UK Marine SACs Info Net


Maerl

	A detailed review of the available information on the 'Maerl' biotope complex.

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    The nature and importance of maerl beds
    Distribution in Europe and the UK
    The relevance of maerl to the MNCR biotope classification

    The influence of water movement
    The influence of light, depth and water clarity
    The influence of temperature
    The influence of water chemistry
    The influence of substrate type

Biological characteristics
Ecological roles

    Taxonomic considerations
    Comparison to other biotopes
    Geographical comparison
    Seasonal and temporal changes
    Local variations
    Rare species and species confined to maerl biotopes

Effects of natural events
Pathogens

Direct effects
Indirect effects

    Determining the extent of the biotope complex
    Preparing an inventory of maerl biotopes present
    Quantitative sampling
    Monitoring numbers or cover of named species
    Determining longevity and growth rates
    Monitoring chemical and physical properties
    Recommendations of methodology

Basic management guidance
Parallel conservation management activities

Comparisons of features between maerl species
Maerl bed species list

The information above has been sourced from:
D.A.Birkett, C.A.Maggs, M.J.Dring. 1998. Maerl (volume V). An overview of dynamic and sensitivity characteristics for conservation management of marine SACs. Scottish Association for Marine Science. (UK Marine SACs Project). 116 pages.

Click here for a complete PDF of the document cited above.