Current status
Churchyard lecanactis is a crustose lichen of shaded and sheltered north- and east-facing church walls in coastal areas, where it usually grows on plaster or more rarely on mortar.
It is a rare species which is now confined to 15 sites in the south-east of England, in Kent, Sussex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Dorset. It is otherwise known only from Italy. At most of its known sites it is relatively abundant, but confined within a small area.
This species is classified as Near Threatened in Great Britain and is specially protected under Schedule 8 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Current factors causing loss or decline
The spread of this species is limited by the scarcity of external plaster walls in sheltered situations.
Deterioration of walls on which this species grows is a possible threat.
Unsympathetic repair of walls on which this species occurs, eg using materials other than plaster or mortar.
Action plan objectives and targets
Maintain populations at all extant sites.
If biologically feasible and desirable, establish three new colonies of this species at suitable sites by 2005.
Proposed actions with lead agencies
Policy and legislation
None proposed.
Site safeguard and management
Devise, implement and provide incentives for maintenance plans for all walls on which this species occurs. The plans should set out a proposed timetable for the long-term maintenance of the walls, with necessary repair works being staggered, and using the same materials for repair as the existing substrate on which the lichen occurs. (ACTION: EH, NE)
Species management and protection
Assess the feasibility and desirability of translocating colonies of churchyard lecanactis to suitable substrates in the vicinity of extant sites, and to suitable historic sites, in order to facilitate the spread of this species. If appropriate, undertake three experimental translocation attempts by 2005. Translocation should also be considered in the event of extant sites becoming unstable. (ACTION: NE)
Advisory
Advise the relevant church authorities of the presence and importance of churchyard lecanactis, its legal protection, specific management for its conservation, and any potentially damaging actions. The authorities should have access to specialist advice if needed. Site owners should also be consulted during the production of the wall maintenance plans recommended under 5.2.1. (ACTION: NE)
Future Research and Monitoring
Undertake a thorough survey of all sites where this species has been recorded in the past, in order to determine its current status at each, to assess the condition of the walls on which it occurs, and to identify any threats to extant colonies. (ACTION: NE)
Undertake regular monitoring at all extant sites, in order to identify any changes in population size and to ensure regular assessment of the condition of walls on which this species grows. (ACTION: NE)
Commission a research project to investigate aspects of the ecology of this species, with a view to refining management for its conservation and translocation techniques. (ACTION: NE)
Communications and Publicity
Write an article for relevant national church newsletters and magazines with the aim of raising awareness amongst the church community of the importance of churchyards for lichen conservation. The article should indicate ways in which churches can help to protect these important lichen sites. (ACTION: NE)
Encourage lichenologists to pass all records of churchyard lecanactis, including ecological information, to a national database. (ACTION: NE, JNCC)
Links with other action plans
None given.
Local implementation
The following LBAPs are working on Lecanactis hemisphaerica:
Publication details
Originally published in: UK Biodiversity Group Tranche 2 Action Plans - Volume III: Plants and fungi (February 1999, Tranche 2, Vol III, p129)
Related links
ARKive Visit the ARKive website to view images and further information relating to this species
Plantlife Read the Plantlife species dossier relating to this species