Liminganlahti Bay Area. 02/02/04; Oulu; 12,275 ha; 64°56'N 025°21'E. Natura 2000 Network, SPA, SCI, WHCP, HELCOM Baltic Sea Protected Area. Basic elements typical of the coast of the Bothnian Bay, such as lagoons, muddy shores, coastal meadows, natural forests of primary succession stages and small islets, form together a wide and varied wholeness. As the shores are low-lying and the water level varies, the vegetation zones are exceptionally extensive. Wrinkling flads and gloe ponds are typical of the area. The flora contains two very special groups, the endemic species of the Gulf of Bothnia and a group of Arctic species in isolation from the main distribution areas of the Arctic Ocean. The breeding and migrating wetland bird fauna is among the richest in Finland. As a result of eutrophication, and decrease of grazing and hay cutting, reeds have increased and the area of coastal meadows has diminished. Intensive hunting prevents the staging of waterfowl during autumn, and there are nearly 50 small boat harbours around the bay. Increased building of holiday cottages, fishing lodges, hunting cabins and roads are causing disturbance. Ramsar site no. 1523. Most recent RIS information: 2005.