Physiographical interest of this largely spring-fed lough and the small satellite lough to the north, Black Lough, is related to the presence of calcium carbonate deposits, or marl, which are precipitated out of the calcium-rich water to produce a marl lake. Drumacrittin is one of the best examples of this lake type in Northern Ireland and is notable for its clear, clean water and very low phytoplankton productivity.
The lough exhibits the natural succession from open water to terrestrial vegetation and includes a number of unusual plant communities, in addition to several rare plant species.
The aquatic vegetation is of particular importance, asit represents the most extensive submerge growth of Stoneworts (Charophytes) found in Northern Ireland including bristly stonewort Chara hispida and the regionally rare rugged stonewort Charophytes rudis.
Related articles
- ASSI Guidance for Public Bodies/Competent Authorities
- Coastal Areas of Special Scientific Interest
- Conservation Management Plans (CMPs)
- European Marine Sites - Marine Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas
- Introduction to Conservation Management Plans (CMPs) for Northern Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation
- Marine Conservation Zones
- Marine Protected Areas
- Marine Ramsar sites
- Portrush Coastal Zone
- Special Areas of Conservation
- Special Areas of Conservation for Harbour porpoise
- Special Protection Areas