Summary
Britain's temperate rainforests, found mainly on the UK's western coasts, are facing an "extinction crisis" as rare species of mosses, lichens, and liverworts disappear. A recent survey showed that only 22% of these forests in Wales are in good shape due to pollution, the breaking up of habitats, and invasive species.
Key Facts
- Britain's temperate rainforests are also called Celtic rainforests.
- These forests have rare species of mosses, lichens, and liverworts that are disappearing.
- A survey in 2024 found that only 22% of Welsh rainforests are in good condition.
- Pollution, habitat fragmentation, and invasive species threaten these forests.
- A 500-year-old oak in Eryri National Park housed a rare lichen population before falling in 2023.
- The rare lichen rinodina isidioides, known as "skeletal fingers," needs old trees and wet conditions to survive.
- Wales has about 33,024 hectares of rainforest, which is crucial due to its rarity worldwide.
- Ancient woodlands face threats from storms, farming, and invasive species like rhododendrons.
