Plumose anemones (Credit Paul Naylor)
Delicate filter feeding marine species like these Plumose anemone are found here.
Sea firs, anemones and sponges are just some of the delicate creatures that are found amongst the cobbles here.
Seasonal thermal fronts in the Mid St George’s Channel increase phytoplankton productivity which makes the channel an important area for wildlife.
The seabed is largely sand and gravel creating an environment that allows annelid worms, clams and crustaceans to thrive. Sea firs, anemones and sponges are just some of the delicate creatures that are also found here amongst the cobbles.
All these species form an important part of the biodiversity of the region, encouraging other species to frequent the area which is an important feeding ground for passing whales and dolphins.
Common dolphins are often seen passing through Mid St George's Channel recommended MCZ © Colin Speedie
Special features of Mid St George's Channel:
- The diverse marine life found here is an important part of the biodiversity of the Irish Sea as a whole
- Seasonal thermal fronts make this an important feeding ground for breeding seabirds and for passing whales and dolphins
- Important geological features including those formed through glaciation
Protection of Mid St George's Channel would:
- Offer protection to highly mobile whale and dolphin species which use this area to feed, if included in the designated features list
- Benefit the Irish Sea food web dynamics as well as increase environmental resilience
This Marine Conservation Zone has not been included in the second tranche under consultation
If designated, this site would contain the largest protected area of subtidal mixed sediments in non-devolved UK waters.
We need you to help ensure that this site is included in tranche 3. Become a Friend of this site to stay up-to-date with The Wildlife Trusts' campaign to see how you can help.
Other nearby MCZs
Mid St Georges Channel recommended MCZ is located in the map below.
Contains UKHO Law of the Sea data. Crown copyright and database right and
contains Ordnance Survey Data Crown copyright and database 2012