The preceding chapters have reviewed the available information on the distribution and ecology of brittlestar beds, and outlined the main potential agents of natural and human-induced change. It is possible now to consider the relevance of these factors to those candidate SACs in which these biotope occur, and to assess the overall importance of the biotope complex in conservation terms. This chapter will also assess the suitability of the various monitoring options discussed in Chapter VII to particular sites, and the suitability of the SACs for addressing the research needs listed elsewhere.

Biodiversity, Conservation Importance and Sensitivity of the Biotope Complex

Status of the Biotope Complex in Demonstration SACs

Other Candidate or Possible SACs

Summary Table

References