Migneint–Arenig–Dduallt
Site details
Location of Migneint–Arenig–Dduallt SAC/SCI/cSAC
Note:
When undertaking an appropriate assessment of impacts at a site, all features of European importance (both primary and non-primary) need to be considered.
Annex I habitats that are a primary reason for selection of this site
| 4030 European dry heaths |
| Upland European dry heath at Migneint–Arenig–Dduallt is predominantly referable to NVC type H12 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus heath. Locally at higher altitudes this shows the effects of wind-pruning, and is lichen-rich in places. Other forms of heath present include H18 Vaccinium myrtillus – Deschampsia flexuosa heath, H21 Calluna vulgaris – Vaccinium myrtillus – Sphagnum capillifolium heath on damp north- to north-east facing cliffs, and H8 Calluna vulgaris – Ulex gallii heath at lower altitudes. The Calluna – Vaccinium – Sphagnum heath supports the Red Data Book liverwort Gymnocolea acutiloba. |
| 7130 Blanket bogs * Priority feature |
| Migneint and Dduallt mark the limits of a large upland block located along the eastern fringe of Snowdonia National Park. The site supports the largest area of blanket bog in north Wales after Berwyn and is particularly significant for the extent and quality of comparatively Sphagnum-rich M19 Calluna vulgaris – Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire. M18 Erica tetralix – Sphagnum papillosum blanket mire is also widespread, with localised representation of the bog-moss Sphagnum magellanicum and, rarely, S. imbricatum ssp. affine. Other notable species found at the site include lesser twayblade Listera cordata, tall bog-sedge Carex magellanica and few-flowered sedge C. pauciflora, here approaching the southern limit of its British distribution. The significant representation of more degraded vegetation types, including M20 Eriophorum vaginatum blanket mire, attests to a long history of anthropogenic modification including burning, grazing and moor-gripping – significant parts of the site were formerly managed as grouse moor. Large areas of dry and wet heath are also present, while soligenous mire communities feature as widespread and extensive components of the blanket mire. |
Annex I habitats present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary reason for selection of this site
Annex II species that are a primary reason for selection of this site
Not applicable.
Annex II species present as a qualifying feature, but not a primary reason for site selection
Not applicable.
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