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ARCHIVE: Marine biodiversity
In its most simple form, biodiversity is life on earth and refers to the variety of life forms including plants, animals and microorganisms, the genes that they contain and the ecosystems that they form.
As an island nation, the UK boasts around 7500 miles of coastline and a wealth of marine biodiversity ranging from basking sharks to colourful sponges and cold water corals. The UK’s marine biodiversity has received considerably less attention than its terrestrial counterpart, due in part to the vast area and the difficulties associated with adequately sampling its rich ecology.
Latest news
- 12 November 2009: Marine and Coastal Access bill received Royal Assent. This legislation will bring in provisions to protect marine species and habitats including Marine conservation zones.
- November 2009: Establishing a Marine Protected Area in the British Indian Ocean Territory - Foreign and Commonwealth Office consultation published. Closing date for comments - 12 February 2010.
In this section:
- Find information on our habitats and species, including UKSeaMap - a set of broadscale seabed and water column feature maps.
- How we can protect our marine habitats and species
- International obligations to protect marine nature conservation
Contact us:
Marine Biodiversity Team
Wildlife Habitats and Biodiversity
Defra
Zone 1/05, Temple Quay House
2, The Square, Temple Quay
Bristol BS1 6EB
Email: marinebiodiversity@defra.gsi.gov.uk
Page last modified: 26 November 2009