The flora and conservation status of petrifying springs in Ireland

Abstract

Petrifying springs are lime-rich water sources which deposit tufa, a soft, porous rock. They constitute a highly specialised habitat with a distinctive floristic composition, typically dominated by bryophytes and often containing rare species. Their small extent and vulnerability is recognised by their designation as the priority habitat 'Petrifying Springs with Tufa Formation (Cratoneurion)' under the European Union Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC).