|
 Since
the mid 1970s, Britain has seen a dramatic and catastrophic change
in its landscape due to the loss of elm trees to disease. These
noble trees support a unique community of organisms, ranging from
lichens and mosses to beetles and butterflies, some of which are
only found living on elm trees.
The loss of the vast majority (over 20 million) of these
magnificent trees from the countryside has therefore taken with it
the home for countless other less conspicuous species.
The English Elms had been planted in great numbers in the 17th
and 18th century in England, usually as part of hedges and land
enclosures, as well as for their ornamental and timber value.
The fact that the trees were mainly propagated by
suckers and therefore have relatively little genetic variety, may
have contributed to the massive effect the epidemic had on the
English landscape.
Trees Oak
Elm Yew Ash
Beech
Native British Christmas Tree |
