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European Peatlands

European Peatlands. 515,000 km sq Undecomposed organic material Largest tracts in northern regions Cool wet climate ideal for formation. Uses. Threats. Status. Only 5 countries have > 50% of original peatland remaining EU wants to end horticultural use

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European Peatlands

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  1. European Peatlands • 515,000 km sq • Undecomposed organic material • Largest tracts in northern regions • Cool wet climate ideal for formation

  2. Uses

  3. Threats Status Only 5 countries have > 50% of original peatland remaining EU wants to end horticultural use EU attempting to protect wetlands for migrating birds • HUMANS! • “slowly renewing” resource • 1000-5000 years for one peatland to be created! • Usual formation about 1 mm/year!

  4. Environmental Issues • Drainage for agriculture and extraction causing: • Release of carbon dioxide, methane and heavy metals • Loss of habitat • Risk of fires

  5. Some native species of peat bogs • Early marsh-orchid (Dactylorhizaincarnata) • Large Heath Butterfly (Coenonymphatullia) • Common Snipe (Gallinagogallinago) • Bluethroat (Lusciniasvecica)

  6. Aquatic Warbler (Acrocephaluspaludicola) • Common sundew (Droserarotundifolia)

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