Species in West London

What are the most important species in west London ?

There are many thousands of species of plants and animals in West London. Those interested in nature conservation and biodiversity know about at least the more obvious ones and have done much to promote and protect them. There are a number of organisations who whose aim is to understand, promote and protect species - see our links and contacts page.

What are the most important species in west London ?

Rosebay willowherb

It is not possible to say which species are most important in any absolute or objective way. However, one can identify species that are of particular scientific interest, are of ecological importance, are especially valued, are much appreciated by the public, or are of concern because they are under threat.

An example of species that have been highlighted recently are the 'county flowers'. The charity Plantlife has undertaken a project whereby people in every county in the UK have been invited to nominate a flower to act as an emblem for their county.

The flower chosen for London is the rosebay willow herb. It became well known on bomb sites and remains common where the soil has been disturbed.

Wood anemone

The flower chosen for Middlesex is very diferent - the wood anemone. This plant likes undisturbed woods and hedgebanks and, while not uncommon, is probably less familiar.

Biodiversity Action Plans

'Biodiversity' is a term frequently used. It is short for 'biological diversity'. A concise definition of biodiversity is "the variety of life on earth". Biodiversity is an over-arching concept which includes wildlife, habitats and conservation. Further information on biodiversity and why we should preserve it may be found on other sites.

A number of species have been identified as of particular interest and concern in West London. These are the subject of 'Species Action Plans' which in turn are part of 'Biodiversity Action Plans'.

These species that are the subject of Species Action Plans (SAPs) in west London boroughs are shown on the west London SAPs page.

Links to Related Pages

• Other species
(contacts page)
• Biodiversity Action Plans
• Introduction to biodiversity

Jan 05