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A pregnant male spiny seahorse in Studland Bay

SEAHORSES are at threat from boat anchors off a Dorset beach.

There have been sightings of the creatures in eelgrass meadows near Studland beach.

The trouble is that the eelgrass is in water just two metres deep and is a favoured spot for weekend sailors to drop anchor.

Now Dorset Wildlife Trust is appealing for boatowners to avoid the meadows if possible.

Trust marine conservation officer Peter Tinsley said: "This is probably the best site in the UK for seahorses and pipefish, but there is a threat to the eelgrass meadows from the many boats that anchor there, especially in the summer months. The anchors drag and pull the grass up by the roots."

Seahorses have recently been added to the list of protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, which prohibits damage to their habitat.

The trust says the Government's Marine Bill should make effective protection possible by creating marine conservation zones - and wildlife trusts have highlighted Studland as being worthy of such protection.

Mr Tinsley said: "We are appealing for boat owners not to anchor in the eelgrass until Studland Bay can be designated as a marine conservation zone.

"When the water is clear, it is usually easy to see any vegetation, so please try to stick to areas of clear sand only."

Seahorses pair for life with the females depositing their eggs in the male's pouch for fertilisation. It is the male who carries the young in pregnancy.

9:17am Tuesday 15th July 2008

Damage caused to the eelgrass by boats Pictures: Steve Trewhella

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