Lundy coast invertebrates

What we need to do and where
Image shows Lundy coastline curving round from right to left with calm blue sea on left side. The photo has been taken from a narrow dirt path that is partially visble as it follows the steep, rocky coastline along high, rocky cliffs that drop sharply into the sea. The tops of the cliff are a vivid green (bracken) with no trees in sight. In the distance a port and beach is just about visible with a middling sized sail boat in front of large rocky outcrops coming out of the sea at the coastlines end.

Lundy coastline, Annie Houston

1. About

Lundy’s isolated position has given some species a rare opportunity to evolve independently of mainland populations and, for the most part, away from human interference.  

There are four Focus Species, two of which aren’t found anywhere else in the world. 

Probably simplest for the user to add Lundy cabbage and anything else Lundy (manx shearwaters) to this page…….so all in one place. Discuss during Consultation and them change. 

Key pressures and opportunities

To add – but will be similar to other coastal areas – scrub etc 

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Invasive non-native species

2. What we need to do and where

Priority

Increase the abundance and distribution of invertebrates along Lundy’s coasts, particularly those identified as Focus Species.  

Focus species

Lundy cabbage weevil

Ceutorhynchus insularis
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Formerly known as Ceutorhynchus contractus var pallipes, this tiny insect isn’t known from anywhere else in the world. The weevil is just 1.5mm long and has an elephant-like snout, which it uses to feed exclusively on Lundy cabbage, another Focus Species.  

Lundy mould beetle 

Melanophthalma distinguenda 
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The Lundy mould beetle is found in grass tussocks and plant litter on coastal cliffs. In the UK it’s only known from Lundy, where it can still be found in good numbers.

Lundy cabbage flea beetle 

Psylliodes luridipennis
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Lundy cabbage flea beetle 

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The only place in the world this beetle is found is Lundy, where it feeds exclusively on Lundy cabbage. It’s called a flea beetle because of its enlarged back legs which it uses to leap away from danger. 

Cornish snout

Nothris congressariella 
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This rare micro-moth is only known from the Isles of Scilly, a few places in Cornwall and on Lundy in Devon. However, its population may have expanded following an initiative to eradicate rhododendron. Caterpillars feed on balm-leaved figwort, which has a very localised distribution.  

Actions for all Lundy coast invertebrates

Continue to control scrub and remove invasives such as rhododendron to expand the populations of Lundy cabbage and balm-leaved figwort for rare invertebrates.

Where to focus action

Lundy coastal wildbelt. See Mapping

3. Inspiration

Case studies

Through the Consultation discuss and add  information on conservation on Lundy and how to visit etc 

Where to visit

Through the Consultation discuss and add  information on conservation on Lundy and how to visit etc 

4. Find out more

To add following discussion during Consultation 

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