Small and amphibious helophyte-dominated freshwater vegetation is a widespread, very common but fragmented habitat throughout the European lowlands, occurring in the shallow littoral zones of lakes, ponds and rivers subject to periodic and repeated variation in water levels. It is characterised by amphibious plants and provides an important habitat for benthic invertebrates, fish, amphibians and several species of birds, by offering shelter and food. Like other wetland types, this habitat has suffered much from the intensification of agricultural land use, including drainage, modification of flooding and reclamation, and expansion of urban areas.