Loch Creran facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Loch Creran MPA
IUCN Category IV (Habitat/Species Management Area)
Loch Creran MPA Location in Argyll and Bute
Location	Argyll and Bute, Scotland
Area	1,200 ha (4.6 sq mi)
Designation	Scottish Government
Established	2014
Operator	Marine Scotland

Loch Creran is a beautiful sea loch located on the west coast of Scotland, in an area called Argyll. It stretches about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from its start at Invercreran to where it meets the Lynn of Lorne. This part of the sea is connected to Loch Linnhe.

The loch acts like a natural border. It separates the land areas of Benderloch to the south and Appin to the north. At the entrance of the loch, you can find the small island of Eriska. A bridge for the A828 road crosses the loch at its narrowest point, near Creagan. The village of Barcaldine is also located on the southern side of the loch.

Discovering Loch Creran's Amazing Marine Life

Loch Creran is home to some very special sea creatures. The loch becomes narrower and shallower in two spots: near Eriska and at Creagan. These narrow points make the water currents move faster. This fast-moving water brings lots of oxygen and food to the seabed.

Unique Shellfish Beds

Because of these special conditions, Loch Creran has amazing beds of flame shells (which are called Limaria hians) and horse mussels (known as Modiolus modiolus). These shellfish create their own habitats on the seabed. They are very important for the loch's ecosystem.

Deeper Waters and Hidden Creatures

Between these shallow, fast-flowing areas, the loch has deeper parts. In these deeper basins, the water is much calmer. This quiet environment is perfect for other marine animals. You can find creatures like Norway lobster and seapen living here.

Protecting Loch Creran's Natural Treasures

In 2014, the entire Loch Creran was given a special status. It was declared a Nature Conservation Marine Protected Area. This means it is a protected area for nature. The protected area covers about 1200 hectares (4.6 square miles).

Why Loch Creran is Protected

The main reasons for protecting Loch Creran are its unique flame shell beds. Also, it has important quaternary geological features. These are features from the last ice age. Protecting the loch helps keep these special natural elements safe.

Rules for the Protected Area

Within this protected area, certain activities are not allowed. For example, fishing methods that could harm the seabed are banned. This helps to protect the delicate habitats. However, some activities are still permitted. You can still enjoy rod and line fishing. Also, using creels to catch shellfish is allowed.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified Loch Creran as a Category IV protected area. This means it is managed mainly for conservation through active habitat management. It is also protected as a Special Area of Conservation.

Glasdrum Wood: A Nearby Nature Reserve

At the very top of Loch Creran, you'll find the Glasdrum Wood national nature reserve. This is a very important woodland. It is known internationally for its Atlantic oakwood. This type of forest is special because it grows in areas with high rainfall.

Animals and Plants of Glasdrum Wood

Scottish Natural Heritage manages Glasdrum Wood. The reserve is classified as both a Special Area of Conservation and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. This means it is very important for nature. The woodland is mostly made up of ash and oak trees. It is a great place for butterflies, including the rare chequered skipper. You might also spot otters playing in the area.