Research proposal
Proposal Title
Marsh-orchid (Dactylorhiza) hybrids on the Sefton Coast
Proposed by
Dr. P.H. Smith
Brief description of the proposal
The Sefton Coast is particularly rich in Marsh-orchids with at least eight taxa (species, sub-species and hybrids) recorded in the Sefton Coast Inventory of Vascular Plants. This is one of few places in Britain where Southern and Northern Marsh-orchids grow together and hybrids between them and other species/sub-species are common. Dactylorhiza hybrids are notoriously difficult to determine and the Sefton Coast is an ideal area to contribute to research into this group
Who should be contacted initially to take forward the research proposal?
Dr. P.H. Smith
What area(s) of the coast will this cover?
Dune slacks in the dune system, on certain golf courses and the Green Beach.
What permissions will be needed?
Sefton Council, Natural England, golf courses
Why will the research be useful?
Marsh-orchids are undergoing rapid evolution into new forms. This study will help to elucidate the nature of these changes and assist taxonomy of this group.
What information is currently available?
There is an existing literature and a body of knowledge held by a small number of experts in this field.
What level is the research appropriate for?
Expert amateur botanist, Post-graduate
Priority level beneficial to management needs
Nice to have
If you wish to make further enquiries about this project please email research@seftoncoast.org.uk stating the title of the project and your interest in the project.
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