Natural England’s underwater surveys off Cornwall’s south coast have identified rare and previously unknown seaweed species, including a tiny red seaweed confirmed as new to science. The discoveries include Ceramium (pincer weed), Ulva rigida, Neofolia rosea, and Bonnemaisonia clavata, last seen in British waters in the 18th century. Maerl beds, formed by coral-like red seaweed, support high biodiversity and play a critical role in carbon storage. Scientists noted the findings highlight the fragility of these habitats, threatened by scallop dredging, pollution, and climate change. The surveys, building on citizen scientist reports, reveal extensive unknown maerl beds, underscoring the need for protection to preserve marine biodiversity.
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Original source: https://www.gov.uk/
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