Posidonia beds (Posidonion oceanicae)
Description (English)
Beds of Posidonia oceanica (Linnaeus) Delile characteristic of the infralittoral zone of the Mediterranean (depth: ranging from a few dozen centimetres to 30 - 40 metres). On hard or soft substrate, these beds constitute one of the main climax communities. They can withstand relatively large variations in temperature and water movement, but are sensitive to desalination, generally requiring a salinity of between 36 and 39 per 1000.
Source: Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats, version EUR 28 (2013)
Quick facts
| EU Habitats Directive | Annex I habitat type (code 1120) |
|---|---|
| Habitat type | Priority |
| Natura 2000 sites | 529 are designated for this habitat type |
Distribution
Conservation status
EU conservation status
Conservation status assesses every six years and for each biogeographical region the condition of habitats and species compared to the favourable status as described in the Habitats Directive. The map shows the 2013-2018 assessments as reported by EU Member State. Assessments are further detailed in the summary document available behind the link below.
Species mentioned in habitat description
Fishes
Epinephelus guaza
Fishes
Hippocampus ramulosus
Flowering Plants
Posidonia oceanica
Invertebrates
Asterina pancerii
Invertebrates
Paracentrotus lividus
Invertebrates
Pinna nobilis
| Species scientific name | English common name | Species group |
|---|---|---|
| Epinephelus guaza | Fishes | |
| Hippocampus ramulosus | Fishes | |
| Posidonia oceanica | Flowering Plants | |
| Asterina pancerii | Invertebrates | |
| Paracentrotus lividus | Invertebrates | |
| Pinna nobilis | Invertebrates |
Natura 2000 sites
Protected in the following Natura 2000 sites
Protected sites
Please note the site map takes a while to display.Legal status
Mentioned in the following international legal instruments and agreements
Relation to habitat classifications
| Classification | Code | Habitat type name | Relationship type |
|---|---|---|---|
| EUNIS Habitat Classification 200711 | A5.5 | Sublittoral macrophyte-dominated sediment | narrower |
| EUNIS Habitat Classification 200711 | A5.535 | Posidonia beds | same |
| EUNIS Habitat Classification 200711 | A5.53 | Sublittoral seagrass beds | narrower |
