Strandlines: project under development

Existing methods of beach cleaning particularly around the strandline are potentially having a detrimental effect on the wealth of invertebrates that relies on this habitat for its existence. The strandline is a neglected habitat that lacks any true nature conservation status, yet a wealth of invertebrate species have been identified as being partially or entirely relient on strandlines. Not only are strandlines important for the conservation of associated invertebrate species, the invertebrate popultaions in turn form an incredibly important food resource for other groups such as shore birds. The role of terrestrial invertebrates in the food web of the shore is relatively under-studied. This project aims to collate existing information on the extent and impact of insensitive beach management; collate data on strandline invertebrates; and undertake scientific study into the effects of strandline removal and the ability of the invertebrate fauna to recover.

Beach comber (Nebria complanata) © Roger Key