Langmead and Weston Level facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
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| Area of Search | Somerset |
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| Coordinates | 51°05′34″N 2°55′31″W / 51.09264°N 2.92525°W |
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 168.8 hectares (1.688 km2; 0.652 sq mi) |
| Notification | 1991 |
Langmead and Weston Level is a very special place for nature in Somerset, England. It's officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's protected because of its unique plants, animals, or geology. This SSSI covers a large area of 168.8 hectares, which is about 417 football fields! It was first recognized as a special site in 1991.
Contents
A Special Place for Nature
Langmead and Weston Level is part of the Somerset Levels and Moors. This area is famous for its wide, flat lands with lots of grass and water channels. These channels are called "rhynes" or "ditches." They help manage the water in the area. The land here is often wet, especially during rainy seasons. This is because it's in the flood plain of the River Parrett. Many fields are poorly drained and get waterlogged for parts of the year.
Why is it Protected?
This SSSI is important for two main reasons. First, it has special grasslands that are full of different plant species. These grasslands are called "species-rich neutral grassland." Second, the ditches and rhynes are home to many tiny creatures without backbones, called invertebrates. These creatures form a unique community here.
Amazing Insects of Langmead and Weston Level
Scientists have found many different land and water invertebrates at Langmead and Weston Level. Some of these insects are very rare in the United Kingdom.
Rare Species Found Here
Four nationally rare species have been recorded at this site:
- The Great Silver Diving Beetle (Hydrophilus piceus) is a large water beetle.
- The soldier fly (Odontomyia ornata) is a type of fly with a distinctive look.
- Two other true flies are also found here: Lonchoptera scutellata and Stenomicra cogani. Finding these rare insects shows how important it is to protect this wetland habitat.
