Cavan has been declared as an ASSI because of its species-rich wet grassland. Species-rich grassland tends to occur only where traditional farming practices have been maintained and is now a scarce habitat in Northern Ireland.
A special type of species-rich wet grassland known as Purple Moor-grass and rush pasture occurs over much of the site. Fen meadow, a particular type of Purple Moor-grass and rush pasture, occurs on the slope where there is a steady water flow through the soil. This results in the occurrence of plant species adapted to both water movement and wetter conditions.
Plants characteristic of this type of grassland include Sharp-flowered Rush, Meadow Thistle and Devil’s-bit Scabious.
A wide variety of distinctive plants are associated with the fen meadow and include Quaking Grass, Flea Sedge, Tawny Sedge, Fairy Flax, Red Clover, Eyebright and the notable Frog Orchid.
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