Biodiversity
Peatlands form the UK’s largest extent of semi-natural habitat and play an important role in conserving a wide range of species. Many of these species are rare and/or declining and are priorities for conservation action.
Search
Search
Peatland biodiversity - butterflies & moths
Healthy functioning peatlands are vital for biodiversity. While much of the focus is on the specialised plants found on peat bogs, there are a number of butterflies and moths which are associated…
Don't miss our 'Measuring biodiversity: from principles to practice' webinar!
Join us. Fee webinar on 'Measuring biodiversity: from principles to practice' on Tuesday 26 March 13:30 - 15:15
Public Consultation for Biodiversity Quantification Methodology
The Woodland Carbon Code and Peatland Code are pleased to announce their public consultation inviting views on the outcomes of the Facility for Investment Ready Nature in Scotland (FIRNS)…
FIRNS Project: Biodiversity crediting for Peatlands and Woodlands
Biodiversity credits offer a way to quantify and finance nature restoration efforts by linking biodiversity improvements to structured credit markets.
Introducing our species showcases
Throughout 2024, we are celebrating peatland biodiversity through a series of monthly showcases featuring a particular peatland species or species group. Our first showcase introduces the Sphagnum…
Research reveals a quarter of Europe’s peatlands are degraded, ahead of key climate and biodiversity summits
New research finds that 25% of Europe’s peatlands are degraded, increasing to 50% -120,000km2 - when looking at the European Union alone.
New briefing tackles the peat depth debate
A new IUCN UK Peatland Programme briefing, 'Peat Depth Criteria: Accounting for the Lost Peatlands', explains that defining and managing our peatlands in a way that reflects their full…
Species Showcase: Testate amoebae
Even for those who are knowledgeable about peatlands, it may come as a surprise to know there is a huge diversity of tiny organisms busying themselves around the surface of a Sphagnum leaf or floating through the dark water of a bog pool. Much of our current survey and monitoring only considers the things we can observe with the naked eye, but microorganisms play a critical role in peatland function. There are thousands of species present in UK peatlands, many with fascinating life cycles and beautiful forms. In this showcase, we introduce one particular group: testate amoebae.
Species showcase: Dunlin
This species showcases explores the importance of dunlin as an indicator species for peatland health, and the threats facing them, including forestry plantations on peatlands.
My future
From creating new hedgerows on a farm, to helping to inspire the next generation of nature lovers, Andy is building the skills, confidence and experience as a Biodiversity Trainee that will set…
My perspective
Ben grew up at the Naze paddling in the sea and looking for sharks’ teeth. After graduation, he returned to the landscape he loves to help local people experience the wonders of the natural world…