Selshion ASSI

Selshion ASSI is and isolated remnant of the once extensive wetland previously found to the south of Lough Neagh before the waterlevel of the lough was lowered during a series of drainage schemes. Selshion Bog lies in an interdrumlin hollow where impeded drainage results in permanent wet conditions.

Much of the surface peat has been harvested resulting in a series of cuttings separated by peat ramparts. The cut over peat surface, due to the depth of past excavation and current water table varies in wetness. The deeper flooded cuttings display successional stages of vegetative infilling ranging from open water to those that are grown over by mossy fen carpet. Where the peat surface lies at or close to the water table, a secondary bog vegetation has developed while under dryer conditions Molinia heathland occurs. This rich variation of community types is reflected in the high diversity of wetland plants present, a number of which are locally notable.

In addition to its botanical importance, the site is one of the most important wetlands in the east of the province for invertebrates. This is largely because of the dragonfly fauna, which is known to comprise at least 13 species including the rare Irish damselfly.