Current status
Alchemilla minima is a small, apomictic, perennial plant which grows in moist grassland, generally above 300 m in altitude. It is well adapted to heavy grazing, being able to set seed in very closely grazed turf. The taxonomy of this alchemilla is in dispute. It was first recognised as a distinct species in 1947. However, there is an alternative view that it is best treated as a dwarf variant of the more widespread A. filicaulis. The extreme dwarf characters are apparently lost after a long period of cultivation.
This alchemilla is believed to be endemic to two fells in the Yorkshire Dales (Ingleborough and Whernside), although there are doubtful records from farther afield, particularly from the northern Pennines. It is a difficult plant to identify in the field which suggests that it may be under-recorded. New localities are still being found within its limited range.
This species is classified as Vulnerable. It receives general protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Current factors causing loss or decline
Any newly discovered populations outside of SSSIs and NNRs will continue to be at risk from inappropriate grazing management and agricultural improvement.
Current action
All known populations of this species in the Yorkshire Dales lie within SSSIs.
Action plan objectives and targets
Maintain viable populations at all known sites.
Establish an ex-situ programme to protect genetic diversity, create a reserve population and provide experimental material.
Proposed actions with lead agencies
Policy and legislation
When reviewing agri-environment schemes, including Countryside Stewardship and ESAs, consider whether changes are needed to increase their potential benefits for this species. (ACTION: NE, MAFF)
Site safeguard and management
Seek to protect all sites from inappropriate grazing management and agricultural improvement. (ACTION: NE, MAFF, Yorkshire Dales National Park)
Species management and protection
Following completion of the research outlined under 5.5.2, produce guidelines on good management practice for this species and provide mechanisms to enable them to be implemented on all known sites. Until the research is completed, seek to retain current grazing regimes on all sites. (ACTION: NE, MAFF)
Collect seed from all extant native sites and deposit in the Millenium Seed Bank at Wakehurst Place (Kew). (ACTION: NE, RBG Kew)
Advisory
Advise relevant landowners and managers of the importance of this plant, specific management for its conservation, and potentially damaging activities. When management guidelines have been prepared (see 5.3.1), ensure that they are distributed and explained as necessary. (ACTION: NE)
As far as possible, ensure that all relevant agri environment project officers are advised of locations of this species, its importance, management requirements and potential threats. (ACTION: NE, MAFF)
Future Research and Monitoring
Establish a consensus on the taxonomy of this species through discussion with the relevant experts and, if necessary, genetic screening. (ACTION: NE, JNCC)
Undertake research into the ecological and grazing management requirements of this species and factors which may be limiting its population size. This is a high priority and should be undertaken with a view to preparing guidelines on good management practice for the species. (ACTION: NE, JNCC)
Undertake a thorough survey of the Whernside and Ingleborough area to update records of known sites and to search for colonies which are as yet unrecorded. Also survey sites outside this area where the plant has previously been recorded (such as the northern Pennines) in order to determine its present status in these areas. An assessment of any current threats at each site should also be made. (ACTION: NE)
Carry out frequent monitoring of all populations. (ACTION: NE)
Communications and Publicity
Publicise the importance of this species through articles in conservation and land management publications and encourage botanists to report any new records, eg through Atlas 2000 recording. (ACTION: NE)
Seek to involve relevant local organisations (such as the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust) in conservation work for this species. (ACTION: NE)
Links with other action plans
None given.
Publication details
Originally published in: UK Biodiversity Group Tranche 2 Action Plans - Volume I: Vertebrates and vascular plants (June 1998, Tranche 2, Vol I, p121)
Related links
ARKive Visit the ARKive website to view images and further information relating to this species