Spring Update from the Floating Wetland
We’ve had a wonderful start to spring here at North Wales Rivers Trust, with a recent check on our Llyn Maelog floating wetland delivering some exciting news!
These innovative platforms are designed to mimic natural wetland habitats, providing vital ecological benefits and acting as a scientific study for nutrient uptake.
🌿 Root Growth Thriving
One of the first things we noticed was just how well the roots are growing. The submerged root mat not only stabilises the structure, but also acts as a natural water filter, drawing up nutrients and helping to improve water quality. It’s a promising sign that the wetland is establishing well and functioning as a living part of the aquatic ecosystem.
🪱 Eels Finding Refuge
To our great delight, we spotted European eels (Anguilla anguilla) making use of the floating wetland! These critically endangered creatures are using the root systems as refugia—a safe shelter in an increasingly challenging landscape. The dense roots offer cover from predators, rest from fast-flowing currents, and cooler temperatures during warm spells. Seeing them here is a brilliant example of how small-scale interventions can make a real difference for struggling species.
🦠 Zooplankton Abundance
The root zone is also teeming with life on a much smaller scale. Our team observed a healthy population of zooplankton—tiny aquatic animals that form the base of the freshwater food web. Their presence suggests that the floating wetland is creating microhabitats that support biodiversity, from the smallest creatures to larger ones like fish and birds that rely on them for food.
🌸 Blooms and Beauty
Above the surface, our native wetland plants are beginning to bloom, bringing a splash of colour and life to the water’s edge. These flowers not only provide nectar for pollinators but also add to the visual appeal of the site, helping connect people to nature through beauty and biodiversity.
We’ll continue monitoring the wetland throughout the season and sharing our findings. For now, it’s fantastic to see all the spring growth and habitat creation.
