Lower plant surveys

Bryophytes survey

Lower plants are made up of the bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts), lichens and fungi. Due to its mild, wet climate and varied geology, the British Isles is particularly known for supporting a rich and varied lower plant flora, including several rare and vulnerable species. Several of these species receive protection under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) as well as through the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act (2006). This places a duty on local authorities to have regard for these species when determining a planning application.

Our experienced botanical team is able to draw on a range of nationally recognised experts, allowing us to offer the full range of lower plant surveys.

Surveying for lower plants often requires years of experience and highly specialised knowledge. Our botanical team can organise walkover surveys to record the lower plant flora of a site, or design bespoke surveys to determine the presence or likely absence of a particular species.

Fungi survey
Timing Considerations: The optimal period for bryophyte surveys is between October and April, with May to September being a sub-optimal time of year for most species. Surveys for lichens may be undertaken year round while surveys for fungi are best undertaken in spring or autumn, dependent on species.
About us
Babec Ecological Consultants are based in Sussex and Hertfordshire, and provide lower plant surveys across West Sussex, East Sussex, Hertfordshire, Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridge, Essex, London and throughout England and Wales. We are happy to give free initial advice and provide an excellent service at competitive rates. Click here to get in touch.