Sandbanks which are slightly covered by sea water all the time

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999).

Estuaries

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999). Estuaries are habitat complexes which comprise a range of other Annex I types.

Mudflats and sandflats not covered by seawater at low tide

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999).

Coastal lagoons

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999).

Large shallow inlets and bays

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999). Large shallow inlets and bays are habitat complexes which comprise a range of other Annex I types.

Reefs

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999).

Annual vegetation of drift lines

MC6

Atriplex hastata–Beta vulgaris ssp. maritima sea-bird cliff community

partial

This Annex I type comprises driftline vegetation on stony substrates and other coarse clastic sediments. It may include other vegetation types not described in the NVC, e.g. monospecific stands of Atriplex spp. Driftlines on sandy shores are not included here, but may be referable to the Annex I type 2110 Embryonic shifting dunes.

SD2

Cakile maritima–Honkenya peploides strandline community

partial

SD3

Matricaria maritima–Galium aparine strandline community

partial

Perennial vegetation of stony banks

SD1

Rumex crispus–Glaucium flavum shingle community

The NVC only describes the pioneer phase of shingle vegetation. Other types of shingle vegetation have links to different NVC communities. A comprehensive classification can be found in Sneddon & Randall (1993a).

Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts

H7

Calluna vulgaris–Scilla verna heath

partial

More sheltered sea cliffs support communities closely related to those found on similar substrates inland such as grassland and heath, with only a minor maritime element in the flora e.g. NVC type CG1f. The vegetation of mobile soft cliffs is inadequately described by the NVC at present. Stands of H7 and H8d which are not on sea cliffs are referable to Annex I type 4030 European dry heaths. Stands of MC6 on shingle are referable to Annex I type 1210 Annual vegetation of drift lines.

H8d

Calluna vulgaris–Ulex gallii heath, Scilla verna sub-community

partial

MC1

Crithmum maritimum–Spergularia rupicola maritime rock-crevice community

MC2

Armeria maritima–Ligusticum scoticum rock-crevice community

MC3

Rhodiola rosea–Armeria maritima maritime cliff-ledge community

MC4

Brassica oleracea maritime cliff-ledge community

MC5

Armeria maritima–Cerastium diffusum ssp. diffusum maritime therophyte community

MC6

Atriplex prostrata–Beta vulgaris ssp. maritima sea-bird cliff community

partial

MC7

Stellaria media–Rumex acetosa sea-bird cliff community

MC8

Festuca rubra–Armeria maritima maritime grassland

MC9

Festuca rubra–Holcus lanatus maritime grassland

MC10

Festuca rubra–Plantago spp. maritime grassland

MC11

Festuca rubra–Daucus carota ssp. gummifer maritime grassland

MC12

Festuca rubra–Hyacinthoides non-scripta maritime bluebell community

Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand

SM8

Annual Salicornia salt-marsh community

No comment

SM9

Suaeda maritima salt-marsh community

SM27

Ephemeral salt-marsh vegetation with Sagina maritima

Spartina swards (Spartinion maritimae)

SM4

Spartina maritima salt-marsh community

This Annex I type includes all species of Spartina. However, only stands of Spartina maritima, S. alterniflora and S. x townsendii qualify for selection as interest features.

SM5

Spartina alterniflora salt-marsh community

SM6

Spartina anglica salt-marsh community

Atlantic salt meadows (Glauco-Puccinellietalia maritimae)

SM10

Transitional low-marsh vegetation with Puccinellia maritima, annual Salicornia species and Suaeda maritima

Inland stands of SM16 should be considered under Annex I habitat type 1340 Inland salt meadows.

SM11

Aster tripolium var. discoideus salt-marsh community

SM12

Rayed Aster tripolium on salt-marshes

SM13

Puccinellia maritima salt-marsh community

SM14

Halimione portulacoides salt-marsh community

SM15

Juncus maritimus–Triglochin maritima salt-marsh community

SM16

Festuca rubra salt-marsh community

partial

SM17

Artemisia maritima salt-marsh community

SM18

Juncus maritimus salt-marsh community

SM19

Blysmus rufus salt-marsh community

SM20

Eleocharis uniglumis salt-marsh community

Inland salt meadows

SM16

Festuca rubra salt-marsh community

partial

Only inland stands of these communities on natural sites are included within this Annex I type.

SM23

Spergularia marina–Puccinellia distans salt-marsh community

partial

Mediterranean and thermo-Atlantic halophilous scrubs (Sarcocornetea fruticosi)

SM7

Arthrocnemum perenne stands

No comment

SM21

Suaeda vera–Limonium binervosum salt-marsh community

SM25

Suaeda vera salt-marsh community

Embryonic shifting dunes

SD4

Elymus farctus ssp. boreali-atlanticus foredune community

The majority of this vegetation is covered by NVC community SD4 but certain stands of SD2 and SD5 may be relevant when they occur in close association with SD4.

Shifting dunes along the shoreline with Ammophila arenaria ('white dunes')

SD5

Leymus arenarius mobile dune community

The majority of this vegetation is covered by the NVC community SD6 but certain stands of SD5 may be relevant when they occur in close association with/replace SD6.

SD6

Ammophila arenaria mobile dune community

Fixed dunes with herbaceous vegetation ('grey dunes')

CG10

Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris–Thymus praecox grassland

partial

Stands of CG10 referable to this type occur on climbing dunes in north-west Scotland, and other CG types may occur in similar situations in various parts of the UK. Inland stands of SD11 and SD12 should be considered under Annex I habitat type 2330 Inland dunes with Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands.

SD7

Ammophila arenaria–Festuca rubra semi-fixed dune community

SD8

Festuca rubra–Galium verum fixed dune grassland

SD9b

Ammophila arenaria–Arrhenatherum elatius dune grassland, Geranium sanguineum sub-community

SD11

Carex arenaria–Cornicularia aculeata dune community

partial

SD12

partial

SD19

Phleum arenarium–Arenaria serpyllifolia dune annual community

Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum

H11b

Calluna vulgaris–Carex arenaria heath, Empetrum nigrum ssp. nigrum sub-community

The Annex I types Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum and 2150 Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes are similar in composition. Vegetation that is intermediate between H11a and H11b has been recorded in Scotland, and in many cases it is extremely difficult to allocate stands of dune heath to one Annex I type or the other. Decisions have to be made on a site by site basis.

Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes (Calluno-Ulicetea)

H1d

Calluna vulgaris–Festuca ovina heath, Carex arenaria sub-community

The Annex I types Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes and 2140 Decalcified fixed dunes with Empetrum nigrum are similar in composition. Vegetation that is intermediate between H11a and H11b has been recorded in Scotland, and in many cases it is extremely difficult to allocate stands of dune heath to one Annex I type or the other. Decisions have to be made on a site by site basis. Other dry heath types occurring on coastal sand dunes may also be referable to this Annex I type.

H11a

Calluna vulgaris–Carex arenaria heath, Erica cinerea sub-community

H11c

Calluna vulgaris–Carex arenaria heath, species-poor sub-community

Dunes with Hippophae rhamnoides

SD18

Hippophae rhamnoides dune scrub

Hippophae rhamnoides has been widely planted in the UK and is probably only native in parts of eastern England. Non-native invasive stands are included within the habitat definition but do not qualify for selection as interest features.

Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea (Salicion arenariae)

SD16

Salix repens–Holcus lanatus dune-slack community

partial

There is an overlap between Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea and Annex I type 2190 Humid dune slacks where Salix repens is also found. Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea comprises vegetation where Salix repens is dominant, forming prominent, low scrubby growth, much of which is referable to the NVC community SD16. This habitat type is considered to be best developed in the southern half of the UK. Most examples of dune slack vegetation with Salix repens in Scotland are probably best considered as Annex I type 2190 Humid dune slacks.

Humid dune slacks

SD13

Sagina nodosa –Bryum pseudotriquetrum dune-slack community

There is an overlap between Humid dune slacks and Annex I type 2170 Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea. Dune habitats which comprise vegetation in which Salix repens is dominant, forming low scrubby growth, should be considered under Dunes with Salix repens ssp. argentea. Other dune slacks should be considered under Humid dune slacks, even if Salix repens is dominant. Some stands of SD14 and SD15 where Cladium mariscus is prominent may be referable to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae.

SD14

Salix repens–Campylium stellatum dune-slack community

partial

SD15

Salix repens–Calliergon cuspidatum dune-slack community

partial

SD16

Salix repens–Holcus lanatus dune-slack community

partial

SD17

Potentilla anserina–Carex nigra dune-slack community

Machairs

Machair includes a range of NVC communities, several of which are Annex I types in their own right.

Coastal dunes with Juniperus spp.

There are no NVC equivalents for this habitat type.

Inland dunes with open Corynephorus and Agrostis grasslands

SD11

Carex arenaria–Cornicularia aculeata dune community

partial

Only inland stands of these communities are included within this Annex I type.

SD12

Carex arenaria–Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris dune grassland

partial

Oligotrophic waters containing very few minerals of sandy plains (Littorelletalia uniflorarae)

A22

Littorella uniflora–Lobelia dortmanna community

partial

This Annex I type is restricted to sites on lowland sandy plains.

A23

Isoetes lacustris/setacea community

partial

Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea

This Annex I type broadly corresponds with standing water types 2, 3, 4 and 5 of the botanical classification of standing waters (Palmer 1989) in upland areas in the north and west. Non-dystrophic type 1 standing water bodies may also be referable to this type.

Hard oligo-mesotrophic waters with benthic vegetation of Chara spp.

This Annex I type comprises standing water bodies with high calcium/ magnesium content and abundance of charophytes. Artificial examples (e.g. disused gravel pits) are included.

Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition-type vegetation

This Annex I type broadly corresponds with standing water types 7, 8, 9 and 10 of the botanical classification of standing waters (Palmer 1989). However, this classification does not distinguish between lakes which are naturally eutrophic from those which are artificially enriched. Only naturally eutrophic lakes and included in this Annex I type.

Natural dystrophic lakes and ponds

A24

Juncus bulbosus community

partial

This Annex I type broadly corresponds with standing water type 1 of the botanical classification of standing waters (Palmer 1989). It is often found within examples of Annex I types 7110 Active raised bogs and 7130 Blanket bogs. Non-dystrophic examples of type 1 standing water bodies may be referable to Annex 1 type 3130 Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea.

Mediterranean temporary ponds

There are no NVC equivalents for this habitat type.

Turloughs

There are no NVC equivalents for this habitat type.

Water courses of plain to montane levels with the Ranunculion fluitantis and Callitricho-Batrachion vegetation

This Annex I type is defined by floating mats of Ranunculus spp. (subgenus Batrachium) and is widespread in rivers.

Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix

H5

Erica vagans–Schoenus nigricans heath

Heath types related to M15 in the Northern and Western Isles which are rich in Racomitrium lanuginosum, Schoenus nigricans or lichens also conform to this Annex I type. M14 with Cladium conforms to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae.

M14

Schoenus nigricans–Narthecium ossifragum mire

partial

M15

Scirpus cespitosus–Erica tetralix wet heath

M16

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum compactum wet heath

Temperate Atlantic wet heaths with Erica ciliaris and Erica tetralix

H3

Ulex minor–Agrostis curtisii heath

partial

This Annex I type only includes vegetation with abundant Erica ciliaris.

H4

Ulex gallii–Agrostis curtisii heath

partial

M16

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum compactum wet heath

partial

M21

Narthecium ossifragum–Sphagnum papillosum valley mire

partial

European dry heaths

H1

Calluna vulgaris–Festuca ovina heath

partial

Subalpine forms of H10, H12, H16, H18 and H21 conform to Annex I type 4060 Alpine and Boreal heaths. H1d stands conform to Annex I type 2150 Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes (Calluno-Ulicetea). Some forms of H7 are referable to this Annex I type, but most should be placed within Annex I type 1230 Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts, as should stands of H8d on sea cliffs.

H2

Calluna vulgaris–Ulex minor heath

H3

Ulex minor–Agrostis curtisii heath

H4

Ulex gallii–Agrostis curtisii heath

H7

partial

H8

Calluna vulgaris–Ulex gallii heath

partial

H9

Calluna vulgaris–Deschampsia flexuosa heath

H10

Calluna vulgaris–Erica cinerea heath

partial

H12

Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus heath

partial

H16

Calluna vulgaris–Arctostaphylos uva-ursi heath

partial

H18

Vaccinium myrtillus–Deschampsia flexuosa heath

partial

H21

Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus–Sphagnum capillifolium heath

partial

Dry Atlantic coastal heaths with Erica vagans

H6

Erica vagans–Ulex europaeus heath

No comment

Alpine and Boreal heaths

H10

Calluna vulgaris–Erica cinerea heath

partial

For H10, H12, H16, H18 and H21 only subalpine forms conform to this type.

H12

Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus heath

partial

H13

Calluna vulgaris–Cladonia arbuscula heath

H14

Calluna vulgaris–Racomitrium lanuginosum heath

H15

Calluna vulgaris–Juniperus communis ssp. nana heath

H16

Calluna vulgaris–Arctostaphylos uva-ursi heath

partial

H17

Calluna vulgaris–Arctostaphylos alpina heath

H18

Vaccinium myrtillus–Deschampsia flexuosa heath

partial

H19

Vaccinium myrtillus–Cladonia arbuscula heath

H20

Vaccinium myrtillus–Racomitrium lanuginosum heath

H21

Calluna vulgaris–Vaccinium myrtillus–Sphagnum capillifolium heath

partial

H22

Vaccinium myrtillus–Rubus chamaemorus heath

Sub-Arctic Salix spp. scrub

W20

Salix lapponum–Luzula sylvatica scrub

This Annex I type also includes Salix myrsinites scrub, which is not described in the NVC, and stands of Salix lapponum, S. myrsinites, S. lanata and S. arbuscula in a variety of other vegetation types. It also includes associated stands of S. reticulata, S. myrsinifolia and S. phylicifolia.

Stable xerothermophilous formations with Buxus sempervirens on rock slopes (Berberidion p.p.)

There are no NVC equivalents for this Annex I type. It only includes stable stands of scrub and not successional stages reverting to woodland.

Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands

W19

Juniperus communis ssp. communis–Oxalis acetosella woodland

partial

For W19 and W21 this type includes only stands dominated by juniper. Stands of Juniperus communis ssp. communis on various other NVC grassland and heath types are also included. Stands of W19 within stands of W18 conform to Annex I type 91C0 Caledonian forest. Dwarf juniper heath (NVC type H15) is referable to Annex I type 4060 Alpine and Boreal heaths.

W21

Crataegus monogyna–Hedera helix scrub

partial

Calaminarian grasslands of the Violetalia calaminariae

OV37

Festuca ovina–Minuartia verna community

This Annex I type is found in three main situations, namely: (i) near-natural, open vegetation of serpentine rock outcrops with skeletal soils; (ii) river gravels rich in lead and zinc; (iii) artificial mine workings and spoil heaps. As well as OV37, this type includes related vegetation types not described by the NVC, characterised by metallophyte species or races of vascular and/or lower plants.

Siliceous alpine and boreal grasslands

U7

Nardus stricta–Carex bigelowii grass-heath

Snow-bed communities (NVC types U11, U12 and U14) are included in this Annex I type (agreed at Scientific Working Group meeting of 16 February 2001).

U8

Carex bigelowii–Polytrichum alpinum sedge-heath

U9

Juncus trifidus–Racomitrium lanuginosum rush-heath

U10

Carex bigelowii–Racomitrium lanuginosum moss-heath

U11

Polytrichum sexangulare–Kiaeria starkei snow-bed

U12

Salix herbacea–Racomitrium heterostichum snow-bed

U14

Alchemilla alpina–Sibbaldia procumbens dwarf-herb community

Alpine and subalpine calcareous grasslands

CG12

Festuca ovina–Alchemilla alpina–Silene acaulis community

No comment

CG13

Dryas octopetala–Carex flacca heath

CG14

Dryas octopetala–Silene acaulis ledge community

Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia)

CG1

Festuca ovina–Carlina vulgaris grassland

Stands of CG10 on limestone with a significant representation of Mesobromion species may be referable to this type; most CG10 stands are referable to Annex I type 6230 Species-rich Nardus grassland, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas in continental Europe).

CG2

Festuca ovina–Avenula pratensis grassland

CG3

Bromus erectus grassland

CG4

Brachypodium pinnatum grassland

CG5

Bromus erectus–Brachypodium pinnatum grassland

CG6

Avenula pubescens grassland

CG7

Festuca ovina–Hieracium pilosella–Thymus praecox/pulegioides grassland

CG8

Sesleria albicans–Scabiosa columbaria grassland

CG9

Sesleria albicans–Galium sterneri grassland

CG10

Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris–Thymus praecox grassland

partial

Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia) (important orchid sites)

This Annex I type combines features of both habitat and species selection. In the UK, sites hosting populations of one or more of the following rare or scarce species have been selected: man orchid Aceras anthropophorum, musk orchid Herminium monorchis, lizard orchid Himantoglossum hircinum, early spider-orchid Ophrys sphegodes, late spider-orchid Ophrys fuciflora, military orchid Orchis militaris, and burnt orchid Orchis ustulata.

Species-rich Nardus grassland, on siliceous substrates in mountain areas (and submountain areas in continental Europe)

CG10

Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris–Thymus praecox grassland

partial

Only stands of CG10 and CG11 on siliceous substrates are considered to be referable to this Annex I type; stands on limestone are excluded. Stands of CG10 on limestone with a significant representation of Mesobromion species may be referable to Annex I type 6210 Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia). Species-rich forms of U4 and U5 may be referable to Annex I type 6230.

CG11

Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris–Alchemilla alpina grassland

partial

U4

Festuca ovina–Agrostis capillaris–Galium saxatile grassland

partial

U5

Nardus stricta–Galium saxatile grassland

partial

Molinia meadows on calcareous, peaty or clayey-silt-laden soils (Molinion caeruleae)

M24

Molinia caerulea–Cirsium dissectum fen-meadow

partial

Some forms of M24 are referable to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae.

M26

Molinia caerulea–Crepis paludosa mire

Hydrophilous tall herb fringe communities of plains and of the montane to alpine levels

U17

Luzula sylvatica–Geum rivale tall-herb community

No comment

Lowland hay meadows (Alopecurus pratensis, Sanguisorba officinalis)

MG4

Alopecurus pratensis–Sanguisorba officinalis grassland

No comment

Mountain hay meadows

MG3

Anthoxanthum odoratum–Geranium sylvaticum meadow

No comment

Active raised bogs

M1

Sphagnum auriculatum bog pool community

partial

Further information on the distinction between raised and blanket bog can be found in Lindsay & Immirzi (1996). The NVC communities listed form the core of active raised bog in the UK but the list is not exhaustive. 'Active' is defined as supporting a significant area of vegetation that is normally peat-forming. This may include Sphagnum mosses, Eriophorum spp., or Molinia in certain circumstances.

M2

Sphagnum cuspidatum/recurvum bog pool community

partial

M18

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum papillosum raised and blanket mire

partial

M19

Calluna vulgaris–Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

partial

Degraded raised bogs still capable of natural regeneration

M3

Eriophorum angustifolium bog pool community

partial

Further information on the distinction between raised and blanket bog can be found in Lindsay & Immirzi (1996). The NVC communities listed form the core of degraded raised bog in the UK but the list is not exhaustive. Many sites contain areas of both active and degraded bog vegetation, and in these cases both Annex I types should be listed. M15 and M16 on shallower peats (<~0.5 m) are generally referable to Annex I type 4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix.

M15

Scirpus cespitosus–Erica tetralix wet heath

partial

M16

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum compactum wet heath

partial

M18

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum papillosum raised and blanket mire

partial

M20

Eriophorum vaginatum blanket and raised mire

partial

M25

Molinia caerulea–Potentilla erecta mire

partial

Blanket bogs

M1

Sphagnum auriculatum bog pool community

partial

Further information on the distinction between raised and blanket bog can be found in Lindsay & Immirzi (1996). The NVC communities listed form the core of blanket bog in the UK but the list is not exhaustive. This Annex I type includes both active bog (which has priority status) and non-active blanket bog. 'Active' is defined as supporting a significant area of vegetation that is normally peat forming. This may include Sphagnum mosses, Eriophorum spp., or Molinia in certain circumstances. Stands of M15 on shallower peats (<~0.5 m) are generally referable to Annex I type 4010 Northern Atlantic wet heaths with Erica tetralix.

M15

Scirpus cespitosus–Erica tetralix wet heath

partial

M17

Scirpus cespitosus–Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

partial

M18

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum papillosum raised and blanket mire

partial

M19

Calluna vulgaris–Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

partial

M20

Eriophorum vaginatum blanket and raised mire

partial

M25

Molinia caerulea–Potentilla erecta mire

partial

Transition mires and quaking bogs

M5

Carex rostrata–Sphagnum squarrosum mire

The NVC communities listed form the core of transition mire in the UK but the list is not exhaustive. Ladder-fen type mires on blanket bogs may conform to this Annex I type. When M9 is found in more base-rich conditions or in association with other rich fen communities it may be referable to Annex I type 7230 Alkaline fens, and in stands where Cladium mariscus is predominant it may conform to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae.

M8

Carex rostrata–Sphagnum warnstorfii mire

M9

Carex rostrata–Calliergon cuspidatum/giganteum mire

partial

S27

Carex rostrata–Potentilla palustris tall-herb fen

Depressions on peat substrates of the Rhynchosporion

M1

Sphagnum auriculatum bog pool community

partial

The relationship between this Annex I type and the NVC is not straightforward. This type can be found in hollows and depressions on blanket bogs, raised bogs, valley mires and heaths, and is usually characterised by an abundance of Rhynchospora alba.

M2

Sphagnum cuspidatum/recurvum bog pool community

partial

M14

Schoenus nigricans–Narthecium ossifragum mire

partial

M15

Scirpus cespitosus–Erica tetralix wet heath

partial

M16

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum compactum wet heath

partial

M17

Scirpus cespitosus–Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire

partial

M18

Erica tetralix–Sphagnum papillosum raised and blanket mire

partial

M21

Narthecium ossifragum–Sphagnum papillosum valley mire

partial

M29

Hypericum elodes–Potamogeton polygonifolius soakway

partial

Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae

M9

Carex rostrata–Calliergon cuspidatum/giganteum mire

partial

This habitat type comprises species-rich examples of Cladium mariscus fen, particularly those stands enriched with elements of the Caricion davallianae (i.e. small-sedge fen composed of open low-growing vegetation). A number of NVC communities can conform to this type. It can be found in the following situations: (i) on sites with a mixture of closed, species-poor Cladium beds, which at their margins have transitions to species-rich small-sedge mire vegetation, (ii) on sites where Cladium beds retain their species-richness owing to management, and (iii) in situations where Cladium fen is inherently species-rich. Only stands of the NVC types listed which have abundant Cladium mariscus should be assigned to this Annex I type.

M13

Schoenus nigricans–Juncus subnodulosus mire

partial

M14

Schoenus nigricans–Narthecium ossifragum mire

partial

M24

Molinia caerulea–Cirsium dissectum fen-meadow

partial

S2

Cladium mariscus swamp and sedge beds

S24

Phragmites australis–Peucedanum palustris tall-herb fen

partial

S25

Phragmites australis–Eupatorium cannabinum tall-herb fen

partial

SD14

Salix repens–Campylium stellatum dune-slack community

partial

SD15

Salix repens–Calliergon cuspidatum dune-slack community

partial

Petrifying springs with tufa formation (Cratoneurion)

M37

Cratoneuron commutatum–Festuca rubra spring

No comment

M38

Cratoneuron commutatum–Carex nigra spring

Alkaline fens

M9

Carex rostrata–Calliergon cuspidatum/giganteum mire

partial

The NVC communities listed form the core of alkaline fen in the UK but the list is not exhaustive. Stands of M9 in which Cladium mariscus is abundant are referable to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae, and less base-rich examples may conform to Annex I type 7140 Transition mires and quaking bogs. High-altitude examples of M10 which contain arctic-alpine species should be considered under 7240 Alpine pioneer formations of Caricion bicoloris-atrofuscae. Stands of M13 in which Cladium mariscus is predominant may conform to Annex I type 7210 Calcareous fens with Cladium mariscus and species of the Caricion davallianae.

M10

Carex dioica–Pinguicula vulgaris mire

partial

M13

Schoenus nigricans–Juncus subnodulosus mire

partial

Alpine pioneer formations of Caricion bicoloris-atrofuscae

M10

Carex dioica–Pinguicula vulgaris mire

partial

Stands of M10 are only referable to this Annex I type if they occur at high altitude and contain arctic-alpine species.

M11

Carex demissa–Saxifraga aizoides mire

M12

Carex saxatilis mire

Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani)

U18

Cryptogramma crispa–Athyrium distentifolium snow-bed

partial

This Annex I type comprises screes of siliceous rocks, generally found at high altitude. It grades to other Annex I types where the scree is stable. As well as Cryptogramma crispa types, it includes screes dominated by bryophytes or lichens which are not covered by the NVC. It may be closely associated with Annex I type 8220 Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation, which can also support U18 or U21.

U21

Cryptogramma crispa–Deschampsia flexuosa community

partial

Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii)

OV38

Gymnocarpium robertianum–Arrhenatherum elatius community

partial

This Annex I type includes screes of calcareous or other base-rich rocks, generally found at high altitude. It grades to other Annex I types where the scree is stable. It also includes a variety of other plant communities not covered by the NVC. It may be closely associated with Annex I type 8210 Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation.

Calcareous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

OV39

Asplenium trichomanes–Asplenium ruta-muraria community

partial

This Annex I type includes crevice vegetation of calcareous or other base-rich rocks. A number of vegetation types with characteristic ferns, bryophytes and lichens are included which are only partly covered by the NVC. It may be closely associated with Annex I types 8120 Calcareous and calcshist screes of the montane to alpine levels (Thlaspietea rotundifolii) and 8240 Limestone pavements. Coastal cliffs with crevice vegetation are referable to Annex I type 1230 Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts.

OV40

Asplenium viride–Cystopteris fragilis community

Siliceous rocky slopes with chasmophytic vegetation

U18

Cryptogramma crispa–Athyrium distentifolium snow-bed

partial

This Annex I type includes crevice vegetation of siliceous rocks. A number of vegetation types with characteristic ferns, bryophytes and lichens are included which are poorly covered by the NVC. It may be closely associated with Annex I type 8110 Siliceous scree of the montane to snow levels (Androsacetalia alpinae and Galeopsietalia ladani), which can also support U18 or U21. Coastal cliffs with crevice vegetation are referable to the Annex I type 1230 Vegetated sea cliffs of the Atlantic and Baltic coasts.

U21

Cryptogramma crispa–Deschampsia flexuosa community

partial

Limestone pavements

This Annex I type is defined by clint-and-grike structure. A range of calcicolous rock, heath, grassland, scrub and woodland NVC types can be found on limestone pavement.

Caves not open to the public

This Annex I type includes caves not exploited for tourism. Only sites which host specialist or endemic cave species or that are of paramount importance for Annex II species (including bats) qualify for selection as interest features.

Submerged or partially submerged sea caves

See JNCC Marine Information Notes, No. 8 (January 1999).

Atlantic acidophilous beech forests with Ilex and sometimes also Taxus in the shrublayer (Quercion robori-petraeae or Ilici-Fagenion)

W14

Fagus sylvatica–Rubus fruticosus woodland

partial

Epiphyte richness is a key factor in defining this Annex I type. Only the more acidic stands of W14 conform to this type.

W15

Fagus sylvatica–Deschampsia flexuosa woodland

Asperulo-Fagetum beech forests

W12

Fagus sylvatica–Mercurialis perennis woodland

Only the more calcareous stands of W14 conform to this type.

W14

Fagus sylvatica–Rubus fruticosus woodland

partial

Sub-Atlantic and medio-European oak or oak-hornbeam forests of the Carpinion betuli

Rare type with no NVC equivalent.

Tilio-Acerion forests of slopes, screes and ravines

W8

Fraxinus excelsior–Acer campestre–Mercurialis perennis woodland

partial

The relationship to the NVC for this Annex I type is not straightforward. Essentially it incorporates stands of NVC types W8d-g and W9 on rocky ground, including ravines, screes and other rocky slopes.

W9

Fraxinus excelsior–Sorbus aucuparia–Mercurialis perennis woodland

partial

Old acidophilous oak woods with Quercus robur on sandy plains

W10

Quercus robur–Pteridium aquilinum–Rubus fruticosus woodland

partial

This Annex I type is restricted to lowland ancient oakwood, on acid, sandy or gravelly sites.

W16

Quercus spp.–Betula spp.–Descampsia flexuosa woodland

partial

Old sessile oak woods with Ilex and Blechnum in the British Isles

W10e

Quercus robur–Pteridium aquilinum–Rubus fruticosus woodland: Acer pseudoplatanus–Oxalis acetosella sub-community

partial

Oak need not necessarily be dominant in the stand for the woodland to conform to this Annex I type, but birch woods beyond the natural range of oak are excluded.

W11

Quercus petraea–Betula pubescens–Oxalis acetosella woodland

partial

W16b

Quercus spp.–Betula spp.–Descampsia flexuosa woodland, Vaccinium myrtillus–Dryopteris dilatata sub-community

W17

Quercus petraea–Betula pubescens–Dicranum majus woodland

partial

Caledonian forest

W18

Pinus sylvestris–Hylocomium splendens woodland

partial

The majority of this habitat corresponds to NVC type W18 but it also includes some birch-dominated stands of W17 and W4. Stands of W19 are only included where they are within W18 stands; otherwise they should be considered under Annex I type 5130 Juniperus communis formations on heaths or calcareous grasslands. W18 stands may also include pine bog woodland which conforms to Annex I type 91D0 Bog woodland.

W19

Juniperus communis ssp. communis–Oxalis acetosella woodland

partial

Bog woodland

W4c

Betula pubescens–Molinia caerulea woodland: Sphagnum sub-community

partial

The relationship to the NVC for this Annex I type is not straightforward. A key element is the relative ecological stability of the open woodland-bog or poor fen vegetation combination. Pine types may be intermediate between M18/M19 and W18. Birch/willow/alder types may be close to W4c or other wet woodland NVC types such as W2 and W3. Secondary birchwoods on damaged raised bogs do not conform to this Annex I type, but may be referable to 7120 Degraded raised bogs still capable of regeneration.

W18

Pinus sylvestris–Hylocomium splendens woodland

partial

Alluvial forests with Alnus glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior (Alno-Padion, Alnion incanae, Salicion albae)

W5

Alnus glutinosa–Carex paniculata woodland

partial

Only stands on river floodplains conform to this Annex I type.

W6

Alnus glutinosa–Urtica dioica woodland

partial

W7

Alnus glutinosa–Fraxinus excelsior–Lysimachia nemorum woodland

partial

Taxus baccata woods of the British Isles

W13

Taxus baccata woodland

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