An ever-increasing number of species has been identified at the Port of Dover.

Trawling surveys found a 54% increase in species richness over the past year, with a rise from 26 to 40.

One of the most abundant found was Abra alba (also known as a glossy bivalve) which is an indicator of good water quality.

Biodiversity on the harbour seafloor is also thriving with 1,600 creatures identified, a 107% increase from the previous year.

Shoreside surveys, carried out twice yearly by Bramley Associates, has discovered a broader range of flora and fauna at Shakespeare Beach and Langdon Bay.

A rare species of red algae, compsothamnion thuioides, has been found at Shakespeare Beach, along with 20 different bird species like herring gulls, kingfishers and black redstarts, known for their bright red tail.

There are only around 100 breeding pairs of black redstarts in the UK yearly.

'The Port of Dover is leading the way in demonstrating that sites of nationally-significant infrastructure can also be prosperous hubs of biodiversity'

Following the initial sighting, a nest has since been spotted in the Port’s Eastern Docks.

Biodiversity is also booming amongst the port’s plant life, with a total of 44 species identified during the year.

The port’s algae surveys show a healthy coverage of algae along the ports piers and harbour walls.

There has also been positive environmental reports of marine mammals, such as seals, and sea birds like guillemots.

A statement from the port reads: “Over the past year, the Port of Dover’s biodiversity has flourished, with species richness and species abundance now at the highest levels ever recorded at Britain’s busiest port.

“Conducting a greater number of surveys in 2021, the Port has drawn upon high-quality data, showing an ever-increasing number of species being identified and their populations thriving.

“The Port of Dover is leading the way in demonstrating that sites of nationally-significant infrastructure can also be prosperous hubs of biodiversity.”