Lagoon sandworm  (Armandia cirrhosa)

The loss of this species at Eight Acre Pond may have been the result of changes in salinity or unsuitable drainage (3). As this little-known worm has such a restricted range and occurs in small numbers, it is particularly vulnerable to extinction in Great Britain. Habitat modification or pollution could have devastating effects on this mysterious species (4).

The lagoon sandworm is included in English Nature's Species Recovery Programme; it is also a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP), and as such has a Species Action Plan. This Action Plan aims to maintain and enhance current populations, and where possible, restore lost populations (3). The species was added to Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act in 1988, and is now afforded full protection (4).