Reef protection

The Scottish Wildlife Trust warmly welcomes the Scottish Government’s decision to designate an area surrounding the cold-water reefs at East Mingulay in the Outer Hebrides as a Special Area of Conservation (your report, 20 August).

The reefs at East Mingulay are incredibly special. In fact, the area contains 100 per cent of the known UK resource of Lophelia Pertusa in territorial waters and recent surveys showed they are home to over 400 different species. However, this unique habitat is also very sensitive.

If the reefs are destroyed they would be virtually impossible to restore.

The past week has shown the overwhelming concern and affinity of the Scottish people to their marine environment. Such conservation action will help to ensure future generations have the same opportunities to enjoy, and benefit from this truly unique habitat.

Jonny Hughes

Scottish Wildlife Trust

Lochside View

Edinburgh