Introduction to Sphagnum Identification

Combining the use of field keys and laboratory skills, this course will allow attendees to get to know Sphagnum and make reliable identifications. The course will also have an indoor component during which the tutor will continue to guide attendees through the use of the key in group activities and individual work, as well as looking at diagnostic features with the use of a microscope.  During the course, we will learn to use the key contained in the AIGAP publication ‘Sphagnum mosses: field key to the mosses of Britain and Ireland’ by M Godfrey and K Rogers. The key combines microscopic and field characters, making it suitable for use both in the field and in the lab.

The location of the course in the Snowdonia National Park, where the genus is very well-represented, will make it possible to see and become familiar with many common Sphagnum species as well as some of the more oceanic species.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• Have a good understanding of the characteristics of the genus Sphagnum
• Use the field key to identify common Sphagnum species
• Use a microscope to identify relevant microscopic features of different Sphagnum species

Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, Students, Early career ecologists, Citizen scientists, Volunteer surveyors, Land managers

Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge – An understanding of bryophyte features and terminology will make it easier and quicker for participants to learn to identify Sphagna.

PLEASE NOTE: If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. Please see the ‘What’s Included’ section for information on accommodation and meals options.

Bookings will close if course capacity is reached. 

Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.

Lucia Ruffino

Lucia Ruffino is a bryologist and free-lance botanical surveyor living and working in North Wales. Lucia’s botanical knowledge has developed over the years from an amateur background and she now specialises in NVC surveys in upland and peatland habitats.

This timetable is subject to change but should give a clear outline of what to expect

Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly at 9:00am
The course will end at 5:00pm

Saturday:
9:00 - 12:00  Classroom introduction with practical activities and breaks
12:00 - 12:45 Lunch
12.45 – 16.00 Field excursion
16.00 – 18.00 Lab session before dinner (please note that dinner is only included if you choose a residential option)
19.15 – 20.30 Evening microscope session - Optional

Sunday:
9.00 - 12:00 Meet at the centre at 9:00 and leave for a field excursion
12.00 - 12:45 Return from field excursion – Lunch
12.45 – 17.00 Lab session until finish time

• 
  Expert Tuition
• 
  Free Wi-Fi

The course includes:

• Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
• Field excursions to apply new knowledge
• Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
• Clear objectives and progression
• Refreshments (tea and coffee)

You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.

Accommodation and meal options

We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.

For some course runs at Field Studies Council Centres, there may be the option to book accommodation with your course. If accommodation is available, there will be two booking options:

• Non-Resident
• Resident (Sole Occupancy)

If you choose a Non-Resident booking, this only includes course tuition and refreshments (tea and coffee). Please bring your own packed lunch.

If you choose a Resident (Sole Occupancy) booking, this includes accommodation with your own bedroom for two nights (starting the night before the course) and meals throughout the course (including an evening meal on the night before the course through to a packed lunch on the last day of the course). You can check in from 4 pm on the day before the course.

If your booking has more than one person and you would like a shared room, please email [email protected] to inquire.

Please be aware that you are visiting a Field Centre that caters in the main for school parties; the accommodation is basic and dormitory style, but warm and comfortable. Please also note that bathrooms may be shared.

Student Discount

This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.

Natural History Bursaries

There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, find out more here.

Please Bring:

• Notebook and pencil
• Camera to capture images
• Please bring your own refreshments & pack lunch
• Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
• Small polythene bags to collect Sphagnum in the field
• Recycled paper to use as storage for Sphagnum specimens
• The AIGAP publication ‘Sphagnum mosses: field key to the mosses of Britain and Ireland’ by M Godfrey and K Rogers

If you have them:

• Hand lens (x20 if possible)
• Dissecting and compound microscope
• There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.