Large shallow inlets and bays
Description (English)
Large indentations of the coast where, in contrast to estuaries, the influence of freshwater is generally limited. These shallow indentations are generally sheltered from wave action and contain a great diversity of sediments and substrates with a well developed zonation of benthic communities. These communities have generally a high biodiversity. The limit of shallow water is sometimes defined by the distribution of the Zosteretea and Potametea associations.
Several physiographic types may be included under this category providing the water is shallow over a major part of the area: embayments, fjards, rias and voes.
Source: Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats, version EUR 28 (2013)
Quick facts
| EU Habitats Directive | Annex I habitat type (code 1160) |
|---|---|
| Habitat type | Not priority |
| Natura 2000 sites | 489 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
Flowering Plants
Potamogeton pectinatus
Flowering Plants
Potamogeton praelongus
Flowering Plants
Ruppia maritima
| Species scientific name | English common name | Species group |
|---|---|---|
| Potamogeton pectinatus | Flowering Plants | |
| Potamogeton praelongus | Flowering Plants | |
| Ruppia maritima | Flowering Plants |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Federal List of Biotopes | B32 | Boddengewässerkomplex, geringe Belastung | not defined |
| German Federal List of Biotopes | A2a | Flachwasserzonen der Nordsee (Meeresarme u. -buchten, incl. Seegraswiesen) | not defined |
| German Federal List of Biotopes | B31 | naturnaher Boddengewässerkomplex | not defined |
