Loch of Girlsta
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Condition (NatureScot)
| Unit | Feature | Condition | Area (ha) | Assessed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) | Unfavourable Declining | — | 2019-10-22 |
| F2 | Mesotrophic loch | Unfavourable Recovering | — | 2009-07-17 |
Geology & landscape
Rock Type: Limestone
Birds & fish recorded
Fish
| Species | Season |
|---|---|
| Arctic charr | Unknown |
Description
Loch of Girlsta The Loch of Girlsta, 11km north of Lerwick, is the only site in Shetland for Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) and one of the best deep valley mesotrophic lochs in Shetland (i.e. one of moderate nutrients). Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus) are adapted to cold, deep waters and were among the first fish to re-enter freshwater when the last ice age ended. Although the loch is surrounded by deep acid peatlands, it overlies a band of crystalline limestone and contains plants characteristic of a mesotrophic loch. The loch has steep sides and, at around 25 metres, is the deepest in Shetland. This results in the vegetation being restricted to a narrow band around the edge.
Species mentioned
Show the 1 species mentioned in the description, with red-list status| English name search for this in other sites |
Latin name search with Google |
IUCN / Red List | Type | Family |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| alpine char | Salvelinus alpinus | VU | fish | salmonidae |