Divers have discovered extensive beds of rare pink calcified seaweed, known as maerl, off the coast of south Cornwall.

These maerl beds are vital to the local ecosystem, forming the foundation of marine food chains.

The team of specialist survey divers identified 79 different animal species living on the maerl around the Roseland Peninsula and St Austell Bay.

According to Natural England, maerl is crucial for supporting fish populations and maintaining healthy fisheries, and it is considered an “irreplaceable habitat.”

While maerl beds in the Fal and Helford estuaries are well-documented, less is known about those in Cornwall’s south coast bays.

In July, Natural England launched an expedition with Porthkerris Divers and an underwater drone to explore these important habitats further.

Natural England’s marine senior officer, Angela Gall, who led the survey said: “It’s incredible to think that in Britain, within sight of the shore, there are still completely undiscovered sites.

“We will use this new evidence on the maerl bed sites to seek better protection for these ancient woodlands of the sea.”

 

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