LAGES, PICO ISLAND, AZORES

PORTUGAL

Co-ordinates: 38º23'34''N 28º15'26''W	Lages overview. Photo F Tempera ImagDOP

Conservation status:

0

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Description of site:

Located in Pico Island from the westernmost part of “Baía das Lajes do Pico” (38º 24.7’N; 28º 17.6’W) to “Ponta da Queimada” (38º 23.2’N; 28º 13.4’W). Flat sheltered platform closely linked to the deepwater environment, supporting a unique set of intertidal to subtidal habitats.

Description of fauna and flora:

The area contains a variety of intertidal and sublittoral rocky and sandy habitats including marshland, a large system of intertidal pools and gullies, large streches of basaltic bedrock, boulder areas, and sandy bottoms. The sheltered bay is confined by the deep-water habitats typical of the steep south coast of Pico. Algae species include Enteromorpha linza, Ulva rigida, Chondracanthus acicularis, Chaetomorpha linum and Asparagopsis armata. It is considered as one of the sites in the archipelago holding a higher number of marine species.

Human impact:

Local population is fighting for a protection against the sea waves during winter storms. This protection may have a strong impact on the pristiness of the area. Low impact by local fishermen.

Commitment and ongoing research:

There is a strong effort in studying and defending the natural interest of the area conducted by the University of the Azores. Several published papers and reports dealing with biodiversity (species lists, ecology), physiography and geomorphology of coastal lagoons resulted from a series of research programmes.

Habitats present:

	Mud	Sand	Rock
Intertidal	roject		X
Subtidal		X	X
Seagrass beds

Facilities:

This site has a small harbour as well as some good local facilities. Lajes do Pico site can take advantage of the proximity to the University facilities at Faial island. The Pico island is served by regular flights and daily maritime connections with Faial island.

Available database and website:

http://www.horta.uac.pt/scubazores/Pico/lages.htm

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