Estuaries
Description (English)
Downstream part of a river valley, subject to the tide and extending from the limit of brackish waters. River estuaries are coastal inlets where, unlike 'large shallow inlets and bays' there is generally a substantial freshwater influence. The mixing of freshwater and sea water and the reduced current flows in the shelter of the estuary lead to deposition of fine sediments, often forming extensive intertidal sand and mud flats. Where the tidal currents are faster than flood tides, most sediments deposit to form a delta at the mouth of the estuary.
Baltic river mouths, considered as an estuary subtype, have brackish water and no tide, with large wetland vegetation (helophytic) and luxurious aquatic vegetation in shallow water areas.
Source: Interpretation Manual of European Union Habitats, version EUR 28 (2013)
Quick facts
| EU Habitats Directive | Annex I habitat type (code 1130) |
|---|---|
| Habitat type | Not priority |
| Natura 2000 sites | 361 are designated for this habitat type |
Distribution
Conservation status
EU conservation status
Conservation status assesses every six years and for each biogeographical region the condition of habitats and species compared to the favourable status as described in the Habitats Directive. The map shows the 2013-2018 assessments as reported by EU Member State. Assessments are further detailed in the summary document available behind the link below.
Species mentioned in habitat description
| Species scientific name | English common name | Species group |
|---|---|---|
| Phragmites australis | Flowering Plants | |
| Ruppia maritima | Flowering Plants | |
| Sarcocornia perennis | Flowering Plants | |
| Spartina maritima | Flowering Plants | |
| Zostera noltii | Flowering Plants |
Natura 2000 sites
Protected in the following Natura 2000 sites
Protected sites
Please note the site map takes a while to display.Legal status
Mentioned in the following international legal instruments and agreements
Relation to habitat classifications
| Classification | Code | Habitat type name | Relationship type |
|---|---|---|---|
| German Federal List of Biotopes | D2a | Ästuare (Fließgewässermündungen mit Brackwassereinfluß u./od. Tidenhub eingeschlossen werden | not defined |
| German Federal List of Biotopes | 050105 | Brackwasserwatt des Ästuare an der Nordsee | not defined |
| German Federal List of Biotopes | 050106 | Süßwasserwatt im Tideeinfluß des Nordsee | not defined |