Upper Arun facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | West Sussex |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 17.6 hectares (43 acres) |
| Notification | 1988 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Upper Arun is a special natural area in West Sussex, England. It covers about 17.6 hectares (which is like 43.5 acres) and is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a very important place for wildlife and nature. It stretches between the towns of Billingshurst and Pulborough.
This 13-kilometer (about 8-mile) part of the River Arun is home to many different plants and animals. It's especially known for its river plants and amazing dragonflies. The area was given its special protection status in 1988 to help keep its unique environment safe.
Contents
What Makes Upper Arun Special?
Upper Arun is important because it has a rich variety of life, especially along the river. The river itself and the land around it create a perfect home for many species. Protecting this area helps make sure these plants and animals can continue to thrive.
A Home for River Plants
The riverbanks and waters of Upper Arun are filled with interesting plants. These plants are adapted to living in or near water. Two examples you might find here are common club-rush and reed canary-grass. These plants are important because they provide food and shelter for many insects and other small creatures. They also help keep the river's edges stable and clean.
Common Club-Rush: A Tall River Plant
The common club-rush is a tall, grass-like plant often found in wet places. It has strong, round stems that can grow quite high. These plants often grow in large groups, forming dense patches along the river. They are a key part of the river's ecosystem.
Reed Canary-Grass: A Hardy Grass
Reed canary-grass is another common plant in wet areas. It's a tough grass that can grow very tall. It helps to stabilize the soil along the riverbanks, preventing erosion. Many small animals use these grassy areas for shelter and to hide from predators.
Dragonflies: The Jewels of the River
Upper Arun is famous for its incredible population of dragonflies. These beautiful insects are a sign of a healthy river environment. Many different kinds of dragonflies breed here, making it a top spot for these creatures in the UK.
Amazing Dragonfly Species
You can spot several types of dragonflies flying around Upper Arun. Some of the notable ones include the clubtail dragonfly, which has a unique shape. The hairy dragonfly is another species found here, known for its furry body. You might also see the brilliant emerald dragonfly, which shines with a metallic green color.
The Rare Scarce Chaser
One of the most exciting dragonflies found at Upper Arun is the scarce chaser. This dragonfly is considered nationally rare, meaning it's not found in many places across the country. Its presence here highlights how special and important the Upper Arun area is for protecting rare wildlife. Seeing a scarce chaser is a real treat for nature lovers!
Why Are Dragonflies Important?
Dragonflies are not just pretty to look at; they are also very important for the environment. They are predators, meaning they eat other insects like mosquitoes and flies. This helps to control insect populations. Also, because dragonflies need clean water to lay their eggs and for their young to grow, their presence tells us that the river and its surroundings are healthy.
Protecting Upper Arun for the Future
Being a Site of Special Scientific Interest means that Upper Arun is protected by law. This helps to make sure that its unique plants and animals can continue to thrive for many years to come. Conservation efforts focus on keeping the river and its banks in good condition. This includes managing the water quality and making sure habitats are not disturbed.
By understanding and protecting places like Upper Arun, we can help preserve the amazing natural world around us. It's a great example of how a river can be a bustling home for so much life.
Images for kids
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The River Arun, part of the Upper Arun SSSI.
