Powfoot NY 180650 SSSI Shale Site Glaymoddie NX 430360 SSSI Shale Site

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Reason For Site Grid Ref. Designation Designation Rhyd-y-foel SH 9177 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Meitechion Valley Woods SY 0270 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Gronant Dunes & Talacre Warren SSSI Lower Plant Sites Ainsdale - Freshfield Dunes SD 2912 NNR, SSSI Lower Plant Sites Winmarleigh & Cockerham Mosses SD 4448 Part SSSI Lower Plant Sites Warton Crag SD 4972 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Gait Barrows SD 4877 NNR Lower Plant Sites Arnside Knott SD 4577 SSSI Lower Plant Site SD 4387 SSSI Lower Plant Site Humphrey Head SD 3973 SSSI Lower Plant Site Old Park Wood/Halker Park SD 3377 Part SSSI Lower Plant Site Walney Island SD 1772 SSSI Lower Plant Site Sandscale Haws SD 1974 SSSI Lower Plant Site Ravenglass/Askmeals SD 0896 SSSI Lower Plant Site St Bees Head NY 9413 SSSI Lower Plant Site Silloth Dunes & Mawbray Bank Wedholme Flow NY 2152 SSSI Lower Plant Site Bowness Common NY 2059 SSSI Lower Plant Site Glasson Moss NY 2860 SSSI Lower Plant Site Drumburgh Moss NY 2558 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Kirkconnell Flow NX 9769 NNR Lower Plant Sites Moyl Peninsula to Rosscarel NX 8382 Part SSSI Lower Plant Sites Heart Moss NX 7647 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Newlaw Moss NX 7347 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Dirk Hatteracks Cave NX 5053 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Carse Gowan Moss NX 4358 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Derskapin Moss NX 2658 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Flow of Dergoals NX 2457 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Torrs Warren NX 1384 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Mulls of Galloway NX 1530 SSSI Lower Plant Sites Rhyd-y-foel SH 9175 SSSI Invertebrates Gronant Dunes SJ 1084 SSSI Invertebrates Hilbre Island SJ 1987 SSSI, LNR Invertebrates North Wirral Foreshore SJ 2592 SSSI Invertebrates Altcar Sand Dunes SD 2804 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates Formby Sand Dunes SD 2804 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates Ainsdale Sand Dunes SD 2810 SSSI, NNR, LNR Invertebrates

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Reason For Site Grid Ref. Designation Designation Southport Sand Dunes SD 3015 SSSI, LNR Invertebrates Lytham St Anne SD 3130 SSSI, LNR Invertebrates Winmarleigh Moss SD 4447 SSSI Invertebrates Warton Crag SD 4973 SSSI, LNR, part WT, NT Invertebrates Leighton Moss SD 4874 SSSI, RSPB Invertebrates Thrag End SD 4976 SSSI Invertebrates Haweswater SD 4776 SSSI Invertebrates Eawes Wood SD 4676 SSSI, NT Invertebrates Gait Burrows SD 4877 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates Morecambe Bay SD 4666 SSSI, RSPB, NT Invertebrates Arnside Knott SD 4577 NT, SSSI Invertebrates Whitbarrow SD 4487 SSSI, LNR Invertebrates Heathrop Moss SD 4481 SSSI, WTR Invertebrates Heathrop Woods & Quarrys SD 4379 SSSI Invertebrates SD 4382 WTR Invertebrates Nicholls Moss SD 4382 SSSI Invertebrates Humphrey Head SD 3973 SSSI Invertebrates Wort Barrows SD 3976 SSSI Invertebrates Roundsea Woods & Mosses SD 3382 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates Rusland Valley Mosses SD 3388 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates South Walney SD 2265 SSSI, WTR Invertebrates North Walney SD 1772 SSSI, WTR Invertebrates Sandscale Haws SD 1974 SSSI, NT Invertebrates Duddon Mosses SD 2285 SSSI Invertebrates Drigg Coast SD 0696 SSSI, WTR Invertebrates Hallsenna Moor NY 0006 SSSI Invertebrates Low Church Ross NY 0105 SSSI Invertebrates St Bees Head NY 9413 SSSI, RSPB Invertebrates Biglands Bog NY 2553 SSSI, WTR Invertebrates Finglandrigg Wood NY 2756 SSSI, NNR Invertebrates Upper Solway Flats & Marshes NY 1565 SSSI, NNR, NT, SPA Invertebrates Caerlaverock NY 0464 NNR, WWT, BR Invertebrates Carrick Ponds NX 5850 SSSI Invertebrates Torrs Warren - Luce Sands NX 1354 SSSI Invertebrates River Annas SD 086874 SSSI Wet Grassland Salta Moss NY 086454 SSSI Wet Grassland Upper Solway Flats & Marshes NY 160610 SSSI, SPA Wet Grassland

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APPENDIX 2: SPECIES DATA PROVIDED BY THE CUMBRIAN SEA FISHERIES COMMITTEE SHORE SURVEY 2000 (LANCASTER, 2000).

Site 1 Dubmill Point

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm F-A Halichondria panicea Breadcrumb sponge F Urticina felina Dahlia anemone F Lanice conchilega Sand mason worm F Mytilus edulis Edible mussel F Ulva lactuca Sea lettuce F Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae F Palmaria palmata Dulse F Kirchenpaueria pinnata Hydroids C Urticina eques Large dahlia anemone C Nucella lapillus Dog whelk C Palaemon serratus Common prawn C Asterias rubens Common starfish C Laminaria digitata Oar weed C Laminaria saccharina Sugar belt C

Site 2 Maryport Golf Course

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm A Enteromorpha intestinalis Green algae A Porphyra umbilicalis Laver A Semibalanus balanoides Barnacle F Flustrellidra hispida Hairy sea mat F Laminaria digitata Oar weed F Laminaria saccharina Sugar belt F Chondrus crispus Irish moss C-F Elminius modestus Barnacle C Amphipod sp. Amphipod C Asterias rubens Common starfish C Dendrodoa grossularia Sea gooseberry C Hyperoplus lanceolatus Sand eel C Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae C Ceramium rubrum Red pool algae O-C

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Site 3 Siddick

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm F Semibalanus balanoides Barnacle A Enteromorpha intestinalis Green algae F Pomatoceros triqueter Keel worm F Nucella lapillus Dog whelk F Halichondria panicea Breadcrumb sponge C-F Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae C Ceramium rubrum Red pool algae C Lanice conchilega Sand mason C Littorina littorea Edible periwinkle C

Site 4 Nethertown

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm F Enteromorpha intestinalis Green algae A Porphyra umbilicalis Laver F Semibalanus balanoides Barnacle F Fucus serratus Toothed wrack F Elminius modestus Barnacle C Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae C Ceramium rubrum Red pool algae C Lanice conchilega Sand mason C

Site 5 Sellafield

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm F Enteromorpha intestinalis Green algae A Porphyra umbilicalis Laver A Semibalanus balanoides Barnacle F-A Lanice conchilega Sand mason F Mytilus edulis Edible mussel F Amphipod sp. Amphipod F Arenicola marina Lug worm C Littorina littorea Edible periwinkle C Carcinus maenas Shore crab C Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae C Ceramium rubrum Red pool algae O-C

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Site 6 Drigg

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm F Elminius modestus Barnacle A Littorina littorea Edible periwinkle F Pomatoceros triqueter Keel worm F Nucella lapillus Dog whelk F Laminaria digitata Oar weed F Ceramium rubrum Red pool algae F Chondrus crispus Irish moss F Griffithsia flosculosa Red algae F Dynamena pumila Hydroid C Patella vulgata Common limpet C Cancer pagurus Edible crab C Carcinus maenas Shore crab C Pagurus bernhardus Hermit crab C Porcellana longicornis Long clawed crab C Membranipora membranacea Sea mat C Flustrellidra hispida Hairy sea squirt C Corella parallelogramma Clear sea squirt C Halidrys siliquosa Pod weed C Corallina officinalis Coral weed C Lithophyllum incrustans Pink encrusted algae C

Site 7 Tarn Point

Latin Name English Name Abundance (Lower Shore) Sabellaria alveolata Honeycomb worm A Elminius modestus Barnacle A Enteromorpha intestinalis Green algae F Fucus serratus Toothed wrack F Littorina littorea Edible periwinkle C Pomatoceros triqueter Keel worm C Nucella lapillus Dog Whelk C Arenicola marina Lug worm C Fucus vesiculosus Bladder wrack C

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APPENDIX 3: FINDINGS FROM HISTORICAL FIELD SURVEYING AND GENERAL OBSERVATIONS MADE OF SABELLARIA ALVEOLATA IN REGION 13 OVER THE PAST 100 YEARS. Site Grid Ref. Comments

Brewing Scar NY 124634 Scar ground Colonisation of cobbles/boulders Long-term stability uncertain Changes with considerable sand deposition at times. Recorded in 1987 (Hammond, 2000) Rough Scar NY 104634 Colonisation of cobbles/boulders Future uncertain Hammond (2000) Southerness Point NX 977542 Presence recorded by Perkins (1973) Small clumps of Sabellaria occurring in the lower shore Cutts & Hemingway (1994) Remnants of former colonies and several new formations on the lower shore Future good Hammond (2000) Port O’Warren NX 878531 Reefs in caves and fissures at the base of cliffs, where coarse sand collected Perkins (1973) Absence of species and presence of Mytilus recorded in survey (JNCC, 1992) Almorness Point NX 840514 Small area bound to cobbles/boulders Future of the colonies subject to movement of cobbles/boulders Reappearance likely close by in the region Expansion unlikely Hammond (2000) Hestan Island NX 839499 Small area bound to cobbles/boulders Future subject to movement Likely reappearance in the region Expansion of the colonies unlikely Hammond (2000) Balcary Point NX 949382 Some small colonies bound to boulders on the lower shore Perkins (1973) Occasional hummocks in a lower shore position, together with Mytilus JNCC (1992) Species absent, zone dominated by Mytilus IECS (1994) Airds Point NW 821484 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future subject to cobble movement. Hammond (2000) Adam’s Chair NX 821484 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Rascarrol Bay NX 803480 Small cobble bound/crust area Future subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000)

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Castle Muir Point NX 799472 Small cobble bound/crust area Future of species subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Barlocco NX 844466 Small cobble bound/crust area Future of species subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Orroland Heugh NX 773458 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Port Mary NX 752451 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Abbey Burn Foot NX 743445 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000) Abbey Head NX 741438 Small clumps attached to undersides of large rocks Future of species probably good but limited expansion Hammond (2000) Sheep Bught Rock NX 731433 Small clumps attached to undersides of large rocks Future of species probably good but limited expansion Hammond (2000) White Port NX 722430 Several small cobble bound/crust areas Future probably good Limited expansion probable Hammond (2000) Netherlaw NX 717431 Comments as for White Port Hammond (2000) Mullock Bay NX 710434 Large area bound to cobbles/boulders Possibility of some small expansion Hammond (2000)

Howell Bay NX 698437 Small clumps attached to undersides of cobbles/boulders Future subject to movement of cobbles/boulders Hammond (2000) Balmae Ha’en NX 679440 Small clumps/crusts attached to undersides of cobbles/boulders Future subject to cobble/boulder movements Hammond (2000) Torrs Point NX 673453 Small cobble/boulder bound/crust areas Good sand supply – expansion? Future subject to cobble/boulder storm movement Hammond (2000) The Sound NX 656435 Many small clump/crust areas attached to rocks over a 50m shoreline Future of species likely to be good Expansion possible Hammond (2000) Meikle Ross NX 656435 Colonies in several small fissures below ELWST Future of species similar to The Sound Hammond (2000)

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Fauldbog Bay NX 642443 Several small clumps/crusts attached to rocks over a 100m shoreline Possibility of future expansion Good sand supply and high energy conditions Site exposed to severe wave crash, on adjacent areas several sites have been damaged Hammond (2000) Kirkandrews Bay NX 595476 Small clumps attached to rocks over a fairly wide area Future of the species fairly stable Colonies could expand Good sand supply and high energy conditions Hammond, 2000 Barlocco Isle NX 580481 Several small clumps/crusts attached to rocks, widely spread out Sites may change in the future Hammond (2000) Ardwall Isle NX 573493 Small clumps/crusts attached to rocks, widely spread out Future of the species good, but actual sites may change Limited expansion Hammond (2000) Murray Isles NX 564496 Small clumps/crusts attached to rocks, widely spread out Future of the species good, but actual sites may change Limited expansion Hammond (2000) Garvellan Rocks NX 550512 Several small clumps in fissures Future of the species doubtful due to movement of sand base Hammond (2000) Portyerrock Bay NX 479391 Small crusts on cobbles/boulders along ELWST Future good, but probably little expansion Hammond (2000) Back Bay NX 365390 Small colonisation in fissures at the base of rock outcrops ELWST Future of the species probably good but limited expansion Hammond (2000) Monreith Bay NX 360401 Small hummock areas on cobble/boulder scar ground, widespread Future of the species probably good High energy area and good supply of sand Possibilities for expansion of the colonies Hammond (2000) Auchenmaig Bay NX 238511 Large colonies forming hummocks in abundance >1ft tall and over 20% coverage Cunningham et al. (2000) Comments as for Monreith Bay (above) Hammond (2000) Mull of Sinniness NX 222513 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future of species subject to cobble movement Hammond (2000)

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Luce Sands (N.Target Base) NX 169543 Development of small clumps in fissures at the base of target cones and on concrete skirt Future of the species dependent upon movement of sands and survival of target cones Good sand supply and old concrete masses and rocks provide suitable habitat for expansion Hammond (2000) Sandhead NX 101495 Widespread clumps and crusts among cobbles Future of the species should be good Presence of a much larger system offshore Hammond (2000) Logan Mills NX119436 As for Sandhead Hammond (2000) Terally Point NX 127405 As for Sandhead Hammond (2000) Maryport Bay NX 149343 Several lumps found washed up on ELWST tideline. Actual site not located Hammond (2000) Portankill NX143322 Small cobble bound/crust areas Future of the species dependent on storm and wave crash movement of cobbles Hammond (2000) East Tarbet NX 146309 Small cobble bound/crust areas, which are known to have moved due to storm and wave crash movement of cobbles, etc. Sites may change but doubtful much expansion Hammond (2000) Mull of Galloway NX 157308 Small rock bound/crust areas approximately 1- NX 154308 2m in length NX 152308 Future of the species will depend on storm and wave crash movement of rocks/boulders Mainly sheltered area but wide open to north east gales which can result in very hostile seas Hammond (2000) Brow Scar NY 148595 Few small crust colonies found on underside of boulders Future doubtful Changes in sand and movement of channels Hammond (2000) Catherine Hole NY 082518 Dredged specimens No actual sites located Hammond (2000) Ellison’s Scar NY 052473 Extensive reef, hummock and platform area Abundant mobile sand and high energy area Future very good, but may be at risk from mussel harvesting Hammond (2000) Mawbray Scar NY 065471 Large mounds dominating the lower shore in 1998, but severely eroded by 1999 and mussels taken over. Some recovery in 2000, but mounds carpeted with mussels (Lancaster, 2000). Formerly extensive blanket & hummock system, now virtually disappeared Small amount of crusts on undersides/sides of cobbles/boulders Future very doubtful (Hammond, 2000)

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Dubmill Scar NY 070455 Present in small, scattered patches Cunningham et al. (1984) Common in 1991 MNCR (1991). Death of large area in early 1980s Allen et al. (1999) Reappearance unlikely Hammond (2000) Allonby North Lodge Scar NY 070435 Large blanket area over scar ground until 1950s Area affected by pollution problems Growth of species much stunted Hammond (2000) Allonby Bay NY 073424 Present in abundance in 1970 and 1974. Perkins Commonly present in 1978, forming sheets and patches but not hummocks Cunningham et al. (1984) A maze of hummocks in good condition The future of the species in this area should be good Hammond (2000) Crosscanonby Scar NY 062396 Part of an extensive area of overlay and hummock formations Comments as for bank End Scar Hammond (2000) Maryport (Golf Course) NY 055395 Abundant to super-abundant in 1984 (Cunningham et al. 1984). Common in 1991 (MNCR, 1991). Large mounds dominate the lower shore and extend down into the sublittoral Mounds in good shape <25cm in height and visible signs of storm damage at low water mark mounds larger further up shore (up to 50cm in height) Lancaster (2000) Bankend Scar NY 045389 Formerly (1938, 1953) an extensive blanket and small hummock area Badly affected by pollution, but should recover in future Hammond (2000) Maryport (Seabrows Scar) NY 034380 Occasional to abundant in 1991 (MNCR, NY 034380 1991). Blanket overlay and small hummocks NY 038383 Affected by pollution but should now have a NY 039385 good future with much improved water quality Hammond (2000) Maryport (Museum Scar) NY 032374 Occasional to abundant in 1991 (MNCR, 1991). Part of a large complex with other sites (see below) Hammond (2000) Maryport (North Pier) NY 031368 A few small areas and low hummocks at the base of the old concrete pier foundations, and clumps among rocks and boulders at the north side of the old outer extension Future of the species is doubtful Hammond (2000)

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Maryport (South Pier) NY 027369 Small area, relatively new, with increasing hummocks at the base of the outer pier and on the extreme 30m of the south side Does not appear to have been affected by pollution and the future of the species is probably good (Hammond, 2000) Risehow Scar NY 023358 Abundant in 1991 (MNCR, 1991). Large cobble/boulder scar blanket and low hummock area in past Badly affected by pollution in the last 3 decades Species not seen recently, but should recover in view of considerable improvements in water quality (Hammond, 2000) Flimby Scar NY 015343 Large blanket and small hummock area developed from a small colony in 1938. Occasional to rare in 1991 (NNW, 1991). With improvements in water quality, the species should expand. Hammond (2000) Siddick Scar NX 998319 Rare to frequent in 1991 (NNW, 1991). Part of a large blanket and small hummock area. Colonies a mixture of old and new formations. Future should be steady Hammond (2000). Mounds found in 1999 much reduced n height by 2000 and evidence of severe storm damage Some active re-growth Lancaster (2000) Moss Bay NX 988264 Extensive low hummocks of S. alveolata in the area prior to 1953, despite nearby industrial activity Continued pollution has resulted in decline Current status of the species in uncertain Hammond (2000) Mounds found on mid- and upper shore, showing no signs of ill effect from outfall pipe Lancaster (2000) Cunning Point NX 975225 Small, sheltered patches between rocks Lancaster (2000) St Bees Head NX 943150 Good site until 1954 Badly affected by industrial pollution Occasional in 1984 (Cunningham et al. 1984) and rare to frequent at North Head, South Head and Sth Fleswick Bay in 1989 and 1991 (MNCR, 1989; NWW, 1991). Reappearance unlikely Hammond (2000) Found occasionally on lower- and mid shore Lancaster (2000) Nethertown NX 984073 Species abundant Cunningham et al. (1984) Scar ground – super abundant Cutts & Hemingway (1995) Lots of platform formations on lower, mid and upper shore Main scar at low water dominated by large mounds (Lancaster, 2000)

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Sellafield NY 017034 Occasional settlements, no large patches Cunningham et al. (1984) Mounds found frequently, sometimes stretching up into upper shore Lancaster (2000) Seascale NY 032011 Occasional settlements Cunningham et al. (1984). Common to super abundant at Whitriggs Scar in 1989 (MNCR, 1989). Barn Scar SD 038984 Lower shore dominated by species prior to 2000 Evidence of battering by storms and only small patches remaining, however mounds now re-growing Occur on lower, mid and upper shore (different levels of abundance) Lancaster (2000) Drigg SD 041983 Present in abundance Cunningham et al. (1984) River Esk, SW of Saltcoats & NY 075945 Rare to abundant in 1999 (WA Marine, 1999). Drigg Point Tarn Bay (Selker Point to Tarn SD 073903 Abundant/super abundant Point) Reef formations (2-3ft thick) 50% cover Cunningham et al. (1984) Rare to common in 1991 (MNCR, 1991). Blanket formation over the mid to lower shore Mounds generally smaller in 2000 than in 1999 Lancaster (2000) Annaside Banks SD 090849 Abundant Cunningham et al. (1984) Gutterby Spa SD 095845 Occasional to abundant in 1989 (MNCR, 1989). Heysham SD 405610 Occasional in 1959, frequent to occasional in 1960 and rare in 1961 but none in 1984 Cunningham et al. (1984). Rare to abundant in 1997 and 1999 (English Nature, 1997; WA Marine, 1999) Hilbre Island SJ 185875 Abundant in 1919 (Herdman 1919), none in 1940 (Cunningham et al. 1984). Rare in 1979 and absent in 1984 (Craggs, 1979; Cunningham et al. 1984).

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APPENDIX 4: INITIAL ANALYSIS OF AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS.

Area 1 Morecambe Bay Photo/Location Comments

Upper MB 063 Area of saltmarsh near bottom of photo 065 Small area that could be rocky patch near centre, just inside mouth of tributary; dark area around coast 067 Darker patches in places around coast 069 Saltmarsh areas, with some pebbles/cobbles (some scar ground?) 071 Rough area near channel (near top of photo), muddy, pebbles and cobbles (similar to 069 previous photo) 072 Saltmarsh along coast at top 259 Sandy beach with saltmarsh directly behind 261 Sandy beach with saltmarsh directly behind 263 Similar saltmarsh area (as previous photo 261) 266 Sandy and saltmarsh area 268 Sandy area, small amount of saltmarsh area NW side 270 Sandy, thin strip of saltmarsh (W side) 272 Sandy, with some saltmarsh (N Side) 076 Sandy, some small amount of saltmarsh 078 Minor amounts of pebbly ground 080 Sandy, small amounts of saltmarsh (some orange-coloured patches) 082 Sandy area with saltmarsh Central MB 089 Sandy, with large area saltmarsh along coast line 091 Sandy coastline, with saltmarsh 096 Sandy (some darker areas - mud/pebbles?) 098 Sandy/muddy 100 Some dark areas (mud or rocks?) near bottom of photo 105 Some offshore ground - slightly darker area, could be scar ground; also some small patches just next to coast line 107 Same darker areas as in 105 (previous photo) some along coast (parallel to coast line) 109 Sandy, with small area of saltmarsh/encroaching vegetation 114 Sandy beach area, v. small amount of saltmarsh along the edges 116 V.large area of saltmarsh, sandy further seaward 118 Saltmarsh (continuing from 116, previous photo) more, smaller patches of saltmarsh on E bank; lower down on E side - darker areas (mud?) 175 Large areas of saltmarsh (darker areas near middle of photo) 173 Major area of saltmarsh and some sandy areas 161 Sand and saltmarsh area 163 Sand and saltmarsh area 168 Area of saltmarsh (W side) and sandy 170 Saltmarsh and small amount of sand in channel 172 Saltmarsh (bottom half of photo)/other vegetation, plus small amount of sand in relatively thin channel Lower MB 120 Darkish areas on mostly sandy beach area (W side), slightly green, could be rocky? 125 Saltmarsh area 127 Sandy area, with large amount saltmarsh on upper shore zone 129 Saltmarsh and sandy beach 131 Saltmarsh and sandy beach 135 Saltmarsh and sandy beach 137 Sandy beach, small areas of darker material (mud?)

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139 Sandy, small areas of green/brown saltmarsh 141 Sandy, with 2 areas of darker ground, either side of river channel (scar?); muddy sand with coarser material (could find Sabellaria habitat?); inside tributary - darker areas, but unlikely to find Sabellaria as too low salinity(?) ; on E side, near bottom of picture, some muddier ground (and poss. S. alveolata) 184 Saltmarsh/encroaching veg on both sides, slightly more on NE side 186 Saltmarsh/encroaching veg on N side; sandy channel 194 Saltmarsh/veg on SW side; darker ground on E side, could be coarser material (?) 192 Small amount of saltmarsh (E side),; sand in channel 190 Small channel, sandy, some veg/marsh on NE side 143 Sandy coastline (no real evidence of coarser ground) 145 Sandy coastline

Area 2 Barrow/Duddon/Drigg Photo/Location Comments

Barrow - Lower 027 W end of photo - big area of scar ground, poss. S. alveolata habitat (+mussel beds) (best evidence of scar ground found so far) 030 Area of sandy ground, but with considerable amount of darker, rocky ground, looks like scar ground (S. alveolata habitat?) 032 A few small areas of what appear to be saltmarsh (darker, green-coloured), a few spots of dark colour - could be coarser material in sand? 043 Mainly sandy shore, with a few patches (some quite large) of darker areas - probably not S. alveolata as too high up shore? Some green-coloured matter on E side of pier structure (saltmarsh/encroaching veg) 041 Sandy, some small areas darker on N side of channel (but not thought to be areas of S. alveolata) 034 Mainly sandy, with some darker areas - muddy, not rocky 025 (Water around coast - deep) dark areas, very possibly scar ground, muddy areas in sand Isle of Walney 023 Sandy areas, some darker, muddier areas; some red/brown patches (near to top of photo) 048 Sandy shore area. No coarse pebbles/cobbles to suggest S. alveolata habitat 050 Mostly sandy, with some darker (greeny?) patches towards top of shore 052 Sandy, some darker, green-coloured area - scar ground area (near top of photo)? 054 Sandy, green-coloured patches near top of shore (saltmarsh?); dark patches (smaller near lower shore), not sure what they are 060 Sand and darker areas - some areas quite high up shore and green-coloured (probably not S. alveolata habitat) 062 (similar to 060 previous picture) Sandy, with darker patches, darkest patches around low shore (may be S. alveolata habitat)? 100 Very similar - sand, with darker patches, nearer upper shore patches more green, some 'spots' of darker material (not sure what they are?) on OS map this area of coarser material is marked as scar ground 098 Similar to 100 (previous) Sandy, but with more concentrated patches of dark area; dark patch - away from coastline - quite dense (scar ground?) A few other small patches, near bottom of picture 096 On one side (W) sandy, with a few 'spots' of slightly darker material; on E side sandy and fairly large area of saltmarsh 106 Sandy, with some dark grey-coloured areas (bottom of photo) - not sure what this material is - some scar material? 104 Sandy, with some very small darker patches at the bottom of photo, may be scar ground, looks a bit muddy in places

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094 Sandy, with small darker patches a t bottom of photo, possibly brown-coloured saltmarsh, possibly denser material 068 Similar to 094 (previous photo), same sandy area 066 Similar again to 094 and 068, with more green-coloured saltmarsh 064 Some very large patches of dark, rough material (scar ground-type) Barrow 205 Sandy coastline 207 Mainly sandy, with small darker patch on bay of mainland, possible brown-coloured saltmarsh/possibly denser material (S. alveolata habitat?) 209 Again, sandy coastline (similar to previous photos), some small dark 'spots', but thought to be too high up shore to be S. alveolata habitat 211 Mainly sandy, only a few very small ‘spots’ of darker material 213 Very sandy coastline, little evidence of any coarser material 215 Sandy, with some spots of darker material (tiny dots of black) not sure what they represent? 240 Sandy, some slightly darker areas, think they are muddy sand, not likely S. alveolata habitat 242 Sandy, with no real dark areas 219 Sandy on NW side; on NE side, maybe some saltmarsh area (greeny-brown coloured); small clumps of brown material – eroded saltmarsh or small rock clumps 230 Not much coastline in photo, but sandy at top, with some saltmarsh near bottom 232 Sandy, with saltmarsh upper zone 234 Large sandy area, with some green/brown vegetation around coastline (saltmarsh?); a few darker areas, don’t really look like exposed rock and possibly too far up shore to be S. alveolata habitat (?) 236 Sandy 252 Sandy lower zone, lot of saltmarsh vegetation on upper zone close to coastline; some small amount of brown-coloured rougher material 254 Saltmarsh/encroaching vegetation towards the right of the photo, with some darker material close to the uppermost shore (not sure exactly what it is - but probably too high up shore to be S. alveolata habitat), a few other patches further down shore, sandy beach Duddon 070 Sandy coast area, with numerous channels, little evidence of any coarse material 072 Similar to previous photo (070) - sandy, with many channels, but with small amount of darker, rougher material next to 'pier' type structure (encroaching vegetation/saltmarsh) 074 Sandy coastline, with quite a few small channels, tiny areas that look darker (not sure what they are?) 076 Sandy lower coast area, upper zone – encroaching vegetation/saltmarsh, some brown- coloured rougher ground (?) 078 Small amount of sandy coast, with quite a large amount of encroaching vegetation/saltmarsh area, but no real likely areas of S. alveolata habitat 082 Sandy (small area), some darker areas (deeper water channels) but no evidence of rough material, maybe a small amount of saltmarsh vegetation (towards bottom of picture) 084 Sandy area, with some saltmarsh-type vegetation on upper zone, no rougher material 086 Similar to 084 (previous photo) Large sandy area with some deeper water channels incised. 088 Sandy, same deeper water channels as previous (084,086), a few darker areas on side of photo (high up shore), probably not coarse material (?) 090 Ally sandy area, with deeper channels and 'rippled' areas, but no real evidence of any coarser material 092 Sandy area, with vegetation (no water channels in vegetation - not saltmarsh?) 109 Sandy, some deeper water channels and 'rippled' areas, some small amount of brown- coloured material - could be rougher ground and possible S. alveolata habitat (?)

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108 Sandy, some deeper water channels and rippled areas, similar darker ground as in previous photo (109) 111 (same as 108, previous photo) 113 Same as before - sandy, with some deeper water channels, but with a tiny amount of what might be coarser ground; some saltmarsh/encroaching vegetation near top of photo 115 Same sandy area, but with small pockets of darker material (not coarse enough?); some saltmarsh/vegetation (quite a lot - left hand side of photo) 117 Sandy, with a large area of saltmarsh 119 Sandy, with saltmarsh vegetation 121 Small amount of sandy area, with saltmarsh either side 198 Sandy, deeper water channels, little evidence of any coarser material 196 Sandy area, couple of small areas of different material (not sure what it is) Drigg 213 Some sandy beach, but a lot covered in darker-coloured, coarser sediment (mid- shore), not sure what the lighter-coloured material just behind this darker patch is? 220 Similar to previous photo, with some sand covered by darker sediment, quite a lot of exposed sand, further up in photo - material not quite as dark as in 213 (previous photo) but still a dark-brown colour 222 Large, sandy coast area, but with a few patches of darker sediment (looks coarse, but is not really dark), some isolated darker 'spots' also 224 Sandy, with deeper water channels, same darker areas, some of the areas looking likely S. alveolata spots, some other areas - not sure what they are (?) 229 Sandy channel, with some saltmarsh-type vegetation on either side, some deeper channels, no likely Sabellaria habitat obvious (some small 'spots' of darker material adjacent to channel - not sure what they are?) 231 Sandy area, water channels, some 'spots' of vegetation on sand 233 Sandy, some encroaching vegetation/saltmarsh areas, no real evidence of any coarser material 124 Sandy area, with a few small 'spots' of darker material (nearly black) - not sure what it is? Some areas of saltmarsh-type vegetation 235 Mainly large sandy area, some very small areas of slightly different material 237 Sandy, with a fairly large patch of darker material (near bottom of photo) and smaller area near top Area 3 Solway Estuary Location Comments

Solway 1 (South) 062 Can see no real evidence of scar ground, most of photo - sandy with channels in sand, etc. some of area (bottom centre-right) not sure about? 064 Some areas with dark, patterned appearance (not altogether sure what it is) some subtidal, some just intertidal, most covered by water 067 Similar to previous photo (064) some subtidal, some exposed dark patterned areas - v. abundant in this photo 069 Sandy beach area, half of photo covered by tide, some darker markings on sand, but not to same extent as in previous photos (064/067) 071 Sandy beach area (large) with 'ripples' and 'channels' in the sand, but no evidence of darker, scar-type ground and likely S. alveolata habitat Solway 7 073 Mainly large sandy area, with some 'ripples' in sand - wave patterns; some small areas on what may be coarser material (dark 'spots') 060 Centre of photo - dark area - also some 'spots' of darker material which looks like scar ground (quite far out); rest of area - sandy beach and scattered 'spots' of darker material (near and around dark patch) - Catherine Hole Scar?

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058 Sandy, half photo covered by water; very low shore - some darker, patterned, coarser ground - not sure? 075 Sandy, but some darker sandy (muddy) areas; down near low water - (left side of photo) some v dark 'spots' - not sure? 057 Mostly under water, sandy, with tiny area of what looks like coarser material down near low water (bottom of photo) 055 Mainly under water, with two sandy areas exposed, no evidence of and coarse ground (no S. alveolata habitat) 077 Sandy area, with some 'muddy' patches, some darker patches (perhaps pools of water) - not sure? 079 Some sandy beach area, mostly covered by water, with some grey-coloured material - not sure? No real evidence of rocky ground and S. alveolata habitat 083 V. similar to 079 (previous photo) - sandy beach area 085 Large sandy beach area, some 'ripples' from water movement, no darker, rougher patches to suggest presence of S. alveolata 092 Large, sandy area, with very few darker 'spots', some water channels and a few muddier areas, a few little 'specks' which could be small rocks 094 A lot of green vegetation on half of the photo and a few channels running through, sandy area quite dark - muddy? Patch of dark material - not sure what it is - not rocky? Solway 6 096 Most of area vegetation, with some saltmarsh (upper photo) 100 Again, lot of veg./saltmarsh in this photo, but also some sandy area, towards top of photo; no scar ground evident 102 Small amount of saltmarsh (bottom-right of photo), sandy area, with some deeper water channels, and very slight grey -coloured area (near left-centre of photo) - probably muddy 106 (like 100) Lot of veg, with some small amount of sandy area, 1 deeper water channel an N bank; not really any likely Sabellaria habitat 108 Similar to before, with veg./some saltmarsh, plus a few creeks, but no scar-type ground and no real likely S. alveolata habitat 110 Similar again, with some saltmarsh, a few creeks and some deeper water channels in sand, one tiny area of black 'spots' - not sure what it is (left-centre of photo)? 112 Saltmarsh-type veg., with creeks and sandy 'bits' interspersed, 1 deeper channel incised 114 Mostly veg./saltmarsh-type area, with small channel (centre-right of photo)-sandy 117 Mainly veg., but with 1 channel running through - 1 deep channel with sand either side 119 Nearly all vegetation in the photo, but with a small amount of channel at left hand side of photo - channel looks slightly dark - muddy? Solway 5 104 Vegetation (top half of photo), sandy (other half), with some slightly grey-coloured material along coast (not sure - could be scar ground)? 090 Vegetation/some saltmarsh, sandy coast, but at bottom of picture can see some grey- coloured material - (could be scar ground)? Longdyke Scar? 087 Large sandy area off coast, with some darker areas that could be scar-type ground? Cannot tell whether likely S. alveolata habitat (similar to 090, previous photo) 127 Sandy area off coast, with 2 dark spots in centre of photo (think they may be shadows from clouds - not sure), a few other small 'dots' of darker material? 129 Sandy beach area, with (again) a few really dark areas (could shadows again?), no clear scar-type ground 131 Sandy beach, with a few darker (grey-coloured) marks on sandy - muddy patches? Again, some really dark patches that could be cloud shadows 133 Sandy coast area, with darker (muddy?) areas, some of the same cloud shadows(?); near to pier structure - some grey, speckled areas; no real evidence of dense, coarse material (no S. alveolata habitat) 135 Sandy area, very difficult to see due to cloud cover, some darker areas (near top-left of photo) but don't really look like scar-ground

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143 Very difficult to see due to cloud cover, appears to be some darker area over right- centre of photo, sandy area in rest of photo, with 1 main deeper water channel 141 Mass of clouds in centre of photo - difficult to see what's underneath, sandy beach with a few darker 'specks' but no real coarser ground 139 Mainly sandy beach area, slightly darker around coast and some muddy areas just off coastline, but can't really see any denser/coarser material 201 Sandy area, some saltmarsh behind, water channels in sand, no real evidence of any dense, coarser material Solway 4 199 Sandy, with a few channels (some muddier areas) and creeks in saltmarsh behind sand, no scar-type ground evident 197 Sandy, wide channel, with some saltmarsh either side, some deeper channels incised, some muddier areas, can't really see any evidence of scar ground, a few black 'spots' (small rocks) near channel, in centre of photo 203 Some saltmarsh (centre-left of photo) and fields, etc. bordering sandy channel area, with 1 deeper water channel, can't really see any evidence of scar ground, but some slightly darker (muddier) areas 205 Mainly green vegetation, with a small channel running through, some sand on either side of the deeper water channel 185 Large saltmarsh area, with sandy beach area, a few channels in sand, some slightly darker (grey-coloured) areas - muddier 187 Large saltmarsh area, with creeks and small sandy patches, sandy beach area with a few channels, plus a few slightly darker (muddier) areas 195 Mainly green vegetation, with 1 channel running through, some saltmarsh either side, no scar ground evident 190 Quite a lot of saltmarsh area, deeper water channel running through, fairly large sandy area (centre-right of photo), some darker (muddier) areas 193 Right up estuary, mostly vegetation with thin channel running through, very little sand either side 176 Sandy channel, with 1 main deeper water channel, some slightly muddier areas and darker area (near right of photo) which is grey/black colour, some saltmarsh with creeks (bottom of photo) 178 Sandy coast area, with 1 main deeper water channel incised, can't really see any scar- type ground 180 Sandy area, with 1 main deeper water channel (no real evidence of scar ground) Solway 3 182 Sandy coast area, with 1 deeper water channel, some darker areas (cloud shadows), also some slightly muddier areas, a few small areas near upper shore (left of photo) that could possibly be pebbly (?) 168 Similar to previous photo (182), sandy beach area, with some grey-coloured patches nearer upper shore (could just be muddier areas - could be pebbly)(?) a few deeper water channels 164 Lot of green vegetation, small amount of sandy coast area, 1 bit of deeper water channel, again, some of the same grey-coloured material near upper shore 162 Half of photo sandy beach area, quite a lot of grey-coloured material near upper shore (could be just muddier sand, could be pebbly)(?) believe that it is just muddier sand 160 Sandy beach area, with some saltmarsh (centre-left of photo), 1 deeper water channel, some cloud cover (and shadow) making it difficult to identify (but don't think there is any scar-type ground present) 156 Some saltmarsh (near top of photo), some water channels, to the left (middle) of photo some darker ground - some grey-coloured, some darker - believe it could be some rocky ground (some muddier areas also) 154 Sandy area, with 1 deep channel running along bottom of photo, thin line of really dark material running almost parallel to coast (may be some rocky, scar-type ground), also some slightly less dark (muddier) areas

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150 Mostly sandy coast area, with darker ripples and patterns (tides and muddier patches), in bottom-right of photo, small amount of very dark material (continuing from 154, previous photo), scar-type ground

148 Sandy beach area, but with large 'clump' of dark material in centre-right of photo, the very dark material - scar ground and possible S. alveolata habitat (but can't really distinguish?) - are these areas Powfoot and Hogarth scars? Some scar ground further out but can't see all of it 053 Continuation of scar ground from before (148), also some more ground near upper shore (centre-left, top photo), 1 main deeper water channel 051 Continuation of scar ground nearer upper shore (left of photo), mainly sandy for remainder, some small amount of saltmarsh area (green, with browny specs) 049 Sandy area, with some light grey coloured material (left of photo), small bit of saltmarsh, interspersed with sand (left-middle of photo) 041 Sandy inlet-type area, with thin channel running down into estuary, some saltmarsh- type vegetation, with small creeks and interspersed with bits of sand (no real evidence of rocky ground) Solway 2 (North) 035 Sandy beach area with 1 main deeper water channel and some smaller channels, a small amount of saltmarsh (top right of photo), no real evidence of rocky ground, some darker grey-coloured areas (muddier)? 033 Sandy coast area with some saltmarsh on upper shore, some creeks and channels, but doesn't look like there's any rocky, scar-type ground present, bottom right of photo - not sure what it is (?) 031 Sandy coast area with some saltmarsh, a few slightly darker areas, but not really any rocky ground (similar to previous photo - 033) 029 Large sandy area with some slightly darker (muddier) areas, bit of saltmarsh above upper shore zone 025 Sandy beach area with water channel (bottom of picture), saltmarsh area (green with 'flecks' of brown) 023 Sandy area with 1 main deeper water channel, some saltmarsh (left of photo), some cloud cover, don't think there is any evidence of scar-type ground 021 Great deal of cloud cover, almost impossible to see anything, small channel is visible, however 019 Sandy channel with 1 deeper water channel, some saltmarsh on left hand side of photo, with creeks and sandy areas 017 Sandy area, saltmarsh vegetation on left hand side, with creeks, etc., some slightly darker areas around left bank, but no real evidence of rocky ground 015 Sandy area with 1 main deeper water channel running almost parallel to coast line, small amount of grey-coloured material (bottom of photo) - could be some scar ground 013 Sandy with deeper channel of water, saltmarsh encroaching on upper coastal zone, small creeks and riffles, may be some rougher material close to saltmarsh 011 Sandy area, same main channel as before and similar saltmarsh, with light grey- coloured material very close to saltmarsh 007 Sandy coastal area but with 2 distinct darker patches - scar-type material, quite possibly 005 Continuation of scar (upper, centre of photo) and some further scar material down coast, sandy and muddy further out (Hogus Point)?

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APPENDIX 5: COMMENTS ON AERIAL PHOTGRAPHS (HAMMOND, PERS COMM, 2001).

Area 1 Morecambe Bay 65 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful 69 No known S. alveolata interest. But check the skear 71 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful 78 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 96 No known S. alveolata interest. But check the skear 100 Very doubtful but all skears should be checked 105 Sab: interest on main skear and all should be checked 120 No known S. alveolata interest but Plover Skear should be checked 141 S. alveolata interest on main skears and all should be checked 194 No known S. alveolata interest but mid channel skear should be checked Area 2 Barrow 27 S. alveolata interest check all skears 30 S. alveolata interest check all skears 32 S. alveolata interest check all skears 43 S. alveolata interest check all skears 34 S. alveolata interest check all skears 25 S. alveolata interest check all skears 50 S. alveolata interest check all skears 52 S. alveolata interest check all skears 54 S. alveolata interest check all skears 60 S. alveolata interest check all skears 62 S. alveolata interest check all skears 100 S. alveolata interest check all skears 98 S. alveolata interest check all skears 106 S. alveolata interest check all skears 104 S. alveolata interest check all skears 94 S. alveolata interest check all skears 64 S. alveolata interest check all skears 207 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful 209 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful 211 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful 215 No known S. alveolata interest. Very doubtful Area 3 Duddon 72 Unknown

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Area 4 Drigg 213 S. alveolata interest check all scars 222 S. alveolata interest check all scars 224 S. alveolata interest check all scars 124 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful but check scars. 237 S. alveolata interest check all scars Area 5 Solway 64 S. alveolata interest check all scars 67 S. alveolata interest check all scars 60 S. alveolata interest check all scars 58 S. alveolata interest check all scars 94 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 104 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 90 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 87 No known S. alveolata interest,but worth checking the scars for possible extension 182 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 156 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 154 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 150 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 148 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 53 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 51 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 7 No known S. alveolata interest.Very doubtful 5 S. alveolata interest check all scars

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APPENDIX 5: IDENTIFICATION OF SITES OF POTENTIAL S.ALVEOLATA HABITAT IN REGION 13 FROM AERIAL PHOTO ANALYSIS.

Area 1 Morecambe Bay

Photo No. Location (photo ref.)

065 347,570m 470,970m 069 345,570m 475,040m 071 344,740m 476,220m 078 340,250m 476,750m 096 344,810m 465,110m 100 341,490m 462,520m 341,430m 464,030m 105 341,410m 463,100m 120 342,620m 453,370m 141 333,960m 448,890m 194 335,490m 443,310m

Area 2 Barrow

Photo Location (photo ref.)

027 325,740m 464,370m 030 325,180m 464,380m 032 323,740m 465,570m 043 323,620m 465,690m 034 323,360m 463,450m 321,200m 463,750m 025 324,970m 463,650m 050 320,090m 463,650m 052 319,310m 464,430m 054 318,740m 465,140m 060 317,970m 466,690m 062 317,130m 468,550m 100 317,090m 469,000m 098 316,450m 470,640m 106 316,640m 472,670m 104 316,030m 471,210m 094 318,230m 474,130m 064 318,520m 470,540m 207 326,240m 467,970m 209 327,950m 469,880m 211 328,180m 470,490m 215 331,090m 474,370m

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Area 3 Duddon

Photo Location (photo ref.)

072 320,780m 477,380m

Area 4 Drigg

Photo Location (photo ref.)

213 307,390m 488,560m 222 307,150m 493,660m 224 307,200m 493,810m 124 306,080m 496,120m 237 304,050m 498,310m 303,720m 500,470m

Area 5 Solway

Photo Location (photo ref.)

S1 064 306,070m 547,270m 067 307,100m 545,100m S7 060 307,310m 550,170m 058 308,380m 551,390m 094 314,830m 556,620m S5 104 317,290m 557,550m 090 316,910m 587,720m 087 314,830m 559,640m S3 182 326,140m 563,840m 156 318,530m 564,120m 154 317,230m 564,560m 150 316,500m 565,040m 148 314,080m 564,770m 053 312,180m 564,700m 051 311,770m 564,600m S2 007 299,790m 559,170m 005 299,790m 558,820m

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APPENDIX 6: SUMMARY OF THE RESULTS OF THE FIELD SURVEY

Approx. SHeysham Sands Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 329.5 2 20-30 194.5 3a 100 118 3b 20-60 9122 3c 60 641.9 3d 100 1054 3e >70 7667 3f 100 1126 4 <1000?

Walney Island - Approx. Cross Dyke Scar Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 30 4031 2 30 32230 3 30-50 33040 69301

Walney Island - Approx. Nanny Point Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 70 88.5 2 70 1811 3 70 1581 4 80 4706 5 70 893 6 70 1743 7 80 1315 8 80 11770 9 60-80 7673 10 <50 4068

Walney Island - Approx. Tummer Hill Scar Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 >90 107 2 >90 276 3a 70-90 655 3b >90 220 3c 70-90 515 4 >90 48 5 40-60 129 6 40-60 117 7a <50 852 7b <50 364 7c 70-90 976 7d <50 483 7e <50 34 7f <50 52 8 >90 419 9 >90 54

Page 131 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Gutterby Spa & Approx. Bog Hole Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 >70 18930 2 50 1926 3 20-30 2166

Tarn Point & Approx. Annaside Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 >90 74330 2 >90 14130 3 >90 29100 4 >90 1597 5 >80 6366 6 50-90 54590 7 30-60 22600 7b <20? 975 8 >70 13520 9a 70-90 280200 9b 20-50 44310 9c variable 9370 9d variable 4996 9e variable 16100 10 50-90 38410 11 50-90 3769

Approx. Drigg - Barn Scar Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1a 60 14800 1b 10-30 7472 2a 30-50 12610 2b 40-60 39610 2c 10-30 4173 3 20-35 14130 4 50-80 17630

Sellafield / River Approx. Ehen Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 50-75 37020 2 50-75 1334 3 <50 4960 4 50-75 305 5 50-75 1125 6 50-75 1786 7 >70 4356 8 30-50 3164 9 >70 3285 10 <50 1037 11 50-70 4810 12 80 7070 13 50-75 229 14 30-80 5133 15 50-70 1031 16 20-50 1361 17 20 487

Page 132 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Nethertown to St Approx. Bees Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1a 50-80 35260 1b 10-40 134000 1c 80 1358 1d 10-40 655700 1e 70 16220 2a 70 728 2b 70 730 3 70 3664

Siddick to St Approx. Helens Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1a variable 842 1b 60 31040 1c 60 398 2 40-50 3967 3a variable 20230 3b <50 7320 3c 50-60 99340 3d variable 18050 3e 10-90 29430 3f variable 15170 3g 100 18250

Maryport Golf Approx. Course Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 60-70 27740 2 60-70 27580 3 30-50 3497 4 30-50 642 5a variable 8385 5b variable 12740 5c >60 219100 5d variable 6462 5e variable 8892 6 20-60 479 7 50 2405 8 20-60 117 9 20-60 94 10 50 8111 11 20-60 1023

Approx. Allonby Bay Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1a 90 4849 1b 50-60 77720 1c 30-50 452000 2 30-50 30410 3 30-50 39110 4 >50 167 5 >50 72 6 >50 20 7 >50 1740

Page 133 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

Dubmill Point & Approx. Ellison Scar Coverage % Area (sq. m) Type 1 Type 2 Type 3 Type 4 Type 5 Type 6 Type 7 Reef 1 10-15 511400 2 10-15 9830 3 10-50 308900 4 10-15 14260

Page 134 Institute of Estuarine and Coastal Studies Sabellaria alveolata: Mapping, Condition & Conservation Assessment Report to English Nature

APPENDIX 7. NATIONAL AND CUMBRIAN HABITAT ACTION PLANS FOR S. ALVEOLATA REEFS.

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