Torbay
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Hectares protected:
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Hectares restored:
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In recognition of its rich marine biodiversity, Torbay was designated a Marine Conservation Zone (MCZ). The MCZ is an inshore site that covers 20 km2 of coast between Oddicombe Beach and Sharkham Point. The high level of biodiversity found in it has led to Torbay being described as “the jewel in South Devon’s crown”.
Seagrass meadows are a key protected feature of this designation. As such, they are regularly monitored, and the health of these habitats is directly linked to the overall success of the MCZ.
Torbay is home to six subtidal seagrass meadows of Zostera marina, extending from Hope’s Nose in Torquay to Brixham Breakwater. These meadows collectively cover over 100 hectares, with the largest found at Torre Abbey in Torquay.
Seagrass meadows in Torbay support a wide variety of marine life, including species that are both ecologically and commercially important. Cuttlefish, scallops, plaice, cod and crabs are all commonly found within these habitats and have historically contributed to the success of Brixham’s fishing industry. Torbay’s meadows are also home to both UK species of seahorse – the short snouted seahorse and the long snouted, or spiny, seahorse, both of which are rare and protected species.
We are actively working with Torbay Harbour Authority and Wild Planet Trust to protect and restore these vital habitats in Torbay. This includes the deployment of Sensitive Habitat Marker Buoys, which indicate the boundaries of seagrass meadows and promote a Voluntary No Anchor Zone (VNAZ), helping to prevent anchor damage.
We are also installing Advanced Mooring Systems, which reduce seabed impact by minimising the physical footprint of moorings in sensitive areas. 3 can be found in Fishcombe Cove and 10 in Broadsands.
Torbay is also home to our National Seagrass Nursery, a dedicated growing facility capable of growing hundreds of thousands of plants at a time! These plants are used in our restoration efforts across the Southwest!
Case study locations
Working with local communities and stakeholders, we hope to work in more locations protecting and restoring vital seagrass meadows. Get in touch to help us protect a meadow near you.
