The Isle of Wight is one of only seven UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in the UK, recognised for its outstanding natural environment and the way local communities work alongside nature to create a more sustainable future.
As part of the the recent Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival, I attended a fun and informative rockpool safari hosted by Marine Biologist Theo Vickers.
We saw some great marine wildlife and various species of seaweed including Peacock’s Tail (Padina pavonica), a nationally scare specie found in limited areas across southern Britain, with Bembridge being a key site.
A highlight for me was also to see the abundance of protected Bembridge seagrass with its reproductive shoots and seeds, which is habitat for cuttlefish, stalked jellyfish and seahorses.
Awarded UNESCO Biosphere status in 2019, the designation celebrates the Island's unique blend of wildlife, landscapes, heritage and innovation. It also encourages people, businesses and organisations to work together to protect and enhance this special place for future generations.
For more information about the Island's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, visit the Isle of Wight Biosphere website
