Biodiversity & Conservation

To assess the sensitivity of the biotope, the sensitivity of component species is reviewed. Those species that are considered to be particularly indicative of the sensitivity of the biotope, and for which research has been undertaken in detail are shown below (see selection criteria). The biology of other component species of the biotope is also taken into account wherever information is known to the researcher.

Rhodothamniella floridula is considered to be the main characterizing species in the MLR.Rho biotope and dominates the rock surface. It is a sand scour tolerant species, which enhances stability and habitat diversity by binding sand together as a mat on the rocky substratum. In its absence the biotope would not necessarily be recognised. The dominant grazer in the biotope, Patella vulgata, is considered to be important as its grazing activity contributes to the regulation of algal patches and maintains diversity. Fucus serratus is usually abundant and provides habitat. Although the MLR.Rho biotope occurs patchily amongst fucoids, it is an important primary producer and enhances species diversity and patchiness.

No text entered