A BIOLOGICAL SURVEY

of the
NORTH OLARY PLAINS
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
1995-1997

Editors

R.M. Playfair
A.C. Robinson

Biological Survey and Research

Natural Resources Group
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, South Australia

1997
Research and collation of information presented in this report was undertaken with funding provided by
Environment Australia (formerly the Australian Nature Conservation Agency). The project was
undertaken for the National Reserves System Cooperative Program (Project Number N502)

The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the authors and do not reflect those of the
Commonwealth Government, the Minister for the Environment, Sport and Territories, or the Secretary of
Environment Australia (formerly the Australian Nature Conservation Agency)

The report may be cited as:

Playfair, R.M. and Robinson, A.C. (1997) (Eds)
A Biological Survey of the North Olary Plains, South Australia, 1995-1997
(Natural Resources Group, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, South Australia)

Copies of the report may be accessed in the library:

Environment Australia Department of Environment and Natural Resources
GPO Box 636 or 1st Floor, Roma Mitchell House
CANBERRA ACT 2601 136 North Terrace, ADELAIDE SA 5000

EDITORS

R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd

PO Box 2, Daw Park, SA, 5041

A. C. Robinson, Biological Survey and Research,

Resource Management Branch, Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
GPO Box 1047, Adelaide, SA, 5001

CARTOGRAPHY AND DESIGN

Geographical Analysis and Research Unit

Department of Housing and Urban Development
All geographical data from Statewide Map Library,
Environmental Data Base of South Australia

Biological Survey & Research, Resource Management Branch,

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Printed by Endeavour Print Pty Ltd

P O Box 578, Morphett Vale, S A, 5162

© Department of Environment and Natural Resources 1997

ISBN 0 7308 5823 5

Cover Photograph:
Pearl Bluebush and Bladder Saltbush communities with Bullock Bush grove overlooked by Mt Victor
Photo: R. Playfair
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Abstract
From July to September 1995, 381 sites were surveyed in the North Olary Plains area from Yunta in the south and Lake
Callabonna in the north, and between the Flinders Ranges and the New South Wales border. General landform information
and a complete plant species list was obtained at each site. Subsequent analysis resulted in the description of 29 floristically
distinct plant communities in the region, and the production of a map showing their distribution.
Geometrically rectified, classified Landsat TM imagery and aerial photography were used to assist in the extrapolation of
vegetation boundaries from site based data.
Aerial survey was used to confirm and edit mapping, resulting in high levels of confidence in the mapped boundaries.
9121 plant records were added to the South Australian Environmental Database, and 1400 specimens lodged with the South
Australian State Herbarium. 41 of the plant species recorded were new records for the Eastern Botanical Region of South
Australia.
Codonocarpus pyramidalis and Acacia carnei, both of National conservation significance and Maireana pentagona and
Malacocera gracilis, of South Australian conservation significance were recorded.
It was found that previous mapping of the South Strzelecki Desert as Zygochloa hummock grasslands is incorrect. These
dunes are covered predominantly with Acacia spp. shrublands and Zygochloa paradoxa was absent. Previously unrecorded
Sedgelands in the Coonee Creek are reported here.
In September 1996, 48 of the above sites were revisited, and a survey of vertebrates was undertaken using pitfall, Elliot and
cage traps, as well as foraging for reptiles and mammals and observing birds. 452 mammal, 1643 bird, 505 reptile and 21
amphibian records were added to the South Australian Environmental Database, and about 450 specimens lodged with the
South Australian Museum.
Overall, the survey produced:
• 29 floristic vegetation groups encompassing a total of 448 plant species.
• 22 mammal species listed (8 introduced).
• 125 bird species listed.
• 50 reptile and 2 amphibian species listed.
No vertebrates of conservation significance were recorded, however, significant specimens were added to the South
Australian Museum collections and some minor range extensions were noted for some species.
These surveys constitute a component of a complete “Conservation Values Assessment” of the region. At present no
conservation reserves are established in this area, and this detailed information will assist in any future decisions to manage
any specific parts for conservation purposes.
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Contents
Abstract
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Appendices
Acknowledgments

INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................1

BACKGROUND
Climate ......................................................................................................................11
Geomorphology and Geology .........................................................................................15
Land Use History .............................................................................................................33
Previous Biological Studies .............................................................................................39

METHODS ......................................................................................................................43

RESULTS
Vegetation ......................................................................................................................53
Birds ....................................................................................................................139
Mammals ....................................................................................................................151
Reptiles and Amphibians ..............................................................................................163

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS..............................................................171

REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................177

APPENDICES ....................................................................................................................189
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Figures
Figure 1 The North Olary Plains Biological Survey area showing Environmental Associations ................................. 3
Figure 2 Aerial view of a typical Canegrass swamp in scalded Saltbush plains on Benagerie Station......................... 4
Figure 3 Aerial view of Samphires, Blackbush and Nitrebush communities on the fringe of southern Lake Frome ... 4
Figure 4 Low Bluebush / Bladder Saltbush mosaic on Curnamona Station.................................................................. 5
Figure 5 Bladder Saltbush / Pearl Bluebush mosaic south of Manna Hill .................................................................... 5
Figure 6 Blackbush shrubland on plains south of Martin’s Well HS............................................................................ 6
Figure 7 Bladder Saltbush shrubland with bare scalds on Kalabity Station.................................................................. 6
Figure 8 Cottonbush swales between Senna / Hopbush low sandy rises on southern Wooltana Station...................... 7
Figure 9 Nitrebush run-on areas in flood damaged area south of Martin’s Well HS.................................................... 7
Figure 10 Umbrella Bush dunes with sparse Mulga grassy swales on Lakeside Station ................................................ 8
Figure 11 Desert Senna / Hopbush sandy rises (“woody weeds”) on Curnamona Station ............................................. 8
Figure 12 Mosaic of Senna / Hopbush rises and Low Bluebush plains on northern Curnamona Station....................... 9
Figure 13 Sparse Mulga grassy swales on Frome Downs Station................................................................................... 9
Figure 14 Complex mosaic of Mulga hills and Curly Mallee hillslopes in the rugged hills of Bibliando Station........ 10
Figure 15 Red Mallee community on Melton Station ................................................................................................... 10
Figure 16 Historical rainfall records for Yunta ............................................................................................................. 12
Figure 17 Historical rainfall records for Mulyungarie .................................................................................................. 12
Figure 18 Mean monthly temperatures for Yunta ......................................................................................................... 13
Figure 19 Physiography of the North Olary Plains...............................................................................................................17
Figure 20 Aerial view of the alluvial plains west of Lake Frome, the Flinders Ranges ......................................................18
Figure 21 Coonee Creek section exposes modern red brown aeolian sand overlying the Coonarbine and Eurinilla Formations
............................................................................................................................................................................18
Figure 22 Geology of part of the Strzelecki Desert showing the dunefield in the vicinity of Coonee Creek .....................19
Figure 23 Regional geology of the North Olary Plains ........................................................................................................20
Figure 24 Geology of part of the alluvial plains in the vicinity of the NW margin of Lake Frome....................................21
Figure 25 Geology of the alluvial plains S and SE of Lake Frome......................................................................................22
Figure 26 Geology of SE Lake Frome region.......................................................................................................................23
Figure 27A Geological cross-sections......................................................................................................................................24
Figure 27B Geological cross-sections......................................................................................................................................25
Figure 28 Geological time, provinces and selected events ...................................................................................................26
Figure 29 Aboriginal tribal areas .................................................................................................................................. 36
Figure 30 Pastoral Properties in the North Olary Plains Survey Area .......................................................................... 37
Figure 31 Description of Vegetation Survey Quadrats ................................................................................................. 44
Figure 32 Distribution of vertebrate fauna survey quadrats.......................................................................................... 49
Figure 33 A team putting in a Pitfall trapline in saline claypan habitat ........................................................................ 51
Figure 34 Foraging for reptiles added significantly to the captures beyond those caught in traps ............................... 51
Figure 35 Specimens of reptiles, preserved in formalin, ready to be submitted to the State Museum.......................... 52
Figure 36 Harp trap were positioned opportunistically, usually away from the quadrats ............................................. 52
Figure 37 Enneapogon cylindricus / Acacia tetragonophylla Open grassland ............................................................. 61
Figure 38 Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland.......................................................................................................... 63
Figure 39 Astrebla pectinata Open grassland ............................................................................................................... 65
Figure 40 Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland ...................................................................................................... 67
Figure 41 Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland ....................................................................... 69
Figure 42 Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland .................................................................................................... 71
Figure 43 Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee ........................................................................................................... 73
Figure 44 Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland........................................................................................................ 75
Figure 45 Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland ................................................................................................ 77
Figure 46 Atriplex vesicaria Low open shrubland ........................................................................................................ 79
Figure 47 Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland............................................................................................... 81
Figure 48 Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland ........................................................................................................... 83
Figure 49 Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima Open shrubland.................................................................................. 85
Figure 50 Acacia aneura Very open low woodland ..................................................................................................... 87
Figure 51 Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland ............................................ 90
Figure 52 Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland ............................................ 90
Figure 53 Casuarina pauper Low woodland ................................................................................................................ 92
Figure 54 Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland ........................................................................................................... 94
Figure 55 Acacia aneura / Enneapogon ssp. Low open woodland............................................................................... 96
Figure 56 Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland .................................................................................................. 98
Figure 57 Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland ............................................................................................... 100
Figure 58 Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very open shrubland ................................................... 102
Figure 59 Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland ...................................................................................... 104
Figure 60 Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland................................................................. 107
Figure 61 Aerial view of “pure” Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland with
no emergent species, north of Manna Hill ............................................................................................... 107
Figure 62 Halosarcia Low open shrubland ................................................................................................................ 109
Figure 63 Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open shrubland ........................................................ 111
Figure 64 Cyperus laevigatus Sedgeland .................................................................................................................... 113
Figure 65 Rhodanthe floribunda ephemeral Herbland................................................................................................ 115
Figure 66 Unstable sand drifts on the margins of some of the islands in Lake Frome covering the
sparse Nitraria billardierei ...................................................................................................................... 116
Figure 67 Deep consolidated gypseous sediments on the larger Lake Frome islands support
Gunniopsis quadrifida and Maireana pyramidata................................................................................... 116
Figure 68 Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland ................................................................................. 118
Figure 69 Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee.............................................................................................................. 121
Figure 70 Looking SSW from Barratta Mines area in the Bibliando Dome over the mosaic of Eucalyptus gillii
Open tree mallee and Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland..... 121
Figure 71 The Variable Groundsel, Senecio lautus, can form spectacular carpets of flowers on the
slopes of sand dunes ................................................................................................................................ 126
Figure 72 Prickley Knawel, Scleranthus pungens, confined to rocky hills in the area ............................................... 126
Figure 73 The Low Bluebush, Maireana astrotricha can form pure stands in some parts of the survey area ........... 127
Figure 74 Sturts Desert-pea, Swainsona formosa covers large areas following good rainfall.................................... 127
Figure 75 Classified Image of dunefields and wetlands of Coonee Creek.................................................................. 130
Figure 76 Unclassified Image of dunefields and wetlands of Coonee Creek.............................................................. 131
Figure 77 Classified Image of drainage features and Mitchell Grass / Cottonbush plains on Wooltana .................... 132
Figure 78 Unclassified Image of drainage features and Mitchell Grass / Cottonbush plains on Wooltana ................ 133
Figure 79 Classified Image of the north-west margin of Lake Frome ........................................................................ 134
Figure 80 Unclassified Image of the north-west margin of Lake Frome .................................................................... 135
Figure 81 Classified Image of drainage features and low hills around Olary ............................................................. 136
Figure 82 Unclassified Image of drainage features and low hills around Olary ......................................................... 137
Figure 83 White-fronted Chats, Ephthianura albifrons were nesting in low bushes at the time of the survey .......... 149
Figure 84 The Brown Songlark, Cincloramphus cruralis in typical pose on the top of the highest bush around ...... 149
Figure 85 The Red-capped Robin, Petroica goodenovii, a bird of the Black Oak woodlands ................................... 150
Figure 86 Emus, Dromaius novaehollandiae move through the area, and in some seasons penetrate the
agricultural districts to the south in large numbers .................................................................................. 150
Figure 87 Distribution of mammal records held in the SA Museum from the North Olary Plains area ..................... 152
Figure 88 The Fat-tailed Dunnart, Sminthopsis crassicaudata, a common small mammal of the treeless plains....... 160
Figure 89 Red Kangaroos, Macropus rufus copulating. This species has increased markedly through changes
to the area by the grazing industry ........................................................................................................... 160
Figure 90 The Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, Petrogale xanthopus, has made a significant recovery in
the Olary Ranges through integrated pest management around key colonies.......................................... 161
Figure 91 Bolam’s Mouse, Pseudomys bolami, a native rodent recorded from several sites in the survey area ........ 161
Figure 92 Distribution of Reptile records held in the SA Museum from the North Olary Plains survey area............ 164
Figure 93 The spectacularly marked Narrow-banded Snake, Simoselaps fasciolatus is a rarely seen
burrowing snake found during the survey................................................................................................ 169
Figure 94 The Central Netted Dragon, Ctenophorus nuchalis often digs its burrows into the edge
of station tracks and can be seen sitting by them on warm days.............................................................. 169
Figure 95 The Mallee Dragons, Ctenophorus fordi found in this area belong to a more orange coloured northern
population, distinct from the greyer animals of the mallee areas further south ....................................... 170
Figure 96 The Common Scaly-foot, Pygopus lepidopodus is a harmless legless lizard which can be
readily distinguished from snakes by its ear openings and the flap-like remains of its hind legs............ 170
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Tables
Table 1 Average monthly Evaporation estimates ...................................................................................................... 13
Table 2 Datasets included in the Vegetation Analysis............................................................................................... 45
Table 3 Trapping effort during the North Olary Plains Vertebrate Fauna Survey..................................................... 48
Table 4 Species Occurrence Frequencies for the 381 Surveyed Sites ....................................................................... 55
Table 5 Plant Communities and the Associations mapped as mosaics ...................................................................... 59
Table 6 Species Recorded During the North Olary Plains Vegetation Survey which were previously
unrecorded in the Eastern Botanical Region of South Australia.............................................................. 123
Table 7 Birds Recorded during the North Olary Plains Survey............................................................................... 140
Table 8 Mammals Recorded during the North Olary Plains Survey........................................................................ 153
Table 9 Sub-fossil Records recovered from Owl Pellets close to the North Olary Plains Survey Area .................. 156
Table 10 Reptiles Recorded during the North Olary Plains Survey .......................................................................... 165
Table 11 Numbers of Vascular Plant and Vertebrate Fauna Species found at each Fauna Survey Quadrat ............. 172
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendices

Appendix I Pastoral Leases in the North Olary Plains Survey Area................................................................ 189
Appendix II Composition of Annual and Introduced Plant species by Site and Vegetation Type ................... 190
Appendix III North Olary Survey Site Locations............................................................................................... 196
Appendix IV Table of Mapped Communities and their Relative Areas ............................................................. 204
Appendix V Plant Species recorded from the North Olary Plains Survey Area........................................................... 205
Appendix VI Bird Species recorded from the North Olary Plains Survey Area ................................................ 221
Appendix VII Mammal Species recorded from the North Olary Plains Survey Area..................................................... 227
Appendix VIII Reptile and Amphibian Species recorded from the North Olary Plains Survey Area .................. 230
Appendix IX Weather Conditions during the North Olary Plains Vertebrate Survey Period ............................ 233
Appendix X South Australian Vegetation Structural Formations ................................................................................ 234
Appendix XI Glossary of Geological Terms ...................................................................................................... 235
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Acknowledgments
This project would not have been possible without the cooperation and efforts of the following people :

1. Research and collation of information presented in this report was undertaken with funding provided by the
Environment Australia (formerly the Australian Nature Conservation Agency). The project was undertaken for the
National Reserves System Cooperative Program (Project Number N502)
2. Vegetation project co-ordination and report preparation - R. Playfair, M. Hyde, A. Robinson.
3. Vertebrate report preparation - A. Robinson, R. Playfair, J. Foulkes, M. Hutchinson, J. Matthew, S Laver, M. De Jong
and G. Carpenter.
4. Geological report preparation - M. Benbow.
5. Technical and field assistance - P. Farmer, J. Foulkes, S. Laver, A. Robinson, J. Mathew, K. Casperson, I. Hopton, D.
Hopton, R. Foster, S. Bemmer, M. De Jong, R. Storr, L. Queale, R. Noye, R. Poore, S. McKenney, A. Herbert, D.
Armstrong, T. Celebrezze, S. Milne and D. Ladd.
6. Computing assistance - S. Graham, S. Spackman, S. Laver, S. Kinnear, R. Lawrence (ISB/GAR, DHUD).
7. Geographic Information Systems - L. Malcolm (GAR, DHUD), T. Hudspith, T. Scholz, J. Phillips.
8. Image Analysis - D. Hart, J. Cameron (RIG, DENR).
9. Previous studies - We are grateful for the advice and permission to use data and imagery from the Pastoral Management
Branch, DENR.
10. Administrative assistance - M. Wilson.
11. We are also grateful for the support received from the numerous landholders and lessees in the area to establish sites on
their properties.
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Introduction
by A. C. Robinson1

BACKGROUND representatives from the South Australian Museum, and

the Departments of Housing and Urban Development,
Since 1971 the South Australian Department of
Environment and Natural Resources and Primary
Environment and Natural Resources has been conducting
Industries. These surveys are producing a comprehensive
systematic biological surveys of the vegetation and
biological database with information now encompassing
vertebrate fauna of large regions of the state as part of the
a large area of the state.
Biological Survey of South Australia. The aim of these
surveys is to document the range of biological variation In May 1994 the Resource Management Branch of the
across the state to improve long-term natural resource South Australian Department of Environment and Natural
management. Resources received a grant from the National Reserves
System Cooperative Program of the Australian Nature
Up to mid 1997, ten major regions have been studied by
Conservation Agency (ANCA) to conduct project N502,
the Biological Survey and Research Section, Natural
Conservation Values of the North Olary Plains. At the
Resources Group of DENR: Offshore Islands (1971-
time this was planned to run from May 1994 to May
1982), South East Coast (1982-1983), Nullarbor (1984),
1996. Due to pressure of other biological survey
Gawler Ranges (1985), Yellabinna (1987), Kangaroo
projects, it was necessary for the Biological Survey and
Island (1989-1990), Murray Mallee (1990-1991), South
Research Section of the Resource Management Branch of
Olary Plains (1991-1992), North Olary Plains (1995-
DENR to let a consultancy to carry out this project. The
1996), and South East (1991 & 1997). Other comparable
successful consultant, Resource Monitoring and
surveys which have been conducted by consultants or
Planning, began the first Phase of the project in June
NGO’s under the auspices of the Biological Survey of
1995. Accordingly an appropriate variation to the project
South Australia include Cooper Creek (1983,1991),
was negotiated with ANCA dated February 1996.
Strzelecki Dunefields (1988-1992), Diamantina River
(1994), Tallaringa (1988 & 1993), Lake Eyre South A previous report (Playfair, Hyde & Robinson 1996)
(1996-1997). Generally the boundaries of these surveys describes the results of the vegetation survey and
have been based on the environmental regions of South includes a vegetation map. These results and the map are
Australia as delineated by Laut et al. (1977). Vegetation- also included in this report. The land system mapping
only surveys have also been completed in conjunction and range condition assessment are currently being
with the Department of Housing and Urban Development completed in the North Olary Plains by Pastoral
for the Mount Lofty Ranges (1985), the Western Murray Management Officers from the Resource Management
Flats (1992), the Mid North (1992), Burra Hills (1994), Branch of DENR and these data are still not complete
Yorke Peninsula (1994) and South Eyre Peninsula enough to publish at the time of printing.
(1996).
This, the final report on the project, will therefore
Ongoing vegetation and vertebrate surveys are being incorporate all of the above-mentoned information and
conducted in the Anangu-Pitjantjatjara Lands of north- the vertebrate data collected during the second phase.
western SA(1992-), the Stony Deserts (1994-), and the The standard layout for reporting on the Biological
Sandy Deserts (1997-). Vegetation surveys are currently Survey of South Australia has been adopted for
underway for the Eastern Eyre Peninsula (1995-) and the presentation. The objectives of the Biological Survey of
state’s Coastal Dunes and Clifftops (1995-). In addition, South Australia in relation to the North Olary Plains
the same methods have been used for numerous smaller- project are detailed below.
scale surveys conducted by various government and non-
OBJECTIVES
government organisations.
The principal aim of the Biological Survey of South
This report covers a vegetation and vertebrate survey of
Australia is to systematically sample a variety of sites
the North Olary Plains. The vegetation survey was
chosen to represent the range of biological variation over
undertaken from July to September 1995, while the
each study area and across the state, in order to enhance
vertebrate survey was undertaken in August 1996.
integrated land management and conservation and to
Surveys are overseen by the South Australian Biological support, with scientific data, government strategies for
Survey Coordinating Committee which comprises

1
A. C. Robinson, SA Department of Environment and Natural Resources, PO Box 1047, ADELAIDE, SA 5001

1
biodiversity conservation and ecologically sustainable Environmental Region (number 5.2), which is an area of
development. 18,960 km2 containing eight environmental associations.
The specific objectives of the North Olary Plains Laut et al. (1977) describe the region as a low easterly,
biological survey were: trending upland branching off the northerly trending
Flinders Ranges. It comprises hogback ridges on
1. To observe, collect and identify the species of plants metasediments and rounded granite hills, with shallow
and vertebrate fauna present in the area in 1995 and loamy soils supporting open shrublands of mulga,
1996, by sampling an array of fixed quadrats hopbush and turpentine bush or a low cover of saltbush
representing the geographical and biological and bluebush, locally with open mallee. Gentle
diversity of the region. footslopes and pediments commonly form extensive
elongated intramontane plains with deeper duplex soils
2. To establish a comprehensive data base of the flora
characteristically covered with saltbush and bluebush
and associated vertebrate communities of the North
with scattered mulga and false sandalwood.
Olary Plains in South Australia which is amenable
to analyses involving direct ecological comparisons, To the north, the Southern Frome Basin Environmental
and compatible with similar data collected from Region (number 5.3) covers an area of 16,700 km2
adjacent areas in South Australia, and New South containing seven environmental associations. It is
Wales. described as part of a large internal drainage basin
3. To document and classify the patterns of species and probably of structural origin, the centre of which is
communities across the region and their relationship occupied by Lake Frome. The plain, which is mainly
with parameters of the physical environment. covered with shallow calcareous earths, has a low
shrubland of saltbush and bluebush, often with a low
4. To compile a structural vegetation map of the area open woodland or tall shrubland overstorey. It is nearly
contiguous with maps of adjoining areas in SA, and featureless except in the north near Lake Frome where
NSW. sand dunes occur more frequently. These dunes support
5. To evaluate the conservation status of species and a low woodland or tall shrubland with an understorey of
communities typical of the North Olary Plains, as a bluebush and ephemeral herbs. Streams from the Olary
basis for recommendations for natural resource Spur do not reach the lake but flood out at a small
management and conservation strategies. distance from the upland, however some larger streams
from the Flinders Ranges to the west intermittently reach
6. To provide the State Herbarium and South Australian the lake.
Museum with collections representative of the
diversity of plants and vertebrates in the area in The northern limit of the study area falls in the Lake Eyre
1995-1996 and to provide material for taxonomic Basin Environmental Region (number 8.4). It covers the
and other scientific studies related to wildlife southern extent of two environmental associations. The
protection. Lake Frome Environmental Association is described as a
chain of interconnected salt lakes with gypsum dunes
7. To establish a long term monitoring system and along the eastern margins. Where vegetation occurs it
associated database to enable subsequent sampling consists of tall shrubland, ephemeral herbland and
and measurement of ecological change in the region. chenopod shrubland. The Strzelecki Desert
8. To provide baseline biological data for future Environmental Association is an extensive dunefield with
research by government and non-government numerous small claypans with a cover of chenopod
organisations. shrubland, hummock grassland and grassland.

THE SURVEY AREA The total survey area is 45,864 km2. Figures 2 - 15 show
the variation in environments of the area.
The North Olary Plains survey area covers a large part of
the eastern sheep pastoral country in South Australia. Most of the survey area supports a continuous expanse of
The study area is defined by the standard 1:100,000 native vegetation and, being under pastoral leasehold, is
topographic map sheet boundaries (Fig. 1). It stretches grazed by sheep in the south and cattle in the north. The
from just south of the Barrier Highway north to the south western edges extend into the agricultural perpetual
northern tip of Lake Frome, and is bounded in the west leasehold areas where the native vegetation is
by the eastern edge of the Flinders Ranges and in the east substantially modified and fragmented. There are no
by the SA / NSW border. areas set aside as conservation reserves in the entire
region.
The study area covers two major environmental regions
and the southern extent of a third (Fig. 1). From south to
north, the study area covers the Olary Spur

2
Figure 1 The North Olary Plains Biological Survey area showing Environmental Associations (Laut et.al., 1977)

3
Figure 2 Aerial view of a typical Canegrass swamp in scalded Saltbush plains on Benagerie Station
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 3 Aerial view of Samphires, Blackbush and Nitrebush communities on the fringe of southern Lake Frome
Photo: R. Playfair

4
Figure 4 Low Bluebush / Bladder Saltbush mosaic on Curnamona Station
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 5 Bladder Saltbush / Pearl Bluebush mosaic south of Manna Hill

Photo: R. Playfair

5
Figure 6 Blackbush shrubland on plains south of Martin’s Well HS
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 7 Bladder Saltbush shrubland with bare scalds on Kalabity Station

Photo: R. Playfair

6
Figure 8 Cottonbush swales between Senna / Hopbush low sandy rises on southern Wooltana Station.
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 9 Nitrebush run-on areas in flood damaged area south of Martin’s Well HS
Photo: R. Playfair

7
Figure 10 Umbrella Bush dunes with sparse Mulga grassy swales on Lakeside Station
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 11 Desert Senna / Hopbush sandy rises (“woody weeds”) on Curnamona Station
Photo: R. Playfair

8
Figure 12 Mosaic of Senna / Hopbush rises and Low Bluebush plains on northern Curnamona Station
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 13 Sparse Mulga grassy swales on Frome Downs Station

Photo: R. Playfair

9
Figure 14 Complex mosaic of Mulga hills and Curly Mallee hillslopes in the rugged hills of Bibliando Station
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 15 Red Mallee community on Melton Station

Photo: R. Playfair

10
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Background

CLIMATE
by R. M. Playfair1

Climatic Controls In general the most frequent strong winds occur during
the period from late winter through spring, while a
The North Olary Plains survey area has an arid climate
relative lull occurs during April and May. Gales (in
with hot to extremely hot, very dry summers and cold to
excess of 62 kph) are uncommon, but the highest monthly
mild, dry winters. Rainfall is low and unreliable,
frequency (<<1 per year) occurs during the period
characterised by extremely infrequent heavy falls. There
September and October.
is no seasonal pattern over most of the area, although in
the south west (where the highest average annual totals Rainfall
occur), winter rains show less variability than summer
Rainfall across the survey area is unreliable with no
falls.
marked seasonality. Average annual rainfall ranges from
Seasonal variation of the weather is controlled by the 250mm in the west (eg. Yunta, Fig.16) to less than
location of large-scale high pressure systems which are 175mm (eg. Mulyungarie, Fig.17) on the plains in the far
part of the global sub-tropical ridge. During the warmer north east.
part of the year (November to March), the ridge is located
Widespread significant rainfall is infrequent, but is most
south of the area and the prevailing surface winds are
likely to result from tropical inflow in summer (from the
from the southern quadrant. During autumn the ridge
north or north east), or from slow moving cut-off low
generally moves north and remains over the continent
pressure systems, or north west cloud bands at any time
from April until September. During winter the survey
of the year. These latter systems, which originate over
area is south of the ridge axis, and winds generally have a
the north east Indian Ocean, are associated with a well
westerly component (north-north west to south-south
established north westerly flow aloft, but at mean sea
west).
level, easterly, north easterly, or even light variable
Weak orographic lifting by the low hills of the Olary winds, may prevail.
Spur produce slightly higher average rainfalls over the
Rainfall in the warmer months is highly erratic, and most
elevated ground. The uplands which consist of a series of
often in the form of heavy showers, associated with
ridges, generally aligned north east/south west, influence
thunderstorms. It is in this season that extreme falls may
temperatures (especially daily minima) and may cause
occur. In some years, certain conditions can produce
localised wind effects. On winter nights cold air may
prolonged widespread rain.
accumulate in valleys and depressions.
Meteorological Drought Years
Winds
The term drought refers to an acute water shortage.
While large scale pressure features determine the
Although the amount of available water depends to a
broadscale wind flow, topography can have a marked
large extent upon storage (in the soil, in artesian basins
effect on local wind speed and direction, particularly
and in dams and reservoirs) and in losses from
overnight and early in the morning, when stable
evaporation, the best single indicator of water availability
conditions allow localised wind regimes to be set up.
is rainfall. Gibbs and Maher (1967) showed that the
In summer (December to February) winds are generally years with an annual total in the first decile range (ie., the
light to moderate and the prevailing airstream is from the lowest 10% of falls on record) correspond well with
south to south east. droughts recorded in other sources. Using this guide and
rainfall records from a number of stations, 11 years since
In autumn winds are frequently light and more variable,
1900 are identified as those in which drought affected
but still show a south east to south west tendency.
extensive parts of the area. These years are 1902, 1922,
Through the cooler months (late May to August),
1927, 1940, 1943, 1944, 1948, 1965, 1967, 1977, and
westerly and even northerly winds are common. During
1982.
spring, winds are again variable in direction but the
strongest winds are generally from the northerly and
westerly quadrants.

1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, P O Box 2, DAW PARK, SA, 5041

11
Some droughts such as those at the turn of the century, in months over large parts of the area.
the late 1920s, and the early 40s, lasted beyond 12

Figure 16 The historical rainfall record for Yunta (elevation 303m).

Figure 17 The historical rainfall record for Mulyungarie (elevation 90m).

12
Potential Evaporation
Figure 18 Mean monthly maximum and minimum
Evaporation is dependent on sunshine, temperature, temperatures (solid lines) for Yunta. The 86 percentile for
humidity and wind. For any given latitude evaporation maximum temperatures (square symbols) and the 14
rates are generally lower on the uplands where cooler percentile for minimum temperatures (oval symbols) are
daytime temperatures occur, but persistently windy also shown. On one day in seven the maximum (minimum)
temperatures will exceed (not exceed) these limits.
conditions around exposed ridges can counter this effect.
Frost
Average annual evaporation ranges from 2500mm in the
south of the district to 2800mm in the north. Table 1 Frosts occur in the cooler part of the year, generally on
shows the average monthly evaporation for the mid- calm, clear nights when there is little moisture in the air.
season months. The frequency of frost is dependent on local surface
features (including vegetation and soil moisture) and
topography. Some locations, such as hollows and
January April July October depressions especially in elevated areas, are more prone
to frost than others.
North 425 200 75 275
At the elevated site of Yunta, frosts have been reported
South 350 175 75 225 throughout the period from April to November. On
average, 46 frost-days per year, with the highest
frequency (10 to 12 per month) during the winter months,
Table 1. Average monthly evaporation estimates for June to August.
the mid-season months. Estimates are to the nearest
Sunshine Hours
25mm.
Across the District, the annual average bright sunshine
Temperature per day is 8.5 hours. It varies from 10.5 hours in January
Temperatures are influenced by elevation and other to around 7 hours in the north, and 6.5 hours in the south
features of the local environment. For example, during July.
maximum temperatures are reduced by around 1.0°C on
Data availability
average, for every 100m increase in elevation. Minimum
temperatures are also reduced at elevated sites, but cold This climatology has been summarised from information
air drainage into local depressions will also affect prepared by the Bureau of Meteorology for the North
minimum temperature distributions. East Soil Conservation Board.
Climatological charts of mean maximum and minimum Weather and climate observations are available from
temperatures across the survey area for the mid-season Yunta and Broken Hill (three sites). Many more rainfall
months, January, April, July and October are available observations are undertaken by a volunteer network, and
from the Bureau of Meteorology (1988). Observed daily records are available from 45 observing sites in the area,
temperatures are available from Yunta (elevation 303 although not all these are part of the national rainfall
metres) and the three observing sites at Broken Hill. observation network in operation today. All climate and
rainfall observations are quality controlled and archived
In the hotter part of the year (November to March)
in the national climate data-bank, and made available to
average daily maximum temperatures exceed 28°C, and
researchers and other interested users.
during January and February average over 32°C.
Average minimum temperatures for the period November More information is available from:
to March are in the low to mid teens on the uplands, and
Bureau of Meteorology Ph: (08) 8366 2222
the mid to high teens over lower areas. The mildest
25 College Rd (PO Box 421) Fax: (08) 8366 2293
(warmest) overnight temperatures occur in January and
Kent Town SA 5071
February (Fig. 18).
For the cooler months (April to October) average
maximum daily temperatures range from around 25oC in
April and October to near 15oC in winter. In elevated
areas average minimum temperatures are less than 10°C
and dip to around 3oC or lower in July. At Yunta daily
minimum temperatures below zero have been recorded in
each month between April and October. In the north,
average minimum temperatures range from the low teens
in April and October to around 5oC in July, and below
zero temperatures are most likely to occur in the period
June to August.

13
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey
__________________________________________________________________________________________

GEOLOGY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY

M.C. Benbow1
INTRODUCTION The uplands and intermontane plains are part of a large
mountain fold belt (800km long) that includes the Mt.
The North Olary Plains encompasses the region that is
Lofty Ranges and formed on Proterozoic and Cambrian
occupied by Lake Frome and extends to the margins of the
sediments of the Adelaide Geosyncline (Figs. 19, 20, 23).
north eastern Flinders Ranges and northern Olary Ranges.
In the study area there are also several regions in which
It is also bounded to the east, in New South Wales, by the
ranges have formed on older crystalline basement rocks,
Barrier Ranges (Fig. 19).
notably in the Mt. Painter region and in the northern part of
A unifying theme of the North Olary Plains is the the Olary Ranges.
ephemeral, centripetal drainage into or toward Lake Frome,
Characteristic topography of the fold belt is ridge and
a depressed region that lies close to, or below, sea level.
valley, and amplitude is commonly 200-400m (Figs. 14,
The drainage dissects broad alluvial plains between Lake
68). Relief is particularly rugged in the north (eg. Gammon
Frome and the ranges, while to the east of Lake Frome it is
Ranges) where resistant quartzites form precipitous bluffs.
largely relict and choked by sands of the dunefield of the
Strzelecki Desert (Figs. 20, 21, 22). Seen in a broader Shape and orientation of the ranges is determined largely
context, the region occupies the south western extremity of by the fold belt's geological structure and rock lithology
the Lake Eyre drainage system that also includes Lake Eyre (Figs. 14, 17). In the south, range shape and orientation is
and the surrounding dunefields of the Tirari and Simpson broadly sigmoidal and south westerly-north easterly
Deserts. It is in the lowlands centred on Lake Frome that (respectively) (ie. in the Nackara Arc). West of Lake
sediments accumulated in basins at various times after the Frome the fold belt is less regular and dome and basin
Precambrian, particularly during the Mesozoic and topography is common in the Central Flinders Zone.
Cainozoic. Topography of the Olary Ranges is decidedly less rugged
than that of the Flinders Ranges and southwest-northeast
The uplands are largely the surface expression of the large
oriented, low, hogbacks are typical.
fold-belt of the Adelaide Geosyncline (Appendix XI) and
inliers of older, crystalline basement rocks (Figs. 23). Here The terrain of the Precambrian basement inliers includes
old pre-Cretaceous ( see Fig. 19) exhumed surfaces lie high topography more typical of granitic terrains. Thus in the
in the landscape (Fig. 20). The current topography has northern Olary Ranges there are rounded granite hills with
been largely inherited from the Middle-Late Eocene, a time typical tor forms and these may have associated cross-
of active incision by ancient rivers, with subsequent cutting narrow valleys with flat floors as in the Mount
modification by younger episodes of erosion. Victoria and Triangle Hill areas (Fig. 52). Isolated
basement pinnacles or hills lie further north within the
The North Olary Plains encompasses the area contained
margin of the flanking alluvial plains (eg. Nancatee Hill
within the FROME, CURNAMONA, OLARY (northern
and Moolenlooloo Hill).
half), PARACHILNA (eastern one-third) and ORROROO
(northeast) 1:250 000 map sheets. The definition of this There is an ancient summit surface or high planation
biological survey region therefore contrasts with the surface referred to as the Freeling Heights Surface in the
adjacent South Olary Plains which was defined by Laut north eastern Flinders Ranges (Twidale, 1967; Twidale and
et.al. (1977) purely on the basis of environmental criteria. Campbell, 1993) (Fig. 20). It has formed on different rock
types, eg. granite as well as Freeling Heights Quartzite, and
GEOMORPHOLOGY
is recognisable over a wider area, that is, to the southwest
Major physiographic regions are: and northwest. This high surface is of the exhumed and
etch type. It is partially exhumed since marine sediments
1. Uplands and intermontane plains of the Flinders Ranges
of Early Cretaceous age have been partially removed from
and Olary Ranges
it by erosion and it is of the etch type since there is no
2. Flanking alluvial plains associated weathered carapace. Around the northeast
margin of the Flinders Ranges, this old surface has been
3. Lake Frome warped and faulted and it can be traced (by drill holes) to
4. Dunefield of the Strzelecki Desert (Fig. 19). the east beneath sediments of the younger basins.
Uplands and intermontane plains of the Flinders The current topography of the uplands had its precursor
Ranges and Olary Ranges during the middle Tertiary. Valley and ridges formed
during the Middle-Late Eocene are believed to have by and

1
M.C. Benbow, Longlat Enterprises Pty Ltd, St Roses Hall, PO Box 458, Kapunda SA 5373

15
large remained as such ever since. (Evidence for inversion claypan area", near the margin of the Strzelecki Desert, is
of relief is limited.) During the Eocene, the old summit typified by the occurrence of scattered, isolated, dune-like
surface was incised and intermontane plains formed, low ridges perhaps part of an older, degraded dune system
indicated by valley infilling sediments of this age beneath (Fig. 24). There are also north-south oriented chains of
the Willochra Plain to the west of the study area (Binks, claypans which pass northwards into similarly oriented
1970). The present day intermontane plains thus mark old lakes within the Strzelecki Desert which Wasson (1983a,b)
palaeovalleys but younger and more recent erosional considered may relate to older lake margins.
episodes have led to some dissection and formation of new
The Passmore River area to the west is characterised by
plains.
numerous old creeks or palaeorivers of Pleistocene age
On ORROROO, for example, extensive, broad which are cross-cut by, but parallel with, the modern
intermontane alluvial flood plains formed where the drainage. This older drainage is subtle and is partly
Precambrian strata (eg. mudstones) are less resistant to outlined by changes in vegetation. It is partly
erosion - these include the Koonamore and Nackara Plains anastomosing.
both of which lie in the Koonamore Drainage Basin (Binks,
Callen (1990) recognised a large alluvial palaeofan,
1970). Apart from the Siccus Plains which drain to the
referred to as the Paralana Fan, on the Lake Frome Plains
northeast toward Lake Frome, most of the drainage in this
adjacent to Lake Frome.
region is internal. There is however an overall
northeasterly component in the drainage reflecting broad To the south, adjacent to and within the Olary Ranges are
structure. Koonamore Lakes in the northeast are seasonally large tracts of alluvial plain characterised by gilgai or subtle
wet and are flanked by gypsum ridges or lunettes. micro-relief, that are comprised of stony ridges (1-3m high)
and intervening flats that contour the landscape (Figs. 7,
Some drainage, as on the southern side of the Olary
25). A typical feature of the inland stony deserts, the ridges
Ranges, is directed towards the Murray Plains (Fig. 19).
are here largely constructed of quartz and ironstone.
Alluvial plains
Adjacent to the east margin of the Flinders Ranges are
Alluvial plains flank the uplands and are dissected by relict mesas, which, prior to dissection, formed extensive
ephemeral creeks that flow largely into or toward the but older Pleistocene alluvial plains. Still older and less
central depression occupied by Lake Frome (Figs. 4, 7, 9, common, are silcrete capped, horizontal and gently tilted
12, 19, 20). The width of these plains ranges from 40- mesas.
100km and elevation drops away from >100m adjacent to
Lake Frome
the Flinders Ranges to <10m near Lake Frome. Gradients
are therefore gentle, particularly north of the Olary Ranges. The Lake Frome playa lies mostly at or just below sea level
The character of this broad region varies, determined by the (+0.5 to -3.0m, AHD), and is 100km long and up to 40km
degree of dissection and variable influence of wide (Figs. 19, 24, 26). It is linked at its northern end, via
superimposed aeolian dunes and elevation. Salt Creek, to Lake Callabonna and in contrast to Lake
Eyre, it rarely fills. Callen (1983, p.2) attributed this to the
The Frome Plains (ie. east of the Flinders Ranges) are
large size of the lake in relation to the drainage area, but it
described by Callen (1981, p.6) as being a "complex of
may also be due to the difficulty of water traveling along
coalescing low-angle fans, rising from 0.5m above sea
the aeolian sand choked drainage. While Lake Eyre filled
level at the edge of Lake Frome to 70m near the ranges"
during the floods of 1972-74, water barely reached the
and are described as being "virtually featureless, apart from
shores of Lake Frome.
occasional creeks ... and low gravel ridges." A small area
of scattered dunes is developed on Paralana and Caldina This apparently featureless surface contains islands that
1:100 000 map sheets (Fig. 24). project well above the southern coastal cliffs (Figs. 66, 67).
They are aeolian and resemble elongate barchan dunes
In the far north, adjacent to the Flinders Ranges, lies the
(Callen, 1983). Mound Springs and yet larger aeolian
Paralana High Plain (Callen, 1981). It is characterised by
dunes or lee-side lunettes up to 30m high flank the eastern
its elevation (ie. 100-150m AHD) that is distinctly above
shore (Fig. 65). Still older Pleistocene beach ridges can be
the surrounding Frome Plains to the east. It apparently
traced around much of Lake Frome, reflecting a lake of
once formed part of the Lake Frome Plains but sometime in
once greater extent. Low angle alluvial fans (some have
the late Cainozoic was uplifted along with part of the
coalesced to form aprons) rim part of the western and
Flinders Ranges.
southern shore (eg. Pasmore Delta) and have partly built
Callen (1990) informally referred to the alluvial plains out over the lake's surface (Fig. 24). Associated are
north of the Olary Ranges, as the "Curnamona Plains". beaches, spits and bars. Immediately south of this playa is
Here, drainage is mostly northerly with some headwaters an old (Pleistocene) cliffline 2.5m AHD.
existing in the Olary Ranges (Figs. 7, 19, 24). The "central

16
Figure 19 Physiography of the North Olary Plains

17
Figure 20 Aerial view of the alluvial plains west of Lake Frome, the Flinders Ranges (and Freeling Heights
Surface) in the background. Courtesy of MESA.

Figure 21 Coonee Creek section exposes modern red brown aeolian sand overlying the Coonarbine and
Eurinilla Formations. Courtesy of MESA.

18
Figure 22 Geology of part of the Strzelecki Desert showing the dunefield in the vicinity of Coonee Creek.
Taken from Callen (1975).

19
Figure 23 Regional geology of the North Olary Plains. (Location of geological cross sections - see Figure 27 -
also portrayed.) Taken from Rankin and Parker (1993).

20
Figure 24 Geology of part of the alluvial plains in the vicinity of the NW margin of Lake Frome. Note the
delta where Salt Creek debouches onto the lake's northern limit. Taken from Callen (1975).

21
Figure 25 Geology of the alluvial plains S and SE of Lake Frome. The "central claypan area" and gilgai
mantled fans (denoted Qh2) W and S of "Benagerie" are shown (respectively). Also note outliers of
crystalline basement of the Olary Inliers (eg. Ph, P-m). Taken from Callen (1986).

22
Figure 26 Geology of SE Lake Frome region. Taken from Callen (1975).

23
Figure 27A Geological cross-sections. Taken from Callen (1975, 1986).

24
Figure 27B Geological cross-sections. Taken from Callen (1975, 1986).

25
Figure 28 Geological time, provinces and selected events.

26
Strzelecki Desert the east, in New South Wales, the exposed province rocks
contain the rich lead, zinc and silver mineralisation of
The southern part of this Desert occupies the north eastern
Broken Hill.
part of the North Olary Plains (Fig. 19). This dunefield
forms part of the larger continental anticlockwise whorl of Little is known about the Curnamona Craton. It is a
dunes that includes the Simpson Desert to the north and the basement block approximately 250km in diameter and is
Great Victoria Desert to the far west. The study area lies clearly defined by its aeromagnetic properties (ie.
on the east margin of the whorl and immediately south of anomalies). Outcrops, which occur along the southern part
its east-west oriented main axis (King, 1960; Jennings, of the north-south oriented Benagerie Ridge, an uplifted,
1968; Bowler, 1976; Sprigg, 1979; Callen et.al. 1983; structural feature of the Craton, and drillholes, indicate
Wasson, 1983 a,b; Wasson et.al., 1988; also see Krieg similar rocks as are exposed in the inliers (Figs. 25, 27).
et.al., 1990). These dunefields cover approximately 40%
The sequence of the inliers and the Curnamona Craton
of Australia and are by far the dominant landform of the
include Palaeoproterozoic metamorphic rocks overlain by,
continent.
or intruded by, Mesoproterozoic volcanics and granites
Predominant landforms are parallel longitudinal dunes and respectively (Fig. 27). The Freeling Heights Quartzite
interdune corridors or swales (Figs. 54, 55, 22, 26). Dune forms part of the rugged landscape of the Mt. Painter Inlier
types include the very short, narrow, crested-linear type and is part of the sequence of metamorphic rocks that is in
(eg. around the margins) and narrow-crested linear type excess of 6km thick.
(predominant). Other dune types are either not present or
These rocks have had a complex structural and
minor (eg. parabolic). Y-junctions point mostly ENE, that
metamorphic history (eg. Olarian Orogeny of 1700-1580
is, in the direction of "the resultant of sand-moving wind"
million years ago) (Fig. 28). Stabilisation (cratonisation) of
(Wasson et.al., 1988,p.98).
the Curnamona Craton took place around 1450 million
Orientation of the dunes is WSW-ENE but to the north of years ago; thus this part of the Palaeo-Mesoproterozoic
the study area, it changes to become northerly, eventually province has remained largely undeformed since.
having a small westerly component. Dune length ranges
Neoproterozoic-Cambrian - Adelaide Geosyncline
from <1km to >20km, dune height averages 15m, while
average dune spacing is ½-1km. Consistency in these Most of the rocks of the Flinders Ranges and Olary Ranges
parameters testifies to "a high order of spatial coherence are sediments that belong to the Adelaide Geosyncline, a
and persistence" (Wasson et.al., 1988, p.89). Small complex succession of superimposed and adjacent basins
claypans are locally present along the swales and there are (Preiss, 1987, 1993; Gravestock, 1995). Total sediment
scattered small playas. Ephemeral creeks comparable to, thickness is in excess of 30km making this one of the most
but smaller than, the Cooper and Strzelecki or Warburton, complete geological records for this time in the Earth's
ie. the Coonee and Yandama, flow across the Desert history. These rocks have been weakly metamorphosed
toward or into Lake Frome (Fig. 22). Also drainage of the and folded while the equivalent rocks overlying the
Plains can be traced into the Strzelecki Desert. Some Curnamona Craton (beneath Lake Frome) remain relatively
creeks now terminate at small playa lakes. Here drainage is little deformed and flat lying.
largely choked by the sands of the dunefield and prior to
Stratigraphic details and units are too complex and
dunefield formation was much more extensive and possibly
numerous respectively to describe here. The sedimentary
terminated on the east side of an ancestral Lake Frome.
record can be broadly divided into five groups based on the
As in other parts of the continental dunefield (eg. Benbow, nature of the sediments and where the major breaks in
1992), there is variation in surface elevation reflecting an deposition occur. Numerous sedimentary rock types were
older, pre-dune topography. There is also a regional west deposited. For example sandstones, that are now indurated
to east increase in surface elevation from around 5-90m and weakly metamorphosed, were deposited a number of
AHD. In fact, the Strzelecki Desert sits on an old alluvial times (eg. Paralana, ABC Range and Rawnsley Quartzites)
plain that is linked to the Barrier Ranges. and outcrop to form the impressive and beautiful ranges.
The south, plains-bounded, margin of the Desert, is less The basal Callanna Group rocks mark the onset of
well defined than the western, Lake Frome-bounded subsidence of the Geosyncline and rifting with associated
margin. volcanic activity over 800 million years ago (Fig. 28).
Sediments were deposited in non-marine and marginal
GEOLOGY
marine rift-valley settings. Evaporitic minerals attest to
Palaeo-Mesoproterozoic - Willyama and Mt. Painter some aridity. Sedimentation in the Geosyncline
Inliers and the Curnamona Craton commenced west of Lake Frome (Paralana Quartzite) and
as a result of extension in the continental crust, over 0.6km
Cores or inliers of ancient Precambrian basement rocks (eg.
of flood basalts (Wooltana Volcanics) were extruded on the
gneiss, schist and granite) occur exposed in the north
surface.
eastern Flinders Ranges (Mt. Painter Inlier) and northern
part of the Olary Ranges (Willyama Inliers) (Figs. 52, 23, The overlying and younger Burra Group marks the record
27, 28). They lie on the margin of, and form part of, a of marine transgression or inundation of seas and sediments
large Proterozoic province that is for the most part buried were deposited in a range on non-marine and marine
and covered by basinal sediments beneath Lake Frome environments, particularly riverine and deltaic.
(Parker, 1993 and references therein). The buried part of
this province is referred to as the Curnamona Craton. To

27
After a major hiatus, widespread glaciation (at several carbonaceous, micaceous muds and mudstones that were
levels) is recorded in the Umberatanna Group (eg. Sturt deposited in marine environments. Plant remains may be
Tillite equivalent and Elatina Formation). The Wilpena present and shells (bivalves) and other marine organisms
Group is significant for it includes near the top (of the (eg. foraminifers) may be common.
Proterozoic) the Ediacara Member (of the Rawnsley
The Eromanga Basin, a large epicratonic basin, formed as a
Quartzite) which contains the well known assemblage of
broad continental downwarp as the supercontinent,
soft-bodied metazoans such as jelly fish, worms and sea
Gondwana, fragmented (Fig. 28). The Cadna-owie
pens, the first appearance of these faunas on Earth.
Formation was deposited in coastal seas and adjacent non-
Another major time-break or hiatus occurred at the marine environments such as rivers and swamps during the
Precambrian (ie. Proterozoic) -Cambrian boundary before onset of very widespread inundation by shallow seas of the
deposition recommenced with the Hawker Group and continent. This was also a time of global sea level rise.
finally Lake Frome Group. In the North Olary Plains Evidence suggests a reasonably uniform landscape, ie. no
region the Benagerie Ridge of the Curnamona Craton acted great trans-continental ranges were present, and breaks in
as a barrier between focii of deposition (eg. east-west sedimentation may be taken to suggest oscillating shoreline
oriented Arrowie Basin to the west and beneath Lake locations. Climate was markedly seasonal such that rivers
Frome). In fact during the Cambrian the tectonic setting and shorelines could ice-up during winter (Frakes and
and depositional history differed markedly from the older, Francis, 1988). Seasonal or periodic ice build-up may have
Precambrian record of the Geosyncline. The Cambrian been responsible for transport of boulders offshore.
sediments include deltaic sandstones and coastal to
The Maree Subgroup was deposited in large shallow seas
offshore marine carbonates. At this time Australia lay in
and the climate is believed to have been even cooler at this
very low, ie. equatorial, latitudes as part of the super-
time than during Cadna-owie Formation time (Krieg et.al.,
continent of Gondwana (Ziegler et.al., 1979). The fossil
1995 and references therein). Seas retreated in the mid-to-
record of these rocks (as elsewhere in the world) eg. shelly
late Cretaceous that is, toward the end of the Mesozoic and
faunas, trilobites and archaeocyatha, mark the sudden
a prolonged period of non-deposition followed.
appearance on Earth of new life forms including those with
hard skeletons. Cainozoic - Lake Eyre Basin
Sedimentation ceased in the Adelaide Geosyncline and The Lake Eyre Basin is a large continental downwarp
around 470 million years ago there followed the superimposed in part on the Eromanga Basin (Figs. 23, 27,
Delamerian Orogeny which deformed the sedimentary 28). Related to subsidence was the development of
record and gave rise to a major fold-belt (Fig. 28). Arcuate drainage (Lake Eyre drainage basin) that today covers a
folds are prominent and differences in fold style and substantial part of the continent, with the termination
orientation have enabled tectonic subdivision (reflected in focused on the large inland playa lakes (eg. Lakes Frome
the geomorphology of the Flinders, Mt. Lofty and Olary and Eyre). The study region lies in the southern part of
Ranges as described above). Associated intrusion of what is referred to as the Callabonna Sub-basin. Here, the
granites (eg. Mudnawatana Granite in the Mt. Painter basin margin is in part defined by faults along the margin
Inlier) and low grade (burial) metamorphism also took of the Flinders Ranges. Reactivation of old faults defined
place. local features of deposition - thus Lake Frome occupies a
region of subsidence between upfaulted north-south
In the study area there followed a prolonged period (from
oriented structures.
470 -150 million years ago) for which there is no
sedimentary record; weathering and erosion would have Sedimentation during the last 65 million years was episodic
been significant at this time. and non-marine as there was no prolonged connection with
the sea (eg. via the Murray Basin to the south). Equivalent
Mesozoic - Frome Embayment
sediments were also deposited in the intermontane valleys
Sediments of this age are largely restricted to the northern within the Flinders Ranges, but these are far more restricted
part of the North Olary Plains and thin toward the south in their extent and thickness.
(Figs. 23, 27). Outcrops are known to occur only along
As most of the region is topographically low, the Cainozoic
part of the eastern flank of the Flinders Ranges and are
succession is largely obscured by the thin, blanketing cover
there very limited in extent where upfaulted against the
of the youngest part of the record, that is, of the Quaternary
uplands. These sediments occupy a lobe, the Frome
(1.6 million years to the present day) (Figs. 22 - 27).
Embayment (Forbes, 1966), of the very large Eromanga
Basin and include the important aquifers of the Great Deposition took place during three major intervals as
Artesian Basin. Australia migrated northwards and as the climate, overall,
if episodically, deteriorated from humid temperate or sub-
The Cretaceous Cadna-owie Formation (or Paralana
tropical to the marked aridity of today (Fig. 28).
Sandstone on COPLEY) (0-52m thick) comprises a basal
pebble bed, marginal marine sand, in part boulder-bearing, During the early Cainozoic widespread fluvial sands were
micaceous mud, and comparatively minor limestone. deposited (Eyre formation) (Fig. 27). Adjacent to the
There are possibly older (ie. Jurassic), localised Olary Ranges the sediments are confined to palaeochannels
conglomerates and sands immediately underlying this which to the north pass into an extensive blanket typically
formation in the centre of the Embayment. The 10-75m thick (Callen, 1981, 1990). The formation occurs
conformably overlying Maree Subgroup (0-275m) mostly in the subsurface, but isolated outcrops occur
comprises predominantly grey to black, in part upfaulted along the margin of the Flinders Ranges.

28
At the base there are lags with clasts of well rounded and flank the eastern margin of the Flinders Ranges (as on
polished agate, black chert, fossil wood and quartz, as well COPLEY; see Coates, 1973a,b).
as other resistant lithologies that were derived and
The Namba Formation contains highly significant
reworked from the Mesozoic. The sands are in part
vertebrate remains which provide important information
carbonaceous and the upper and younger part in the north
about evolution of the Australian faunas and about climate
is finer grained and includes carbonaceous muds that were
(see Callen, 1990 and references therein, pp.42,43).
deposited on riverine plains and in swamps and lagoons.
Faunas include abundant reptiles, fish and birds (eg.
Deposition took place when southern Australia lay at pelicans, flamingo), and ancestral marsupials (eg. koalas,
relatively high latitudes (ie. 50-65°S) as the continent possums, dasyurids).
continued its separation from Antarctica. Rainforest very
Notable depositional environments include (alkali) playa
likely covered much of the Lake Eyre Basin and the
lakes in which carbonates were precipitated (mainly west
subdued ancestral uplands, as indicated by fossil pollens,
of the Benagarie Ridge) (eg. see Benbow et.al., 1995).
spores and leaves. Initially, rainforests were dominated by
Sands would have been deposited in low energy streams
conifers when climate was humid and cool temperate.
and possibly lake margins. Climate must have been warm
Some time later, Nothofagus (the southern beech) was a
and dry enough (perhaps seasonally) to allow deposition of
prominent component. Toward the end of Eyre Formation
the carbonates, but periodically wet to enable lakes to fill or
time rainforest became restricted to moist valleys and
be inundated.
sclerophyllous vegetation (including Eucalyptus) became
more important. The vertebrate faunas, particularly the arboreal marsupials,
indicate forested lake and river margins. For part of the
The changing climate patterns of this time and for the
time at least, this formation may have been deposited in
Cainozoic as a whole, not only reflect the continent's
large permanent lakes as indicated by freshwater dolphins.
northward drift from near the pole toward the equator, but
Some (perhaps riverine) connection with the sea is also
also the changing configuration of the continents (ie. sea
implied.
and atmosphere circulation).
The fossil plant record from the northern margin of the
During the middle Cainozoic there followed a long interval
Murray Basin, south of the Olary Ranges, indicates mixed
of non-deposition and weathering. Silcrete duricrust which
rainforest dominated by myrtaceous genera and
extensively mantles the landscape north of the study area,
Nothofagus, at least for part of the time.
over the Stony Deserts region, is limited in the North Olary
Plains to the margin of the uplands, and may have formed [Note that age constraints for the Namba Formation are
at this time (ie. Wopfner, 1974, 1978). poor. Numerous time breaks are likely during the time that
sediments were deposited (ie. 25-15 million years ago).]
Evidence from elsewhere (eg. the Murray and St. Vincent
Basins) indicates Nothofagus dominated cool temperate There is some evidence to suggest that the youngest part of
rainforest (Benbow et.al., 1995 and references therein). the Namba Formation was deposited in the Late (perhaps
Climates cooled globally (during the Early Oligocene) a latest) Miocene and Early Pliocene (Callen, 1990; Benbow
likely consequence of the development of the circum - et.al., 1995). However much of the Late Miocene is
Antarctic polar current, as the last connection with the generally regarded as being a time of non-deposition when
Australian continent (ie. south of Tasmania) was severed. climate in Australia became generally more arid as global
Seas withdrew (also globally), exposing more of the temperatures dropped and the Antarctic icesheet expanded.
continental margin.
Early Pliocene pollens and spores from largely outside the
Gentle warping and subsidence effectively divided the study area (Benbow et.al., 1995; but also see Callen et.al.,
Lake Frome region from that of Lake Eyre. 1995, p.194) as in the palaeochannels on northern Eyre
Peninsula (including the Yellabinna biological survey
The second major interval of Cainozoic deposition
region) indicate the presence of Casuarina, Eucalyptus,
commenced later in the middle Cainozoic (ie. Late
grasses, composites and Chenopodiaceae. Apparently,
Oligocene) related to inundation of the continent's southern
however, rainforest survived in isolated suitable sites.
margin by the sea (eg. as recorded by the deposition of
marine limestones south of the Olary Ranges in the Murray Around the time of the Late Pliocene during another lull in
Basin). sedimentation, widespread silcretes developed in the
continental interior. In the study area Callen (1990)
Sediments deposited at this time (Namba Formation) are
regards the rare and isolated, silcrete capped mesa
characterised by grey, green, to white argillaceous and
occurrences adjacent to the Olary Range to be of this age.
calcareous muds and mudstones (Fig. 27). Limestone and
dolomite are included, whilst sands are less prominent. Uplift of the Flinders Ranges (in particular) and the Olary
The formation occurs mainly subsurface as an extensive Ranges occurred sometime during the Late Pliocene or
sheet 20-100m thick. All that remained of the Benagerie possibly Early Pleistocene and led to the building of
Ridge after deposition were isolated monadnocks of alluvial fans adjacent to the ranges. This is the first
crystalline basement of the Curnamona Craton. Outcrops Cainozoic record of fans being constructed in the vicinity
occur associated with the playa lakes south and east of of the uplands. Sediments - the Willawortina Formation -
Lake Frome, particularly Lakes Millyera, Tarkarooloo and are thickest (up to 150m) adjacent to the Flinders Ranges
Namba. Possibly equivalent sediments (ie. Avondale Clay and overall geometry is wedge shaped, thinning toward
(Coates, 1973a,b)) occur in the intermontane basins and Lake Frome (Fig. 27).

29
The Willawortina Formation consists of red and green and not corresponded exactly during a peak or "sub"-
muds, carbonates and conglomerates. Sediments are interglacial time (eg. Wasson, 1983). Thus changes in the
poorly sorted particularly the coarser sediments which may environment may have lagged behind changes in climate.
be matrix-supported. Equivalent sediments - the Avondale
In the North Olary Plains region during the Quaternary,
Clay - occur within the Flinders Ranges (Coates, 1973a,b).
there were widespread episodes of riverine sand deposition,
The carbonates were deposited in lakes, located not only
particularly in the desert country and alluvial fans built out
out on the alluvial plain but also adjacent to the Flinders
from the ranges. The former may reflect greater activity
Ranges. Callen and Benbow (1995) believe the position of
and inland penetration of monsoonal and/or El Nino-related
the western margin of Lake Frome fluctuated widely, from
weather systems and climate patterns. The timing of fan
within a few kilometres of the Ranges to east of the current
construction, may not have been coincident due to more
position.
localised weather patterns over the ranges.
This formation forms the high plains (eg. Paralana High
Widespread riverine deposition occurred between
Plains) adjacent to the Flinders Ranges. It also outcrops
approximately 150-130,000 and 60-50,000 years ago. The
extensively in the Pasmore River area - good sections may
Eurinilla Formation is characterised by being a bright red
occur in old river channels dissecting this part of the
brown, in part clayey or muddy sand that is usually poorly
alluvial plains.
sorted (Figs. 21, 27). (The Pooraka Formation of the
The Quaternary record (ie. the last 1.6 million years), and intermontane valleys, basins and range flanks is partially
part of the Late Pliocene record, is marked in Europe and equivalent (see Coates, 1973a,b)). This formation occurs
North America by alternating glacial and interglacial beneath both the alluvial plains and Strzelecki Desert and
episodes as the polar ice-caps waxed and waned (1-3km was deposited as a blanket 0-20m thick. It is portrayed on
vertically). It is generally acknowledged that changes in the geological maps as being generally mantled by a very
the Earth's orbital parameters (of Milankovitch) are the thin overlay of younger, reworked (including aeolian)
trigger forcing this cyclicity (eg. Hayes et.al., 1976; Imbrie sands on the alluvial plains. Outcrops are restricted to
and Imbrie, 1980; Berger, 1988; also see Sprigg, 1979). around, or in the vicinity of, the playa lakes (Fig. 25).
Southeast of Lake Frome, in the "central clay pan area"
In Australia it was only in Tasmania and in a restricted part
numerous parallel, dune-like exposures are interpreted to
of the Australian Alps that similar conditions prevailed.
be this formation (Callen, 1986).
For much of the continent, including the Lake Frome
region, climate fluctuated between relatively wet and dry Perhaps older (ie. Callen 1981, 1986, 1990) or equivalent
times as the lakes and deserts expanded and retreated. (Callen and Benbow, 1995) sediments accumulated in the
However, climate was overall markedly arid compared lakes (Millyera Formation) and beach ridges (Coomb
with those times earlier in the Cainozoic when rainforest Spring Formation) (Figs. 27, 28). Lake-full stages are
covered much of Australia. indicated at approximately 150,000, 110,000 and 60-
45,000 years ago (Callen and Benbow, 1995). During the
The features of the inland continental record at this time are
maximum lake-full stage Lakes Frome, Callabonna and
the reddening of the sediments and accumulation of
Eyre may have been joined.
calcareous (eg. calcrete) and gypseus horizons (eg. Figs. 7,
21). The drainage systems were reactivated episodically, The Coomb Spring Formation forms some of the
lake and water table levels fluctuated and toward the end prominent (lake-parallel) ridges around Lake Frome and is
there were times of widespread dune-building as global comprised of white to yellow quartz sand. The Millyera
atmospheric circulation intensified. Formation lake deposits include laminated green muds (in
part fish-bearing), algal limestone and sand. The famous
Thus the Quaternary saw the development of the modern
Callabonna vertebrate faunas are derived from this
landscape, of deserts, alluvial plains and playa lakes that
sequence and include Diprotodon and Genyornis as well as
typifies the North Olary Plains (Figs. 19, 23).
forerunners to our modern faunas (eg. koalas, kangaroos
The inland record differs from the southern coastal record and possums). Again outcrops of this formation are
where the impact of rapid sea level fluctuations (of up to restricted to the vicinity of playa lakes.
120m) exposed and covered the continental shelves. It is
Widespread aeolian deposition (Coonarbine Formation)
also far less complete than the oceanic record leading to
and formation of the Strzelecki Desert east of Lake Frome,
difficulties of interpretation and dating. Thus the inland
commenced in earnest during the Late Pleistocene (Figs.
geological record is complicated in detail and stratigraphic
22, 27, 28). The aeolian sands overly and were derived
interpretation has varied.
from the alluvial plain sediments (eg. Eurinilla Formation).
It is because of the rapid changes in climate that all Whilst the Strzelecki Desert was the main focus in the
elements of the environment were not necessarily in study area for aeolian activity and dune-building, isolated
equilibrium, and this would have been reflected in dunes were built up on the alluvial plains.
changing patterns of flora and fauna. Wettest and driest
A number of aeolian episodes have been identified (Figs.
(windiest) times may not have exactly coincided with
27, 28). Peak phases are dated at 20-15,000 (ie. last glacial
warmest (interglacial) and coolest (glacial) times
maximum) 9-7,000 and 5,000 years ago (Callen and
(respectively) but may have been to some degree out of
Benbow, 1995, Fig 11-24). Sands of earlier episodes are
phase (eg. Kershaw and Nanson, 1993). Highest water
commonly paler coloured and contain old calcareous soils.
tables (and exposure on Lake Frome) may have occurred
during the transition into a cool and windy glacial episode

30
The modern Holocene (ie. last 10,000 years) dune sands non-metallic minerals (eg. gypsum, clays) also occur in the
are mobile even though vegetated. A broad colour younger cover rocks (see Coats, 1973a; Callen, 1991,
zonation of surface sands exists out from the margin of 1990; Forbes, 1991; and references therein).
Lake Frome (Wasson, 1983; also see Wopfner and
In the north, artesian water flows from the Mesozoic
Twidale, 1967). Adjacent to the lake sands are pale brown
aquifers of the Great Artesian Basin and is derived from the
and pass eastwards through a transitional zone 10-20km
Great Dividing Range region in eastern Australia. The
wide before grading into red brown desert sands. Wasson
flow rate in the Strezelecki Desert region (on Frome) was
(1983) found that the pale brown sands have large
reduced by some 25-50% over the period 1930-1970. This
quantities of clay pellets which were derived by deflation
was a result of bores not being capped and thus flowing
of the lake's surface. This compositional difference is very
freely over the surface. For some years now Mines and
likely reflected in the vegetation.
Energy South Australia has been capping such wells off to
Today Lake Frome and the smaller playa lakes contain thin conserve this precious resource.
Holocene lake sands and muds. The latter are non-
To the south and within the ranges water is derived from
laminated to laminated and may contain remains of fish,
relatively localised run-off and pumped from a range of
plants and algae. The surface of Lake Frome is windswept
aquifers. Water quality is more variable here. Over the
and veneered by sand and thin salt crusts. Gypsum may
Olary Ranges water quantity and quality is generally poor.
impregnate the sediments immediately below the surface.
Good supplies however, do occur within the Flinders
The Holocene lake sediments of Lake Frome intertongue Ranges, but quality diminishes eastwards.
with, and grade into, alluvial fan, red brown sands at the
Water from the upper part of the Namba Formation is
lake margin (Figs. 24, 26).
highly saline, as is that from the springs on Lake Frome. Of
The last major episode of lacustrine deposition occurred interest is the fact that individual aquifers are not
around 8-4,000 years ago. Since then summer monsoons connected.
have shifted back towards north eastern Australia and tree
The Curnamona Craton is under-explored for base metals
and shrub vegetation (eg. Callitris) has retreated (Callen,
and currently there is a government-led exploration
1990 and references therein).
initiative for Broken Hill-style mineralisation in the Olary
Also during the Holocene some reworking of red brown region. Olympic Dam-style uranium-copper-silver-gold
sands and muddy sands of the alluvial plains has taken mineralisation has also been explored.
place. Both wind and water have played their part in
There has been extensive exploration for uranium and a
erosion and deposition. Patterned or gilgai terrain
significant number of prospects have been found. The
developed over Eurinilla and Coonarbine Formations
Radium Hill Mine (NE OLARY) was mined for radium
adjacent to the Olary Ranges on proximal fans and to the
(up to 1931) and 1 million tonnes of davidite averaging
north east on distal fans of the Barrier Ranges (Figs. 7, 25).
1.2kgm/t uranium oxide was worked from 1954 to 1961.
The former are notable for the stone ridges of quartz
Other occurrences include Crocker Well with 10,000t of
gibber.
500ppm uranium oxide and in the Mount Painter area
In summary then, the rocks of the North Olary Plains 2,400,000t (up to 2.3kgm/t) uranium oxide have been
record a complex geological history from Proterozoic proven.
times, when the Earth's crust was more mobile, to the
Sedimentary occurrences of uranium also exist in Tertiary
present day (Fig. 28).
rocks and include the Beverley (15,900 tonnes of uranium
Climate changed during the Cainozoic from more equable oxide) and Honeymoon deposits. The latter occurs in
and humid times to the marked aridity of today as has been palaeochannel - confined sands of the Eyre Formation.
the case for most of the continent. The modern
Gold has been worked from the Olary region. The
environments are dynamic and sensitive to change whether
Teetulpa Goldfield discovered in 1886 was the richest
that be due to natural or man-induced factors. The rapid
alluvial field in South Australia and produced some 2-
fluctuations in climate of the last 2 million years (eg. of the
3,000kgm of gold. Small production has been made in
order of 103-104 years) resulted in similarly rapid changes
recent years from the Kirkeek's Treasure Mine of the
in physiography and surface geology. Thus the Strezelecki
Nillinghoo Goldfield. Other notable gold fields include
Desert retreated and expanded as Lake Frome and the
Mannahill and Wadnaminga.
alluvial plains expanded and retreated (respectively).
Relatively small quantities of other base metals such as
These changes have affected the region's fauna and flora
copper (eg. Mutooroo Mine), cobalt and tungsten have
(even if there were lag times) and will continue to change
been found. Iron occurs in the Precambrian sediments (eg.
in the future. Human-related factors, such as changes in
Braemar ironstone facies of the Pualco Tillite). These
the atmosphere's composition, are likely to result in more
occurrences are currently regarded as being uneconomic.
rapid, even if non-cyclical, change.
Industrial minerals such as feldspar, mica, beryl, clay,
ECONOMIC GEOLOGY
graphite and diamond have been worked sporadically over
The most significant resource of the region has been water, the years in the Olary region. Economic potential exists for
which has been used in the pastoral industry (ie. sheep and gypsum in the lunettes and palygorskite-sepiolite clays in
cattle). There are numerous base metal prospects in the the Namba Formation.
Precambrian basement rocks (eg. uranium and copper) and

31
Hydrocarbon potential in the Cambrian Arrowie Basin has been considered and limited drilling has been carried out.

32
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey
__________________________________________________________________________________________

LAND-USE HISTORY

by A. C. Robinson1

ABORIGINAL HISTORY sub-incision which was being imposed by the tribes to the
west.
There is a very long Aboriginal history in the North Olary
Plains with rock engravings or petroglyphs from the Ngadjuri
Karolta site revealing a continuous and largely
They occupied the central Flinders Ranges and the
unchanged tradition of rock art from 30 000 to 1 400
western portion of the Olary Ranges. This represented
years B.P. (Before the Present) (Nobbs and Dorn, 1988).
the eastern extent of the circumcision rite at the time of
At this time people were also known to be living in
European settlement and they were actively trying to
similar country in the vicinity of the Willandra Lakes to
impose this practise on the River Murray groups to the
the SE. There has been continuing discussion of the
south and the Wiljakali to the east. As a part of the
validity of the dating used at the Karolta site (see
Aboriginal groups who now identify themselves
Watchman, 1989, 1992) but it is clear that Aboriginal
collectively as the Adnyamathanha people, many of the
occupation of this part of Australia is of great antiquity.
stories from the Flinders Ranges extend into the North
When Europeans arrived there were thought to be five Olary Plains survey area and beyond. One such story
tribal areas within the region and these have been mapped involves a Bronzewing Pigeon (Marnbi) which escaped
by Tindale (1974) (Fig. 29). Over recent years there has from a hunters net near Varaata (Baratta). It was
been some criticism of earlier writers who thought in wounded and as it flew it stopped at various places
terms of clear-cut tribal boundaries. It has become shedding white feathers (white quartz) and drops of blood
evident, particularly through native title negotiations that (mineral deposits). It stopped at Waukaringa then flew
traditional territorial boundaries were far more east to Teetulpa Station and Broken Hill (Vulhanha). It
sophisticated than was originally thought. These tribal then followed the Barrier Ranges northward stopping at
areas were utilised as described below. Tibooburra and then on to Mt Isa where its spirit rested
(Tunbridge, 1988).
European diseases such as smallpox and influenza spread
down the River Murray and caused significant loss of Wiljakali
Aboriginal lives, even before they actually had direct
Encompassing the eastern Olary and the Barrier Ranges,
contact with Europeans. Later, conflicts with overlanders
they lived in small family groups with their movements
and settlers over land ownership led to even more deaths
very much controlled and directed by seasonal
and today there are no known descendants of some of the
conditions. They probably only included 60-80 people at
original tribes.
any one time and they spoke a dialect of the Bargundji
Pirlatapa language (‘river talk’) which was widely used throughout
this region. Their use of the rockholes at Mootwingee in
Encompassing the area between the eastern edge of the
NSW is discussed by Gerritsen (1976). The Mootwingee
Flinders Ranges and Lake Frome in the north west of the
rockholes held some water even in drought years and in
North Olary Plains survey area. There was a derogatory
years of normal rainfall were an important place where
term applied to them by the adjacent Flinders Ranges
the scattered clans of the tribe could gather to trade,
tribes referring to the poor soil of their country which
communicate and perform the ceremonies to sustain their
literally translated as ‘resembling dung’.
land. These gatherings were part of an extensive trading
Ngu’runta network throughout Aboriginal Australia with pitjuri
coming from north central Queensland, stone axe blanks
The tribal area of this group extended from modern
for the New England area of NSW and even pearl shell
Quinyambie south to Mulyungerie and into NSW to the
from the Kimberley coast of WA. The last gathering at
west of the Barrier Ranges.
the rockholes was in the mid 1850’s when the first white
Jadliura explorers entered the area. Detribalisation, starvation and
disease followed breaking a cultural tradition that had
The plains from the eastern side of the Flinders Ranges, sustained and nourished them since the Dreamtime.
south to Koonamore and east to Bimbowrie enclosed
their territory. Like the other groups in the survey area
they practised circumcision, but at the time of European
EUROPEAN HISTORY
settlement they were actively resisting the further rite of

1
A. C. Robinson, SA Department of Environment and Natural Resources, PO Box 1047, ADELAIDE, SA 5001

33
European exploration injury to the original vegetation by overstocking has
assumed so great a magnitude as to entail a national loss’.
The European history of the North Olary Plains Survey
He went on to observe that ‘The effects of this
Area began in 1844 when Charles Sturt, seeking to solve
destruction had begun to be felt at each period of drought
the mystery of the character of inland Australia,
more and more, and now the rabbit plague comes to
penetrated further into the interior than any previous
finish the devastation begun by injudicious stocking, so
explorer. The Aboriginal people told Sturt prior to his
that throughout the territories above-mentioned hundreds
departure from the Darling River that the area he was
of square miles are found which (except during
heading into to the west would involve crossing ranges
favourable seasons when rainfall is sufficient for the
covered with sharp pointed stones and great rocks that
growth of annual grasses and herbs) have ceased to carry
would fall and crush him to death. If he did get across to
stock. He further stated that ‘from the diminished yields
the low country on the other side and into the North
of wool and the tremendous losses of stock which each
Olary Plains survey area he would find neither grass or
drought now entails, extensive squatting properties fall
wood to light a fire with, while the native wells were very
into the hands of financial institutions who find that the
deep. Sturt’s cattle would not be able to drink from them,
“runs” which formerly produced thousands of pounds per
and in addition they were very salty. He managed to
annum now require an income to be spent on them, as it
cross the Barrier Ranges and made it over the sand dunes
is only in the very wet seasons that a surplus over the
as far as Lake Callabonna returning, exhausted by the
expenditure may be expected’. His words were
country, to his Darling River depot.
prophetic, in 1896 the South Australian Government was
The South Australian Surveyor General Edward Frome faced with purchasing the improvements of expiring
explored the plains to the east of the Flinders Ranges in leases in the north east at a cost of 1,325,000 pounds. It
1843. He was attempting to understand more about the could not afford this payment and elected instead to offer
horseshoe of salt lakes to the north of the ranges which it lessees extended terms and improved conditions with the
was thought blocked the way into the interior. He was incoming tenants to pay for the lease improvements.
forced to turn around near the northern tip of Lake Despite the abundant evidence of stock causing land
Torrens and on his return reported that ‘no country.....was degradation it was not until 1939 that the Pastoral Act of
available for either agricultural or pastoral purposes’. 1936 was finally amended to include provision for the
Pastoral Board to limit the number of stock on a lease
In spite of these poor reports from the northern explorers,
where the land was likely to be permanently injured if the
stock was pouring into the colony along the overland
stock remained.
route pioneered in 1838 by Joseph Hawdon and his
partner Charles Bonney along the River Murray to the By this time the damage had been done and Jessup (1948)
south. Overland Corner developed as a major staging speaking of the bluebush country of the north east stated
post and by the 1870’s there could be up to 30,000 sheep that ‘The floristic composition of the pastures has almost
and several herds of cattle in the area on a single night certainly been greatly modified by stocking. Areas which
(Cooper, 1978; Woolmer, 1978). are now shrublands of bluebush probably at one time
carried other more palatable species. It is impossible to
The growth of pastoralism
assess the original condition of these pastures’. He went
During the 1840’s, grazing and farming activities spread on to state that continued reduction of bluebush by stock
from around Adelaide and the areas to the west of the Mt grazing ‘causes the appearance of bindyis, principally
Lofty Ranges were soon fully occupied and expansion Bassia (now Sclerolaena) patenticuspis following winter
into the drier mallee areas to the east and the chenopod rain and spear grass, Stipa nitida following summer rains.
shrublands to the north began in earnest. The pressure Eventually overgrazing results in the complete
was on to expand pastoralism in the new colony into the destruction of the bluebushes. The land has lost its
northern rangelands. Early grazing of this area took protective cover and the rate of soil loss is greatly
advantage of wet seasons by herding stock out into the increased. On the sandy loam and loam soils overlying
unsettled areas after heavy rains and retreating to heavier textured subsoils, loss of surface soil brings about
properties as the country dried out. serious consequences. The exposed subsoil does not
readily absorb water and constitutes a very poor seed bed.
The first pastoral leases over the survey area were taken Formation of gullies in sloping land results from the lack
out in the 1860’s and required that leases be stocked with of plant cover and the increased rate of run off of water is
8 cattle or 50 sheep to the square mile within 12 months now lost by evaporation from swamps into which
of taking up the land. Rent on ‘third quality lands’ which watercourses drain. The bindyis and spear grasses lack
covered the pastoral area was set at 10/- per square mile. the permanency and drought resistance of the bluebushes.
Although the first pastoralists had some difficulty initially Heavy winds and the blasting action of wind-borne soil
in achieving these stocking rates, the flocks multiplied particles are capable of destroying the patchy cover of
rapidly to the point where significant and possibly herbaceous species in a surprisingly short time’.
irreversible overgrazing occurred on most properties.
Dixon (1892) noted that ‘The destructive effects of Since these depressing judgements of the impact of
settlement upon the indigenous flora of Australia is rangeland grazing in the North Olary Plains survey area
nowhere more apparent than in the purely pastoral were written, there has been a gradual improvement, and,
districts where rainfall is decidedly scanty. Through the at least in some areas, cover of perennial shrubs is
immense region known as the Riverina and to the increasing. Whether it is possible to return to the levels
extreme western and northern runs of South Australia, the of productivity that provided massive profits for the first

34
pastoralists in this area grazing the pristine natural it was quickly discovered that the only successful method
vegetation of the 1860’s remains to be seen, and the rate of combating dingoes was the erection of substantial high
of recovery will undoubtedly take many more years than netting fences and poisoning and trapping both inside and
it took to degrade this precious resource in the first place. outside the fence. By 1904 dogs had been fenced out of
the Mulyungarie and Lake Charles leases and it was not
Mutooroo Station
until 1947 with the creation of the dog Fence Board, that
The pastoral development of the chenopod shrublands of the government took responsibility for construction and
the North Olary Plains survey area is exemplified by the maintenance of the overall South Australian Dog Fence, a
history of the Mutooroo Pastoral Company and is part of which included that erected on the Lake Charles
described in a book (Mutooroo Pastoral Company, 1951) lease.
released to commemorate their 50th anniversary in 1948.
Following the disastrous drought years in the 19th
At that time, as now, the company managed the
Century, droughts occurred in this region in 1938, 1940,
Mutooroo and Mulyungarie pastoral leases (Fig. 30).
1944, 1945 and 1948. In the worst drought of 1944-45
In 1865-6 the South Australian Government surveyed a nearly 25% of the sheep perished.
road from Burra to the Barrier District of New South
A series of more personal reminiscences about daily life
Wales. This road known as the Pegline followed the line
on the Mutooroo Pastoral Company stations can be found
of the few wells then in existence and was designed to
in Adamson (1983). He states that ‘The country
provide pastoralists along the River Darling with a
produced a sturdy breed of men whose exploits I’ve
dependable route for teamsters transporting wool and
endeavoured to record’. He ‘knew all the paddocks and
stores, and a convenient track for moving sheep to and
roads, the names of the trees and grasses, the number of
from the South Australian markets. In 1868 Thomas
sheep each paddock should safely stock, how to lay a
Elder secured extensive leases along this important route
strychnine bait and treat a dog which had accidentally
through what was described at the time as ‘waste lands of
found one. I also learned how to string a line of fence,
the Crown’. With his partner Peter Waite who actually
cut one hundred posts, shoot and skin a kangaroo and peg
managed the stations on the ground, Elder set about
out its skin, track an emu and find its nest and drove a
developing the leases for grazing and increasing their
mob of sheep in the summer heat without knocking them
sheep numbers. They very soon realised the advantages
up’. The pastoral properties throughout the North Olary
of fencing of paddocks over the traditional practice at the
Plains survey area are managed by people with these sorts
time of shepherding the sheep. As rapidly as possible,
of skills and a vast accumulated experience on their
additional waters mainly dams, were established together
country, and the challenge for the future is to gradually
with substantial homesteads and other outbuildings, first
recover the land from the massive damage done to it
on the Paratoo Leases in the south west part of their
during those early years of pastoral settlement.
holdings, and then, from 1880, on the Mutooroo lease.
The Paratoo leases expired in 1888 and the Government
paid for the improvements then divided the area into
CONSERVATION
smaller leases and again offered these leases to the
public. Elder and Waite, no doubt influenced by the No areas in the North Olary Plains are set aside for
completion of the Peterborough to Broken Hill railway in conservation. The University of Adelaide has
1887 and their reduced dependence on the Pegline, did responsibility for the Koonamore Vegetation Reserve
not apply for these new leases but at the same time which was fenced from the Koonamore pastoral lease in
applied for and were granted the leases over Mulyungarie 1925 and has now been free of sheep grazing for 72 years
and Lake Charles and so their holdings were changed to and has had rabbits excluded since 1981. This relatively
those covered by the present Mutooroo Pastoral small area provides one of the very few benchmarks
Company. throughout the arid rangelands of Australia where the
long-term recovery of the natural vegetation following
Apart from the droughts and rabbit plagues already
removal of grazing by introduced animals can be studied
mentioned, the lessees of the Mutooroo stations fought a
(see Previous Biological Studies section of this report for
long battle to protect their flocks from dingoes. The
further details).
change from shepherding to fencing sheep into paddocks
made them much more vulnerable to dingo predation and

35
Figure 29 Aboriginal tribal areas (Tindale, 1974).

36
Figure 30 Pastoral Properties in the North Olary Plains Survey Area (Appendix I).

37
38
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Methods
by R. M Playfair1 & M. K Hyde2

SITE SELECTION ‘camp, quadrat, patch’, as opposed to ‘mapsheet-area,

site, quadrat’. The levels of these hierarchies are
Previous surveys in the agricultural zones of the South
analogous, only the terminology has been changed.
Australian and Victorian Murray Mallee have been
conducted at a quadrat density of one quadrat per 13 km2 The final location of each quadrat was determined in the
of vegetation, which is equivalent to one quadrat per 4 field by the survey workers.
km2 of total land area. As the North Olary Plains survey
Data collection methods were designed to conform with
area is pastoral land use, the natural vegetation is more
the standards for the South Australian Environmental
homogeneous, generally continuous, and even less
Database, and to be compatible with those used on
diverse than the South Olary Plains ( sampling density of
adjacent surveys in South Australia, Victoria and NSW.
one quadrat per 80 km2), an average sampling density of
approximately one quadrat per 140 km2 was used. VEGETATION FIELD SURVEY
Sample sites were selected to represent the biological and During three months from 5 July 96 to 17 September 96,
geographical gradients of the area. In addition, the two teams of botanists and assistants sampled 381
location of sites where biological data had already been quadrats within the survey area. The distribution of these
collected were taken into consideration to avoid quadrats is shown in Figure 31 (More details are given in
duplicating sampling effort and to provide more Appendix III).
replicates for the statistical analysis.
At each quadrat detailed descriptions of the physical
Reconnaissance trips by air and ground, throughout the environment and vegetation within a 100 x 100 metre
survey area enabled assessment of the range of area were recorded on standard data sheets using the
community types present and assisted aerial photograph procedure detailed in Forward & Robinson (1996). Each
interpretation. Using the environmental association and quadrat was marked with a numbered jarrah stake and
land unit information in Laut et al. (1977) and 1:50,000 photographed.
and 1:100,000 black and white aerial photo mosaics, sites
Any species of particular interest observed outside these
were selected to represent the range of geographical
specified quadrats were recorded as ‘opportunistic’ in
formations and vegetation patterns visible on the aerial
field notebooks with location details only.
photography. An even distribution of sites across
mapsheets, environmental associations and rainfall DATA MANAGEMENT AND TAXONOMY
gradients was sought.
Survey data are stored in a relational data base Oracle in
Sites and quadrats were named and coded hierarchically the South Australian Environmental Database, currently
as follows. Groups of sites, site-areas, were named after administered jointly by the Department of Environment
their 1:100,000 mapsheet name, using a three letter code and Natural Resources and the Department of Housing
eg. OLA = Olary Mapsheet. Within each Mapsheet, and Urban Development. Data management and editing
individual sites were given a five digit code comprising was undertaken in accordance with the procedures
the aerial photo number eg. OLA01, OLA02 are on the detailed in Forward & Robinson (1996).
Olary Mapsheet, aerial photo numbers 1 & 2. Where
One and a half thousand plant voucher specimens were
there was more than one site on a photo, they were
collected and identified using taxonomy according to
sequentially numbered. At each site, the quadrats were
Jessop (1993).
then sequentially numbered eg. OLA01101, OLA01102,
OLA02101, OLA02102 etc. Another example is To minimise the potential confusion of spurious
KOO38101, on the Koonamore mapsheet, site number 1 vegetation groupings being created by PATN, some
on aerial photo 38, and it is quadrat 01. lumping of taxa was performed. At the time of the
survey a number of species, mostly sterile, could not be
This nomenclature is different from that used for previous
surveys where the hierarchical terminology has been

1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring & Planning Pty Ltd, PO Box 2, Daw Park, SA 5041
2
M. K. Hyde, Wallowa Mallee Research Pty Ltd, PO Box 1396, Murray Bridge, SA 5253

43
Figure 31 Distribution of vegetation survey quadrats.

44
consistently identified. so where there were only two To provide more replicates upon which to base apparent
possibilities, “slashed” categories were used. This vegetation associations, existing data from within the
lumping also removed potential misclassifications survey area and a buffer zone of about 20km were
through incorrect or inconsistent plant identifications imported from other similar survey datasets. Table 2
across the different datasets. These were: shows the survey origins of the species lists which
ultimately comprised the analysis total dataset.
Convolvulus microsepalus/remotus
Crassula colorata/sieberana Table 2 Datasets included in the Vegetation Analysis.
Erodium crinitum/cygnorum
Ixiolaena leptolepis/tomentosa North Olary Plains, 1995 381
Lepidium oxytrichum/papillosum South Olary Plains, 1993 74
Maireana georgei/turbinata Rare Rodents, 1993 7
Parietaria cardiostegia/debilis Stony Deserts, 1994 14
Sclerolaena diacantha/uniflora Gammon Ranges, NCSSA, 1993 14
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum Flinders Ranges, 1986 - 1990 457
Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides Pastoral Management Assessments, 1986 - 429
Some subspecies identifications were inconsistent 1994
depending on development and fertility, so prior to Total 1376
analysis, a number of subspecies were lumped together
into their specific designation. These were: The initial data matrix of all vegetation species and all
quadrats consisted of 32,124 records, comprising 1376
Acacia aneura var.
rows (quadrats) and 675 columns (species). At this stage
Atriplex lindleyi ssp.
the raw matrix still contained some taxa that had only
Atriplex vesicaria ssp.
generic or family designations.
Brachycome ciliaris var.
Chenopodium desertorum ssp. After masking the dataset to screen out all records for
Crassula colorata/sieberana ssp. “not consistently detectable” species, and sites where
Einadia nutans ssp. only 3 or less perennial records remained, the final
Erodium crinitum/cygnorum ssp. dataset consisted of 23,901 records comprising 1102
Harmsiodoxa brevipes var. rows (quadrats) and 451 columns (species). PATN tends
Salvia verbenaca form. to dump unusual or species-impoverished quadrats into
Vittadinia cuneata var. artificial groups with little floristic similarity and no
ecological meaning. Their removal helps to minimise
Acacia ayersiana var. latifolia was grouped with A. this statistical “noise”.
aneura because they area sometimes difficult to separate
without mature pods, and will probably be taxonomically The criterion “not consistently detectable” was used in
combined in the near future (O’Leary pers.comm.). the masking process in preference to “annual” as some
perennial species are not easily detectable or identifiable
All species that were grouped are indicated on the total in some seasons (eg. Liliaceae). Conversely some annual
survey plant species frequency list (Table 4) in the species' structures persist long after death, rendering them
Vegetation Results chapter. easily detectable (eg. Ward's weed, Carrichtera annua)
Due to seasonal factors, at many sites, some grasses and hence can be consistently and accurately identified
could only be identified to genus. The following grass all year round. All those species listed in Appendix II
species were lumped: with + prefix were removed from the analysis.

Danthonia caespitosa, D. geniculata, D. setacea Each floristic group was described using overstorey
var. setacea and D. tenuior - lumped into dominant species and a structure, sub-dominant
Danthonia sp. overstorey species, understorey dominant species and
Stipa eremophila and S. mollis - lumped into Stipa indicator species (if appropriate). These comprehensive
sp. descriptions can be found in the Results section.
Stipa nitida, S. nitida group, S. nodosa and S. Indicator species are defined as species that particularly
scabra ssp. scabra - lumped into Stipa scabra characterised a group (ie. had a low occurrence in other
group. groups) and thus were significant factors in the
DATA ANALYSIS classification process. An indicator species on its own
does not indicate a specific vegetation type. It is the
Vegetation presence of that species in association with other
The vegetation quadrat data were analysed by clustering characteristic species that suggest the presence of a
techniques using PATN data analysis software (Belbin, particular vegetation type.
1987) to detect trends and patterns in the data. Detailed Floristic group descriptions were derived from the group
descriptions of the methods can be found in Forward & species lists using the following criteria:
Robinson (1996).

45
• One or two overstorey dominant species which had from one vegetation type to another. As species
a high within group proportion of occurrence composition and the associated environmental factors
(preferably >0.8) and medium to high normally gradually change along a gradient between
cover/abundance values. vegetation types, mapped boundaries represent this
• A structure of the overstorey dominants, determined ecotonal area., No boundary line should therefore be
from their “average” cover/abundance and “average” accepted as highly accurate, but rather treated as an
life form. indication of significant local vegetation and
• Indicator species (overstorey or understorey) which environmental change.
had a low number of groups in which they occurred The patterns visible on aerial photography and satellite
(ie. less than a third of the groups) and a within imagery, particularly in the arid zone, generally reflect
group high proportion of occurrence. changes in the underlying soils, geology and landforms as
Close examination and analysis of the final dendrogram well as the vegetation. Variation in these four factors
and the original 33 groupings, showed some apparent (vegetation, soil, geology and landform), provide visually
errors in classification. On the basis of complete species interpretive indications of differences in ground
lists for those sites which were anomalous, further reflectance, and separation of the various components
subdivision and agglomerating of groups occurred: which together form these ground cover “signatures” is
not simple or consistent. Vegetation mapping therefore
• 5 sorted into various other groups
• 14 sorted into various other groups becomes the delineation of the vegetation component of
• 2 and 11 amalgamated the patterns created by a combination of all these factors.
• 4,6 and 7 amalgamated It is a subjective exercise, but nonetheless a valuable
• 25, 26 and 27 amalgamated process for spatially describing large areas covered with
• 29 and 30 amalgamated varying plant communities.
• 32 and 33 amalgamated
• 34 new group dominated by Samphires From knowledge of the vegetation at numerous specific
• 35 new group dominated by Canegrass or Lignum sites and recognition of the associated photo patterns,
• 36 new group dominated by Sedges mapping of vegetation types can be extrapolated to
• 37 new group dominated by ephemeral herbs unsurveyed areas, given the above assumptions about
• 38 new group dominated by Sclerolaena
obliquicuspis and ephemeral herbs species distribution and patterns of associated
• 39 new group dominated by Curly Mallee environmental factors. Mapping the distribution of these
different plant assemblages and their associated
Limitations of the PATN Analysis landforms and soils enables the distribution of individual
Species lists collated from a variety of different survey plant species and communities to be inferred, and
datasets contain inherent biases arising from consistent possibly the occurrence of habitats for certain animal
errors in identification from one survey to another, and species to be predicted.
different perceptions in assigning cover/abundance The most common basis for delineating vegetation types
scores. These can affect the statistical clustering process is the change in the type, height and cover of the
and group sites inappropriately. The lumping of taxa overstorey species as reflected in the varying image or
described above does offset some of these problems, aerial photo patterns. However, sometimes characteristic
however, some biases still remain. Their effect on the landforms or soil types can reflect a known associated
overall clustering is difficult to mask out, but the post- vegetation change (eg. claypans, dunecrests).
analysis sorting also assisted in their removal.
Vegetation Mapping Methods
Areas dominated by annual species and represented by
sites with annual-dominated species lists cannot be The basic mapping methodology used is detailed in
allocated to a vegetation grouping because all annual Forward & Robinson (1996) with the added benefit of
records were excluded from the analysis due to the hardcopies of 1:100,000 geographically rectified Landsat
inconsistency of their recording. These sites are, therefore TM imagery of each of the 18 mapsheet areas. These
clustered by PATN on the basis of the non-dominant were produced from Landsat 5’s Themetic Mapper Bands
perennial species which remain on their species lists, 1,4, and 5, displayed in blue, green and red respectively,
leading to the potential for inappropriate groupings being and appropriately visually enhanced. Using colour aerial
created and erroneous group assignments. photographs at scales of between 1:40,000 and 1:89,000,
and the imagery annotated with field transect notes and
VEGETATION MAPPING site information, distinct changes in vegetation types
Rationale were identified and delineated. This mapping was
designated to be at a scale of 1:100,000, for ultimate
Plant species tend to naturally occur in particular presentation at 1:250,000. Apparent vegetation
assemblages or associations. The occurrence of these is boundaries were traced from the imagery onto mylar
usually repeated across the landscape in response to a basemaps for subsequent digitising.
complex pattern of interacting environmental factors (ie.
landform, soil type, rainfall) to which the suites of Additional site information from previous studies
species are adapted. The aim in mapping is to identify conducted in and around the region were also used to
regions in which plant species, or groups of species, supplement the survey data.
commonly occur. This usually requires the positioning of
a line on a map at some point on a continuum of change
46
An extra facet of this project involved the use of the raw classes satisfactorily matched the actual vegetation.
digital Landsat TM imagery to spectrally classify the These six subscenes were then patched back together into
study area, as an aid to the extrapolation of detailed a single image, edges examined and class discrepancies
vegetation knowledge from surveyed sites to the wider across boundaries matched as much as possible. A
area. This will be discussed in more detail in the next discussion of the methodology and its applicability
section. appears in the Results section.
Recognition of different vegetation types was based on AERIAL SURVEY
visible changes in colour, pattern and texture on the aerial
There were two phases of the vegetation survey which
photographs and imagery. With the field information and
involved aerial survey. Flying was done in a C172, high-
an understanding of the relationships between landform,
wing single-engined aircraft with the authors as pilot
soil surface and extent of bare ground, the basic life form
(MKH) and observer (RMP).
formations of, mallee, shrubland, low shrubland and
grassland/herbland could usually be identified. Height The first phase consisted of an initial reconnaissance
class differences within these were not discernible, even flight, which was conducted in June 1995 over the entire
at 1:40,000, and were inappropriate for mapping at the survey area to obtain a basic understanding of the total
final presentation scale of 1:250,000. range of plant communities present. A number of GPS
locations were also obtained at widely spaced airstrips to
The mapped polygons were labelled according to the
provide ground control points for satellite image
final vegetation groupings as described in the vegetation
geometric rectification. Airstrips are particularly suitable
chapter, and depending on the spatial extent of these
as reference points because of their high visibility on
vegetation types, polygons were assigned to a “pure”
imagery.
primary, class or a secondary or tertiary class. At this
mapping scale much of the area comprised vegetation For editing purposes, the first drafts of the floristic
mosaics which were too intricate to map as primary units. mapping were carried on the second aerial survey in
Thus secondary mapping polygons were identified, each April 1996. All of the areas on the maps requiring
comprising a mosaic of two vegetation types, and tertiary clarification to solve ambiguities were overflown and
units each containing three vegetation types. Secondary corrections noted directly onto the draft maps.
units were defined as comprising a mix of 25-75% of Approximately one hour of flying time per 1:100,000
each of the two vegetation types and tertiary units a 25- mapsheet was sufficient to check most of the polygon
50% mix of each. All units were allowed to contain boundaries. Most of the named communities were easily
patches of other vegetation types which covered less than identified from the air from altitudes of 50 metres or
25 % of the total area, being considered too minor to be more. The flying was particularly effective after the field
included as part of the mosaic. In these mosaics, no work was completed, when the crew were familiar with
dominance was attributed to any of the vegetation types. the region, and able to navigate and orientate themselves
easily.
The 1:250,000 vegetation communities distribution map
is appended to this report. Aerial survey was found to be a very efficient way of
checking preliminary mapping when compared with
Satellite Image Classification
ground checking, because of the ability to easily visit
Digital images were obtained from Landsat 5’s Thematic inaccessible areas, travel quickly, and cover entire
Mapper for the satellite overpass on 14 March 1994. mapsheets in a single sortie.
Two adjoining scenes were used, Path 97 / Rows 81 and
VERTEBRATE FAUNA FIELD SURVEY
82. This raw data consists of 7 Bands, 2 in the visible, 2
in the near infra-red, 2 in the mid infra-red and 1 in the A sub-set of 48 of the 391 vegetation survey sites were
thermal part of the electromagnetic spectrum. Spatial sampled for vertebrate fauna over a two week period
resolution is 30m for all bands except the thermal, which from 26 August to 7 September 1996 using three teams
is 120m. of six workers each week. Each team included at least
one mammalogist, an ornithologist and herpetologist.
These two full scenes were joined, normalised and
geographically rectified to conform with the Australian Less quadrats were sampled for the fauna survey because
Map Grid using 21 ground control points widely spread more time and effort is needed to adequately sample
across the study area. fauna. Single quadrats were selected from the vegetation
sites to proportionately represent as many of the 29
This total image was then divided into six sub-images
vegetation groups described in the vegetation data
based on the range of landform and vegetation types
analysis (Playfair et al. 1996). Even distribution of
occurring across the study area. This maximises the
quadrats across the entire study area and sampling the
variation within each land type and enhances the overall
complete geographical distribution of each vegetation
accuracy of the classification.
group was logistically impossible in the time frame
An ISOCLASS unsupervised classification was available. Six camps were chosen in areas where as
performed on each of the subscenes, producing 90 many of the vegetation types were accessible and as
spectral classes for each. These classes were then each varied as possible. At each vegetation survey site the
examined and assigned to a vegetation cover class, using quadrat used for fauna sampling was in the dominant
the extensive knowledge gained from the field survey. vegetation type, although at some sites more minor
This process was iterated until the patterns of vegetation vegetation types were sampled. In this way, the

47
maximum number of significant representative habitat microhabitat, numbers of individuals and weight for
types in each geographical area were sampled. Further small mammals.
vegetation information was also collected to add to the
Fauna encountered outside the specified quadrats were
comprehensiveness of the habitat descriptions. Due to
recorded as “opportunistic” sightings on separate data
seasonal factors, significant additions were able to be
sheets. These records enabled compilation of a more
made to the species lists compiled 12 months earlier. The
thorough inventory of the biota of each area, including
distribution of the vertebrate fauna survey quadrats is
species’ use of other smaller or more heterogeneous
shown in Figure 32.
habitat types not sampled by the quadrats.
At each quadrat reptiles and small mammals were
Systematic methods are generally inappropriate for
sampled using two fenced pitfall trap lines, each 50m
catching bats as suitable locations near water, roosts or
long and comprising six pitfall traps ten metres apart with
flyways are needed. Using mist nets and harp traps,
each pit 150 mm in diameter and 400 mm deep. One
attempts were made to sample bats on or near designated
trapline was established on the original vegetation
survey sites but usually other locations were more
quadrat and the other at least 200m away in the same
suitable. Hence all bat records were opportunistic. Mist
vegetation type to minimise interaction and provide
nets were erected and monitored for a few hours in the
replicate information about that vegetation type. A
evenings, in suitable weather conditions, and harp traps
separate line of 15 Elliott traps and two cage traps was
were left up all night.
established adjacent to each trapline, about 20m away.
Where rock prevented digging of some or all pits, either a Generally one specimen of each small reptile and
reduced depth pit was used or extra Elliott traps were set mammal species from each campsite was preserved as a
and additional effort put into physical searching and museum specimen depending on the abundance or rarity
spotlighting. Each quadrat was sampled for four days of the species and the advice of museum curators.
and four nights. Standard ethical collection and killing methods were
employed. Samples of liver tissue were taken from all
A line of micro-pitfall plastic vials (20mm diameter, 80
specimens collected and stored in liquid nitrogen for the
mm deep, filled with 70% alcohol) was laid parallel to
South Australian Museum Evolutionary Biology Unit.
each macro-pitfall line to collect invertebrates for the SA
Specimens and samples are permanently stored at the
Museum. Likewise any invertebrates found in the macro-
South Australian Museum for future taxonomic studies.
pitfalls were preserved for later identification.
Invertebrate information was not analysed for this A summary of the trapping effort is shown in Table 3 and
conservation significance study. the daily minimum and maximum air temperatures
recorded at each campsite are tabulated in Appendix IX.
Mammals and reptiles were also recorded by active
Further descriptive information regarding the landform
searching for individuals or signs for one to two hours at
and vegetation type at the vertebrate quadrats is included
each quadrat. Spotlight searches were made at night
in Appendix III.
where time and habitat permitted. Birds were observed
and recorded for one to two hours during early morning VERTEBRATE DATA ANALYSIS
and late afternoon at least one day at each quadrat.
The PATN analysis process, without any attempt at
All information was recorded on standard data sheets and ordination, was undertaken as described in Forward and
included location, method of capture or sighting, Robinson (1996).

Table 3 Trapping effort during the North Olary Plains Vertebrate Fauna Survey.

Week Group Camp Pit trap Elliott trap Cage trap Mistnet Harp trap
nights nights nights hours nights
26/8-31/8 A Cockburn 384 948 128 0 0
B Bimbowrie 336 960 128 0 4
C Wooltana 372 930 124 0 2
1/9-4/9 A Coonee 384 948 128 10 3
B Koonamore 336 960 128 0 0
C Billeroo West 384 960 128 0 2
Total (trap nights) 2196 5706 764 10 11

48
Figure 32 Distribution of vertebrate fauna survey quadrats.

49
CONSERVATION VALUES ANALYSIS of Acacia carnei which showed no significant correlation
with other environmental variables.
Multivariate analysis for indications of correlations
Coupled with GLIM, there was also to be undertaken a
between environmental variables such as presence /
spatial analysis of representativeness and irreplaceability
absence of a significant species as a function of presence
of the various vegetation types using the ArcInfo
/ absence of other factors was undertaken using GLIM ( a
vegetation coverage and grid cells of up to 10km2 over
statistical computer modelling software package -
the entire study area. The software for performing this
Generalis Linear Interactive Modelling).
complex analysis is still under development (Pressey &
This modelling procedure consisted of testing for
Nicholls, 1989; 1991. Pressey et al., 1996. Underhill,
relationships between variables of conservation interest
1994. Margules et al., 1988. Woinarski et al. 1994.) and
(in this case the vegetation type, landform element etc.) to
was unable to process the data available. A qualitative
determine any levels of correlation.
assessment was therefore undertaken on the basis of
There were insufficient records of most threatened
apparent conservation value using species richness,
species to enable GLIM analysis except for the 7 records
presence of threatened species and percentage introduced
plants as criteria.

50
Figure 33
A team putting in a Pitfall trapline in saline claypan habitat.
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 34
Foraging for reptiles added significantly to the captures beyond those caught in traps.
Photo: R. Playfair

51
Figure 35
Specimens of reptiles, preserved in formalin, ready to be submitted to the State Museum for their collections
Photo: R. Playfair

Figure 36
Harp Traps were positioned opportunistically, wherever bats were expected, usually away from the quadrats
Photo: S. Laver

52
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Results

VEGETATION
by M. K. Hyde1 and R. M. Playfair2

INTRODUCTION locally occurring in swales east of Lake Frome, but

certainly not dominant.
The vegetation of the North Olary Plains region has not
previously been comprehensively surveyed, nor has data Maps by Carnahan (1989) showing the vegetation of the
of a regional nature been published unlike many other whole of Australia at a scale of 1:5,000,000 show
parts of South Australia. A large number of research approximately the boundary of the north-eastern dune
papers dealing with Chenopod and arid vegetation fields, but incorrectly label it as tall shrubland dominated
ecology from specific sites within the region have been by Acacia and Hakea in the swales. This also may have
published, particularly from Koonamore Station, but it been interpolated incorrectly from the northern Strzelecki
was not their intention to address the nature of the Desert as is probably the case on the maps of Specht,
vegetation of the region as whole. Boomsma and Lewis, and Laut et al. detailed above.
The first map of South Australian vegetation by Prescott The previously published papers and maps which are
(1929) is very general and small scale and provides little based on information and data from within the North
detail of this survey area. Olary Plains study area can be classified into six main
groups.
The second, that of Wood (1937), shows boundaries
which broadly approximate those of this survey, but They are:
whose vegetation community descriptions differ
• Research projects which are based on data from a
significantly.
single location or small area within the study area;
Specht’s 1972 map of the study area is correct in its • Vegetation surveys of specific land areas within, or
depiction of the boundary between the sand dunes and the adjoining the study area;
chenopod plains, but he clearly did not visit the region • Studies of individual species of conservation
and most other detail is incorrect. He has classified the significance in the study area;
dune region as Zygochloa Hummock Grassland but this • Broad area surveys which include the present study
species was only recorded once in the present survey. area;
The dune vegetation is actually tall shrubland and low • Broad area vegetation mapping which includes the
open woodland with no hummock grasses present. These present study area;
maps also show a Low bluebush (Maireana astrotricha) • Standard taxonomic literature which includes the
community extending from New South Wales across the plants of the study area.
plains south and west of Lake Frome to Lake Callabonna.
In fact this community is found principally south of Lake Because so little of the vegetation literature pertaining to
Frome and the other plains areas are different vegetation the study area deals with vegetation patterns and
communities. communities on a scale compatible with the present
study, the references have not been discussed in detail,
Boomsma and Lewis (1980) published a map of South but have been tabulated to reflect their belonging to one
Australian vegetation based on Specht and also of the six main groups above.
erroneously attributed grassland vegetation to the dune
fields. 1. Research projects which are based on data from a
single location or small area within the study
Laut et al (1977) list Zygochloa hummock grassland as area.
co-dominant in the dunefields on the dune crests with Anderson 1967; Barker and Lange 1969; Carrodus
Acacia ligulata shrubland. This may be the case in the 1962; Carrodus and Specht 1965; Carrodus, Specht
northern Strzelecki Desert, but is not the case in the and Jackman 1965; Charley and Cowling 1968;
south. The same applies to their classification of the Crocker and Wood 1947; Fatchen 1978; Hall et al
swales as a Bluebush (Maireana astrotricha) community. 1964; Jessup 1969; Osborn 1925 1928; Osborn and
The present survey found traces of this community

1
M. K Hyde, Wallowa Mallee Research Pty Ltd, P O Box 1396, Murray Bridge, S A 5253
2
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, P O Box 2, Daw Park, S A 5041

53
 Wood 1923; Osborn Wood and Paltridge 1931 1932; of the papers listed above (particularly in the first
Stephens 1973; Wood 1936; category). Five hundred hectares of overgrazed
2. Vegetation surveys of specific land areas within, chenopod shrubland was fenced in 1925, and the
or adjoining the study area; recovery of the plant communities and their general
Beadle 1945; Burrows and Beale 1969; Close and ecology has been monitored since.
Williams 1982; Collins 1923; Douglas 1981; Remote
Studies of particular species in group 3 are of Acacia
Sensing Applications Branch 1983; Tiver 1994;
carnei, except a single paper (Crisp 1976) on Acacia
Williams and Levitzke 1980a, 1980b, 1980c;
barrattensis.
3. Studies of individual species of conservation
significance in the study area; An Adelaide University PhD thesis by Tiver (1994) is the
Auld 1990, 1993; Benson 1991; Crisp 1976; Davies most comprehensive research dealing with the study area.
1995;Lang & Kraehenbuehl 1993(update); Whibley It includes the southern quarter of the study area and also
1979; covers the northern quarter of the South Olary Plains
4. Broad area surveys which include the present survey region. Although focusing on vegetation
study area; sampling theory, this thesis looked at the effects of
Barber and Linton 1989; Blackburn and Baker 1951; herbivores on recruitment of perennial plants and found
Davies 1982; Lange and Fatchen 1990; Laut et al that sheep were significantly more influential than rabbits
1977a 1977b; Leigh 1981; Pipeline Authority of SA in preventing regeneration.
1981; Specht and Cleland 1961 1963; Specht, Roe
Like the preceding survey of the South Olary Plains, this
and Broughton 1974; Sturt 1849;
survey addresses the vegetation of a South Australian
5. Broad area vegetation mapping which includes
region which has only been treated in a cursory manner
the present study area;
previously. A number of published errors and
Boomsma and Lewis 1980; Carnahan 1989a 1989b;
inconsistencies carried forward through the literature
Moore 1980; Prescott 1929; Specht 1972; Wood
have been corrected by this present survey and map
1937
publication.
6. Standard taxonomic literature which includes the
plants of the study area. TOTAL SPECIES
Catcheside 1980: Cleland 1976(reprint);
A total of 448 currently accepted taxa were found during
Cunningham et.al 1981; Filson and Rogers 1979;
the North Olary Plains survey. Frequencies of all taxa
Jessop 1981 1993; Jessop and Toelken 1986 ;
which occurred at survey sites are listed in Table 4.
Whibley and Symons 1992;
Appendix V lists the total taxa in the Eastern Region of
The T.G. Osborn Reserve, an experimental exclosure on South Australia valid at 17 May 1995 (S A
Koonamore station operated by the Botany Department of Environmental Database) and gives the listings from
the University of Adelaide, is the focus of a large number other vegetation studies in the Region.

54
Table 4 Species Occurrence Frequencies for the 381 Surveyed Sites

* Introduced species
(NC) Non-current taxonomy

Species Freq. Acacia aneura var. aneura 34

Enneapogon sp. 34
Tetragonia eremaea 276 Lotus cruentus 34
Calotis hispidula 170 Nitraria billardierei 34
Rhagodia spinescens 140 Maireana sedifolia 33
*Schismus barbatus 140 *Medicago minima var. minima 32
Gramineae sp. 133 *Rostraria pumila 32
Maireana pyramidata 129 Sclerolaena diacantha 32
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 129 Sclerolaena ventricosa 32
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 124 *Acetosa vesicaria 31
Maireana astrotricha 113 Zygophyllum prismatothecum 31
Rhodanthe floribunda 111 Eremophila duttonii 30
Erodium cygnorum ssp. glandulosum 110 Minuria cunninghamii 30
Atriplex holocarpa 109 Portulaca oleracea 30
Salsola kali 108 Sida intricata 30
Enchylaena tomentosa var. 103 Sclerolaena lanicuspis 29
Enneapogon avenaceus 98 Senecio glossanthus 29
Rhodanthe moschata 92 Euphorbia drummondii 28
Omphalolappula concava 89 Gunniopsis quadrifida 28
Brachycome lineariloba 85 Ixiolaena leptolepis 27
*Brassica tournefortii 82 Rhodanthe stricta 26
*Carrichtera annua 81 Sclerolaena uniflora 26
Craspedia pleiocephala 80 Acacia ligulata 25
Sclerolaena divaricata 77 Acacia tetragonophylla 25
Stenopetalum lineare 76 *Centaurea melitensis 25
Bulbine semibarbata 72 Goodenia pinnatifida 25
Daucus glochidiatus 72 Maireana turbinata 25
*Asphodelus fistulosus 71 Acacia ayersiana var. latifolia 24
Plantago drummondii 65 Eragrostis xerophila 24
Acacia victoriae ssp. 64 Hyalosperma demissum 24
Zygophyllum ammophilum 61 Sclerolaena intricata 24
Senecio lautus 58 Sida petrophila 24
Maireana aphylla 56 Zygophyllum crenatum 24
*Alyssum linifolium 55 Actinobole uliginosum 23
Dissocarpus paradoxus 55 Aristida contorta 23
Stipa nitida 54 Atriplex limbata 23
Zygophyllum iodocarpum 52 Eragrostis eriopoda 23
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 50 Pimelea simplex ssp. 23
Sclerolaena decurrens 50 Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 23
*Sisymbrium erysimoides 49 Abutilon fraseri 21
*Erodium cicutarium 48 Atriplex stipitata 21
Rhodanthe pygmaea 48 Erodium crinitum 21
Sclerolaena limbata 46 Calotis plumulifera 20
Rhodanthe microglossa 44 Danthonia caespitosa 20
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens 43 Gnephosis eriocarpa 20
Harmsiodoxa brevipes var. 43 Maireana georgei 20
*Sonchus oleraceus 43 Pimelea simplex ssp. simplex 20
*Echium plantagineum 42 Brachycome ciliaris var. ciliaris 19
Sclerolaena brachyptera 42 Brachycome ciliaris var. lanuginosa 19
Calotis cymbacantha 41 Erodium cygnorum ssp. cygnorum 19
Polycalymma stuartii 41 Lemooria burkittii 19
Casuarina pauper 40 Lepidium phlebopetalum 19
Convolvulus remotus 40 Sida corrugata var. 19
Eremophila sturtii 40 'Convolvulus erubescens (NC)' 18
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris 39 Goodenia fascicularis 18
Vittadinia eremaea 39 Ptilotus obovatus var. 18
Enneapogon cylindricus 38 Solanum ellipticum 18
*Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha 38 Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum 18
Tripogon loliiformis 37 Species Freq.
Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima 36
Harmsiodoxa blennodioides 36 Cheilanthes lasiophylla 17
Species Freq. Cymbopogon ambiguus 17
Lepidium oxytrichum 17
Gnephosis arachnoidea 35 Santalum lanceolatum 17

55
Acacia oswaldii 16 Minuria denticulata 8
Dissocarpus biflorus var. 16 Othonna gregorii 8
Dodonaea microzyga var. microzyga 16 Pimelea microcephala ssp. microcephala 8
Eremophila freelingii 16 Pterocaulon sphacelatum 8
Oxalis perennans 16 Sclerolaena patenticuspis 8
Podolepis capillaris 16 Tragus australianus 8
Senna artemisioides nothossp. coriacea 16 Vittadinia sulcata 8
Solanum petrophilum 16 'Euphorbia tannensis ssp. (NC)' 7
Swainsona sp. 16 Atriplex velutinella 7
Atriplex pseudocampanulata 15 Einadia nutans ssp. 7
*Bromus rubens 15 Exocarpos aphyllus 7
*Critesion murinum ssp. glaucum 15 Gnephosis tenuissima 7
Eucalyptus largiflorens 15 Hakea leucoptera 7
Malvastrum americanum 15 Lepidium papillosum 7
Minuria integerrima 15 *Marrubium vulgare 7
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. 15 Pittosporum phylliraeoides var. microcarpa 7
Sida fibulifera 15 Scaevola parvibarbata 7
Dissocarpus biflorus var. biflorus 14 Senna artemisioides ssp. filifolia 7
Enteropogon acicularis 14 Sida ammophila 7
Eragrostis sp. 14 Stipa sp. 7
Eremophila longifolia 14 Acacia salicina 6
Erodiophyllum elderi 14 Atriplex sp. 6
Goodenia pusilliflora 14 Calotis erinacea 6
Isoetopsis graminifolia 14 Cheilanthes sieberi ssp. sieberi 6
Amyema miraculosum ssp. boormanii 13 Chenopodium nitrariaceum 6
Astrebla pectinata 13 Eremophila scoparia 6
Callitris glaucophylla 13 Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. 6
Dodonaea lobulata 13 Frankenia serpyllifolia 6
Eremophila glabra ssp. 13 Goodenia lunata 6
Erodium cygnorum ssp. 13 Haloragis sp. 6
Zygophyllum aurantiacum 13 *Lycium ferocissimum 6
Einadia nutans ssp. nutans 12 Lysiana exocarpi ssp. exocarpi 6
*Hypochaeris glabra 12 Paspalidium constrictum 6
Sida sp. 12 Phlegmatospermum cochlearinum 6
Teucrium racemosum 12 Rhodanthe corymbiflora 6
Amyema maidenii ssp. maidenii 11 Senecio anethifolius 6
Maireana eriantha 11 Senna artemisioides ssp. quadrifolia 6
Maireana excavata 11 Triraphis mollis 6
Nicotiana velutina 11 Wurmbea dioica ssp. dioica 6
*Salvia verbenaca form A 11 *Xanthium spinosum 6
Santalum acuminatum 11 *Acetosella vulgaris 5
Solanum sturtianum 11 Arthropodium sp. 5
Angianthus brachypappus 10 Atriplex nummularia ssp. 5
Arabidella nasturtium 10 Crassula sieberiana ssp. tetramera 5
Atriplex angulata 10 Eremophila alternifolia 5
Bromus arenarius 10 Maireana pentagona 5
*Carthamus lanatus 10 Maireana pentatropis 5
Dactyloctenium radulans 10 Malacocera biflora 5
Dichanthium sericeum ssp. 10 Malacocera gracilis 5
Eragrostis australasica 10 Phyllanthus lacunarius 5
Geococcus pusillus 10 Prostanthera striatiflora 5
Maireana appressa 10 Sclerostegia tenuis 5
Maireana brevifolia 10 Senna artemisioides nothossp. artemisioides 5
Sclerolaena bicornis 10 Sporobolus actinocladus 5
Senecio magnificus 10 Stipa acrociliata 5
Stipa scabra ssp. 10 Triodia scariosa ssp. scariosa 5
Aristida nitidula 9 *'unverified species - nv` 4
Crassula colorata var. 9 Acacia burkittii 4
Eragrostis dielsii var. dielsii 9 Species Freq.
*Erodium aureum 9
Millotia greevesii ssp. greevesii var. greevesii 9 Acacia carnei 4
Species Freq. Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 4
Aristida personata 4
Osteocarpum acropterum var. acropterum 9 Aristida sp. 4
Sclerolaena sp. 9 Arthropodium minus 4
Zygophyllum howittii 9 Atriplex lindleyi ssp. lindleyi 4
Arabidella trisecta 8 Blennodia pterosperma 4
Eucalyptus socialis 8 Cassinia laevis 4
Glycine clandestina var. 8 Compositae sp. 4
*Malva parviflora 8 Danthonia sp. 4

56
Erodium sp. 4 Eragrostis falcata 2
*Herniaria cinerea 4 Eremophila deserti 2
Hyalosperma semisterile 4 Eucalyptus gracilis 2
Lepidium sp. 4 Euphorbia sp. 2
Maireana integra 4 Goodenia sp. 2
Malacocera tricornis 4 Halosarcia indica ssp. 2
Millotia greevesii ssp. 4 *Heliotropium europaeum 2
*Onopordum acaulon 4 Hibiscus sturtii var. grandiflorus 2
Podolepis arachnoidea 4 Indigofera sp. 2
*Salvia verbenaca form B 4 Lawrencia glomerata 2
Sclerolaena holtiana 4 Leptorhynchos baileyi 2
Senecio cunninghamii var. serratus 4 *Limonium lobatum 2
*Spergularia diandra 4 Maireana ciliata 2
Trianthema triquetra 4 Maireana sp. 2
Vittadinia sp. 4 Maireana tomentosa ssp. urceolata 2
Zygophyllum sp. 4 Muehlenbeckia sp. 2
Acacia calamifolia 3 *Nicotiana glauca 2
Atriplex acutibractea ssp. 3 Panicum laevinode 2
Chrysocephalum semicalvum ssp. Semicalvum 3 Paractaenum novae-hollandiae ssp. reversum 2
*Cucumis myriocarpus 3 Pleurosorus rutifolius 2
Eucalyptus gillii 3 Sclerolaena cuneata 2
Gnephosis drummondii 3 Sclerolaena longicuspis 2
Halosarcia sp. 3 Sida trichopoda 2
Harmsiodoxa brevipes var. brevipes 3 Stipa platychaeta 2
Ixiochlamys cuneifolia 3 *Tamarix aphylla 2
Ixiolaena chloroleuca 3 Trichanthodium skirrophorum 2
Leguminosae sp. 3 Wahlenbergia sp. 2
Lepidium fasciculatum 3 'Danthonia eriantha (SYN)' 1
Leucochrysum molle 3 Abutilon leucopetalum 1
Lycium australe 3 Abutilon otocarpum 1
Maireana lobiflora 3 Acacia beckleri 1
Marsilea drummondii 3 Amyema miquelii 1
Minuria annua 3 Amyema preissii 1
Minuria leptophylla 3 Arthropodium strictum 1
Muehlenbeckia florulenta 3 Asperula sp. 1
Olearia pimeleoides ssp. pimeleoides 3 Atriplex intermedia 1
Panicum decompositum var. decompositum 3 Atriplex spongiosa 1
Parietaria debilis 3 Atriplex vesicaria ssp. calcicola 1
Pimelea microcephala ssp. 3 Bolboschoenus caldwellii 1
Rhagodia parabolica 3 Brachycome dentata 1
Rhodanthe polygalifolia 3 Bulbine bulbosa 1
Scaevola spinescens 3 Calandrinia eremaea 1
Schoenia ramosissima 3 Calostemma purpureum 1
Solanum chenopodinum 3 Calotis latiuscula 1
Stipa eremophila 3 Centipeda thespidioides 1
Stipa nodosa 3 Chenopodiaceae sp. 1
Tephrosia sphaerospora 3 Chenopodium auricomum 1
*Vicia monantha 3 Chloris truncata 1
Vittadinia cuneata var. 3 Chrysocephalum semicalvum ssp. 1
*Vulpia muralis 3 Codonocarpus pyramidalis 1
Wahlenbergia communis 3 Cratystylis conocephala 1
Wahlenbergia luteola 3 Dianella longifolia var. porracea 1
Westringia rigida 3 Species Freq.
Abutilon halophilum 2
*Anagallis arvensis 2 Digitaria brownii 1
Species Freq. Digitaria sp. 1
Dodonaea stenozyga 1
Aristida holathera var. holathera 2 *Emex australis 1
Atriplex semibaccata 2 Enneapogon polyphyllus 1
*Calendula arvensis 2 Eremophila latrobei ssp. 1
Calotis lappulacea 2 Eremophila oppositifolia var. 1
*Cenchrus ciliaris 2 Eriachne aristidea 1
Centipeda minima 2 Eucalyptus intertexta 1
Crassula sp. 2 Euphorbia tannensis ssp. eremophila 1
*Critesion sp. 2 Frankenia crispa 1
Cyperus laevigatus 2 *Galium murale 1
*Digitaria sanguinalis 2 Glycine canescens 1
*Dittrichia graveolens 2 Glycyrrhiza acanthocarpa 1
Elachanthus pusillus 2 Halosarcia halocnemoides ssp. longispicata 1
Enneapogon nigricans 2 Halosarcia indica ssp. leiostachya 1

57
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. 1 *Rostraria cristata 1
Hibiscus krichauffianus 1 *Salvia verbenaca form 1
Hibiscus sp. 1 Sclerolaena eriacantha 1
*Hypochaeris radicata 1 Sclerostegia medullosa 1
Indigofera helmsii 1 Senecio cunninghamii var. 1
Ixiolaena tomentosa 1 Senecio glomeratus 1
Juncus aridicola 1 Senecio quadridentatus 1
Juncus sp. 1 Senna artemisioides nothossp. sturtii 1
*Lamarckia aurea 1 Senna artemisioides ssp. helmsii 1
Lepidium rotundum 1 Sida corrugata var. A (N.N.Donner 7573) 1
Loranthaceae sp. 1 Solanum esuriale 1
Lotus sp. 1 *Solanum nigrum 1
Lysiana sp. 1 *Solanum retroflexum 1
Malacocera sp. 1 Stemodia florulenta 1
Malvaceae sp. 1 Stipa flavescens 1
Marsdenia australis 1 Streptoglossa adscendens 1
Melaleuca glomerata 1 Stuartina hamata 1
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. platycarpum 1 Swainsona oliveri 1
Nicotiana goodspeedii 1 Swainsona stipularis 1
Osteocarpum acropterum var. 1 Themeda triandra 1
Species Freq. Thysanotus sp. 1
Trichodesma zeylanicum 1
Oxalis sp. 1 Typha domingensis 1
Panicum sp. 1 Velleia arguta 1
Paspalidium sp. 1 Vittadinia pterochaeta 1
Plagiobothrys plurisepaleus 1 Wahlenbergia gracilenta 1
Podolepis muelleri 1 Wahlenbergia tumidifructa 1
Ptilotus sp. 1 Zygochloa paradoxa 1
Rostellularia adscendens ssp. adscendens var. 1

PLANT COMMUNITIES • The distribution maps show all sites which were
assigned to each community during the analysis.
As discussed in the previous chapter, a numerical PATN
analysis was performed on the site data to derive a • Distributional descriptions are based on the location
number of floristic groups. These results were then of the sites assigned to the community by the
viewed subjectively, based on the authors’ field analysis, and the maps included in this report.
experience with the vegetation patterns in the survey area, • Most frequently occurring species are the most
to arrive at a series of discrete communities which were common, and visible species in the community.
both mappable and made floristic sense. They are in order of their indicator value, not
necessarily their abundance.
These communities are described on the following pages. • The survey site numbers listed are those from the
An explanation of the community description pages is present survey only (North Olary Plains Survey)
given below: which have been assigned to a particular community.
• The community name is derived from the species • The descriptions and indication of vegetation
most prominent in the community, in combination condition are subjective, and derived from the
with a structural vegetation or topographic descriptor authors’ (MKH and RMP) field notes and
which reflects the typical occurrence of the experience.
community. The species may not be the most Table 5 contains the full list of communities.
abundant or dominant, but will usually be clearly
visible from the ground and air. Most communities form close, complex mosaics with
• Floristic Group is the group which was originally other communities at various places within the study area
derived from the PATN analysis. This has been and have been displayed as single units on the
included to allow cross-referencing of the raw data if accompanying maps. The floristic group number of
required. The number of members is the number of communities with which each of the mapped
sites which have been assigned to this community communities forms mosaics is given in the third column
grouping during PATN analysis and subsequent below.
hand-sorting and included in the statistics tables.
• Vegetation structural descriptions are based on the
classification described in Forward & Robinson
(1996) and presented in Appendix X of this report.

Table 5 Plant Communities and the Associations mapped as mosaics.

58
Floristic Community Name Forms mosaic with:
Group No.
One Enneapogon cylindricus / Acacia tetragonophylla Open
grassland
Two Acacia victoriae Very open grassland 8, 18, 28
Three Astrebla pectinata Open grassland 5, 31
Four Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland 22, 32
Five Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland 3, 25, 29
Eight Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland 2, 28, 37
Nine Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee 21
Ten Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland 17, 19
Fifteen Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland 19, 20, 28
Sixteen Atriplex vesicaria Low open shrubland 22, 32
Seventeen Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland 2, 10, 8
Eighteen Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland 2
Nineteen Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima Open shrubland 10, 15, 20, 28, 32
Twenty Acacia aneura Very low open woodland 15,19
Twenty one Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open 4, 9, 39
low woodland
Twenty two Casuarina pauper Low woodland 16,39,4
Twenty-three Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland 24
Twenty-four Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland 23
Twenty-five Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland 5, 29
Twenty eight Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland 2, 15, 18, 19, 32
Twenty-nine Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very open 5, 25
shrubland
Thirty-one Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland 3, 35
Thirty two Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open 44, 16, 19, 25, 28
shrubland
Thirty-four Halosarcia Low open shrubland
Thirty-five Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open 31
shrubland
Thirty-six Cyperus laevigatus Sedgeland
Thirty-seven Rhodanthe floribunda Herbland 8
Thirty-eight Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland 32
Thirty-nine Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee 21, 22

The proportion of the total survey area covered by these presented which summarises the areas covered by 10 of
mosaics is tabulated and summarised in Appendix IV. the major associations in their ‘pure’ form and in
These figures are given as total areas and percentages for conjunction with other vegetation types.
each of the mapped mosaics and then another table is

59
Enneapogon cylindricus / Acacia tetragonophylla Open grassland

Floristic Group One: 98 members

Vegetation Structure:
Varies from a very open shrubland, commonly consisting of Acacia tetragonophylla (Dead Finish), A.
victoriae ssp. victoriae (Elegant Wattle), A. aneura (Mulga) and Eremophila freelingii (Rock Fuchsia
Bush) over sparse low shrubs of Senna spp. and Dodonaea lobulata with Solanum spp. (Nightshades) and
Enneapogon spp.(Bottlewashers) in the ground layer, to an open to very open tussock grassland with very
sparse emergent shrubs. This structural variation occurs within a similar suite of species, but through
differing densities.

Distribution:
Occurring along the eastern slopes of the Flinders Ranges, and on the
north and south slopes of the Olary Spur.

Most frequently occurring species:

Enneapogon cylindricus
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum
Acacia tetragonophylla
Eremophila freelingii
Ptilotus obovatus
Acacia victoriae
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Enchylaena tomentosa
Sida fibulifera

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

MIN06201, MIN10101, OLA12401

Description:
This community is characterised by the very sparse, bare appearance of the ground, and the gravely surface
strew usually present. The shrubs tend to be dwarfed when present. It is usually found on rocky, sloping
sites where the surface is densely strewn with gravels derived from numerous outcrops. The underlying
geology is usually shales, calcareous shales and siltstones.

Rabbit warrens are common in these shales, and the total grazing pressure is often quite high. Shrub
regeneration is usually poor, and in many areas only a tussock grassland of Enneapogon cylindricus with
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis remains. Where the ground is very rocky, even the tussock grass is sparse.

Because the community is naturally very sparse and open, the grazing pressure of sheep and rabbits has
severely reduced plant densities to sometimes extremely low levels, leaving the community
characteristically looking very bare, and in some areas erosion gullying has been brought about through the
removal of vegetation cover, exposing the highly erodible, weakly structured, fine textured soils.

This community is closely related to the Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open
low woodland community, which in most instances is found adjoining it on the higher, steeper slopes.

Vegetation Condition:
Usually highly altered particularly by rabbit and goat grazing to communities of low diversity.

60
 Most frequently occurring species in Enneapogon cylindricus / Acacia tetragonophylla Open grassland
community, with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Enneapogon cylindricus 83 82
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum 71 70
Acacia tetragonophylla 68 67
Eremophila freelingii 68 67
Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 68 67
+ Acetosa vesicaria 66 65
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 63 62
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 63 61 1
Sida fibulifera 57 56
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 53 52
+ Salsola kali 53 52
Acacia aneura var. 48 47
Sida petrophila 44 43
Senna artemisioides nothossp. coriacea 43 42
Malvastrum americanum 41 40
Santalum lanceolatum 38 37
Lysiana exocarpi ssp. exocarpi 37 36
Convolvulus microsepalus/remotus 36 35
Dodonaea microzyga var. microzyga 36 35
Sclerolaena divaricata 36 35
Aristida nitidula 34 33
Abutilon leucopetalum 33 32
+ Euphorbia australis 31 30
Maireana astrotricha 31 30

Figure 37
Enneapogon cylindricus / Acacia tetragonophylla Open grassland
Site MIN10101. Very Open Low Grass. Enneapogon sp. over Tetragonia eremaea

61
Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland

Floristic Group Two: 106 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is usually a tall open shrubland, or tall very open shrubland dominated by Acacia victoriae
ssp. victoriae (Elegant Wattle). Occasionally it forms a closed shrubland. The chenopods Maireana
pyramidata (Blackbush) and Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny saltbush) are prominent in the understorey.
Malvastrum americanum (Spiky Malvastrum), an introduced species, is common in this community along
the eastern edge of the Flinders Ranges.

Distribution:
This community is found along the drainage lines, creeks, and rivers
which flow onto the plains both north and south from the eastern end
of the Olary Spur. It also occurs in the Olary and Wawirra Creek
systems which are within the Spur.

Along the eastern edge of the Flinders Ranges it is found in creeks

and on floodplains on the lower slopes and adjacent plains.

Most frequently occurring species:

Acacia victoriae
Rhagodia spinescens
Maireana pyramidata
Sclerolaena limbata
Malvastrum americanum
Enneapogon cylindricus
Enneapogon avenaceus

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CUR01301, KOO30201, MIN05101, MUL13101, OLA08101, OLA09101, OLA12301, PAR05301,
PAR07201, REA03301, REA11202

Description:
The community is often associated with the Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland community
which occurs on the adjacent floodplains, the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland community, or where
heavy disturbance through flood events and high grazing pressure has occurred, Nitraria billardierei Low
open shrubland. In these instances the community forms a narrow line along the stream channel.

Vegetation Condition:
Because of the often high soil moisture conditions this community is extensively invaded by fleshy and
semi-succulent introduced species such as Asphodelus fistulosus (Onionweed), Medicago polymorpha
(Burr medic) and Sisymbrium erysimoides (Smooth mustard). It is often highly disturbed by stock because
of their preference for drainage lines, and can contain large numbers of woody and annual weeds.

62
 Most frequently occurring species in Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 76 69 3 9

Rhagodia spinescens 62 57 6 3
Maireana pyramidata 54 57 1
Sclerolaena limbata 49 51 1
Malvastrum americanum 47 50
Enneapogon avenaceus 46 46 3
Enneapogon cylindricus 45 45 3
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 45 45 1 2
+ Acetosa vesicaria 44 44 2 1
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 41 41 2 1
+ Salsola kali 40 42 1
Dissocarpus paradoxus 38 38 2 1
Convolvulus microsepalus/remotus 36 37 1 1
Sida fibulifera 30 31 1
Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 30 32

Figure 38
Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland
Site MIN05101. Tall Shrubland. Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae and Lycium ferocissimum over
Asphodelus fistulosus and Xanthium spinosum

63
Astrebla pectinata Open grassland

Floristic Group Three: 42 members

Vegetation Structure:
Either a Tussock, or Open Tussock Grassland; or a Low, or Low Open Shrubland depending on the season.
After rain the tussock grass Astrebla pectinata (Mitchell Grass) is dominant for a few months, and at other
times Sclerolaena divaricata (Poverty bush) and S. longicuspis (Long-spined poverty bush) are prominent.
The perennial daisy Ixiolaena leptolepis (Plover daisy) is also common in this community.

Distribution:
This community is found mainly in the western portion of the survey
area, where it grows on the outwash plains between the eastern edge
of the Flinders Ranges and Lake Frome. Very small and unmappable
traces of the community are also scattered throughout the central
portion of the area.

Most frequently occurring species:

Ixiolaena leptolepis
Sclerolaena divaricata
Sclerolaena longicuspis
Enneapogon avenaceus
Astrebla pectinata
Convolvulus microsepalus
Rhodanthe microglossa

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

None. All the survey sites included in the analysis which represent this community are from the Flinders
Ranges survey.

Description:
This community is associated with puffy, fine-textured, highly erodable gilgai soils, usually with a
scattering of surface stone. It changes dramatically in appearance after rain when the Mitchell grass grows
vigorously and forms a lush pasture. In other seasons Sclerolaena spp. are prominent, often as dead,
skeletal low shrubs, and very few plants higher than 0.3m are present. The Maireana aphylla Low open
shrubland community occurs as a mosaic with the Mitchell grass, as does the Sclerolaena divaricata
Herbland, particularly in the west.

Vegetation Condition:
This community has been heavily grazed, but its great natural variability may make it reasonably resilient
to such impacts. Sclerolaena divaricata and S. longicuspis tend to become dominant where the Mitchell
grass and other palatable species have been removed.

64
 Most frequently occurring species in the Astrebla pectinata Open grassland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Ixiolaena leptolepis/tomentosa 76 31 1
Sclerolaena divaricata 73 30 1
Sclerolaena longicuspis 69 29
Enneapogon avenaceus 61 26
Astrebla pectinata 59 23 1 1
+ Rhodanthe microglossa 54 23
Convolvulus microsepalus/remotus 50 21
+ Gnephosis arachnoidea 50 21
Maireana astrotricha 50 20 1
Sclerolaena limbata 47 20
+ Acetosa vesicaria 45 19
Eragrostis setifolia 42 17 1
Malvastrum americanum 40 16 1
Sclerolaena brachyptera 40 17
Sclerolaena lanicuspis 40 17
Sida fibulifera 40 17
Brachycome ciliaris var. 38 16
Enneapogon cylindricus 38 16
+ Goodenia fascicularis 38 16
+ Rhodanthe floribunda 38 16
Sida trichopoda 38 16
Eremophila duttonii 33 14
Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 33 14

Figure 39
Astrebla pectinata Open grassland
Near Kemp’s Bore on Martin’s Well Station in association with the Maireana aphylla Low open
shrubland community.

65
Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Four: 45 members

Vegetation Structure:
A low, open shrubland often dominated by Maireana sedifolia (Pearl bluebush). Eriochiton
sclerolaenoides (Woolly fruit copperburr) and Maireana pyramidata (Blackbush) can also be locally
dominant. Occasionally tall shrubs of Senna sspp., or trees of Casuarina pauper (Blackoak) occur as
sparse emergents.

Distribution:
A community principally of hill foot-slopes, it is distributed widely
in the southern portion of the survey area where the Chenopod
communities of the plains adjoin hills. It is particularly common
south of, and within the hills of the Olary Spur. Some occurrences
were recorded along the northern margin of the Spur and the eastern
fringe of the Flinders Ranges. In the area south of Mount Frome,
low, rocky “jump-up rises” of ironstone are dominated by this
community.

Most frequently occurring species:

Maireana sedifolia
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Maireana pyramidata
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides
Carrichtera annua
Stipa scabra

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CUR06201, CUR07201, KOO11101, KOO12101, KOO29101, KOO32101, MIN07201, MIN12101,
OLA01301, REA01201, WIL03101, WIL03210, WIN10101

Description:
Generally occurring on stony rises and hill sides, often where shales and ironstone are present. Some of
the occurrences are on very low rises on the plains. The community often occurs in small and localised
patches where suitable edaphic conditions occur and has therefore been mapped most frequently as a
mosaic with other communities. It forms a complex mosaic with the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
astrotricha Low open shrubland community and is usually found growing adjacent to, and interspersed
with this latter community.

Vegetation Condition:
In some places the Bluebush has been almost completely removed by sheep, rabbit, goat and kangaroo
grazing. Generally in this community the Bluebush is still present as the dominant shrub and the annual
and understorey plants show varying degrees of grazing impact.

66
 Most frequently occurring species in Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 80 18 15 3
Maireana sedifolia 75 9 6 15 4
Maireana pyramidata 66 25 5
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 57 11 10 5
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 57 18 6 2
+* Carrichtera annua 46 10 8 2 1
+ Rhodanthe pygmaea 46 9 9 3
+ Omphalolappula concava 44 14 6
+ Calotis hispidula 42 11 8
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 42 19
Maireana astrotricha 37 13 3 1
+ Brachycome lineariloba 35 15 1
Danthonia caespitosa 33 5 7 3
+* Sonchus oleraceus 33 15
Enneapogon avenaceus 31 6
Stipa scabra group 31 4 3 4 3
Enneapogon avenaceus 31 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 31 7
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. 31 14

Figure 40
Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland
Site MIN07201. Low shrubland. Maireana sedifolia, M. astrotricha and Atriplex vesicaria over
Tetragonia eremaea and Sclerolaena obliquicuspis

67
Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland

Floristic Group Five: 22 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is an open to dense tall shrubland dominated by Eremophila sturtii (Turpentine), E.
duttonii (Harlequin Fuchsia Bush), or Senna artemisioides sspp. (Desert Sennas). Rhagodia spinescens
(Spiny Saltbush) is usually present, often with Dodonaea microzyga var. microzyga (Brilliant Hop Bush)
as middle level shrubs and Sclerolaena obliquicuspis (Limestone Copperburr) and Enneapogon avenaceus
(Bottle Washers) in the ground layer.

Distribution:
This community occurs in the western and southern plains portions
of the survey area, where it is usually found on low sandy rises.
These are sometimes remnants of old dune systems, and sometimes
very shallow depositional areas of aeolian material in predominantly
flat plains.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eremophila sturtii
Eremophila duttonii
Rhagodia spinescens
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Enneapogon avenaceus
Maireana pyramidata
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CUR06401, CUR06501, FRO01101, FRO03101, KOO10101, KOO12201, PAR01401, PAR07301,
PAR07401, PAR11101, PAS14101, REA02701, REA03101, REA06201, WIN01101, WIN01201

Description:
In the north-western portion of the survey area this community forms a discrete series of mappable low
dunes which have been denuded. Here it is generally associated with the surrounding Maireana aphylla
Low open shrubland and Astrebla pectinata Open grassland communities. On the plains between Lake
Frome and the Olary Spur, the areas of this community become small, sparse and fragmented, and are
mostly only mappable as a mosaic, generally with the Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland and the
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland communities. Most of the dominant
shrubs are unpalatable to sheep, and in this area represents what pastoralists refer to as a “woody weed
invasion”, which has come about through preferential grazing pressure over an extended period, coupled
with low regeneration rates of the palatable chenopod species of the surrounding plains. On Bimbowrie,
this community is mosaiced with the Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland community in the river
flats adjacent to the major watercourses. Small stands of Casuarina pauper are commonly found
throughout this community, particularly south of Lake Frome.

Vegetation Condition:
Most examples of this community are in reasonable condition, although the presence of the shrubs may
represent a disclimax situation caused by past grazing of palatable species. Extensive insect damage has
occurred in this community specifically near Bimbowrie wher it is actually killing the plants and reducing
the overall area of its coverage.

68
 Most frequently occurring species in the Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland
community, with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Rhagodia spinescens 86 16 3
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 72 5 11
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 72 1 14 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 68 13 2
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 59 12 1
Eremophila sturtii 59 3 9 1
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris 59 5 4 4
Maireana pyramidata 54 11 1
+ Omphalolappula concava 54 9 3
Eremophila duttonii 50 6 4 1
Sclerolaena limbata 50 6 5
+ Calotis hispidula 45 5 5
Dissocarpus paradoxus 45 9 1
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 41 8 1
+ Salsola kali 41 8 1
+ Acetosa vesicaria 36 1 5 2
Dodonaea microzyga var. microzyga 36 3 3 2
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 36 5 3
Sida intricata 36 5 3
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum 36 7 1
Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 31 6 1
Santalum lanceolatum 31 6 1

Figure 41
Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland
Site PAR11101. Open shrubland. Eremophila duttonii, Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris with emergent
Santalum lanceolatum over Maireana aphylla, Aristida contorta, M. lobiflora, Enneapogon avenaceus and
Eragrostis eriopoda.

69
Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Eight:10 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a low, or low open shrubland dominated by Nitraria billardierei (Nitre bush). In some
of the more harsh environments such as the gypsum sands at the north-eastern tip of Lake Frome, the N.
billardierei has only a few annual herb species growing with it. In the south, along the drainage lines of
the Olary Spur it can be accompanied by low shrubs from the surrounding chenopod communities.

Distribution:
Although it is confined to drainage lines and floodouts, it is spread
throughout the study area, and is common in the south where high
levels of disturbance from grazing or flooding have occurred in the
past. In some of the more extreme environments such as along the
eastern shore of Lake Frome, and fringing the salt lakes in the central
part of the study area where it is naturally occurring, it is not
neccessarily an indication of stock disturbance.

Most frequently occurring species:

Nitraria billardierei
Maireana pyramidata
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNB07201, CTB01201, OLA10101, OLA10401, REA07201,
WIL02301, WIN08101, WIN12401

Description:
In most instances Nitraria billardierei is the only shrub species present in this community. This is a
natural phenomena in the extreme environments of the gypsum dune fields and where severe flooding
occurs. The distinctive hemispherical mounds of the Nitre bush appear to have the effect of trapping wind-
blown soil particles as well as stabilising the soil beneath them. This, coupled with the often bare areas
between bushes eroding easily, leads to significant mounding of soil under bushes, sometimes up to a
metre deep. Along the Barrier Highway, in the southern portion of the survey area, the presence of this
community is probably a reflection of historic high grazing pressures. It commonly forms a mosaic with
the Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland, and Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland communities
in the Olary Spur district, and occassionally with the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open
shrubland community on the southern plains.

Vegetation Condition:
This community usually reflects a degraded state and is extremely low in biodiversity. Disturbance within
the community appears low in the extreme environments, but is much higher in the southern districts along
the Barrier Highway.

70
 Most frequently occurring species in the Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Nitraria billardierei 100 2 2 5 1

Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 50 4 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 50 3 2
+* Carrichtera annua 40 2 2
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 40 1 3
+* Medicago minima var. minima 30 1 2
+* Sisymbrium erysimoides 30 2 1
Zygophyllum ammophilum 30 1 1 1
+ Atriplex holocarpa 30 3
Maireana pyramidata 30 3
Rhagodia spinescens 30 3

Figure 42
Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland
Site OLA10401. Low shrubland. Nitraria billardierei over Carrichtera annua and Tetragonia eremaea.

71
Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee

Floristic Group Nine: 28 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a low woodland, or open low woodland dominated by the mallee species Eucalyptus
socialis (Red mallee). Eucalyptus gracilis (Yorrell), Myoporum platycarpum (False sandalwood) and
Alectryon oleifolius (Bullock bush) are also sometimes present in the overstorey. The understorey is
usually very sparse, and characterised by small chenopod shrubs and
Zygophyllum spp. (Twinleafs).

Distribution:

This community is approaching the northern limit of its range in this

study area, and occurs only in the southern portion where it grows as
small patches in the Olary Spur, and along the eastern fringe of the
Flinders Ranges.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eucalyptus socialis
Enchylaena tomentosa
Myoporum platycarpum
Maireana pentatropis
Zygophyllum auranticum
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

KOO05101, KOO06101, KOO35101, OLA04201, REA01401,
WIL09401, WIN06101

Description:
These woodlands are usually found on shallow, often calcareous stony soils. The community is usually
found as small discrete patches in low-lying areas along creeks within hills. The patches sometimes extend
onto the hillslopes. In the hills of the Olary Spur, north of Manna Hill, this community grows as a mosaic
with the Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland community. In the
rugged hills of the Bibliando area, an outlier of the Flinders Ranges, it is also forms extensive mosaics with
the Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee community and the Casuarina pauper Low woodland community.

Vegetation Condition:
All examples of this community have a heavily grazed understorey.

72
 Most frequently occurring species in the Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Eucalyptus socialis 84 2 3 13 3
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 76 16 3
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. 60 15
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 56 6 7
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 56 12 2 1
Maireana pentatropis 48 6 4 2
+ Salsola kali 48 12
Maireana pyramidata 44 10 1
+* Carrichtera annua 40 5 4 1
Rhagodia spinescens 40 1
+* Schismus barbatus 40 7 3
Rhagodia spinescens 40 9
+* Sonchus oleraceus 40 10
Maireana sedifolia 36 9
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens 32 6 2
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 32 6 1 1
Dissocarpus paradoxus 32 7 1
Eucalyptus gracilis 32 2 1 2 3
Sclerolaena diacantha 32 6 2

Figure 43
Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee
Site OLA04201. Mallee. Eucalyptus socialis over Dissocarpus paradoxus, Sclerolaena limbata,
Zygophyllum auranticum and Z. iodocarpum

73
Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Ten: 22 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community varies from a closed, to open shrubland dominated by Maireana aphylla (Cottonbush).
Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny saltbush) and a number of swamp habitat species such as Muehlenbeckia
florulenta (Lignum) are also found in the overstorey. The grasses Eragrostis setifolia (Neverfail) and
Enneapogon avenaceus (Bottlewashers) are common understorey
species.

Distribution:
This community is confined to drainage lines and floodout areas. It
is found throughout the study area, but is most widespread on the
plains north of Cockburn and in the Mulyungarie area. It also occurs
in association with the low-lying areas of the Astrebla pectinata
Open grassland north-west of Lake Frome.

Most frequently occurring species:

Maireana aphylla
Rhagodia spinescens
Enneapogon avenaceus

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

KAL03201, MUL02101, PAR03201, PAR03401, PAR07101,
PAR11201, PAS06301, REA08101, WIL02401

Description:
Some of the examples of this community consist of Maireana aphylla as the only overstorey species over
herbs and grasses. This state is probably a function of continuous heavy grazing pressure. In contrast,
some of the sites are very diverse with a number of moisture reliant species co-dominant, and a rich
understorey of small shrubs and herbs. These are probably the least disturbed areas. This community can
form a mosaic with the Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland and Dodonaea viscosa ssp.
angustissima Open shrubland communities. The Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very
open shrubland community may be ecologically related, but the presence of a wider variety of
Sclerolaena spp. makes them floristically distinct groups.

Vegetation Condition:
The condition varies from high diversity with low disturbance to low diversity, highly disturbed.

74
 Most frequently occurring species in the Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Maireana aphylla 100 7 14 1

Rhagodia spinescens 77. 10 5 2
Enneapogon avenaceus 59. 8 2 3
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 50 5 6
Sclerolaena diacantha 40. 4 4 1
+ Aristida contorta 36. 4 2 2
Maireana astrotricha 36. 4 3 1
Eragrostis setifolia 36. 6 2
Maireana pyramidata 31. 5 2
Sclerolaena divaricata 31. 5 2
+ Calotis hispidula 31. 7

Figure 44
Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland
Site MUL02101. Low Shrubland. Maireana aphylla, Rhagodia spinescens and Maireana pyramidata
with emergent Acacia tetragonophylla and Santalum acuminatum over Sclerolaena limbata and S.
obliquicuspis.

75
Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Fifteen: 21 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community ranges from a low very open, to a low medium dense shrubland. Maireana astrotricha
(Low bluebush) and Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny saltbush) are common dominant shrubs. Gunniopsis
quadrifida (Sturt’s pigface) is often locally dominant and is an indicator of this community. Occasionally
tall shrubs of Eremophila sturtii (Turpentine) or Senna spp., or the tree Acacia aneura (Mulga) are present
as overstorey.

Distribution:
This community is found in the central eastern portion of the study
area on low sandy rises and plains, adjoining the New South Wales
border. It occurs mainly on the Lake Charles mapsheet, but extends
west as far as the southern shores of Lake Frome.

Most frequently occurring species:

Gunniopsis quadrifida
Sclerolaena decurrens
Rhagodia spinescens
Maireana astrotricha
Atriplex limbata

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN13201, KAL06201, KAL07101, LCH03301, LCH08101,
LCH09201, LCH10101, LCH11201, MUL05201

Description:
This community is confined to the study area between the northern
edge of the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland and the southern edge of the
Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland of the Strzelecki Desert.

It usually occurs as a mosaic with the Acacia aneura Very open low woodland community, and may even
form an understorey to the latter. On the eastern portion of the Lake Charles mapsheet this relationship is
particularly strong. In the western portion of its range the community is a more open chenopod shrubland,
with only occassional patches of the Acacia aneura Very open low woodland community present.

Vegetation Condition:
This community may have a naturally sparse shrub overstorey, so it is difficult to estimate the effects of
grazing, and it is likely that stock trampling has a considerable impact. Some sites more remote from stock
influences have a rich diversity of ephemeral herbs at ground level.

76
Most frequently occurring species in the Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland community, with
the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Sclerolaena decurrens 95 9 8 2 1
Maireana astrotricha 71 12 3
Rhagodia spinescens 66 10 4
Atriplex limbata 57 9 3
Gunniopsis quadrifida 57 4 5 3
Eremophila sturtii 42 7 1 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 42 4 4 1
+ Bulbine semibarbata 38 3 5
Enneapogon avenaceus 38 5 2 1
Sclerolaena diacantha 38 2 6
Tripogon loliiformis 38 4 4
+ Salsola kali 38 8
+ Craspedia pleiocephala 33 5 2
Dissocarpus paradoxus 33 3 3 1
+ Rhodanthe moschata 33 3 4
+ Aristida contorta 33 3 4
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 33 7

Figure 45
Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland
Site LCH11201. Tall open shrubland. Eremophila sturtii and Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima over
Gunniopsis quadrifida, Maireana aphylla, Tetragonia eremaea and Bulbine semibarbata.

Atriplex vesicaria Low open shrubland

77
Floristic Group Sixteen: 15 members

Vegetation Structure:
The structure of this community varies from low open shrubland to (rarely) tall shrubland, but it is
predominantly low and dominated by Atriplex vesicaria (Bladder saltbush) with other chenopods. Acacia
ligulata or Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris are occassionally present as emergents. The understorey is
rich in daisies with Senecio lautus (Variable groundsel) and Rhodanthe spp. (Everlastings) very common.

Distribution:
This community is found on low sand dunes in the transition zone
between the southern edge of the dune fields and the northern edge
of the chenopod plains. It is also found throughout the dunefields
where low sandy rises (or sub-dunes) occur in the swales. A few
examples extend southward into the plains particularly on the
Benagerie mapsheet where it forms a mosaic with the many
Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open
shrubland.

Most frequently occurring species:

Senecio lautus
Erodium cygnorum ssp. glandulosum
Atriplex vesicaria
Salsola kali
Rhagodia spinescens
Tripogon loliiformis

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN12301, CNB06301, CNE03301, CNE12201, CTB09101, LCH05101, MUL01201, MUL02401,
PAR02201, PAR08101, THU07201, THU10101, WIN03101

Description:
This community has a close floristic relationship with the Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open shrubland
however, the soil texture is usually more sandy, which may be an important factor determining the
community composition. Strong flushes of ephemeral understorey species follow good rains, providing
opportunistic fodder for sheep in particular.

Vegetation Condition:
In the north trampling by cattle has undoubtedly caused significant impact to the community breaking up
the light soil. In the southern sheep grazing areas many examples seem relatively intact, possibly because
of the ephemeral growth pattern of many of the sub-dominant species.

78
 Most frequently occurring species in the Atriplex vesicaria Low open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 66 2 8

Senecio lautus 66 1 9
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 60 4 4 1
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 60 3 6
Rhagodia spinescens 60 8 1
+ Salsola kali 60 9
Tripogon loliiformis 53 2 6
+ Bulbine semibarbata 46 1 6
Gunniopsis quadrifida 46 4 3
Maireana astrotricha 46 4 3
Sclerolaena decurrens 46 7
+ Atriplex holocarpa 40 5 1
Maireana aphylla 40 5 1
+ Rhodanthe floribunda 40 2 3 1
+ Rhodanthe moschata 40 3 3
+* Schismus barbatus 40 3 3
+* Brassica tournefortii 33 3 2
Enneapogon avenaceus 33 3 2
+ Gnephosis eriocarpa 33 1 3 1
Maireana pyramidata 33 4 1

Figure 46
Atriplex vesicaria Low open shrubland
Site CNE12201. Low open shrubland. Atriplex vesicaria, Sclerostegia medullosa and Gunniopsis
quadrifida with Acacia ligulata emergent over Senecio lautus, Erodium cygnorum ssp. glandulosum and
Minuria cunninghamii.

79
Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland

Floristic Group Seventeen: 12 members

Vegetation Structure:
Woodlands or low woodlands which are either sparse or very sparse, dominated by Eucalyptus largiflorens
(River Box). The understorey is usually very sparse, and often composed almost completely of introduced
species and annuals. There is usually no middle shrub layer.

Distribution:
This community is found along watercourses, and fringing lakes and
swamps, mainly in the north-eastern portion of the study area, north
and east of the south-eastern corner of Lake Frome. Its range within
the study area does not overlap that of Eucalyptus camaldulensis
Woodland community which is found near to the ranges in the south
and west of the region.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eucalyptus largiflorens
Tetragonia eremaea
Brassica tournefortii

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNE03201, CNE08201, CNE12501, CUR03201, LCH04101,
LCH06101, LCH08201, MUL03401, MUL10301, THU08101

Description:
Confined to waterways and edges of inundated areas, this community is usually found as narrow bands
around swamps and small lakes. In the cattle grazing region in the north east, the understorey is virtually
non-existent due to trampling and browsing, whereas further south in the sheep grazing country, swamp
species such as Muehlenbeckia florulenta (Lignum), Maireana aphylla (Cottonbush), Eragrostis
australasica (Canegrass) and Marsilea drummondii (Nardoo) are commonly growing under the tree
canopy.

On the eastern edge of the Lake Charles mapsheet near the New South Wales border Eucalyptus
largiflorens is growing as a low open woodland over a wide area of grassy floodplain with Casuarina
pauper (Black oak) and Callitris glaucophylla (Native pine).

Vegetation Condition:
Condition is variable, but generally poor, because the community acts as a focus for stock for shade, and
the proximity to many dams and tanks near the creeklines in which it grows.

80
 Most frequently occurring species in the Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland community, with
the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Eucalyptus largiflorens 100 6 6

+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 83 7 3
+* Brassica tournefortii 58 2 5
+ Salsola kali 41 3 2
+* Schismus barbatus 41 4 1
Zygophyllum ammophilum 41 4 1
+ Craspedia pleiocephala 41 5
+ Atriplex holocarpa 33 3 1
+ Bulbine semibarbata 33 3 1
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 33 3 1
+ Rhodanthe moschata 33 4

Figure 47
Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland
Site MUL10301. Woodland. Eucalyptus largiflorens over Maireana aphylla and Marsilea drummondii.

81
Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland

Floristic Group Eighteen: 11 members

Vegetation Structure:
An open forest or woodland formation dominated by Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Red gum). The
understorey is often composed of sparse shrubs and tussock grasses in the hills and ranges, or annual and
introduced species on the plains.

Distribution:
This community is widespread in the south and west of the study
area, both in the hills and on the plains. It is not found in the sand
dune region of the north east. It forms in lineaments along the
significant drainage channels flowing into Lake Frome. Within the
study area the range of this community does not overlap that of the
Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland community. The
latter is confined to the plains and dune fields of the north-east.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eucalyptus camaldulensis
Enchylaena tomentosa
Sisymbrium erysimoides
Rhagodia spinescens
Tetragonia eremaea

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

OLA01101, MIN11201, REA03201, REA06101, REA08201,
WIL09301

Description:
This familiar community is widely spread in central Australia. The Red gums form lines along
watercourses and sometimes form dense forest communities in floodout areas. As these relatively moist
and shady areas form a focus for stock to shelter, the ground storey is often severely impacted and consists
mainly of introduced species such as Sisymbrium erysimoides (Smooth mustard).

Isolated groves of Acacia salicina (Broughton Willow) and Atriplex nummularia (Old Man Saltbush) are
associated with this community in the area close to the southern margin of Lake Frome. On the plains, and
often in quite dense patches, Melaleuca glomerata (Inland Paperbark) dominates the understorey in the
stream channels, particularly in the middle to lower reaches of the major drainage lines running east from
the Flinders Ranges into Lake Frome.

In the south west of the study area around Erudina and Willippa, large stands of dead or dying saplings of
Eucalyptus camaldulensis can occur on floodplains where flood events have stimulated germination, but
rainfall in subsequent seasons has not been high enough to sustain continued growth.

Vegetation Condition:
In the Flinders Ranges good examples of the community are common, but in the Olary Spur and on the
plains, stock impacts may have been higher, and this community is mostly in poor condition. Condition is
also related to available soil moisture which decreases farther from the creeks’ sources and major
catchments in the hills.

82
 Most frequently occurring species in the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. 82 2 1 3 2 1

Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 72 4 4
+* Sisymbrium erysimoides 63 3 2 2
Rhagodia spinescens 54 3 3
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 54 1 4 1
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 45 3 1 1
Malvastrum americanum 45 2 3
Melaleuca glomerata 45 4 1
+* Centaurea melitensis 45 3 1 1
Acacia salicina 36 2 2
+* Carrichtera annua 36 1 1 1 1
+* Sonchus oleraceus 36 3 1

Figure 48
Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland
Site MIN11201. Open forest. Eucalyptus camaldulensis over Sisymbrium erysimoides and Medicago
polymorpha

83
Dodonaea viscosa spp. angustissima Open shrubland

Floristic Group Nineteen: 16 members

Vegetation Structure:
A tall shrubland varying from open, to closed. Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima (Sticky hopbush) is
the principal dominant species, with Eremophila sturtii (Turpentine), Casuarina pauper (Black oak) and
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris also locally dominant. The understorey is composed of low chenopod
shrubs.

Distribution:
The sites recorded during this survey are mostly at the north-eastern
edge of the plains between the southern edge of Lake Frome and the
New South Wales border. A few sites are also located at the edge of
the dunefields at the north-western corner of Lake Frome.

Most frequently occurring species:

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima
Atriplex limbata
Eremophila sturtii
Maireana pyramidata
Sclerolaena diacantha

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN11201, CTB03101, FRO01401, LCH05201, LCH12201,
MUL03301, MUL06401, PAR05201, PAS11201

Description:
This community may be a reflection of heavy grazing pressure around watering points where it is
sometimes very dense in conjunction with other “woody weeds”. However it is also found in less
disturbed areas of paddocks, generally on low sandy rises, and appears to be a naturally occurring
community. D. viscosa seed production is prolific and the well-drained sandy rises provide an
opportunistic seedbed with little competition for this species as well as the coloniser Eremophila sturtii.
Disturbance probably allows it to spread into adjoining communities. It is confined to low dunesand rises,
and may be a successional phase associated with the establishment or denudation of the taller dunes.

Vegetation Condition:
The condition of the overstorey is generally reasonable due to the relatively low palatability of the shrubs,
but the ground layer is often sparse and highly disturbed by stock which easily break up the surface crust of
the structureless sands.

84
 Most frequently occurring species in the Dodonaea viscosa spp. angustissima Open shrubland
community, with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima 100 3 3 6 4

Atriplex limbata 43 7
Enneapogon avenaceus 37 4 2
Maireana astrotricha 37 3 3
Maireana pyramidata 37 4 2
+ Salsola kali 37 5 1
Sclerolaena diacantha 37 5 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 37 1 5
Eremophila sturtii 37 5 1
Rhagodia spinescens 37 5 1
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 31 4 1
+ Rhodanthe moschata 31 4 1
Sclerolaena decurrens 31 4 1
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris 31 3 2

Figure 49
Dodonaea viscosa spp. angustissima Open shrubland
Site PAR05201. Tall shrubland. Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima over Senna artemisioides ssp.
petiolaris, Eremophila duttonii and Eragrostis eriopoda.

85
Acacia aneura Very open low woodland

Floristic Group Twenty: 12 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a very low woodland, or a very low open woodland dominated by Acacia aneura
(Mulga) or occasionally Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens. The understorey is open and mainly
comprised of annual grasses and herbs. The introduced species Brassica tournefortii (Long fruited wild
turnip) and Schismus barbatus (Arabian grass) are often prominent.

Distribution:
This community is found on the southern edge of the north-eastern
dunefields in the swales, or further south, scattered throughout the
southern half of the study area, occurring either on the very low
remnant dunes and in the swales, or on sandy plains.

Most frequently occurring species:

Tetragonia eremaea
Acacia aneura
Alectryon oleifolius
Brassica tournefortii
Schismus barbatus

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CUR09201, CUR14301, KAL04301, KAL13301, KOO11201,
LCH01101, LCH02101, LCH06301, REA10201, THU10201

Description:
The overstorey species often take a shrub habit, and occasionally
form a dense thicket. In the southern portion of the area adjacent to the Olary Spur this community is often
found growing along the creeklines. In these instances, there is a high proportion of introduced species in
the understorey.

Vegetation Condition:
The understorey is often depleted through grazing pressure in the watercourses with which it is associated
in the south. Stock movement particularly in the cattle country has broken up the surface crust of the light
soil, leaving many areas bare and consequently subject to introduced species invasion.

86
 Most frequently occurring species in the Acacia aneura Very open low woodland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 91 5 5 1
Acacia aneura var. 83 1 9
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens 50 2 3 1
+* Brassica tournefortii 50 3 2 1
+ Rhodanthe moschata 50 4 2
+ Salsola kali 50 5 1
+* Schismus barbatus 50 2 3 1
+ Calotis hispidula 41 2 3
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 41 3 2
Maireana pyramidata 41 4 1
+ Omphalolappula concava 41 4 1
Rhagodia spinescens 41 3 2
+ Rhodanthe floribunda 41 2 3
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 41 1 3 1
Amyema maidenii ssp. maidenii 33 3 1
Dissocarpus paradoxus 33 1 3
Enneapogon avenaceus 33 1 2 1
+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 33 2 1 1
Zygophyllum ammophilum 33 2 2

Figure 50
Acacia aneura Very open low woodland
Site LCH01101. Very low woodland. Acacia aneura with Casuarina pauper emergent over Salsola kali
and Brassica tournefortii.

87
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland

Floristic Group Twenty-one: 31 members

Vegetation Structure:
This is very low woodland, to very low open woodland where the dominant overstorey species is Acacia
aneura (Mulga). The understorey varies from dense shrubs, to very open herbs and grasses depending on
the grazing pressure which has occurred at the site.

Distribution:
This community is confined to rocky hills in the Olary Spur and
eastern Flinders Ranges in the south and south-west of the study
area.

Most frequently occurring species:

Acacia aneura
Ptilotus obovatus
Sida petrophila
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum
Cheilanthes lasiophylla
Eremophila freelingii
Acacia tetragonophylla
Enchylaena tomentosa

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CUR15301, KAL12501, MIN07101, MIN10201, OLA01401,
OLA02101, OLA04101, OLA05101, OLA05301, OLA05501,
OLA10601, REA01101, REA03501, REA07401, REA10301,
WIL01201, WIL03401, WIL06101, WIL06401, WIL08201, WIL09101, WIL09201, WIN03201,
WIN09201, WIN11101

Description:
In many parts of this community the Mulga is dying off without recruitment, and only dead stumps and
trunks remain of what was moderately dense woodland. Mulga seedlings are amongst the most palatable
of all the available fodder in this community for goats, rabbits, sheep and kangaroos. This preferential
grazing pressure over time has brought about a dominance of Eremophila freelingii, Dodonaea lobulata,
and in severe cases Sida petrophila and Stipa spp. The underlying soil is loamy, but usually very shallow
and high levels of surface stone protect the surface crust. There is widespread visible evidence that goat
impact is high, but recent rabbit and goat control measures in parts of the Olary Spur may allow some
regeneration if low populations are maintained in the long term.

Vegetation Condition:
Where this community occurs in relatively small patches on outcrops, or isolated low hills, and is easily
accessible from the surrounding plains, it has been heavily impacted by grazing. In the body of the Olary
Spur where access by domestic stock is more difficult in the rugged terrain, examples of this community
with higher diversity and better ground cover are present, however goats have had a significant impact.

88
 Most frequently occurring species in the Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open
low woodland community, with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 93 9 19 1

+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 87 9 16 2
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum 74 14 8 1
Sida petrophila 67 3 14 3 1
Acacia aneura var. 64 8 8 3 1
Cheilanthes lasiophylla 61 10 9
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 58 14 4
Acacia tetragonophylla 54 11 5 1
+ Calotis hispidula 54 7 10
+ Brachycome lineariloba 51 8 8
+* Sisymbrium erysimoides 48 4 10 1
Abutilon fraseri 45 11 3
+* Echium plantagineum 45 10 4
Eremophila freelingii 45 6 6 2
+* Erodium cicutarium 45 7 7
+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 45 4 9 1
Cymbopogon ambiguus 42 10 3
+ Rhodanthe moschata 42 3 10
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 42 13
Dodonaea lobulata 38 5 5 2
Maireana pyramidata 38 8 3 1
Stipa scabra group 38 7 5
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 35 4 4 3
Solanum petrophilum 35 11
+ Daucus glochidiatus 32 4 6
Dissocarpus paradoxus 32 7 2 1
+ Lepidium oxytrichum 32 8 2
+ Oxalis perennans 32 7 3
+ Rhodanthe microglossa 32 3 7

89
Figure 51
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland
Site WIL09101. Low grass. Sida petrophila with Acacia victoriae emergent over Sclerolaena
obliquicuspis, Enneapogon cylindricus and E. nigricans

Figure 52
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland
Site OLA01401. Very low woodland. Acacia aneura and A. tetragonophylla over Sida petrophila,
Ptilotus obovatus and Solanum petrophilum.

90
Casuarina pauper Low woodland

Floristic Group Twenty-two: 30 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community ranges in structure from an open forest to a low open woodland. It is dominated by
Casuarina pauper (Black oak), and Alectryon oleifolius (Bullock bush) is also common in the overstorey.
The understorey varies, ranging from dense chenopods to virtually bare ground. Atriplex vesicaria
(Bladder saltbush), Enchylaena tomentosa (Ruby saltbush) and Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny saltbush) are
often prominent.

Distribution:
Casuarina pauper is widespread in the study area, except for the
hilly portions of the Olary Spur. Although widespread, these
groves are particularly characteristic of the central plains south
of Lake Frome, and of the southern edge of the dunefields close
to the New South Wales border.

Most frequently occurring species:

Casuarina pauper
Enchylaena tomentosa
Alectryon oleifolius
Rhagodia spinescens
Atriplex vesicaria
Atriplex stipitata

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN06101, BEN11301, CUR03101, KAL01301,
LCH02201, LCH06201, LCH09101, LCH10201, LCH11301,
MUL06101, PAS15101, WIL06301, WIL09601

Description:
This community becomes floristically distinct where stands greater than about 0.5 hectare occur. These
woodlands form a mosaic on the plains north of the Olary Spur with the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
astrotricha Low open shrubland and Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland communities. The
community is also found further north along the New South Wales border where it is growing as a mosaic
in the Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland of the northern dune fields. It is also
widespread in the central-eastern region in combination with the Gunniopsis quadrifida Low open
shrubland community. On some very rocky footslope sites in the Bibliando area (outlier of the Flinders
Ranges) it forms monospecific stands over a thick layer of quartzite scree. Although this is a significant
community by virtue of its wide range, most occurrences are unmappable because of their small size, and
are mapped only as mosaics with other communities. Where the stands of Black oak are smaller than about
0.5 hectare, the surrounding community forms an understorey, and the Black oaks have the status of
emergents in this other community.

Vegetation Condition:
The condition of this vegetation is variable. In sheep grazing areas the understorey is highly depleted near
creeks and watering points, but further from water, the condition often improves. In the cattle areas, the
soil surface is compacted and loosened and plant diversity low because the cattle use these groves for
shelter. Kangaroos also use them for shelter, and considerable damage is often visible under groves of
trees on the open plains, where these animals are abundant.

91
 Most frequently occurring species in the Casuarina pauper Low woodland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Casuarina pauper 96 3 10 11 4 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 70 8 2 11
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 66 4 1 15
+* Schismus barbatus 60 3 15
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens 53 16
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 46 5 5 4
Rhagodia spinescens 46 8 5 1
+ Salsola kali 43 10 2 1
Maireana pyramidata 40 7 3 2
+ Rhodanthe moschata 40 7 5
+ Calotis hispidula 36 8 3
Atriplex stipitata 33 7 2 1
Maireana astrotricha 33 3 4 3
+ Bulbine semibarbata 30 7 2

Figure 53
Casuarina pauper Low woodlands
Site LCH10201. Low open forest. Casuarina pauper over Dissocarpus paradoxus and Enchylaena
tomentosa.

92
Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland

Floristic Group Twenty-three: 13 members

Vegetation Structure:
A tall open shrubland dominated by Acacia ligulata (Umbrella bush). Callitris glaucophylla (Native pine), Casuarina
pauper (Black oak) and Alectryon oleifolius (Bullock bush) are present as emergents and sometimes form dense stands. The
understorey is usually sparse tussock grasses and annual herbs.

Distribution:
This community is confined to the crests and flanks of sand
dunes in the north-east corner of the study area. It extends
south-west to the southern shores of Lake Frome. Minor
occurrences are also found around Caldina Creek on Wooltana
in low dunes overlying the Flinders Ranges outwash plains.

Most frequently occurring species:

Acacia ligulata
Senecio lautus
Brassica tournefortii
Polycalymma stuartii

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN01101, CNB04201, CNB06401, CNE02101,
CNE08101, CNE08401, CNE09101, CNE11201, CTB10101,
LCH03101, THU06201

Description:
The ground layer plants of this community are mostly ephemerals and may be very dense (the daisies in particular) after
rain. The emergent species Casuarina pauper and Callitris glaucophylla become less common in the western half of the
dunefields and are not present in dunes along the eastern shores of Lake Frome. An ephemeral flush of Salsola kali occurs
after rains in the dunefields on the north-east margin of Lake Frome.

This dunefield was mapped by Specht (1972) as being dominated by Zygochloa paradoxa (Sandhill canegrass). This survey
found no trace of this latter species, except for very isolated occurrences close to the south-west margins of Lake Frome.
Acacia ligulata was found to be almost ubiquitous throughout the dunes. In the southern extremities of this community’s
range, and on the plains west of Lake Frome, the Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima Open shrubland community
sometimes incorporates patches of Acacia ligulata.

Vegetation Condition:
Many of the ground layer plants are ephemerals and were not apparent during the survey because of very low rainfall in the
preceeding five years. However in a few places where recent rainfall had occurred species diversity was high. This
suggests that the vegetation condition may be reasonable. Disturbance is severe near watering points. High rabbit numbers
in some districts have adversely affected the botanical diversity.

93
 Most frequently occurring species in the Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland community, with the frequency of each
cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Acacia ligulata 100 3 4 5 1

+* Brassica tournefortii 92 1 8 3
+ Salsola kali 92 3 9
+ Polycalymma stuartii 84 3 8
+* Schismus barbatus 61 2 6
Casuarina pauper 38 1 4
Senecio lautus 38 5
Zygophyllum ammophilum 38 5
+ Blennodia pterosperma 30 2 2
+ Bulbine semibarbata 30 2 2
+ Euphorbia drummondii 30 3 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 30 3 1
Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima 30 3 1

Figure 54
Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland
Site CNE09101. Tall open shrubland. Acacia ligulata over Brassica tournefortii, Polycalymma stuartii, Aristida holathera,
Enneapogon cylindricus and Eragrostis sp.

94
Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland

Floristic Group Twenty-four: 16 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is very variable and ranges from very low open woodland to very open herbland. Very open grassland is
also present. There are usually no significant middle level shrubs. Acacia aneura (Mulga) is spread throughout this
community although it is often so sparse that it has not been recorded at some of the survey sites. Enneapogon avenaceus
(Bottlewashers) and Salsola kali (Roly-poly) are common in the understorey. Annual daisies and saltbushes are also
common.

Distribution:
The community is closely associated with the dune system in the
north east of the study area where it covers the great majority of
the inter-dune swales. It is also widespread along the eastern
shores of Lake Frome, and south of the dunefields where the
dunes have been removed by wind action and the surface has
become one vast swale in vegetation terms.

Most frequently occurring species:

Salsola kali
Enneapogon avenaceus
Acacia aneura
Brassica tournefortii

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN05201, BEN06201, CNB06101, CNB11201,
CNE08501, CNE09301, CNE11101, CTB02201, CTB06201,
CTB09201, LCH04201, THU09101, THU09210, THU11101

Description:
This is the main community between the eastern shore of Lake Frome and the start of the dune system. Here the Acacia
aneura is very sparsely, although evenly distributed and the herb layer is prominent. South of the dunefields and nearer to
the New South Wales border, the Acacia aneura forms a denser overstorey with a tussock grass ground layer. In the swales,
the community is variable and may variously take the form of Acacia aneura woodland, chenopod shrubland, or herbfield,
along a single swale.

Vegetation Condition:
Weed invasion of this community is often very heavy. Cattle cause considerable damage near watering points, and also
along the adjacent swales by using them as pathways. Stocking levels are reasonably low within the dune system and more
diverse and intact examples of this vegetation type remain at a distance from watering points. Rabbit impacts are
considerable in the areas where their numbers are high.

95
 Most frequently occurring species in the Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

+* Brassica tournefortii 87 7 3 4
+ Salsola kali 75 7 4 1
+ Atriplex holocarpa 62 8 1 1
+ Bulbine semibarbata 62 4 5 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 62 1 9
+* Schismus barbatus 62 2 5 3
+ Gnephosis eriocarpa 50 2 3 3
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 50 5 3
+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 43 5 2
Senecio lautus 43 3 3 1
+ Polycalymma stuartii 37 2 4
Acacia aneura var. 31 3 2
+ Craspedia pleiocephala 31 2 3
Zygophyllum ammophilum 31 4 1
+ Harmsiodoxa brevipes var. 31 5

Figure 55
Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland
Site CNE09301. Tussock grassland. Emergent Acacia aneura over Enneapogon cylindricus, Enneapogon sp., Eragrostis
sp. and Gnephosis eriocarpa.

96
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Twenty-five: 153 members

Vegetation Structure:
The structure varies from a low shrubland to a low very open shrubland, and is dominated by Maireana astrotricha (Low
bluebush). Other chenopods are also present. Sclerolaena diacantha (Two-spined copperburr) and S. obliquicuspis
(Limestone copperburr) are prominent also. Small groves of
Casuarina pauper are scattered throughout the community.

Distribution:
Although scattered throughout the survey area, the principal
occurrence of this community is north of the Atriplex vesicaria /
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community. The
sites are concentrated on the plains south of Lake Frome on the
Curnamona mapsheet and along the New South Wales border
on the Lake Charles mapsheet.

Most frequently occurring species:

Maireana astrotricha
Enneapogon avenaceus
Maireana pyramidata
Sclerolaena diacantha
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Atriplex vesicaria

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNB01101, CNB11101, CUR01201, CUR04101,
CUR07101, FRO02201, FRO03201, KAL01201, LCH01201, PAS01201, PAS06401, PAS11101, REA01501,
REA02101, REA02201, REA02301, REA02401, REA04101, REA04201, REA09101, REA09201, REA10101,
THU04101, THU06101, WIL02101, WIL03101, WIL08101

Description:
This is one of the most important sheep grazing communities in the North-eastern Pastoral district. It differs from the
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community in the Sclerolaena species present, and the
overall dominance of A. vesicaria, though these communities do overlap floristically. The Maireana astrotricha Low open
shrubland occur more on the red duplex soils than the sandier soil preferred by the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
astrotricha Low open shrubland community. Casuarina pauper is scattered throughout this community, usually as an
emergent, with the surrounding plains community forming an understorey to it, but where the groves exceed about 0.5
hectare, the understorey becomes that of the Casuarina pauper Low woodland community. Where the shrub layer has
become depleted, Sclerolaena spp. and grasses begin to dominate, and these areas have been mapped as a mosaic with the
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland community. A major fire scar exists south of Curnamona HS where
the Bluebush community has been converted to the “pure” Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland. Patches
of the Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland are also mosaiced with this community.

Vegetation Condition:
Historically, most of this vegetation type has been heavily and continuously grazed, and is highly altered in some areas,
particularly on the plains south of Lake Frome, where Sclerolaena spp. tend to dominate. In the Koonamore / Mt Victor
area, recent invasions of Eremophila sturtii and the associated “woody weeds”, particularly in slightly sandy areas, are seen
by pastoralists as an indication of severe preferential grazing pressure. Condition, even within a paddock is quite variable,
and clearly related to distance from water points and proximity to southern fencelines.

97
 Most frequently occurring species in the Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community, with the frequency of
each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Maireana astrotricha 86 26 47 57 2
Enneapogon avenaceus 72 28 44 39
Maireana pyramidata 54 56 15 12
Sclerolaena diacantha 52 42 22 17
Rhagodia spinescens 50 73 5
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 45 38 28 4
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 45 54 14 1
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 40 28 22 12
+ Aristida contorta 39 34 16 10
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 37 31 24 2
Sclerolaena decurrens 35 20 24 11
Atriplex limbata 35 43 11

Figure 56
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland
Site KAL01201. Low open shrubland. Maireana astrotricha and Atriplex vesicaria over Rhodanthe floribunda and
Gnephosis arachnoidea.

98
Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Twenty-eight: 73 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a shrubland, ranging from tall, to low and open. It is dominated by Maireana pyramidata (Blackbush).
In some locations it is represented by mono-specific stands of M. pyramidata, and in other instances it may have shrubs of
Dodonaea, Senna, Eremophila or Acacia present. Introduced
herbs and grasses are prominent in the understorey.

Distribution:
This community is widely distributed south of Lake Frome,
where it grows in drainage lines, and on valley floors in the
Olary Spur. In the southern third of the survey area, where
stocking pressures have been quite high historically, this
community has replaced other more palatable chenopods.

Most frequently occurring species:

Maireana pyramidata
Rhagodia spinescens
Enneapogon avenaceus
Acacia victoriae
Tetragonia eremaea
Atriplex vesicaria
Maireana astrotrichaNorth Olary Plains Survey Sites:
FRO02301, KAL09101, KOO02101, KOO14101,
KOO33101, KOO41101, OLA01201, OLA01501,
OLA05401, OLA12201, PAR03301, PAS06101, PAS13101,
REA11101, REA11301, WIL01101, WIL02501, WIN03301, WIN12201, WIN12301Description:This community is
often growing in complex mosaics with the others associated with waterways; the Acacia victoriae Very open shrubland;
the Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland; and the Eucalyptus camaldulensis Woodland. It is the principal
community covering the valley floors within the hills of the Olary Spur. There is considerable evidence to suggest that this
community is an indicator of preferential grazing pressure, because low densities of the more palatable chenopod species are
often present, and many introduced species occur within this vegetation type. Acacia carnei, listed as a rare species found in
the study area, is also often associated with this community.Vegetation Condition:Because this community grows in water
courses, alluvial flood plains and valley floors where stock activity is focussed, the level of disturbance is relatively high. It
is also found where other chenopod communities have been heavily grazed in the past and therefore in some cases is an
indicator community of high disturbance. The next stage in this disturbance continuum is where Nitraria billardierei also
colonises and all palatable chenopods disappear. There are numerous examples where this is the case, from Willippa to
areas south of the Barrier Highway.

99
Most frequently occurring species in the Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland community, with the frequency of
each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Maireana pyramidata 98 2 25 44 1
Rhagodia spinescens 72 44 8 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 67 25 17 6 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 53 15 21 3
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 52 23 9 6
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae 47 31 3 1
Maireana astrotricha 45 21 12
+ Calotis hispidula 37 11 13 3
Maireana georgei 35 22 4
+* Schismus barbatus 34 9 14 2
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 34 14 9 2
Sclerolaena lanicuspis 32 19 5
Eremophila sturtii 31 21 2

Figure 57Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland

Site OLA05401. Tall open shrubland. Maireana pyramidata, Rhagodia spinescens with emergent Dodonaea viscosa ssp.
angustissima, Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens over Sclerolaena divaricata and Tetragonia eremaea.

100
Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very open shrubland

Floristic Group Twenty-nine: 63 members

Vegetation Structure:
Usually a low or low open shrubland, this community is often dominated by Maireana aphylla (Cottonbush). It contains a
number of Sclerolaena spp. in the understorey (although they may sometimes be dominant), including S. brachyptera
(Short-winged copperburr) and S. ventricosa (Salt copperburr).

Distribution:
This community is found throughout the study area on flood-out
areas and in drainage lines.

Most frequently occurring species:

Sclerolaena brachyptera
Sclerolaena ventricosa
Sclerolaena divaricata
Eragrostis setifolia
Maireana aphylla

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNB08101, KOO24101, LCH01101, PAR01101,
PAR01101, PAR01301, PAR02101, PAR03101, PAR06101,
PAS07101, REA08301, WIL02201, WIL04101, WIL04201

Description:
This community is similar in appearance to the Maireana
aphylla Low open shrubland community, but can be
distinguished from it by the presence of Sclerolaena brachyptera and Sclerolaena ventricosa. Both occur on depositional
soils composed of fine alluvium in very slight depressions. These parts stay wetter longer than the surrounding area after
rain. It is not clear why these two communities are floristically distinct, in spite of growing in similar environments in the
same region. The Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland community is confined to the northern edge of the eastern
plains, whilst this present community is more widely spread.

Vegetation Condition:
Because the wetter areas which support this community are favoured by stock, particularly for opportunistic ephemeral
growth, they are often quite degraded.

101
 Most frequently occurring species in the Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very open shrubland
community, with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Sclerolaena brachyptera 87 12 33 10
Sclerolaena ventricosa 82 9 21 21 1
Sclerolaena divaricata 68 20 21 2
Eragrostis setifolia 62 23 13 3
Maireana aphylla 57 27 7 1 1
Atriplex vesicaria 55 21 8 5 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 55 23 12
+ Atriplex angulata 54 12 20 2
Maireana astrotricha 44 23 4 1
+ Salsola kali 38 14 10
Maireana pyramidata 36 21 2
Rhagodia spinescens 36 19 4
Astrabla pectinata 35 9 10 3
+ Atriplex lindleyi ssp. 35 17 4 1
Sida intricata 33 19 1 1
Dissocarpus biflorus var. 32 13 7
Sporobolus actinocladus 32 12 6 2
Dissocarpus paradoxus 30 13 6

Figure 58
Sclerolaena brachyptera / Maireana aphylla Low very open shrubland
Site LCH11101. Low shrubland. Maireana aphylla over Tetragonia eremaea, Atriplex holocarpa and Graminae sp..

102
Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland

Floristic Group Thirty-one: 39 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a low open, or low very open shrubland dominated by Sclerolaena divaricata (Poverty bush). In dry
seasons when the Sclerolaena spp. has died and the plants dispersed, the community may be a very open tussock grassland.
Occasionally Eragrostis australasica (Canegrass) is sparsely present when the community is growing in claypans.

Distribution:
The community occurs throughout the eastern and northern
portions of the study area.

Most frequently occurring species:

Sclerolaena divaricata

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN05401, BEN12201, BEN13101, CNB01201, CNE12401,
CTB09301, FRO02101, KAL01101, KAL10201, KAL13401,
LCH01301, LCH03201, MIN02101, MIN02201, MIN02301,
MIN02701, MIN11101, MUL01101, MUL05301,
MUL06501, MUL11101, MUL11301, MUL12101,
OLA10501, PAR05101, PAR06201, PAR09101, PAR10101,
PAS10101, REA05101, THU07101, THU11301

Description:
Mostly confined to silty clay soils and gilgais, this community is
also found in claypans and in low lying areas. It forms a mosaic with the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low
open shrubland community with the A. vesicaria on the slightly raised, sandier, better drained soils and this community in
the lower portions of the plain. It also occurs in most claypans and small lakes in the region, although in these cases it is
sometimes simply an understorey to the Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland or the Eragrostis australasica /
Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open shrubland communities. It can also be found where the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
astrotricha Low open shrubland community has been badly degraded. It often appears to be a degraded state of the
Maireana aphylla Low open shrubland and Astrebla pectinata Open grassland communities, where the more palatable
species have been depleted through grazing, or by prolonged drought conditions.

Vegetation Condition:
In areas such as pans and lakes which are unattractive to stock, this vegetation type provides a cover to hold the soil
together, though in itself it is low in perennial diversity. However the occurrences on better drained sites are probably
representative of severe previous degradation of the original communities.

103
Most frequently occurring species in the Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland community, with the frequency
of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Sclerolaena divaricata 90 3 13 17 2
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 54 9 10 2
+ Plantago drummondii 49 6 13
+ Calotis hispidula 46 11 7
+ Zygophyllum iodocarpum 46 9 9
+ Atriplex holocarpa 38 7 6 2
Dissocarpus paradoxus 38 4 11
+ Rhodanthe floribunda 38 8 7
Sclerolaena ventricosa 35 4 7 3
+ Daucus glochidiatus 33 8 5
+* Schismus barbatus 33 7 6
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 33 9 4
Maireana aphylla 30 7 3 1 1
Sclerolaena brachyptera 30 7 5

Figure 59
Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland
Site MUL11301. Low shrubland. Sclerolaena divaricata over Rhodanthe floribunda and Calotis hispidula.

104
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Thirty-two: 220 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community varies from low shrubland to low open shrubland. Atriplex vesicaria (Bladder saltbush) is present at all,
and dominant at most sites. Maireana astrotricha (Low bluebush) is widespread, as is Maireana pyramidata (Blackbush)
and Rhagodia spinescens (Spiny saltbush). Sclerolaena spp. (Copperburrs) and daisies are prominent in the understorey.
Grasses can be seasonally very common. Groves of Casuarina pauper are found spread throughout most areas of this
community, locally forming a woodland.

Distribution:
This community is found throughout the southern portion of the
study area, south of Lake Frome. It is confined to plains and
low rises, and absent from the low hills of the Olary Spur.
Extensive areas of outwash to the north of the low Olary Spur
hills have produced a distinctive pattern of bare scalds often
with a sparse cover of quartz pebbles within this community.

Most frequently occurring species:

Atriplex vesicaria
Maireana astrotricha
Enneapogon avenaceus
Sclerolaena decurrens
Sclerolaena ventricosa
Maireana pyramidata
Sclerolaena brachyptera
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Rhagodia spinescens

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN04101, BEN04201, BEN04301, BEN05301, BEN08201, BEN09101, BEN11101, BEN12401, BEN14101,
CUR15101, CUR15201, FRO01201, FRO01301, KAL04201, KAL06101, KAL08101, KAL09201, KAL13101,
KAL13201, KOO08101, KOO09101, KOO16101, KOO18101, KOO27101, KOO34101, MIN01201, MIN01401,
MIN02401, MIN02601, MIN09101, MIN09201, MIN12201, MIN12301, MUL02301, MUL03201, MUL05401,
MUL06201, MUL06301, MUL09101, MUL10101, MUL11201, OLA12101, PAS06201, PAS08101, PAS12101,
REA07301, WIL08301, WIN01301, WIN01401, WIN01501, WIN05301, WIN07101, WIN08401, WIN09101

Description:
A very important community for sheep grazing (particulary during drought) throughout South Australia, the areas of
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community between the Barrier Highway and Lake Frome
have been a focus of pastoral land use for about 150 years. This community is rich in native grasses and herbs which
provide excellent opportunistic grazing particularly with the ephemeral flush after rain. Casuarina pauper groves are
scattered throughout this community. The Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland community is interspersed where rises
and stony ground occur, particularly in the south, and it gives way to the Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland
community north of the Honeymoon area and grades into the Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community north
of Koonamore.

Vegetation Condition:
Heavy grazing to stem butts actually kills Atriplex vesicaria, but Maireana astrotricha can still regenerate from butts,
however M. astrotricha is preferred by sheep, so it is usually only in prolonged drought or extreme grazing conditions where
this botanical composition change occurs. Another botanical compositional change which is evident in some of the southern
parts of the survey area occurs when under extreme conditions, grazing pressure favours the survival of the less palatable A.
stipitata over A. vesicaria. The balance between these species is often an indication of historical extreme situations.
Though many areas have a long history of heavy grazing, there is still much of this community which is in reasonable
condition.

105
Most frequently occurring species in the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community, with
the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 100 4 50 155 10 1

Maireana astrotricha 83 51 69 62 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 56 47 55 22
Sclerolaena ventricosa 56 66 41 17
Sclerolaena brachyptera 51 65 35 11 1
Maireana pyramidata 50 87 20 3
Rhagodia spinescens 47 100 3
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 46 49 44 9
Sclerolaena decurrens 44 46 33 17
Sclerolaena lanicuspis 43 64 21 9
Dissocarpus biflorus var. 35 61 14 1
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 34 40 26 8 1
Sclerolaena divaricata 33 59 14
+ Calotis hispidula 30 23 40 4
Sclerolaena diacantha 30 44 20 2
Tripogon loliiformis 30 34 28 4

106
Figure 60
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland
Site MUL09101. Low shrubland. Atriplex vesicaria and Maireana astrotricha with emergent Casuarina pauper over
Craspedia pleiocephala, Rhodanthe floribunda, Calotis plumulifera, Tetragonia eremaea and Sclerolaena intricata.

Figure 61
Aerial view of “pure” Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland with no emergent species, north of
Manna Hill

107
Halosarcia Low open shrubland

Floristic Group Thirty-four: 4 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a low shrubland, varying from closed to very open. Halosarcia indica (Samphire) is the most common
dominant. Only a few annual species were recorded with the samphire, most commonly Atriplex holocarpa (Pop saltbush).

Distribution:
Samphires are found throughout the study area wherever highly
saline and frequently inundated conditions occur. They fringe most
saltlakes and a number of claypans. On Koonamore Station in the
south-west, this community covers some extensive depressions in the
chenopod plains communities.

Most frequently occurring species:

Halosarcia indica
Atriplex holocarpa
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp.

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN01201, BEN04401, CNB08201, KOO03101

Description:
Usually this community forms a dense, narrow fringe around the
numerous saltlakes in the area. It grows onto the salt surface and is
often flanked on the landward, less saline higher ground by the
Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland Often shrubs of Halosarcia spp. can be found scattered across the surface of the
lakes where the single shrubs form small depositional mounds. When on the salt surfaces the samphires are growing alone,
but where found on less saline clayey anaerobic soils there is usually an understorey of annual herbs present.

Vegetation Condition:
The dominance of unpalatable species in this community renders it extremely unattractive to sheep and cattle and is
probably little impacted by pastoralism, and in relatively natural condition.

108
 Most frequently occurring species in the Halosarcia Low open shrubland community, with the frequency of each cover
abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Halosarcia sp. 75 1 1 1
+ Atriplex holocarpa 75 3
Zygophyllum ammophilum 50 1 1
Senecio lautus 50 2
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 50 2
+ Brachycome lineariloba 25 1
+ Bulbine semibarbata 25 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 25 1
Gunniopsis quadrifida 25 1
Halosarcia indica ssp. 25 1
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. 25 1
Panicum decompositum var. 25 1
decompositum
+ Polycalymma stuartii 25 1
+ Rhodanthe floribunda 25 1
Sclerolaena divaricata 25 1
+ Zygophyllum howittii 25 1
Atriplex limbata 25 1
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 25 1
+* Brassica tournefortii 25 1

Figure 62
Halosarcia Low open shrubland
Site BEN01201. Very open low shrubland. Halosarcia sp.

109
Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open shrubland

Floristic Group Thirty-five: 8 members

Vegetation Structure:
Either a closed grassland dominated by Eragrostis australasica (Canegrass), or a shrubland dominated by Muehlenbeckia
spp. (Lignum). The ground layer is usually sparse and composed of ephemeral herbs and annual saltbushes.

Distribution:
This community is found throughout the study area and grows
wherever suitable swamps or claypans occur. South of the major
dunefields around the Benagerie area, depressions supprting this
community are common.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eragrostis australasica
Tetragonia eremaea
Sclerolaena divaricata
Calotis hispidula

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN08101, CNE09201, CTB06101, KAL01401, KOO15101,
MIN02501, PAS15301

Description:
Most examples are spatially quite small, rarely exceeding 1-2 hectares. This community is typically found at the centers of
non-saline claypans and depressions with the Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland community growing
around the edges. The Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland may also fringe the edges of this community.

Vegetation Condition:
In the north, cattle grazing damage is significant, and usually considerable trampling damage is evident. The sites in the
sheep grazing districts, however are in better condition possibly because of the low palatability to sheep of the species
present.

110
Most frequently occurring species in the Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open shrubland community,
with the frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 75 3 2 1
+ Calotis hispidula 50 1 3
Sclerolaena divaricata 50 2 1 1
Eragrostis australasica 50 2 2
+ Salsola kali 50 4
+ Atriplex pseudocampanulata 37 1 1 1
+ Atriplex holocarpa 37 2 1
+ Daucus glochidiatus 37 2 1
+ Brachycome lineariloba 25 1 1
Dissocarpus biflorus var. 25 1 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 25 1 1
Eragrostis eriopoda 25 1 1
+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 25 2
Maireana aphylla 25 1 1
+* Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha 25 1 1
Muehlenbeckia florulenta 25 1 1
+ Plantago drummondii 25 1 1
+* Schismus barbatus 25 2
Senecio lautus 25 1 1
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. 25 2
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa 25 2
Rhagodia spinescens 25 2
Sclerolaena intricata 25 2
+ Teucrium racemosum 25 2

Figure 63
Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta Open shrubland
Site KAL01401. Tall Grassland. Eragrostis australasica over Sclerolaena divaricata and Dissocarpus biflorus.

111
Cyperus laevigatus Sedgeland

Floristic Group Thirty-six: 2 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is a closed sedgeland dominated by Cyperus laevigatus (Boredrain sedge) or Typha domingensis
(Bullrush). Tamarix aphylla (Athel pine) is prominent as an emergent.

Distribution:
The community is restricted to the Coonee Creek and associated
lakes and bore-drains in the far north-east of the study area.

Most frequently occurring species:

Cyperus laevigatus

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNE03101, CNE08301

Description:
This community grows densely where bore water is permanantly
flowing in the Coonee Creek. In other areas it is growing in small
sparse patches. The species diversity is probably greater than the two
survey sites included here suggest. The introduced species Tamarix
aphylla is growing all the way along the creek system from the New
South Wales border to its end at Rotten Swamp, and in a few places
forms dense groves.

Vegetation Condition:
Cattle using the bore water where it runs in Coonee Creek have completely destroyed all vegetation on the creek banks. The
sedgeland is confined to the deeper pools where trampling is less severe.

112
 Most frequently occurring species in Cyperus laevigatus Sedgeland Community, with the frequency of each cover
abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Cyperus laevigatus 100 1 1

+ Atriplex holocarpa 50 1
Typha domingensis 50 1 1
Bolboschoenus caldwellii 50 1
Tamarix aphylla 50 1

Figure 64
Cyperus laevigatus Sedgeland
Site CNE03101. Sedgeland. Typha domingensis with emergent Tamarix aphylla over Cyperus laevigatus, Bolboschoenus
caldwellii and Juncus sp.

113
Rhodanthe floribunda Herbland

Floristic Group Thirty-seven: 3 members

Vegetation Structure:
An open, to very open herbfield dominated by Rhodanthe floribunda (white sunray). Salsola kali (roly-poly) and Teucrium
racemosum (grey germander) can be locally common after rain. After poor seasons this community may be bare soil with
only very sparse Enneapogon avenaceus (bottlewashers) tussocks present.

Distribution:
This community is found on gypsum sands on the down-wind side of
Lake Frome and the other larger lakes in the central northern portion
of the survey area. It also occurs on the islands of Lake Frome which
are gypsaceous sands.

Most frequently occurring species:

Rhodanthe floribunda
Salsola kali
Teucrium racemosum
Enneapogon avenaceus
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

BEN01301, CNB04101, REA02601

Description:
This community grows in halo-shaped crescents around the eastern
side of each salt lake. On the shores of the lakes it merges into the
Nitraria billardierei Low open shrubland. On the landward side it adjoins the Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low
open woodland community. Gunniopsis quadrifida shrubs are scattered throughout and are moderately dense on some of
the islands in Lake Frome.

Vegetation Condition:
The condition of the vegetation is highly variable in such an ephemeral community, and difficult to assess without multiple
visits. Cattle damage is visible and obvious near water points. The number of rabbit warrens is very high. Where rain had
recently fallen, ephemeral herb growth was diverse and prolific.

114
 Most frequently occurring species in the Rhodanthe floribunda Herbland community, with the frequency of each cover
abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

+ Rhodanthe floribunda 100 1 2

+ Craspedia pleiocephala 66 2
Enneapogon avenaceus 66 2
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 66 1 1
+ Stenopetalum lineare 66 2
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 66 1 1
+ Salsola kali 66 2
* Asphodelus fistulosus 33 1
+ Bulbine semibarbata 33 1
+ Calotis hispidula 33 1
+ Erodium cygnorum ssp. 33 1
+ Omphalolappula concava 33 1
+ Pimelea simplex ssp. 33 1
+ Rostraria pumila 33 1
+* Brassica tournefortii 33 1
Sclerolaena limbata 33 1
Senecio lautus 33 1
Gunniopsis quadrifida 33 1
Maireana pyramidata 33 1
+ Polycalymma stuartii 33 1
Rhagodia spinescens 33 1
Vittadinia eremaea 33 1

Figure 65
Rhodanthe floribunda Herbland
Site CNB04101. Herbs. Rhodanthe floribunda, Craspedia pleiocephala, Brassica tournefortii.

115
Figure 66
Unstable sand drifts on the margins of some of the islands in Lake Frome covering the sparse Nitraria billardierei.

Figure 67
Deep consolidated gypseous sediments on the larger Lake Frome islands support Gunniopsis quadrifida and Maireana
pyramidata.

116
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland

Floristic Group Thirty-eight: 11 members

Vegetation Structure:
This community is either open low shrubland dominated by Sclerolaena obliquicuspis (Limestone copperburr), or herbfield
dominated by various introduced species including Asphodelus fistulosus (Onion weed) and Carrichtera annua (Ward’s
weed).

Distribution:
Recorded mainly in the south-western part of the study area.
Some of the mapped occurrences are on perpetual lease land
currently managed for pastoral use, but some of which may have
been cropped last century. Wherever it occurs it usually
represents many years of continuous, heavy grazing.

Most frequently occurring species:

Enneapogon avenaceus
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis
Calotis hispidula
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

CNB07101, KOO01101, KOO02201, KOO30101,
KOO40101, WIN05101

Description:
This herbfield community appears to have been created by continuous heavy grazing by stock and rabbits, and exacerbated
by fire in some cases. One mapped area south of Curnamona Homestead is a fire scar in the Maireana astrotricha Low
open shrubland community where the dominant shrubs have been almost entirely removed, the intensity of the fire
apparently sufficient to destroy the viability of the seed store in the soil.

Vegetation Condition:
Generally very low plant diversity and dominated by unpalatable species, the presence of this vegetation type represents a
degraded environment.

117
 Most frequently occurring species in the Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland community, with the
frequency of each cover abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Enneapogon avenaceus 73 2 5 1
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis 64 1 3 3
+ Calotis hispidula 45 3 2
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 45 3 1 1
+ Rhodanthe pygmaea 45 4 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 45 1 4
+* Schismus barbatus 36 1 3
* Asphodelus fistulosus 36 1 2 1
+* Carrichtera annua 36 1 1 1 1
Lotus cruentus 36 4
+ Omphalolappula concava 36 2 2

Figure 68
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis Low very open shrubland
Site KOO01101. Herbs. Sclerolaena obliquicuspis and Carrichtera annua over Enneapogon avenaceus

118
Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee

Floristic Group Thirty-nine: 3 members

Vegetation Structure:
Ranging from very open woodland to tall sparse shrubland, this is a mallee community dominated by Eucalyptus gillii
(Curly mallee). The understorey is very sparse and is comprised of sparse small shrubs, some grasses and Triodia sp.
(Porcupine grass) hummocks.

Distribution:
This community occurs in discrete areas in the Flinders Ranges,
where it grows on rocky hillslopes and rises in association with
only certain lithological types. In this survey it is recorded only
in the Bibliando area at the western edge of the study area in an
outlier of the Ranges, and in the footslopes of Mount Frome.

Most frequently occurring species:

Eucalyptus gillii
Triodia scariosa ssp. scariosa
Senna artemisioides ssp.

North Olary Plains Survey Sites:

REA01301, WIL06201, WIL09501

Description:
This community is associated particularly with the Balcanoona
Formation limestones and shales in the northern Flinders
Ranges. It occurs in bands in the hilly areas corresponding with
particular geological formations and shallow calcareous soils. In the Bibliando Dome area it is found on the hillsides and
valley floors, interspersed with areas of Casuarina pauper Low woodland, Eucalyptus socialis Open tree mallee, and the
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland communities. The understorey shrub layer is
highly variable and contains many of the species from these adjacent communities.

Vegetation Condition:
These areas have been only lightly grazed by sheep. However large numbers of feral goats have inhabited the rocky hills
supporting this community and have probably had a significant impact particularly on the understorey composition and the
regeneration of overstorey species.

119
Most frequently occurring species in the Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee community, with the frequency of each cover
abundance score.

Species % Cover/Abundance
+ is an annual or seasonally non-detectable species Occur. T 1 2 3 4 5

Eucalyptus gillii 100 3

Triodia irritans complex 67 1 1
+ Calotis hispidula 67 2
Danthonia caespitosa 67 2
Stipa scabra group 67 2
Casuarina pauper 33 1
Eremophila scoparia 33 1
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides 33 1
Eucalyptus gracilis 33 1
Eucalyptus largiflorens 33 1
+ Lemooria burkittii 33 1
Senna artemisioides nothossp. coriacea 33 1
Acacia calamifolia 33 1
Acacia oswaldii 33 1
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens 33 1
Atriplex velutinella 33 1
Cassinia laevis 33 1
Dissocarpus paradoxus 33 1
Enneapogon avenaceus 33 1
Eremophila glabra 33 1
+ Euphorbia drummondii 33 1
+ Gnephosis arachnoidea 33 1
+ Goodenia fascicularis 33 1
+ Isoetopsis graminifolia 33 1
Maireana excavata 33 1
Maireana pentatropis 33 1
Maireana turbinata 33 1
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. 33 1
+ Pimelea simplex ssp. 33 1
+ Portulaca oleracea 33 1
Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus 33 1
+ Rhodanthe pygmaea 33 1
+ Salsola kali 33 1
Sclerolaena lanicuspis 33 1
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris 33 1
Sida petrophila 33 1
Solanum ellipticum/quadriloculatum 33 1
Solanum sturtianum 33 1
+ Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides 33 1
Zygophyllum crenatum 33 1
+ Zygophyllum iodocarpum 33 1
Zygophyllum prismatothecum 33 1

120
Figure 69
Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee
Site WIL06201. Open Tree Mallee. Eucalyptus gillii, Myoporum platycarpum ssp., Casuarina pauper over Triodia
scariosa ssp. scariosa and Eriochiton sclerolaenoides

Figure 70
Looking SSW from Barratta Mines area in the Bibliando Dome over the mosaic of Eucalyptus gillii Open tree mallee and
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland communities.

121
CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS Condocarpus pyramidalis Rated nationally
vulnerable.
Significant Species
This species was only encountered once during the
A number of species recorded during this survey have
survey. Two plants were included in a survey site in the
conservation significance. Brief notes about their
valley floor within the northern part of the Bibliando
occurrences are given here. Because no conservation
Dome approximately ten kilometres north of Bibliando
ratings have been generated for plants in the regions of
homestead. This geological dome structure is a part of
South Australia outside of the agricultural districts, local
the Flinders Ranges and the plant communities here are
conservation significance of species within the study area
also those of the Flinders Ranges. The low trees are
cannot be listed.
growing in a sparse woodland of the Acacia aneura /
Acacia carnei. Rated nationally vulnerable. Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low
woodland community where it meets the valley floor.
This species was recorded at four survey sites. It was
They were fruiting prolifically, but no young plants were
also encountered at a large number of further locations
visible.
during the field checking of the draft vegetation map.
Where possible these locations were recorded and will be Maireana pentagona Rated rare in South
published separately. Australia.
It mostly grows in the Maireana pyramidata Low open Previously only recorded in the Lake Eyre and Murray
shrubland community where it forms dense thickets by regions in South Australia. The five site records in this
suckering. Typically these thickets are on sandy rises and survey represent an extension of the known range of the
mounds formed by the shrubs capturing windblown sand species which links the previous regional records in
which deposits beneath them. Often the surrounding soil South Australia. Further systematic collection in the
surface is bare sand. This is partly due to the active central and eastern portions of the state may reduce its
sandy nature of the mounds the plants are on, and partly conservation rating to a less critical one.
due to severe grazing by rabbits which use the thorny
Malococera gracilis Rated uncommon in South
shrubs as shelter for warren establishment. No
Australia.
regeneration was seen, although sparse flowering and a
few seed pods were noted. On most plants inspected, the This species is endemic to South Australia. It has been
flowers had developed into large complex shaped galls recorded previously at Lake Callabonna, on the northern
instead of forming normal seed pods. boundary of the study area, and was recorded at five sites
in this survey.
Populations are scattered throughout the southern plains
district of the study area. In the south, it is growing along New Regional Records
the valley of Pine creek between Mutooroo homestead
41 of the 448 taxa recorded at survey sites during the
and Corella outstation south of Cockburn. A large
survey are new records in the Eastern Region.
population is growing near the Barrier Highway in the
vicinity of Mingary rail siding and along the adjacent This number, when included with the other three species
creek banks. It is also scattered along the drainage line of significance discussed above, is consistent with the ten
which runs south of Mulyungarie homestead toward percent of species having conservation significance
Cockburn. In this latter area it extends onto the plains in which were recorded in three previous surveys by this
the north-eastern portion of Boolcoomata Station. author (MKH) in South Australia (disused rail corridors
Further north, one site record is at the northern boundary in the Mid-North, Eucalyptus odorata woodlands in the
of Mulyungarie Station in Callitris woodland on sand agricultural districts, and native Grasslands in the
dunes. This is atypical of the normal habitat of Acacia temperate region of the state).
carnei. Near Bimbowrie Station the species is growing
Species of interest are Aristida personata which has only
along the valley floor south-east of the homested, and
been recorded once previously in South Australia (at
westwards on the flood plains south of Plumbago
Aldinga in the South Lofty Region), and Tamarix aphylla
homestead, and toward Four Brothers Homestead. South
which is not recorded as naturalised in South Australia
of Plumbago it is growing on sandy hill foot slopes on
but was found by this survey to be a seriously invasive
soils derived from the adjacent hills which support the
weed of the north-eastern drainage areas within the dune
Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila Very
system.
open low woodland community. Further west on
Curnamona station it grows on small sandy rises in the The species which represent new records are grouped into
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community. families and tabulated below (Table 6) with the number
of records during this survey appended.
Davies (1995) has set up exclosures on Wertaloona
station near the southern end of Lake Frome to study the
effects of stock and rabbit grazing on regeneration of the
species.

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Table 6 Species Recorded During the North Olary Plains Survey which were previously unrecorded in the Eastern
Botanical Region

Compositae Indigofera helmsii 1

Hyalosperma demissum 24 Swainsona oliveri 1
*Hypochaeris radicata 1 Glycine clandestina var. 8
Ixiochlamys cuneifolia 3
Leptorhynchos baileyi 2 Cyperaceae
Podolepis arachnoidea 4 Bolboschoenus caldwellii 1
Podolepis muelleri 1 Cyperus laevigatus 1
Senecio glomeratus 1
Centipeda minima 2 Geraniaceae
Gnephosis drummondii 3 Erodium cygnorum ssp. cygnorum 19

Chenopodiaceae Rubiaceae
Maireana eriantha 11 *Galium murale 1
Maireana excavata 11
Maireana pentagona 5 Campanulaceae
Maireana tomentosa ssp. urceolata 2 Wahlenbergia luteola 3
Sclerolaena holtiana 4
Sclerostegia medullosa 1 Polygonaceae
Halosarcia halacnemoides ssp. longispicata 1 *Acetosella vulgaris 5
Malacocera biflora 5
Tamaricaceae
Graminae *Tamarix aphylla 2
Stipa acrociliata 5
Stipa flavescens 1 Typhaceae
*Vulpia muralis 3 Typha domingensis 1
Aristida personata 4
*Digitaria sanguinalis 2 Cruciferae
Eriachne aristidea 1 Lepidium rotundum 1

Liliaceae Acanthaceae
Arthropodium strictum 1 Rostellularia adscendens ssp. adscendens 1
Bulbine bulbosa 1
Calostemma purpureum 1 Solanaceae
Dianella longifolia var. porracea 1 *Solanum retroflexum 1

Leguminosae

Stock Impacts Maireana astrotricha and some adventitious M. aphylla

and M. pyramidata shrubs. This latter community is the
There is no doubt that most of the plant communities in
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland community
the study area have been altered by stock grazing. The
of the present survey.
flocks moved in soon after settlement and by 1860 the
land along the Barrier Highway was under Pastoral Jessup (1969) describes the complete removal of Atriplex
Lease. By 1870 the southern half of the study area was vesicaria shrubs and their replacement by Sclerolaena
all taken up by Pastoral Leases and was completely Low very open shrubland and Enneapogon grassland in
stocked. Because the stock impacts were focussed the north-western paddock of Bimbowrie Pastoral lease,
around watering points, the alteration of the vegetation and used the “over-the-fence” contrast with Telechie,
proceeded in a patchy manner as new water points were where it was still present, as his experimental control.
established, a process still continuing today. The Sclerolaenas in this case are S. decurrens and S.
ventricosa which the present survey found normally to be
The Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland
associated with the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
community is an example of a mapped community which
astrotricha Low open shrubland community.
is the product of alteration. Osborn, Wood and Paltridge
(1932) surveyed a number of transects in Saltbush However further north-east on Kalkaroo this survey has
(Atriplex vesicaria) plains communities, one north of mapped a complex of the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana
Frome Downs homestead. It was a pristine example of astrotricha Low open shrubland community
the Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open intersecting the Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open
shrubland community then because the nearby tank was shrubland in a lobed pattern associated with soil
new and stock only recently introduced. When re- changes. In this instance A. vesicaria is present and not
surveyed forty-five years later (Fatchen, 1978) all the A. present respectively at sites as close together as 150
vesicaria had been removed leaving a sparse cover of metres, although the grazing history is identical.

123
On Koonamore at the T.G. Osborn Vegetation Reserve, authors of vegetation studies in this survey area, most
where an area of vegetation highly altered by grazing, recently Davies (1995), agree that rabbits are able to
was enclosed the regrowth of Atriplex vesicaria was prevent any regeneration of trees and shrubs by browsing
vigorous when a seed source was available and rainfall of seedlings. It is therefore possible, although unlikely,
was suitable. that rabbits have entirely removed species from some
communities. The apparent error of Wood (1937) and
It can be seen therefore that great care must be taken
Specht (1972), which is reiterated in Laut et al (1977) of
before floristic differences are explained by stock grazing
reporting the presence of Hakea leucoptera in the dune
pressure. In the examples on Bimbowrie and Kalkaroo
fields of the south Strzelecki Desert may be the result of
above, it can be seen that the indicator presence of
all recruitment potential being destroyed by rabbit
particular Sclerolaena species suggests removal of the
browsing of seedlings over a long period. The present
Atriplex vesicaria, or natural absence respectively.
survey encountered this species only occasionally on the
In the dune fields Zygochloa paradoxa has been reported plains south of the dunefield.
by a number of authors as dominant on the dune crests,
In parts of the adjacent Flinders Ranges, massive
and an Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha
reduction in rabbit populations by the Rabbit Calicivirus
shrubland growing extensively in the swales. The former
during 1995 was followed immediately by significant
species was only recorded once in the present survey and
increases in the numbers of seedlings of many species,
seems to have been mistakenly described as present by
which had previously rarely been seen. This same
other authors. However the chenopod shrubland is still
process would be expected within the plant communities
present as a trace, and is very likely to have been reduced
of the North Olary Plains if similar rabbit reduction
by grazing pressure over most of the area.
occurs.
Some floristic changes are undoubtedly caused by
Introduced Species
preferential grazing however. The increased density of
some shrub species including Eremophila sturtii and Weed distribution in the survey area is strongly patterned.
Dodonaea viscosa ssp.angustissima around tanks and The sites on the four mapsheets covering the Barrier
dams, and Maireana pyramidata on valley floors is due Highway - the four southerly sheets - contain weed
to their relative unpalatability allowing them to increase percentages higher than those further north. On the Olary
or persist at the expense of other species. mapsheet for example, the average percentage of
introduced species is approximately 20 - 25%. In
There is no doubt that grazing will reduce the
contrast on the Coonee mapsheet in the far north-eastern
regeneration of shrubs and trees. Germination events are
corner of the study area many of the sites contain no
largely controlled by specific sets of climatic parameters
weeds, and the average is about 10% of species. This
which only occur periodically, and grazing of the
north - south difference is due to two main factors. The
seedlings reduces recruitment of these species. This
annual average rainfall decreases from about 200mm at
effect is compounded in the case of relatively short-lived
the southern edge of the survey area to less than 125 mm
species which require more frequent recruitment to
near Lake Callabonna at the northern edge of the study
maintain their populations. However care must also be
area. Coupled with this is the historic, and present degree
used in assessing to contribution of grazing to changes in
of intensity of agricultural development decreasing
the structural composition of vegetation in this region.
toward the north. On Koonamore mapsheet where some
The climate is highly variable, and periods between
areas have been cropped in the past, weed levels are
specific episodes required for recruitment events may
approximately 25 - 30% of species.
exceed the normal life expectancy of particular species,
causing dramatic changes in the vegetation structure. It is The two most widespread weed species are Schismus
against this natural dynamism that grazing alterations are barbatus and Brassica tournefortii. Both are the main
occurring. weedy species of the dune fields, and are also found
elsewhere in the survey area where light soils occur.
The parts of the study area where cattle are grazed show
Schismus barbatus often forms the bulk of the ground
considerable alteration of the vegetation by soil surface
layer biomass in the Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp.
disturbance. This is significant up to 1 km of watering
Low open woodland where the Enneapogon has been
points, and under shade trees elsewhere. Most of the
destroyed by cattle trampling. Brassica tournefortii is
Eucalyptus largiflorens Low open woodland
common on loose sand on the dunes.
communities have virtually no ground-layer plants
because of trampling. The clay soils of the small lakes In the south, the two most common weeds are Asphodelus
and pans is often churned as if rotary hoed, preventing fistulosus and Carrichtera annua. Both have become
plant growth. Even in paddocks with low stocking rates, very common where cropping was attempted, and are
the watercourses have been substantially altered. also widespread on the central plains. Carrichtera annua
is more widespread and found further north as it seems to
Rabbit Impacts
tolerate lower soil moisture regimes and poorer soils.
Rabbits were established in the region by the late 1800’s
Alyssum linifolium is found throughout the chenopod
and subsequently reached plague proportions on occasion
plains communities. As it is such a small plant its
when good seasons allowed. Wood (1937) describes a
biomass is low, but the populations may be quite dense in
single pastoral lessee destroying more than one million
places.
rabbits in four months in this region in the 1920’s. Most

124
Another relatively widespread weed is Sisymbrium PASTORAL LEASE ASSESSMENT
erysimoides. This species is confined to microhabitats
Officers of the Pastoral Management Branch of the
which are shaded and retain soil moisture, and is found in
Department of Environment and Natural Resources have
the Acacia aneura / Acacia victoriae / Sida petrophila
been carrying out assessments of condition, producing
Very open low woodland community under shrubs and
paddock-based management guidelines and setting up
in rock crevices, and in river beds where the tree canopy
monitoring photo-points on all Pastoral Leases in the
cover is high.
region since 1990. They are due to be completed by
The pasture weeds such as Echium plantagineum and December 1997. The large amounts of data collected
Medicago species are common along the Barrier through this process will greatly assist the overall
Highway and in the perpetual lease area in the south-west management of this area for future productivity and
of the study area. Lycium ferocissimum was only conservation.
recorded at 6 sites, but is wide spread in the southern
third of the study area, mainly in watercourses, around
dams and in areas of high disturbance.

125
Figure 71
The Variable Groundsel, Senecio lautus, can form spectacular carpets of flowers on the slopes of sand dunes
Photo: A. Robinson

Figure 72
Prickley Knawel, Scleranthus pungens, confined to rocky hills in the area.
Photo: A. Robinson

94
Figure 73
The Low Bluebush, Maireana astrotricha can form pure stands in some parts of the survey area.
Photo: A. Robinson

Figure 74
Sturts Desert-pea, Swainsona formosa covers large areas with its spectacular displays following good rainfall.
Photo:A. Robinson

95
SATELLITE IMAGE ANALYSIS AND communities in this area are an example. The
INTERPRETATION unsupervised classification at a level of 90 classes in a
subscene, encompassed insufficient interclass variation to
When compared with conventional aerial photography,
differentiate this vegetation group. For a similar reason,
the use of Landsat TM imagery for vegetation mapping
some areas were mislabelled. An example is an area
has both advantages and disadvantages.
known to be Lignum swamp classified the same as
Some advantages are: another area in a different part of the image, known to be
sparse Mulga on hillslopes. Running the classification
• optical and spectral uniformity over an entire scene process at a finer level and producing for example, 150
covering 185 km x 185 km classes which then required accurate labelling, whilst
• ability to be geometrically rectified to conform to a potentially providing a more accurate classification, and
base map enabling separation of these groups also makes this
• ability to digitally enhance and statistically classify labelling task significantly more complex and difficult.
individual picture elements
Notwithstanding these factors, a useful level of accuracy
Some disadvantages are: was obtained for assisting in mapping at a scale of
• high level of technical expertise and sophisticated 1:250,000 in this region. Figures 75 - 82 show some of
hardware and software are required for presentation the features of this classification.
and analysis
• spatial resolution of 30m makes discerning narrow, In the dunes area of the northeast (Coonee mapsheet),
small, or heterogeneous features difficult spectral variability allowed good differentiation between
dunes and swales, so that even at a scale of 1:50,000
The final classified image produced from the (Figures 75, 76), this classification is a good reflection of
unsupervised classification and class labelling procedure reality. Variation in the wetlands area shows sedgelands
consisted of 21 classes (Figures 75, 77, 79, 81), most of being classified as Canegrass / Lignum swamp and the
which are related to the vegetation groupings described fringe of Eucalyptus largiflorens classified as Maireana
above. They are: pyramidata. At a scale of 1:250,000 however, this
• Casuarina pauper rises and flats wetland area can only sensibly be mapped as a single
vegetation unit.
• Acacia aneura / Dodonaea lobulata hills
• Acacia tetragonophylla / A. victoriae / Enneapogon The examples shown for the Paralana mapsheet area on
spp. low hills the north-west margin of Lake Frome (Figures 77-80)
• Acacia ligulata dunes highlight these factors of scale. At 1:100,000 (Figures
• Dodonaea viscosa dunes 77, 78), there are some minor classification errors such as
• Eremophila duttoni / Senna artemisioides sspp. Redgum creeks and Senna spp. shrublands on low
sandy rises escarpments not being picked out adequately. At a scale
• Acacia victoriae / Maireana pyramidata drainage of 1:250,000, the overall picture given by that
areas and run-ons classification (Figures 79, 80) is reasonably close to
• Astrebla pectinata / Maireana aphylla gilgai flats reality. The concept of a mosaic of different vegetation
• Acacia aneura / Graminae spp. open swales types being spatially mixed is also expressed here in a
• Maireana pyramidata flats and run-ons more meaningful way than is possible on polygon-based
GIS map products. The low sandy rises of Senna spp.
• Maireana astrotricha / M. pyramidata plains
and Dodonaea viscosa spread in varying densities over
• Atriplex vesicaria plains
the Maireana aphylla / Astrebla pectinata Open
• Maireana astrotricha / Atriplex vesicaria plains
grassland as portrayed in Figures 78 and 80 reflects the
• Maireana sedifolia / Atriplex vesicaria plains real situation very well.
• Sclerolaena divaricata plains
• Sclerolaena obliquicuspis / Enneapogon spp. plains In the more complex country of the low hills near Olary
• Nitraria billardierei flats and run-ons (Figures 81, 82), where the natural vegetation patterns
• Nitraria billardierei / Maireana pyramidata flats and have been significantly altered through management so
run-ons that the relationships between the geophysical
• Eragrostis australasica / Muehlenbeckia florulenta characteristics of the land and the vegetation are
swamps inconsistent, the classification accuracy is lower. Even at
ground level, mapping boundaries and assigning
• Bare ground
vegetation groupings is more difficult than further north.
• Water
Nonetheless, at 1:250,000, the big picture is close to the
Some difficulty was encountered in labelling the classes truth. Again, the mosaic portrayal at 1:100,000 (Figure
within the images due to the high variability of spectral 81) gives a good spatial indication of the vegetation
signature, even within a vegetation grouping, and also a distribution.
lack of sufficiently large areas of “pure” vegetation types
It cannot be denied that satellite imagery contains a
to provide confidence in the accuracy once it was
wealth of information about the earth’s surface, but the
extrapolated to another part of the image.
interpretation of these data is imprecise and subjective.
Consequently, some vegetation groupings, whilst being
The accuracy problems associated with using this
floristically distinct are not spectrally separable. Mallee
methodology are directly related to the quality of the

96
ground level information which is used to label the relationships are more stable than in the highly altered
spectral classes. Because the underlying soil and geology agricultural fringe, a higher level of classification
usually contribute more to the spectral signature than the accuracy may be possible. A similar vegetation mapping
very sparse arid zone vegetation, a strong reliance must project completed recently in the South Australian arid
be made on the relationships between soils / geology / zone (Copley et.al. 1995) supports this suggestion.
landform and the vegetation. These relationships vary
These classifications are a useful tool, along with
considerably from region to region and season to season,
conventional aerial photography and visual interpretation
and an intimate understanding of them is crucial to the
(which discerns patterns as well as colours) of satellite
overall accuracy of such automated classifications.
imagery to assist in mapping areas of land which cannot
Indications from this region suggest that in the pastoral / physically be surveyed at ground level.
arid zone where vegetation / landform / edaphic

97
Figure 75 Classified image of dunefields and wetlands of Coonee Creek.

94
Figure 76 Unclassified Image of dunefields and wetlands of Coonee Creek.

95
Figure 77 Classified image of drainage features and Mitchell grass / Cottonbush plains on Wooltana.

96
Figure 78 Unclassified Image of drainage features and Mitchell grass / Cottonbush plains on Wooltana.

97
Figure 79 Classified Image of north-west margin of Lake Frome.

98
Figure 80 Unclassified Image of north-west margin of Lake Frome.

99
Figure 81 Classified Image of drainage features and low hills around Olary.

100
Figure 82 Unclassified Image of drainage features and low hills around Olary.

101
102
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey
___________________________________________________________________________________

MAMMALS
by R. M. Playfair1, A. C Robinson2 and J. N. Foulkes2

INTRODUCTION opportunistic observations. There were no new records

for the area and sub-fossil material was recorded for a
No structured, comprehensive regional recording or
further 23 species, most of which are now locally extinct.
trapping of mammals has been undertaken in the North
Therefore, of the 46 native species known or thought to
Olary Plains, until 1994 when certain areas were targeted
have been in the region, since European occupation, 13
in search of rare rodents. Very little information has been
(28%) are now thought to be extinct in South Australia, 3
published on the North Olary Plains mammals.
are endangered, 3 are vulnerable and 6 are rare
South Australian Museum records from the North Olary (Appendix VII).
Plains date back to 1890, but most of these (77%) are
The total number of mammal species and records
from the last thirty years (since 1966).
recorded by quadrat and opportunistic methods during the
Figure 87 shows the distribution of the 170 South survey period is shown in Table 8. These total numbers
Australian Museum mammal records from the North are really indicative only of the relative abundances of
Olary Plains area prior to this survey. Records are these species. The recording of opportunistic sightings or
concentrated around the edges of the area near towns, captures favours some species, particularly the larger and
along main access routes. Before 1996, 29 extant more recognisable ones over others. Likewise, the
species, 8 of which were introduced, were confirmed records at quadrats include tracks, diggings and other
from the area, five locally extinct species were known recognisable sign.
from sub-fossil records and a number of others were
Red Kangaroos, House Mice, foxes and rabbits appeared
thought to have occurred historically in the area.
to be the most abundant at the survey quadrats, as these
TOTAL SPECIES animals are easily observed, and leave abundant and
readily identifiable sign.
Numerous mammal species rapidly declined or
disappeared soon after European settlement in Australia, The most abundant species recorded opportunistically
and there are very few or no confirmed location records were the Red Kangaroos, Western Grey Kangaroos
for many species in some areas. However, the range of Rabbits, and Euros. Care must also be exercised when
some of these species can be estimated from the limited interpreting these figures, because of the difficulty in
information in historical documents. As very little field recording small, cryptic or nocturnal mammals
work has been previously conducted in this area, and opportunistically. Most bat trapping was attempted at
particularly because most small mammals are nocturnal opportunistic locations as the specified survey sites were
and can usually only be recorded by trapping, some not generally suitable. Insufficient captures were made to
species may not have been recorded. Records from this get an accurate picture of bat diversity and abundance.
survey of species occurring in the study area are
The South Australian Mammal Club, on a field survey in
summarised in Table 8. The frequency is the number
August 1977 visited three sites in the north of the North
(maximum 48) of quadrats at which the species was
Olary Plains survey area. Within a 7km radius of New
recorded, and the opportunistic column is the number of
Quinyambie, the first South Australian sightings of
locations at which a species was recorded.
Macropus giganteus north of the lower SE, were
The complete list of all mammal species recorded from recorded. Three Nyctophilus geoffroyi and two Tadarida
the North Olary Plains area is presented in Appendix VII, australis were also captured and evidence of many M.
and includes those currently known to occur, as well as fuliginosus, M. rufus, echidna, cats and foxes was
species which could have occurred prior to European observed. East of Rotten Swamp, 17 Mormopterus
settlement. planiceps were found in a tree hollow, and N. geoffroyi,
Scotorepens greyii, Sminthopsis crassicaudata,
A total of 55 species from 15 families is listed in
Leggadina forresti, Mus domesticus., Notomys fuscus,
Appendix VII, of which the North Olary Plains survey
Rattus villosisimus plus rabbits, cats and foxes were
confirmed 22 extant species representing 9 families still
sighted.
living in the area (5 native and 4 introduced). 20 species
were recorded on quadrats and an additional one through

1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, P O Box 2, DAW PARK, SA 5041
2
A. C. Robinson and J. N. Foulkes, SA Department of Environment and Natural Resources, PO Box 1047, ADELAIDE, SA 5001

151
Figure 87 Distribution of the mammal records held in the SA Museum from the North Olary Plains area.
(locations of Chambers Gorge and Balcanoona Creek sub-fossil records are also shown).

152
Table 8 Mammals Recorded during the North Olary Plains survey.

SPECIES COMMON NAME Freq. Opp. Total Conservation Rating

Nat. 1 SA 1 Arid
NSW 2
Macropus rufus Red Kangaroo 20 76 96 - - -
*Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit 30 13 43 - - -
*Vulpes vulpes European Fox 22 6 28 - - -
Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo 3 20 23 - - -
*Mus domesticus House Mouse 20 1 21 - - -
Canis familiaris Dog / Dingo 11 7 18 - - -
Macropus robustus Euro 7 9 16 - - -
*Felis catus Cat 12 3 15 - - -
*Bos taurus Cattle 11 3 14 - - -
Sminthopsis crassicaudata Fat-tailed Dunnart 10 - 10 - - C
*Ovis aries Sheep 9 - 9 - - -
*Capra hircus Goat 4 4 8 - - -
Sminthopsis macroura Striped-faced Dunnart 7 - 7 - - Sp
Leggadina forresti Forrest's Mouse 5 - 5 - R S
Planigale tenuirostris Narrow-nosed Planigale 5 - 5 - U Sp
Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat - 4 4 - - -
Tachyglossus aculeatus Echidna 4 - 4 - - -
Macropus giganteus Eastern Grey Kangaroo 1 1 2 - V -
Notomys fuscus Dusky Hopping-mouse 2 - 2 V E Ex
Planigale gilesi Giles’ Planigale 1 - 1 - U Sp
*Equus caballus Horse 1 - 1 - - -
Pseudomys bolami Bolam's Mouse 1 - 1 - - R

Notes:
* Introduced species
1. National and South Australian conservation status codes:
X Extinct
E Endangered
V Vulnerable
R Rare
U Uncommon
- not listed
(From Commonwealth Endangered Species Protection Act 1992, updated by Kennedy (1992), Lee (1995),
Richards and Hall (1994). The S A status is from Kemper and Queale (1990)

2. Arid NSW conservation status codes:

C Common
S Stable and secure
Sp Sparse
R Rare
Ex Presumed extinct
- not listed
(From Dickman, 1993 and Dickman & Read, 1992)

PATN ANALYSIS With so few species, multi-variate analysis is generally

inappropriate and unnecessary as there are not enough
The initial mammal data matrix contained 187 records; 22
data to enable detection of true patterns and any trends
species at 48 quadrats. No meaningful cluster analysis is
between quadrats and species can be visually assessed
possible on a dataset this size, taking into account the
from a two-way table of species incidence by quadrat.
need to mask out all domestic ungulates (cattle, sheep and
The two-way table showed quite good patterning of the
goats) being common but irregularly distributed; bats,
species distribution despite the low abundance data.
due to non-systematic sampling, and species which are
However, it must be considered whether these can really
difficult to detect consistently (fox, cat and echidna), and
be called patterns when there is often only one species
all ubiquitous species (rabbits and kangaroos). This
found at each quadrat. Ordination of the analysis results
masking results in a data matrix of 31 records (20
was not warranted with such data.
quadrats and 7 species).

153
SPECIES OF PARTICULAR INTEREST A small marsupial which is quite widespread but
scattered across arid Australia, occurring in all mainland
Tables 8, 9 and Appendix VII include the conservation
states except Victoria. This species is adapted to open
status of all the confirmed and sub-fossil mammal species
areas, inhabiting desert plains, stony and sandy
from the North Olary Plains on an National and Statewide
grasslands, low shrublands and Acacia shrublands.
basis. Although the status of mammal species have not
yet been assessed on a regional basis, many native The Kultarr is classified as potentially vulnerable in
species would be classified as locally extinct, endangered, Australia due to its rare and scattered populations. It is
vulnerable or rare in the North Olary Plains. rare in South Australia and known to have occurred on
the peninsulas and in the western and eastern pastoral
In the notes below, the Australian conservation status is
blocks but is now found mostly in the northern areas of
from the Commonwealth Endangered Species Protection
the State. Occurrences were recorded at Kinchega
Act 1992 [which is based on the 'Australian and New
National Park in NSW 100km east of the study area (Ellis
Zealand Environment Conservation Council (ANZECC.)
and Henle, 1988).
list of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna, April, 1991'] and
updated from the action plans of Kennedy (1992) This species has not been recorded by any of the previous
(marsupials), Lee (1995) (rodents) and Richards and Hall studies in the South Olary Plains and there are no
(1994) (bats). The South Australian status is from museum specimens from the area, but it was found on
Kemper and Queale (1990). Australian current and Erudina Station 120km north of Yunta in 1988.
historical distribution comments are from the action plans Therefore, considering the habitat and known
or Strahan (1983) and Watts and Aslin (1981) and South distribution, Kultarrs are thought to have probably
Australian distributions from Kemper and Queale (1990), occurred historically in the survey area and may possibly
Reardon and Flavel (1991) and SA Museum records. still be present in the northern parts. Sub-fossil material
Ecological notes are from Reardon and Flavel (1991), containing Kultarr remains has been found at Anabama
Strahan (1983) and Watts and Aslin (1981) and reasons Hill just south of the study area, and Moro and Chambers
for decline from the action plans. Gorges, in the fringe of the Flinders Ranges, confirming
that it historically occurred in this area.
In the following lists F indicates known to have occurred
in the area through sub-fossil material found recently (ie. Yellow-footed Rock-Wallaby Petrogale xanthopus
species occurred there pre and possibly post European xanthopus
occupation). These species are listed more completely in
This distinctly coloured rock-wallaby occurs only in three
Table 9.
areas in South Australia: the Flinders Ranges (the most
Extinct in Australia extensive populations), the Gawler Ranges and the Olary
Hills (north of the Barrier Highway). The same
Crescent Nailtail Wallaby Onychogalea lunata F
subspecies also occurs in one area in western NSW. The
Lesser Stick-nest Rat Leporillus apicalis F
range of this subspecies has declined by greater than 50%
Long-tailed Hopping-mouse Notomys longicaudatus F and continues to be threatened by competition with goats
Gould's Mouse Pseudomys gouldii F and rabbits and predation by foxes.
Extinct in South Australia (nationally threatened) In the Olary Hills area rock-wallabies are known
Golden Bandicoot Isoodon auratus (E) F historically from south of the Barrier Highway. Skeletal
Western Quoll Dasyurus geoffroii (E) F remains have been found at Anabama Hill where there
Red-tailed Phascogale Phascogale calura (E) F were reported sightings up to 1960. Extensive study of
Bilby Macrotis lagotis (V) F extant populations on Bimbowrie, north of the highway
have been under way since 1992, including studies on the
Endangered or Vulnerable in Australia effect of removing fox predation.
Plains Rat Pseudomys australis F Sites were not specifically selected during this survey to
Endangered or Vulnerable in South Australia record the presence of Yellow-footed Rock-Wallabies,
because all the populations in the area are documented,
Mulgara Dasycercus cristicauda/hilleri (E) and with the ongoing research work, many are increasing
Greater Stick-nest Rat Leporillus conditor (V) (P. Alexander pers. comm.).
Dusky Hopping Mouse Notomys fuscus (V)
Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula (V) Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus

Rare in South Australia This large kangaroo is widely distributed throughout

eastern Australia, coming only into South Australia in the
Kultarr Antechinomys laniger south-east and east, although there have been occasional
Yellow-footed Rock-Wallaby Petrogale xanthopus unconfirmed reports in the Murray Mallee and Eastern
xanthopus Pastoral districts.
Eastern Grey Kangaroo Macropus giganteus
Forrest’s Mouse Leggadina forresti Distinguishing between the two grey kangaroo species is
Little Pied Bat Chalinolobus picatus difficult, the Western Grey Kangaroo (M. fuliginosus)
being generally slightly smaller and more brown in
Rare in South Australia colour, whereas M. giganteus is predominantly grey.
Kultarr Antechinomys laniger

154
During the current survey two definite sightings were species' decline is the destruction of roosting sites,
made on Bimbowrie and Lake Dismal Stations. This is particularly the loss of mature trees through clearance
notable, as is the single sighting by Forward & Robinson (Richards & Hall, 1994).
(1996), as it confirms the species' existence in the area, a
Although not recorded on the North Olary Plains survey,
significant distance from known populations in NSW and
this species has been caught in Western New South
central eastern SA.
Wales. The SA Museum has records from Mutooroo
Forrest's Mouse Leggadina forresti Station on the southern boundary of the study area and it
is known from Kinchega National Park in NSW, (Ellis &
Little is known of the biology of this widespread and
Henle, 1988).
common native rodent, and although widely distributed, it
is considered rare in South Australia, occurring in the Uncommon species
northern half of the state and historically being found as
Narrow-nosed Planigale Planigale tenuirostris
far south as 32o30"(latitude of Yunta). It inhabits tussock
grasslands, low shrublands and Mulga woodlands of the This tiny carnivorous marsupial (average weight only six
arid Australian inland, and appears to be herbivorous, grams) is distributed throughout inland eastern Australia,
feeding on seeds and green vegetation. It probably does occurring mostly in open grassy areas with cracking clay
not need access to drinking water, sheltering by day in a soils. Read (1987) found it to use a variety of habitats
burrow. It is known to breed after winter rains, but may but Denny (1982) noted that it was usually located in
be capable of breeding throughout the year. areas away from water in more open, less dense
vegetation. In South Australia it occurs in the northern
Little Pied Bat Chalinolobus picatus
areas and is classified as uncommon.
This small evening bat occurs in the arid mallee region
It was recorded at 5 locations widely spread over the
near the SA / NSW border where it predominantly roosts
entire survey area. In all cases, the habitat was a low or
in caves but is known to use trees and buildings.
very low open shrubland.
Classified as rare in Australia and South Australia, it is
distributed from south-west Queensland through central
NSW to north-eastern SA. The main reason for this

155
Table 9 Sub-fossil Records recovered from Owl Pellets close to the North Olary Plains Survey Area.

Common Name Scientific Name Status Q MG CG BC AH

Forrest's Mouse Leggadina forresti -R

Lesser Stick-nest Rat Leporillus apicalis XX
Greater Stick-nest Rat Leporillus conditor VE
House Mouse Mus domesticus CC
Short-tailed Hopping Mouse Notomys amplus XX
Fawn Hopping Mouse Notomys cervinus CC
Dusky Hopping Mouse Notomys fuscus EE
Long-tailed Hopping-mouse Notomys longicaudatus XX
Plains Rat Pseudomys australis V-
Bolam's Mouse Pseudomys bolami CC
Desert Mouse Pseudomys desertor IR
Gould's Mouse Pseudomys gouldii XX
Long-haired Rat Rattus villosissimus CC
Ghost Bat Macroderma gigas RX
Short-beaked Echidna Tachyglossus aculeatus CC
Kultarr Antechinomys laniger pVR
Kowari Dasycercus byrnei RR
Mulgara Dasycercus cristicauda/hilleri VE
Western Quoll Dasyurus geoffroii EX
Red-tailed Phascogale Phascogale calura EX
Narrow-nosed Planigale Planigale tennuirostris -U
Fat-tailed Dunnart Sminthopsis crassicaudata CC
Common Dunnart Sminthopsis macroura -U
Crescent Nailtail Wallaby Onychogalea lunata XX
Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby Petrogale xanthopus pVR
Pig-footed Bandicoot Chaeropus ecaudatus pXX
Golden Bandicoot Isoodon auratus EX
Western Barred Bandicoot Perameles bougainville EX
Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula PV-
Burrowing Bettong Bettongia leseur EX
Desert Rat-kangaroo Caloprymnus campestris XX
Greater Bilby Macrotis lagotis VX

X = extinct Locations of deposits

E = endangered
Q Old Quinyambie Homestead
V = vulnerable
MG Moro Gorge
pV = potentially vulnerable
CG Chambers Gorge
R = rare
BC Balcanoona Creek
U = uncommon
AH Anabama Hill
I = indeterminate
C = common

SUB-FOSSIL DEPOSITS
Sub-fossil material from owl pellets relevant to the study Interpretation of these results with respect to animals
area has been collected from Anabama Hill (AH) which inhabit the plains is difficult because the owls
(Forward & Robinson 1996), Balcanoona Creek (BC) would forage both in the plains and the adjoining hills,
(Tunbridge 1991), Moro Gorge (MG) (G. Medlin pers. returning to the caves to roost. It is only in protected
comm.) and Chambers Gorge (CG) (Medlin 1993). areas such as these caves where these owl pellets have
During the survey, some owl pellets were also recovered survived the rigours of the weather to provide this
from the Old Quinyambie Homestead (Q) in the far north historical information. Those pellets recovered from Old
east of the study area. Analysis of this material is not yet Quinyambie Homestead are probably quite recent, the
complete. The range of species’ remains contained in buildings having only been uninhabited for about 15
these various deposits is shown in Table 9. years.

156
Red-tailed Phascogale Phascogale calura suggest N. fuscus is specific to sandy areas with a
preference for sand ridges.
The arid-adapted Red-tailed Phascogale was widely
distributed throughout inland Australia at the time of A recent study (Moseby et.al. in press) has found
European settlement. For unknown reasons, but perhaps evidence throughout the Strzelecki Desert, east and south
in response to competition from feral cats, it is now of the Strzelecki Creek in South Australia and in an
locally extinct, and restricted to small populations in isolated group of dunes south-east of the Diamantina
south western Australia. It is an agile climber but it finds River in south-west Queensland. Despite the extensive
most of its food (small vertebrates and larger arthropods) historical distribution of N. fuscus, all records since 1971
on the ground. Sub-fossil records exist from Chambers have been restricted to limited localities in south-west
Gorge and Moro Gorge, on the western fringe of the Queensland, the Cobbler Sandhills and southern
survey area. Strzelecki Desert in South Australia. Populations were
located in a variety of sand dune habitats (excepting
Mulgara Dasycercus cristicauda/hilleri
Triodia dominated) in the dune fields throughout these
The Mulgara was formerly widespread across arid parts areas, implying the species is a habitat generalist on its
of Northern Territory, Western Australia and northern preferred substrate of sand. Preferred habitats range from
and western South Australia but now known only to extremely degraded dune and sand plain systems in the
occur in isolated pockets in those areas. However, sub- southern Strzelecki Desert, supporting mostly ephemeral
fossil remains have been found in the eastern fringe of the plants, to well vegetated dunes covered by Sandhill
Flinders Ranges at Balcanoona Creek, Moro Gorge and Canegrass Zygochloa paradoxa in south-west
Chambers Gorge (Medlin, 1993), and at Anabama Hill Queensland. Relatively dense populations of N. fuscus
and World's End, indicating that it extended much further were only recorded in the vicinity of major drainage
south than previously thought. systems.
Golden Bandicoot Isoodon auratus Prior to this study the IUCN rated this species as
Endangered (IUCN 1994). Decline in the number and
Formerly widespread in arid deserts and adjacent semi-
geographic spread of recent collections, suggests the
arid areas of central to north-western Australia, but now
species has undergone a severe range contraction since
extinct in these regions except a small area of north-west
European settlement and may still be declining. The
Kimberley and some offshore islands. Sub-fossils
IUCN Australasian Rodent Specialist Group estimates a
deposits containing remains of this species have been
range reduction of greater than 90% since European
located at Balcanoona Creek, Moro Gorge and Chambers
settlement (Lee 1995). Recent capture rates imply a total
Gorge in the eastern margin of the Flinders Ranges
population of less than 10,000 but greater than 2500
(Medlin, 1993). Fossil remains have also been found at
individuals (the level below which a species is considered
Lake Victoria in south-western NSW (Marshall, 1973).
endangered). Moseby et.al (in press) reaffirmed the
Long-tailed Hopping-mouse Notomys longicaudatus species decline since European settlement and
recommend that the present vulnerable status of the
Thought to be once widespread throughout arid and semi- species (IUCN Rodent Specialist Group) be maintained.
arid Australia, it is now extinct in Australia. The only
previously confirmed specimens (all collected before Plains Rat Pseudomys australis
1902) are from a few isolated locations in the Northern
Species in the Pseudomys australis complex were
Territory, north of Perth and near Broken Hill (Watts and
historically widely distributed in a variety of habitats over
Aslin, 1981). Medlin (1993) has recorded this species
southern Australia. By 1990 the group had apparently
from sub-fossil deposits at Balcanoona Creek, Moro
declined to a single species in the centre of its former
Gorge and Chambers Gorge in the eastern margin of the
range in the north-western Lake Eyre Basin, in gibber
Flinders Ranges. The location of this species in the sub-
plain areas (Breed & Head 1990). Past collection of the
fossil site at Anabama Hill also is further south than
species has only occurred following exceptional annual
previously known.
rainfall. A recent study to define the current distribution
Dusky Hopping-mouse Notomys fuscus of P. australis and to determine its preferred habitats
during the usual prolonged dry periods has extended the
The Dusky Hopping-mouse, Notomys fuscus was once known distribution along a belt of gibber habitats running
distributed over much of central Australia, and is now from north-west of Lake Eyre on the Northern Territory
restricted to north-eastern South Australia and south- border to south of Lake Eyre South, and a discrete
western Queensland. First recorded in central Australia population inhabiting gibber tableland west of Lake
on the Horn Expedition in 1895, N. fuscus has since been Torrens (Brandle et.al. in press). Plains Rats were found
collected over a wide geographic range from as far west in low lying patches of deep cracking clay associated
as Ooldea, SA. (Wood-Jones 1925, Finlayson 1939) to with minor drainage features and small depressions of
south-west Queensland. cracking clay ‘gilgai’ common on some gibber plains.
Studies of sub-fossil owl pellets reveal that N. fuscus was No specimens have been collected from New South
once abundant as far south as Chambers Gorge in the Wales or Queensland since 1936 (Breed & Head 1990).
Flinders Ranges and Anabama Hill, south of Olary The conservation status of P. australis is currently listed
(Medlin 1993) and populations have also been recorded by IUCN as vulnerable (Lee 1995) on the basis of
from the northern edge of the Simpson Desert extreme fluctuations in extent of occurrence, severely
(Queensland Museum records). Available records

157
fragmented populations and suspected continuing decline The European rabbit was less abundant than it has been in
(IUCN 1994). the past, as evidenced by the number of disused warrens,
particularly in the sandy areas. This is mainly due to the
Common Brushtail Possum Trichosurus vulpecula
recent reintroduction of virulent strains of Myxomatosis
The Common Brushtail Possum was once widespread and the spread of Rabbit Calicivirus introduced into the
and, in places, common in the arid and semi-arid zone. area in October 1995.
Very few records are known for the region and historical
CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS
accounts indicate the brushtail possum was not very
common, with the last record being from Olary Creek in At the time of European settlement, the mallee region of
1978 (Kerle et.al 1992). During the survey, a resident of south-eastern Australia probably supported a rich and
Cockburn stated they were occasionally found at diverse mammal fauna, which was comparable to that of
homesteads in the past. They are now restricted to a many other areas in Australia (Bennett et al., 1989).
small number of populations in Central Australia, all of However, with a large number of species locally extinct
which are declining and in urgent need of conservation in many areas, this diversity is now low (Bennett et al.,
management. Possums were dependant in the arid zone 1989), and considering the relatively short time span over
on a diverse understorey of plants to provide a range of which this has occurred (ie. less than 200 years), there is
food throughout the normally dry times. Severe cause for concern that many remaining species and
overgrazing following European pastoral settlement populations are at considerable risk. The prime causes of
destroyed much of the critical shrub component and extinction and ongoing threat to remaining species are
rabbits continue to restrict re-establishment. These lower loss or degradation of habitat through clearing and
density possum populations centred on restricted areas of overgrazing by domestic stock and rabbits; predation by
higher productivity in dry times were also very introduced carnivores; competition for food and shelter
vulnerable to fox predation. Unlike the possums of the with introduced species; indirect poisoning of animals
forests and woodlands of the higher rainfall areas, they and food prey through agricultural practices, and altered
often lived in burrows, rather than in tree hollows. fire regimes that have reduced habitat heterogeneity or
Brushtail possums are now extinct throughout the North changed plant communities (Menkhorst & Bennett, 1990;
Olary Plains. Stephens, 1992). Once species and populations are under
pressure, competition between native species for the
Ghost Bat Macroderma gigas
limited habitat and food resources becomes another
The Ghost Bat is Australia’s only carnivorous bat, and pressure. In the semi-arid and arid zones these effects
the largest of the microchiropterans. They feed on other and threats are then magnified in times of drought.
bats, birds and even occasionally hunt reptiles and frogs
The high rabbit, kangaroo (and goats in places) numbers
on the ground. They require large, and relatively warm
in the North Olary Plains and their substantial combined
and humid caves in which to roost. They were once
grazing impact on native pastures is of great concern, as
widely distributed as far south as the Flinders Ranges,
elsewhere in the state. Several institutions are conducting
where they have been recorded from sub-fossil and
research into various rabbit control methods: the South
mummified remains and possibly were present until about
Australian Animal and Plant Control Commission (field
200 years ago (Richards & Hand, 1995). M. gigas has
testing the Spanish Flea as an alternative myxomatosis
disappeared from much of its former range in arid
vector suitable for arid areas); the Australian and New
Australia since European settlement and is patchily
Zealand Rabbit Calicivirus Disease Program (field testing
distributed through northern and north-eastern Australia.
this alternative biological control agent); the Cooperative
There is a probability that the southern Australian
Research Centre for Biological Control of Vertebrate Pest
populations were in decline prior to European settlement
Populations (researching immunocontraception control
due to increasing aridity over the last 10,000 years.
methods) and CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology
INTRODUCED SPECIES (integrated control - poisoning, warren ripping and
fumigation).
Excluding the domestic stock, four introduced species
were numerous and widespread throughout the South Research into effective goat control is being undertaken
Olary Plains (rabbits, house mice, foxes and cats). by the South Australian Animal and Plant Control
Commission and some soil boards are implementing
House mice were quite widespread, and in some quadrats
regional control programs with Primary Industries SA.
they were the only small native terrestrial mammals
recorded. Many of these locations were nearer main Kangaroo numbers, artificially increased by free water
roads and settlements, suggesting that the House Mouse availability, are annually assessed throughout most of the
may have displaced some of the small native mammals. pastoral areas, and controlled by the DENR, Wildlife
Management Sections' kangaroo surveys and shooting
Foxes and less often, cats were also widely observed
permits system.
throughout the survey area. Given their generally cryptic
behaviour, it suggests that they may be far more abundant Similarly, the effect of foxes and feral cats on the small
than the survey data would suggest, and raises concerns native species populations is of great concern. The
about their actual impact on the remaining small native University of Adelaide has been conducting research into
fauna (although rabbits and House Mice would be a the effects of the domestic cat on small native mammal,
significant component of their diets). bird and reptile species; the Western Australian
Department of Conservation and Land Management and

158
the Agriculture Protection Board are testing and significant increases in Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby
implementing intensive fox baiting programs and CSIRO numbers have been noticed after three years of pest
is investigating methods of biological control for foxes. control (pers. comm. P. Alexander). A similar project is
being carried out in the Flinders Ranges National Park
Some projects are currently being undertaken to eradicate
and another at Venus Bay Conservation Park on the west
introduced pests to enable populations of threatened
coast where two endangered species have been
native species to stabilise and expand or be reintroduced
reintroduced and plans are underway for other releases.
into areas. Through the total grazing pressure study
recently commenced in the Olary Hills area by the In the North Olary Plains survey area, 13 species are
Department of Environment and Natural Resources to nationally or locally extinct. These are known to have
assess the grazing impacts that goats, rabbits, kangaroos occurred in the area but have disappeared since European
and stock are having on the native pastures, valuable occupation. The remaining species need protection,
information is being gained into the interactions between especially in light of the large numbers of thriving
feral and native populations. introduced species and ongoing pastoral land use. Areas
of good quality natural habitat must be maintained to
In another project being conducted by the Department of
support these remaining populations. In the longer term
Environment and Natural Resources in the Olary Hills,
it may even be possible to re-introduce some species.

159
Figure 88
The Fat-tailed Dunnart, Sminthopsis crassicaudata, a common small mammal of the treeless plains.
Photo: S. Doyle.

Figure 89
Red Kangaroos, Macropus rufus copulating. This species has increased markedly through changes to the area by the
grazing industry.
Photo: DENR.

160
Figure 90
The Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby, Petrogale xanthopus, has made a significant recovery in the Olary Ranges through
integrated pest management around key colonies.
Photo: A. Robinson.

Figure 91
Bolam’s Mouse, Pseudomys bolami, a native rodent recorded from several sites in the survey area.
Photo:A. Robinson.

161
162
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey
___________________________________________________________________________________

BIRDS
by R. M Playfair1, M. C. De Jong2 and J. S. Matthew3

INTRODUCTION evolutionary perspective, identifying the characteristic

suite of mallee bird species. He contends that the mallee
The birds of the North Olary Plains have been poorly
biome, as a significant structural vegetation formation
documented, with few comprehensive regional accounts
with its obvious floristic links to southern wetter forests
having been published. Those lists which are available
(Eucalypt dominated), has provided an evolutionary
(McGilp 1923; Black 1975; Pedler & Ragless 1978)
pathway for the development of certain species, found
provide valuable information on the status and habitat
today in the mulga, chenopod and spinifex landscapes of
preferences of the birds in the area at that time.
arid Australia.
An exhaustive review of the literature, published or
The transition from the mallee to the arid-zone
otherwise has not been attempted here, a strong reliance
communities occurs abruptly and reflects the limits of
being placed on the Royal Australasian Ornithologists
agricultural development. There is an interaction
Union's (RAOU) Atlas of Australian Birds (Blakers et.al.
between topography and climate, with mean annual
1984). Distributional material published in the
rainfall declining quickly to the east of the escarpment of
ornithological journals Emu and South Australian
the Flinders Ranges. The north-south gradient is much
Ornithologist, and in the South Australian Ornithological
more gradual. Schodde (1990) also asserts that the
Association Newsletter, as well as unpublished material
conservation prospects of the suite of mallee-dependent
held by that organisation, would need to be consulted for
birds are more dire than for any other habitat-specific
a thorough review of past accounts of distributions.
avian assemblage in Australia due to the effects of
The evolution, biogeography and natural history of arid wholesale clearance and habitat fragmentation.
Australian birds was reviewed by Schodde (1982).
Nomenclature follows Parker and Horton (1990).
Dryland arid-zone bird communities are species-poor in
Common names are used in the text, but scientific names,
comparison to those of the forest and mallee further
and some popular alternatives to both common and
south. (Reid et.al. 1990). There are two steep gradients
scientific names in current use, can be found in Appendix
in avian species richness (frequency) in South Australia
VI.
identified by Gentilli (1992). The first occurs across the
boundary between the woodland and mallee formation of TOTAL SPECIES
Eyre Peninsula and the arid Nullarbor Plain, the second
During the North Olary Plains survey 125 species were
across the boundary between mallee and more arid
identified. 95 of these species were recorded at the 48
portions of the Olary Plains. Two other features of arid-
vertebrate survey sites. A further 30 species were
zone birds set them apart from southern relatives:
recorded only through opportunistic observations (away
nomadism and terrestriality (in the sense of ground
from sites).
dwelling and feeding) (Schodde 1982). Mack (1970)
noted that the bird communities of the southern mallee Table 7 is a listing of all the birds recorded during this
patches were much richer than those of the blackoak open survey, in descending order of frequency, along with
woodlands and chenopod shrublands, but that these latter their habitat preference (Shodde 1994) and an indication
habitats, after good rains, could be rapidly colonised by of their population trend in the arid part of western New
large numbers of mobile bird species, including chats, South Wales (Smith & Smith 1994).
budgerigars and woodswallows.
A complete list of all bird taxa recorded from the North
Schodde (1990) has reviewed the avifauna of the mallee Olary Plains region in the current and previous studies is
biome at the continental level from a biogeographical and shown in Appendix VI.

1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, P O Box 2, DAW PARK. SA 5041
2
M. De Jong,, 15 Burstock St., ELIZABETH PARK. SA 5113
3
J. S. Matthew, South Australian Museum, North Tce, ADELAIDE. SA 5000

139
Table 7 Birds Recorded during the North Olary Plains Survey.

SPECIES COMMON NAME Habitat 1 No 2 Opp. Total Trend 3

Dromaius novaehollandiae Emu U 22 36 48 I
Milvus migrans Black Kite U 30 12 42 N
Corvus coronoides Australian Raven U 36 5 41 I
Malurus leucopterus White-winged Wren TG,CS,HG 33 7 40 D
Psophodes cristatus Chirruping Wedgebill CS 26 11 37 D
Aquila audax ssp. audax Wedge-tailed Eagle U 21 15 36 I
Eolophus roseicapillus Galah U 24 12 36 I
Poephila guttata Zebra Finch U 26 7 33 I
Anthus novaeseelandiae Richard's Pipit TG,CS 28 4 32 I
Falco cenchroides Australian Kestrel U (TG,CS) 21 9 30 I
Melopsittacus undulatus Budgerigar U 21 7 28 N
Meliphaga virescens Singing Honeyeater U 22 4 26 N
Artamus cinereus Black-faced Woodswallow MU,TG 18 6 24 I
Acanthagenys rufogularis Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater U 20 3 23 N
Northiella haematogaster Blue Bonnet U 10 13 23 N
Gymnorhina tibicen Australian Magpie RE 15 7 22 I
Ocyphaps lophotes Crested Pigeon U 18 4 22 I
Aphelocephala leucopsis Southern Whiteface U 16 5 21 I
Malurus lamberti Variegated Wren U 17 2 19 N
Dicaeum hirundinaceum Mistletoe Bird U 14 4 18 N
Chrysococcyx basalis Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo U 15 2 17 N
Epthianura aurifrons Orange Chat CS 11 5 16 N
Manorina flavigula Yellow-throated Miner RE,MA 10 6 16 I
Pomatostomus ruficeps Chestnut-crowned Babbler MU,CA,MA 12 4 16 N
Cacatua sanguinea Little Corella U 14 1 15 I
Nymphicus hollandicus Cockatiel U 10 4 14 D
Rhipidura leucophrys Willie Wagtail U 10 4 14 I
Calamanthus campestris Western Fieldwren CS 11 1 12 D
Petroica goodenovii Red-capped Robin U 9 3 12 N
Barnardius zonarius Ring-necked Parrot U 6 5 11 N
Corvus bennetti Little Crow U 11 - 11 I
Psephotus varius Mulga Parrot U 6 5 11 N
Cracticus torquatus Grey Butcherbird MA,CA,PE 8 2 10 N
Falco berigora Brown Falcon U 4 10 10 N
Hirundo nigricans Tree Martin RE,PE 5 5 10 N
Acanthiza uropygialis Chestnut-rumped Thornbill U 7 2 9 N
Cincloramphus cruralis Brown Songlark TG,CS 8 1 9 I
Hoplopterus tricolor Banded Lapwing W 1 7 8 I
Pachycephala rufiventris Rufous Whistler CA,RE,MU 5 3 8 N
Smicrornis brevirostris Weebill U 7 1 8 N
Acanthiza chrysorrhoa Yellow-rumped Thornbill U 5 2 7 N
Certhionyx variegatus Pied Honeyeater MU,HG 4 3 7 N
Epthianura tricolor Crimson Chat CS,MU 5 2 7 N
Grallina cyanoleuca Magpie-lark U 3 4 7 I
Pardalotus striatus Striated Pardalote PE,RE,MA 5 2 7 D
Accipiter cirrhocephalus Collared Sparrowhawk U 3 3 6 N
Cincloramphus mathewsi Rufous Songlark U 1 5 6 I
Cinclosoma cinnamomeum Cinnamon Quail-thrush CS 3 3 6 D
Coracina novaehollandiae Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike U 3 3 6 N
Pyrrholaemus brunneus Redthroat MU,CA 4 2 6 D
Circus assimilis Spotted Harrier TG,CS 1 4 5 N
Cuculus pallidus Pallid Cuckoo U 2 3 5 N
Hieraaetus morphnoides Little Eagle U 3 2 5 N
Hirundo ariel Fairy Martin U 2 3 5 I
Hirundo neoxena Welcome Swallow U 2 3 5 I
Lalage sueurii White-winged Triller U 3 2 5 N
Meliphaga penicillata White-plumed Honeyeater RE 3 2 5 I
Sugomel niger Black Honeyeater MU,HG 5 - 5 N
Anas superciliosa Pacific Black Duck W 1 3 4 N
Artamus leucorhynchus White-breasted Woodswallow RE 2 2 4 I
Epthianura albifrons White-fronted Chat CS 3 1 4 I
Geopelia placida Peaceful Dove RE 3 1 4 I
Hoplopterus miles Masked Lapwing W 1 3 4 I
Phaps chalcoptera Common Bronzewing U 2 2 4 D
Columba livia Feral Pigeon U - 3 3 N
Malacorhynchus membranaceus Pink-eared Duck W - 3 3 I
Tachybabtus novaehollandiae Australasian Grebe W - 3 3 I
Charadrius ruficapillus Red-capped Dotterel W - 3 3 I

140
Anas gracilis Grey Teal W 1 2 3 N
Cheramoeca leucosternum White-backed Swallow U 2 1 3 I
Colluricincla harmonica Grey Shrike-thrush U (RE) 3 - 3 N
Coturnix novaezelandiae Stubble Quail TG 2 1 3 D
Megalurus gramineus Little Grassbird W 2 1 3 N
Melanodryas cucullata Hooded Robin U 3 - 3 D
Oreoica gutturalis Crested Bellbird U 2 1 3 N
Pardalotus rubricatus Red-browed Pardalote RE 1 2 3 N
Passer domesticus House Sparrow U 1 2 3 N
Turnix velox Little Button-quail TG,CS 2 1 3 D
Anas rhyncotis Australian Shoveller W - 2 2 D
Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt W - 2 2 I
Recurvirostra novaehollandiae Red-necked Avocet W - 2 2 I
Chlidonias hybrida Whiskered Tern W - 2 2 N
Aythya australis Hardhead W - 2 2 N
Falco longipennis Little Falcon U - 2 2 N
Ninox novaeseelandiae Boobook Owl PE,RE - 2 2 N
Geopelia cuneata Diamond Dove MU - 2 2 D
Erythrogonys cinctus Red-kneed Dotterel W - 2 2 I
Calidris acuminata Sharp-tailed Sandpiper W - 2 2 N
Accipiter fasciatus Brown Goshawk U 1 1 2 N
Ashbyia lovensis Gibberbird CS 1 1 2 N
Climacteris picumnus Brown Treecreeper PE,RE,MA 2 - 2 N
Elseyornis melanops Black-fronted Dotterel W 1 1 2 I
Eurostopodus argus Spotted Nightjar MA 1 1 2 N
Halcyon pyrrhopygia Red-backed Kingfisher U 1 1 2 N
Merops ornatus Rainbow Bee-eater U 1 1 2 N
Mirafra javanica Singing Bushlark TG 2 - 2 I
Peltohyas australis Inland Dotterel CS 1 1 2 I
Pomatostomus superciliosus White-browed Babbler U 2 - 2 N
Fulica atra Eurasian Coot W - 1 1 N
Porzana fluminea Australian Crake W - 1 1 N
Ardea novaehollandiae White-faced Heron W - 1 1 I
Gallinula ventralis Black-tailed Native Hen W - 1 1 N
Podargus strigoides Tawny Frogmouth U - 1 1 N
Rhipidura fuliginosa Grey Fantail U - 1 1 N
Microeca leucophaea Jacky Winter PE,RE,MA - 1 1 N
Aegotheles cristatus Australian Owlet-Nightjar MA,PE - 1 1 N
Cygnus atratus Black Swan W - 1 1 I
Sterna nilotica Gull-billed Tern W - 1 1 N
Elanus scriptus Letter-winged Kite TG,CS - 1 1 D
Neophema chrysostoma Blue-winged Parrot TG,CS - 1 1 N
Chenonetta jubata Maned Duck MU - 1 1 I
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon U - 1 1 N
Tyto alba Barn Owl U - 1 1 N
Struthidea cinerea Apostlebird U - 1 1 N
Acanthiza apicalis Inland Thornbill CA,RE 1 - 1 D
Aphelocephala nigricincta Banded Whiteface HG 1 - 1 I
Artamus personatus Masked Woodswallow U 1 - 1 N
Artamus superciliosus White-browed Woodswallow U 1 - 1 N
Cracticus nigrogularis Pied Butcherbird U 1 - 1 I
Falco subniger Black Falcon U 1 - 1 D
Melithreptus brevirostris Brown-headed Honeyeater PE,MA 1 - 1 N
Pardalotus punctatus Spotted Pardalote PE,MA 1 - 1 D
Phylidonyris albifrons White-fronted Honeyeater MA,HG 1 - 1 N
Tadorna tadornoides Australian Shelduck W 1 - 1 I
Zosterops lateralis Silvereye PE 1 - 1 I

Notes
1 Habitat Codes
U Ubiquitous
W Wetlands
CA Casuarina pauper Woodland
CS Chenopod Shrubland
MA Mallee
MU Acacia aneura Woodland
PE Upland Eucalypt Woodland
RE Riverine Eucalypt Woodland
TG Tussock Grassland
HG Hummock Grass & Acacia ligulata Dunefields adapted from Schodde 1994
2 Number of sites (out of 48) at which this species was recorded during this survey
3 Trend Codes
I Increased

141
D Decreased
N No significant change adapted from Smith & Smith 1994

142
PATN ANALYSIS Western Fieldwren (C. campestris)
Orange Chat (Ephthianura aurifrons)
The final bird matrix for analysis contained 720 records
Chestnut-crowned Babbler (P. ruficeps)
(95 species at 48 quadrats). All single occurrence records
Chirruping Wedgebill (P. cristatus)
were masked out. One quadrat, CNE08301 formed a
Southern Whiteface (A. leucopsis)
single-quadrat group, but was not masked out as it was
Grey Butcherbird (C. torquatus)
the only wetland site surveyed, and consequently had a
Redthroat (P. brunneus)
strong relationship to those species dependant on this
Emu (D. novaehollandiae)
habitat type. The final matrix analysed contained 694
records, consisting of 69 species at 48 quadrats. Almost all these species are ground-feeding specialists,
specific to low shrublands. Most feed, rest and breed at
A first cut analysis was undertaken on this dataset after
ground or low shrub level. The sparse nature of both
removing species only recorded at one site.
blackoak and Mulga patches in the study area means that
Another masking was undertaken, removing all species many of these chenopod-preferring species are also found
that are very mobile, high flying, seasonal, nomadic, where there is some tree cover overhead. This causes
migratory, ubiquitous or highly irregular in occurrence some overlap and confusion when attempting to interpret
(ie. species that generally are not significantly habitat- these data from an assumed habitat specific viewpoint.
specific), but leaving in those species only recorded at a
SPECIES OF PARTICULAR INTEREST
single site. This substantially decreased the records
available for analysis to 278 (47 species at 48 quadrats). Of the species found on the current survey, 16 are
threatened nationally or in South Australia.
The apparent groupings shown by this analysis are not
clear, mainly due to insufficient data, however, the In the notes below, the Australian conservation status is
groups which emerged from the analysis performed for from the Commonwealth Endangered Species Protection
the South Olary Plains (Forward & Robinson 1996) with Act 1992 with amendments made by Garnett (1992) in
a much larger dataset, in an adjacent area to the south do The Action Plan for Australian Birds. The South
appear to match fairly closely with the observations from Australian status is from the National Parks and Wildlife
this area. Act 1972 schedule and Parker and Horton (1990) with
updates by Threatened Species Strategy Steering
The three main species groupings were for blackoak
Committee (1993), and Carpenter and Reid (1994).
woodlands, mallee woodlands and chenopod shrublands.
General species descriptions and notes on distribution,
Frequent, characteristic species of the blackoak habitat, cause of decline and threats are from Pizzey
woodlands were: (1980), Slater (1978), Carpenter and Reid (1988), Blakers
Chestnut-rumped Thornbill (A. uropygialis) et.al. (1984), Garnett (1992), Simpson & Day (1994) and
Crested Bellbird (O. gutturalis) Stephens (1992). Distribution maps have been
White-browed Babbler (P. superciliosus) reproduced here from Simpson & Day (1994).
Red-capped Robin (P. goodenovii)
SPECIES OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE
Mulga Parrot (P. varius)
Rufous Whistler (P. rufiventris) Plains Wanderer Pedionomis torquatus
Brown Treecreeper (C. picumnis)
Preferred habitat for this species is native grasslands or
Hooded Robin (M. cucullata)
old stubble. Nationally vulnerable. Although it
Inland Thornbill (A. apicalis)
resembles the quail in outward appearance and choice of
Frequent, characteristic species of the minor (in extent in habitat, the Plains Wanderer is now considered to be
this survey area) habitats dominated by Mallee Eucalypts, more closely related to the waders. The Plains Wanderer
sometimes in sandy country with spinifex were: is one of the hardest birds to observe due to it’s well
camouflaged plumage and nocturnal habits making
Ringneck Parrot (B. zonarius)
accurate population assessments difficult. However,
Grey Shrike-thrush (C. harmonica)
there have been concerns since early this century about
Striated Pardalote (P. striatus)
the decline of this species (D’Ombrian, 1926) and
Weebill (S. brevirostris)
populations are now more restricted. Causes have been
Tree Martin (H. nigricans)
attributed to introduced grasses, grazing and clearing
Brown Treecreeper (C. picumnus)
(Simpson & Day, 1994). It is sparsely distributed across
Chestnut Quail-thrush (C. castonotum)
it’s range in groups of one, two and up to five individuals
Frequent, characteristic species of the open chenopod and is nomadic, though they may be sedentary where
shrublands include: permanent habitat exists. Breeding is from spring to
early autumn with most breeding from September to
Richard’s Pipit (A. novaeseelandiae)
December.
Australian Kestrel (F. cenchroides) (raptorial but prey are
ground dwellers)
White-winged Fairy-wren (M. leucopterus)
White-fronted Chat (E. albifrons)
Brown Songlark (C. cruralis)
Black-faced Woodswallow (A. cinereus)

143
 Although not recorded during this survey, Freckled
Ducks have been observed further south and along the
River Murray (Parker et.al., 1985). In times of high
rainfall they occur further inland on swamps and lagoons
(Pearse, 1929, 1937).

Distribution of the Plains Wanderer

Freckled Duck Stictonetta naevosa
A nomadic species that has been recorded at some time in
all regions of Australia except Cape York, it generally
inhabits open lakes and wetlands surrounded by thick Distribution of the Freckled Duck
vegetation, especially lignum swamps, in eastern and
south-western Australia. Parker et al. (1985) consider Scarlet-chested Parrot Neophema splendida
that the Channel Country in eastern arid Australia may This parrot is a rarely observed inhabitant of mallee and
actually be the species' stronghold rather than the acacia shrublands in the semi-arid inland of southern
Murray-Darling Basin. Australia. The core of its range lies in the Great Victoria
This is the rarest of several Australian waterfowl that Desert of South and Western Australia but it sometimes
breed primarily on the ephemeral wetlands of inland irrupts to east and west. Altered fire regimes may have
eastern Australia. The population size appears to fluctuate affected the species and increased availability of water in
greatly. Large numbers may irrupt from breeding pastoral lands may have favoured competitors. The
strongholds when they dry out, giving an impression of Scarlet-chested Parrot appears to breed rapidly under
abundance, but such events are interspersed with long suitable conditions; it then becomes locally common,
periods of apparent scarcity. Though fully protected, it is only to disperse and again become scarce until the next
vulnerable to accidental shooting by hunters, especially favourable season (Blakers et al. 1984). In some seasons
when concentrated in coastal drought refugia. The it also occupies more open habitats. In the Great Victoria
Freckled Duck's most important breeding areas are in the Desert it is most common in the better vegetated areas but
immense temporary swamps created by floodwaters is thought to spread out into open desert in favourable
within the Lake Eyre and Bulloo Drainage Divisions. It seasons (Ford 1971) and in the Northern Territory it is
also breeds in several swamps within the Murray-Darling usually seen on hummock grass sandplain.
Division, notably those along the Paroo and Lachlan Classified as rare nationally, and in South Australia, this
rivers and others within the Riverina district. Swamps species was not sighted during the current survey.
within the Millicent Basin of South Australia and
Victoria are also used. During extensive inland droughts
the species is forced to disperse. At such times other areas
in south-eastern Australia become critical as refugia,
especially certain wetlands in the Murray River Basin,
south-eastern Queensland and southern South Australia
(Blakers et al. 1984, Martindale 1986, Marchant and
Higgins 1990). In inland eastern Australia the Freckled
Duck breeds in freshwater wetlands thickly vegetated
with Lignum (Muehlenbeckia florulenta) within which
the birds build their nests (Braithwaite 1976). During
times of inland drought, when found closer to the coast,
they are at risk of being misidentified as game species
and shot during duck-hunting seasons. The species has Distribution of the Scarlet-chested Parrot
been recorded on numerous wetland reserves. An SPECIES OF SOUTH AUSTRALIAN
inventory of known and potential breeding sites is SIGNIFICANCE
needed, together with an indication of the importance of
each site in contributing to major breeding events. In Bush Thick-knee (Southern Stone Curlew) Burhinus
addition the wild population should be counted at regular magnirostris (B. grallarius)
intervals to determine long-term trends. The conservation A largely sedentary species which occupies a range of
status of Lignum swamps and, in south-western Australia, woodland habitats with short or scattered grass. Once
seasonally flooded paperbark swamps, needs to be widely ranging across many parts of Australia it has
evaluated. A captive breeding and release program has severely declined in recent years due to the effects of
been advocated. habitat clearance, overgrazing and predation. Although

144
most populations in Australia are considered secure the
species is vulnerable in Victoria and endangered in South
Australia. It is virtually extinct in many formerly
inhabited areas in SA and now only occurs in isolated
pockets in the South East, Cooper Creek, Kangaroo
Island, on islands off Eyre Peninsula and in the Upper
Murray districts (Tay, 1992). In the latter area it mainly
occurs along the river valley.
In southern Australia this bird was once more widespread
in grassy woodlands. Its rarity and continuing decline
there has been attributed to fox predation, vegetation
clearance for agriculture, land degradation through
pastoralism. Though not recorded during this survey, in Distribution of the Major Mitchell Cockatoo
northern Australia and on many continental islands this Blue-winged Parrot Neophema chrysostoma
species remains common, even within towns.
A mobile species inhabiting south-eastern Australia
where it breeds in summer in the Murray-Darling, South
East and Tasmanian regions and migrates north-
westwards in winter. Here it inhabits Eucalypt woodland,
saltbush shrublands, open grasslands and lignum swamps.
This species is classified as secure in NSW, Victoria and
Tasmania but vulnerable in South Australia. An unsure
sighting of this bird was made by Pedler & Ragless
(1978) near Lake Callabonna, just north of this area, and
it is listed by Blakers et.al (1984) as occurring in the area.
It was observed once opportunistically during this survey
when a pair were flushed from Mitchell grass/saltbush
plains near Cockburn. It is more likely to be seen as an
Distribution of the Bush Thick-knee
Autumn/Winter visitor, and most would have left the
Major Mitchell (Pink Cockatoo) Cacatua leadbeateri region by August, when the survey was conducted.
A mostly sedentary species which occurs patchily
through the dry woodlands of inland Australia, wherever
there is fresh surface water and large hollow trees for
nesting (Blakers et al., 1984). It has declined throughout
its range due to clearance, trapping and nest robbing and
has been lost from some areas. Fragmentation of its
habitat on the margin of the agricultural belt in Western
Australia has threatened its long-term survival there
(Rowley and Chapman, 1991). The total population,
however, still exceeds 10,000 individuals, some sub-
populations are recovering, and most of the southern
mallee habitat is now protected. Preferred habitats in
South Australia include tall open mallee (E. socialis, E. Distribution of the Blue-winged Parrot
gracilis), Red Gum, Black Box, blackoak, Native Pine
and False Sandalwood (Myoporum platycarpum) Chestnut Quail-thrush Cinclosoma castanotum
woodlands. A sedentary, ground-frequenting species widely
Classified as secure throughout Australia but rare in distributed across southern Australia in mallee habitats.
NSW and Victoria and vulnerable in South Australia, the It inhabits open mallee (E. socialis, E. oleosa, E. gracilis)
Pink Cockatoo was not recorded during the North Olary with an open understorey and well-developed litter layer
Plains Survey. and is threatened by habitat loss due to clearing and
thinning of the mallee, overgrazing, altered fire regimes
and predation.
Classified as nationally secure, rare in NSW and
vulnerable in South Australia, it was not recorded during
this survey.

145
 Distribution of the Banded Whiteface
Grey Falcon Falco hypoleucos
Distribution of the Chestnut Quail-thrush
This falcon is sparsely distributed over a wide geographic
Australian Bustard Ardeotis australis
area and is nowhere common. There is some evidence
A nomadic species occupying open country that is that its breeding distribution has contracted in the past
timbered or treeless, saltbush plains, low heath, few decades. Overgrazing, clearance and other
grasslands or crop stubble. Distributed across most of degradation of its open woodland habitat appear to be the
mainland Australia, this bird has been eliminated from greatest threats to the species, possibly affecting prey
much of southern Australia by hunting, fox predation and abundance and nest site availability. Its eggs are much
clearance of its grassland habitat for agriculture. sought after by egg collectors. The Grey Falcon is
However there are now signs that it is returning in the sighted infrequently over much of continental Australia
south and in northern Australia it remains common, (Blakers et al. 1984, Olsen and Olsen 1986) and has been
though still hunted. In the last two decades it has seen in New Guinea (Finch 1981). The Grey Falcon has
extended its range in central Queensland following never been considered common. There may be as few as
clearance of forest. 1,000 pairs of Grey Falcons, giving a total population of
fewer than 5,000 individuals. The distribution of the
Although classified as secure in Australia, it is extinct in
Grey Falcon is centred on inland drainage systems. There
the ACT, endangered in Victoria and vulnerable in NSW
it frequents timbered lowland plains, particularly acacia
and South Australia. In SA it is declining and is locally
shrublands, crossed by tree-lined watercourses. It also
extinct in some areas. It was not recorded during this
hunts far out into treeless areas and frequents tussock
survey.
grassland and open woodland, especially in winter.
Threats to the Grey Falcon’s habitat include continued
overgrazing of arid zone rangelands and clearance of the
semi-arid zone for marginal farming. Nest site
availability, particularly in sparsely treed parts of the
inland, may be becoming limited, especially where
grazing by exotic herbivores is preventing regeneration.
The Grey Falcon was not recorded during this survey,
though thought to be in the region.

Distribution of the Australian Bustard

Banded Whiteface Aphelocephala nigricincta
The single record of the Banded Whiteface near
Quinyambie in the far north of the study area is
significant because it is close to the southern extremity of
the known range for this species and is slightly south of
the single record for the area from the S A Museum Distribution of the Grey Falcon
records (near Moolawatana). Blakers et.al (1984) also
Letter-winged Kite Elanus scriptus
note this species in the region.
The distribution of this nocturnal kite is thought to be
centred on the Barkly Tablelands in the eastern Northern
Territory and river systems in south-western Queensland,
north-eastern South Australia and north-western New
South Wales. From there the population occasionally
irrupts in response to fluctuations in the population of its
main prey, the Long-haired Rat Rattus villosissimus.

146
When this occurs individuals may be recorded almost under no immediate threat. One sighting was made of a
anywhere on the Australian mainland. However these single bird during this survey in low cottonbush
populations rarely last more than a year after which the dunefields north-west of Lake Frome.
kite's distribution again contracts. Both the kite and its
prey have survived more than a century of sometimes
intensive pastoralism. Though the population may be
small, the species is secure. One sighting of this species
was made during this survey in open low sandy rises with
sparse black oak over chenopods and grasses.

Distribution of the Peregrine Falcon

Black Honeyeater Sugomel niger
Black and Pied Honeyeaters (Certhionyx variegatus) tend
to be found together in similar habitat types. They are
both nomadic and extend their range south into South
Distribution of the Letter-winged Kite Australia during spring (Ford, 1978). They have similar
breeding requirements and make use of nectar resources
OTHER NOTABLE SPECIES
mainly, but have been observed feeding Ruby saltbush
Barking Owl Ninox connivens and Spiny saltbush berries and insects to their young.
Turpentine bush appeared to be a preferred habitat for the
The study area is on the edge of the known range for this
Pied Honeyeater, reflecting favourable breeding
quite widespread (though listed as rare in SA) species. It
conditions at survey time.
has only been recorded once (an egg; SA Museum) in
1893 at Moolawatana (Parker, SA. 1977). Habitat Both species were recorded during this survey in the
preference is for riverine eucalypt forests and woodlands south east and the centre of the survey area. The Black
in western New South Wales (Schodde 1994) and is Honeyeater was breeding on Benagerie Station during the
thought to be decreasing in its abundance in this core survey.
habitat (Smith & Smith 1994). None were recorded
during this study, and the other ornithological surveys
listed in Appendix VI have not recorded this species in
the study area either.

Distribution of the Black Honeyeater

Distribution of the Barking Owl

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus
This spectacular falcon, classified as rare in South
Australia is considered threatened by pesticides and
falconry over much of its global range and is the subject
of intensive conservation management. The population of
the Australian subspecies, however, appears to be stable
and is affected only in relatively small areas subject to
intensive agriculture. In most parts of its Australian
range it has coped well with European settlement and Distribution of the Pied Honeyeater
breeds in or near a number of cities. Monitoring of Red-browed Pardalote Pardalotus rubricatus
breeding birds should continue but the subspecies is

147
Close to the southern extremity of its known range, there
were two sightings of this bird in a eucalypt creek-line
near Paralana, on the fringe of the Flinders Ranges
(north-west of survey area), and a group of three were
observed perched in grey box woodland adjacent to Lake
Coonee (CNE08201). The SA Museum has a single
record from Moolawatana.

Distribution of the Inland Dotterel

DISCUSSION
Wetland habitats and waterbirds are not a major feature
of this area with its arid climate and the absence of
Distribution of the Red-browed Pardalote permanent watercourses. However, runoff from
significant rainfall events creates extensive shallow
Little Woodswallow Artamus minor ephemeral wetlands which temporarily support rich and
A nomadic (and partly migratory) species which inhabits abundant waterbird populations. The major creeks which
Acacia scrub and Spinifex where there are gorges in flood out into the study region from the Flinders Ranges
rocky country but also known to live in tussock and from hills of the Olary Spur are particularly
grasslands. Distributed across northern and central significant. The flowing artesian hot water from Coonee
Australia, and into the northern Flinders and Gawler Bore and Moolwatana Bore create extensive permanent
Ranges in South Australia. wetlands, and constitute the most important non-
ephemeral wetlands in the region, but they are also the
Rare in South Australia, the RAOU Atlas only shows focus of heavy cattle impact, and their habitat value
records of this species in the study area and Parker and suffers.
Horton (1990) list it as occurring in the Flinders Ranges
and Northern Arid regions. None were recorded during The building of dams for watering stock has provided
this survey. additional and permanent waterbodies throughout the
region. Waterbirds, in limited numbers make use of these
artificial habitats.
The provision of permanent waterpoints throughout the
region has undoubtedly affected populations of many
dryland birds, in addition to its more obvious effect on
waterbirds. Reid and Fleming (1992) and Smith and
Smith (1994) have documented many cases of birds
which historically have expanded or contracted their
distributions on a continental scale. Some of these
changes may be attributable, in part, to the addition of
permanent drinking places in a previously waterless
environment.
Distribution of the Little Woodswallow
CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS
Inland Dotterel Peltohyas australis
The survey area contains some bird species which are of
This well camouflaged, small ground-dweller inhabits
national conservation significance:
ploughed ground, open sparse plains and gibber areas,
nesting on the ground. It occurs over much of inland Vulnerable
Australia. During this study, it was only recorded twice,
Plains Wanderer
possibly due to its extremely good camouflage or to the
limited sampling in the bare gibber areas it prefers. Rare
Freckled Duck
Scarlet-chested Parrot
Several species are also rated in South Australia:
Vulnerable or Endangered
Grey Falcon
Bush Thick-knee
Major Mitchell (Pink Cockatoo)
Blue-winged Parrrot

148
 Chestnut Quail-thrush which to survive without significant changes in pastoral
Australian Bustard management.
Pied Honeyeater
Brolga Reid and Fleming (1992) identified chenopod shrublands
Letter-winged Kite to be a significant and severely threatened habitat in the
Banded Whiteface arid zone, due to their inadequate representation in
Apostlebird ungrazed conservation reserves and because of their
Australasian Shoveler palatability to domestic livestock and rabbits. The
Hardhead Western Fieldwren and Redthroat (and other distinctive
residents of this habitat) have also declined in chenopod
The presence of these rated species and the shrublands over parts of their former Australian ranges
biogeographical location of the North Olary Plains at a (Reid and Fleming, 1992).
major ecotone, where species of limited distribution often
exist, suggest that some serious conservation effort is Regional assessments of the conservation status of birds
required. Being at the northern limit of the mallee zone in the pastoral areas of the State have not yet been
and the southern limit of the arid open woodlands and attempted, but the alarming decline of some birds in
shrublands of South Australia, many species are at the western NSW as documented by Smith & Smith (1994),
edge of their normal ranges which may be significant if raises concerns that similar trends are also occurring west
the rest of the range has been severely affected by land of the border.
use.
With the changing climate, the presence of contiguous
and extensive sequences of different vegetation
formations across this biogeographic ecotone may allow
adaptive changes to take place more readily.
Many species have significantly declined over their range
particularly in agricultural areas due to the effects of land
clearance, overgrazing and altered or inappropriate fire
regimes. These impacts lead to fragmentation of
remaining populations and competition with other species
for the limited habitat, particularly for nest sites and
appropriate food sources. Some species specifically
require a dense shrub stratum in which to live. Both
these shrub and ground (litter) strata of the vegetation are
lost in areas that are overgrazed or inappropriately burned
and may never recover properly even when the impact is
minimised or removed. Loss of nesting sites for species
requiring large trees with hollows is also a serious
problem.
The study area is extensively grazed by sheep, cattle,
rabbits, kangaroos and goats in places. With moderate
grazing levels and proper management, impact on the
natural vegetation can be minimised, but if allowed to
become too concentrated in any area over long periods,
important avian food sources, nesting material and
roosting sites (particularly those in the lower vegetation
strata) become depleted or permanently removed. Both
Reid and Fleming (1992) and Smith and Smith (1994)
have highlighted the bird conservation problems posed by
overgrazing in arid Australia generally and in western
New South Wales. Smith and Smith (1994) identified
habitat fragmentation (through clearance for agriculture)
and overgrazing of pastoral lands as the twin biggest
causes of decline of birds in western New South Wales.
Although the grazing lands of the Olary Plains may not
have suffered as severely as their counterparts in New
South Wales due to structural and historical differences in
the patterns of pastoral occupation, and the position of the
Dog Fence, overgrazing remains a problem in some parts.
With the fragmented and degraded landscapes which
exist in many areas, species which depend on resources at
ground and shrub level may not find suitable habitats in

149
Figure 83
White-fronted Chats, Ephthianura albifrons were nesting in low bushes at the time of the survey
Photo: A. Robinson

Figure 84
The Brown Songlark, Cincloramphus cruralis in typical pose on the top of the highest bush around.
Photo: South Australian Ornithological Association

150
Figure 85
The Red-capped Robin, Petroica goodenovii, a bird of the Blackoak woodlands.
Photo: South Australian Ornithological Association

Figure 86
Emus, Dromaius novaehollandiae move through the area, and in some seasons penetrate the agricultural districts to the
south in large numbers
Photo: S. Doyle

151
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey
___________________________________________________________________________________________________

REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS

by R. M. Playfair1 and M. N. Hutchinson2

INTRODUCTION A = arboreal
B = Blackoak
Prior to the North Olary Plains survey, there had been no
C = chenopod shrubs
systematic searching or trapping of reptiles and
F = fallen trees
amphibians in the area.
G = generalist
Figure 92 shows the distribution of South Australian H = heavy soils
Museum reptile records from the North Olary Plains up to L = leaf litter
1996. These records are mainly unsystematic and M = mallee
opportunistic collections, concentrated near habitation NS = non-sandy
and along main access routes. Up to 1996, 75 species R = rocky
were confirmed from the area (70 reptiles and 5 RH = rocky hills
amphibians). To date, no information has been published S = sandy soils
on the herpetofauna of the region. T = spinifex (Triodia sp.)
TOTAL SPECIES PATN ANALYSIS
Trapping sites, including tracks and other unmistakable The initial reptile matrix for analysis contained 44
signs, produced 178 records of 39 different reptile quadrats and 39 species (178 records). Several species
species. Opportunistic searches outside quadrats yielded were masked out.
a further 143 records of reptile species. Subsequent to
Tiliqua rugosa was removed because of its ubiquitous
this survey, more pitfall trapping was carried out for an
nature and mobility during breeding, and all species only
environmental impact assessment of the Beverley
occurring at one site. Quadrats with only one species left
Uranium mining area to the north of Paralana Creek in
after this mask were also omitted. Thus the final data
the far north-west of the survey area (A. Herbert, pers.
matrix contained 31 quadrats and 23 species.
comm.). These additional records have been included in
the opportune listing of Table 10 (in brackets). Species The inclusion of the extra data from the South Olary
are listed in Table 10 in descending order of their total Plains survey area (Forward & Robinson 1996) did not
frequency. clarify any of these relationships, and the results of this
analysis are not reproduced here. It did, in fact point up a
50 species of reptile were recorded, 11 of which were not
potential problem with this cluster analysis technique
trapped at quadrats, but caught opportunistically. Two
when being applied to data from different observers, or
amphibian species were recorded.
from a different time. Significant clustering of sites from
The single Leopard Ctenotus (Ctenotus pantherinus) within the two surveys occurred, on the basis of similar
record is a new species for the region. suites of reptiles recorded, suggesting that similarities
within a survey (ie. some bias in the data) were more
Codes in Table 10 denote habitat preferences (or
significant than those between different sites or habitat
tendencies if bracketed):
types.

1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, PO Box 2, DAW PARK, S A, 5041
2
M. N. Hutchinson, South Australian Museum, North Tce, ADELAIDE, S A, 5000

163
Figure 92 Distribution of Reptile records held in the SA Museum from the North Olary Plains survey area
(locations of Chambers Gorge records are also included).

164
Table 10 Reptiles Recorded during the North Olary Plains Survey.

SPECIES COMMON NAME Habitat Frequency Opportune Total

Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard G 24 28 52
Gehyra variegata Tree Dtella A 13 14 (1) 28
Pogona vitticeps Central Bearded Dragon G 9 13 22
Heteronotia binoei Bynoe's Gecko G, F 6 11 17
Morethia boulengeri Common Snake-eye G, NS, F 8 8 (1) 17
Ctenotus schomburgkii Sandplain Ctenotus G 13 2 (1) 16
Lerista labialis Eastern Two-toed Slider S 6 5 (4) 15
Morethia adelaidensis Adelaide Snake-eye C (H) 9 3 (2) 14
Cryptoblepharus Desert Wall Skink A 2 6 (4) 12
plagiocephalus
Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink G,F 6 5 11
Ctenophorus nuchalis Central Netted Dragon S 10 10
Ctenotus regius Eastern Desert Ctenotus G (C) 5 2 (3) 10
Ctenotus strauchii Short-legged Ctenotus H 5 2 (2) 9
Ctenotus uber Spotted Ctenotus H (R) 2 7 9
Diplodactylus byrnei Pink-blotched Gecko H, C 7 1 8
Diplodactylus tessellatus Tessellated Gecko H, C 6 (1) 7
Lerista punctatovittata Speckled Slider S 6 (1) 7
Tympanocryptis tetraporophora Eyrean Earless Dragon H, C 4 (3) 7
Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink RH 5 1 6
Varanus gouldii Sand Goanna S 6 6
Ctenotus “olympicus”* Spotted Ctenotus H (R) 2 (3) 5
Lerista muelleri Dwarf Three-toed Slider G, NS 1 4 5
Tympanocryptis lineata Five-lined Earless Dragon G (R) 4 1 5
Eremiascincus fasciolatus Narrow-banded Sandswimmer S 1 3 4
Nephurus millii Barking Gecko G 4 4
Ctenophorus fordi Mallee Dragon M, T 3 3
Ctenophorus pictus Painted Dragon G, M 3 3
Rhynchoedura ornata Beaked Gecko G 1 1 (1) 3
Strophurus ciliaris Southern Spiny-tailed Gecko A 2 (1) 3
Strophurus williamsi Eastern Spiny-tailed Gecko A 3 3
Suta spectabilis Mallee Snake G 3 3
Gehyra ‘2N=44’** Southern Rock Dtella RH 2 2
Ctenotus brooksi Sandhill Ctenotus S 2 2
Ctenotus leonhardii Common Desert Ctenotus NS 1 (1) 2
Diplodactylus damaeus Beaded Gecko M, S 2 2
Diplodactylus vittatus Eastern Stone Gecko G (B) (M) 1 1 2
Egernia striolata Eastern Tree Skink A 1 1 2
Pseudonaja nuchalis Western Brown Snake G 1 1 2
Suta suta Curl Snake H 2 2
Cryptoblepharus carnabyi Wall Skink RH, A 1 1
Ctenotus pantherinus Leopard Ctenotus RH (1) 1
Delma butleri Spinifex Snake-lizard T 1 1
Egernia margeretae Masked Rock Skink RH 1 1
Eremiascincus richardsoni Broad-banded Sand swimmer G 1 1
Lerista xanthura Yellow-tailed Slider S 1 1
Nephurus levis Smooth Knob-tailed Gecko S 1 1
Pseudonaja modesta Five-ringed Snake S 1 1
Pygopus nigriceps Black-headed Scaly-foot H, R 1 1
Simoselaps fasciolatus Narrow-banded Snake S 1 1
Tympanocryptis intima Smooth-snouted Earless Dragon H 1 1

Total 178 143 (29) 350

* unpublished but described species closely related to Ctenotus uber
** unpublished but described species closely related to Gehyra variegata
SPECIES OF PARTICULAR INTEREST

165
Of the species found during the current survey, none are The specimens collected from the North Olary Plains
endangered nationally or in South Australia. There were survey area include both subspecies and one example of a
few surprises in the list of species captured, however the taxonomic intergrade. This area is the only place where
understanding of the distributions and variations of the this is likely, being the region where the ranges of the two
herpetofauna of the region will benefit from these subspecies overlap.
recordings.
Yellow-tailed Slider Lerista xanthura
Southern Rock Dtella Gehyra '2N=44'
The single specimen caught in the north-east of the
This unnamed rock-dwelling Dtella has been separated survey area on the ground under leaf litter in Eremophila
from the Tree Dtella (G. variegata) taxon (King, 1979), duttonii / Dodonaea microzyga shrubland on a low sandy
but has not yet received a formal taxonomic description. rise is notable only because this species is seldom
As the common name implies it is usually found around observed, yet apparently widespread. This record joins
rocks or loose tin and rubbish typically in rocky Eucalypt the other known ranges of this species in the Simpson
woodland, as opposed to G. variegata which is a tree- Desert and the South Olary Plains.
dweller.
Eastern Spiny-tailed Gecko Strophurus williamsi
In the North Olary Plains survey area, two individuals of
This is an eastern species only entering into South
this species were captured from under rocks in the granite
Australia along the border with NSW and Qld. The
hills north of Olary.
single recording of this species near Cockburn represents
Leopard Ctenotus Ctenotus pantherinus the northern limit of its range in South Australia. The
South Australian population may be limited by the extent
A large skink (to 31 cm) this species with its unique
of the Blackoak / Native Pine woodland. This record
leopard-like patterning also has a wide and deep body,
represents a south-westerly extension of the known range
which is greatly accentuated by its small head.
for this species which occurs in the slopes of western
The preferred habitat is normally sandy terrain, plains, NSW and Qld.
dunes and interdunes with compacting crusting loamy
Narrow-banded Snake Simoselaps fasciolatus (Fig.93)
sands, often with fine to coarse gravel and larger stone
slabs. Triodia or Plectrachne hummock grasses are often This record is notable because it is only the second for
present, sometimes with an open shrubland or woodland the region. This individual is similar to the western NSW
overstorey, but this recording was from chenopod and Qld specimens, and differs in colour from the Lake
shrubland, quite atypical of their usual habitat. This Eyre Basin specimens by being paler with narrower and
record is also on the extremity of the known range, and more ragged transverse bands. It may represent an
represents a south-easterly range extension for this unrecognised genetically distinct form.
species.
AMPHIBIANS
Short-legged Ctenotus Ctenotus strauchii
Water-holding Frog Cyclorana platycephala
A widely distributed skink that occurs through the
The distribution of this frog is unlike that of any other
interior of New South Wales and southern Queensland,
Australian species, being split into three populations on
extending into adjacent regions of South Australia and
the mainland, one in Western Australia, a second in the
Northern Territory. It favours stony clay soils with
south and a third at mid-latitudes in the Northern
sparse ground cover, usually in association with
Territory. The survey area is on the south-eastern limit of
woodlands, mallee, shrublands or grasslands but seems to
its range.
avoid Spinifex (Triodia). Usually found in leaf litter or
amongst fallen timber and other ground debris. Although considered to be a water-holding frog adapted
to arid conditions, it is equally well adapted for life in
This variable species has two subspecies - one (C. s.
water having extensive webbing between its toes. It
strauchii) which occurs in eastern and mid-western
seems to prefer areas where water persists after rain, such
Queensland to northern interior NSW and the other (C. s.
as claypans and shallow roadside pools. While most
varius) which occurs through south-western Qld, south-
frogs capture food out of the water, this species can also
eastern NT, north-eastern S A and far north-western
feed in water. Burrows are dug at the foot of a bush or
NSW. C. s. strauchii also extends into S A, with one S A
tree.
Museum specimen coming from near Blanchetown and
records being known from the Olary Spur. C. s. varius During the North Olary Plains survey no specimens were
specimens are from much further north. recorded.
The North Olary Plains survey area is coincident with the
area of changeover from C. s. strauchii in the south-east
to C. s. varius in the north-west. This provided the
opportunity to examine the genetic distinctiveness and Painted Frog Neobatrachus pictus
taxonomic validity of these subspecies. The survey was
successful in collecting an apparent intergrade specimen Like many other species, the Painted Frog was once
(SAM R48350) from the NSW Border at Starvation Dam. considered to be widely distributed, but it is now thought
This will assist the planned taxonomic revision of this to be confined to eastern South Australia and western
species. Victoria. All Neobatrachus spp. have a sharp, blade-like

166
structure on the undersurface of the foot to aid digging Bynoe's Gecko (Heteronotia binoei), Dwarf Skink
into the soil. In the Painted Frog, this structure is jet (Menetia greyii), Common Snake-eye (Morethia
black. boulengeri) and Sleepy Lizard (Tiliqua rugosa). These
represent species with a wide habitat tolerance, and are
It is usually found only after summer rains when it breeds
typically widespread throughout the south-eastern arid to
in grassy marshes, lagoons and temporary roadside pools.
semi-arid zones of Australia.
The species’ occurrence is seasonal and sporadic, it could
Eastern Australian species reaching into the eastern part
easily occur elsewhere. During the North Olary Plains
of South Australia include Strophurus williamsi, Ctenotus
survey no specimens were recorded.
strauchii ssp. strauchii and Lerista punctatovittata.
DISCUSSION
Northern and Central Australian species include Ctenotus
Statistical conclusions are difficult from such a small pantherinus, Tympanocryptis intima and Strophurus
dataset, and the variation due to differences in foraging ciliaris.
effort and subsequent opportunistic captures is also quite
Some species associated with the Flinders Ranges which
significant. However, taking these factors into account,
may be found in the fringes of the study area are Egernia
the main conclusions to be drawn are that even though
margaretae, E. striolata and Ctenotus robustus.
total species numbers were low, diversity was as expected
from previous knowledge. Several species, for example the Southern Rock Dtella
(Gehyra ‘2N=44’), Masked rock Skink (Egernia
This survey essentially confirmed the existing
margeretae) and Wall Skinks (Cryptoblepharus spp.)
distributional data for the area, even though previous
occurred predominantly in the south and west of the area,
work had been accumulated in a non-systematic way.
as they prefer rocky outcrops and are more frequently
A crude indication of reptile diversity, the average found in the Flinders Ranges.
species richness is 4.0 reptiles per quadrat (range 1 - 13)
In the North Olary Plains, other species also showed a
compared with 6.0 ( range 1 - 16) recorded in the South
preference for Eucalypt habitats, including those with a
Olary Plains survey area (Forward & Robinson 1996) and
Spinifex understorey. These include the Beaded Gecko
6.9 for the Yellabinna area on Eyre Peninsula, a large
(Diplodactylus damaeus), Mallee Dragon (Ctenophorus
area of relatively undisturbed native vegetation
fordi), and Spinifex Snake-lizard (Delma butleri).
(Armstrong 1992). This seems reasonable, given the
predominance of chenopod shrublands and dunefields in Those which tended to show a preference for woodland
the study area which provide a lower diversity of habitats habitats were particularly the arboreal species: Tree
than the mallee and woodlands to the south and on the Dtella (Gehyra variegata) and the wall skinks
West Coast. (Cryptoblepharus carnabyi/plagiocephalus).
Many species were entering their breeding season at the The most chenopod-preferring species appeared to be the
time of the vertbrate survey, and were as active as their Adelaide Snake-eye (Morethia adelaidensis), the Pink-
body temperature would allow, but it is still early for high blotched Gecko (Diplodactylus byrnei) and the Eyrean
amounts of activity. Earless Dragon (Tympanocryptis tetraporophora).
Some further insight is also offered in terms of habitat CONSERVATION CONSIDERATIONS
preference. The clustering, for example of 2 sites
Reptiles and amphibians have fared better than mammals
BEN12301, an open Gunniopsis quadrifida dominated
in terms of extinctions since European settlement, but
chenopod shrubland with bare scalds and sparse herbs
many are still threatened, endangered or locally extinct.
and grasses, and KOO14101, a Maireana pyramidata /
Nitraria billardierei open chenopod shrubland with bare Of relevance in the far south of the survey area is the
scalds and sparse herbs and grasses, suggests that effect of mallee clearance resulting in the permanent loss
vegetation structure, density and amount of unprotected of 70-95% of the original mallee herpetofauna (Cogger
open space may be more important than the floristic 1989). Ehmann and Cogger (1985) also note that in the
composition. For example, Ctenotus brooksii (regarded Murray Mallee region of South Australia and NSW the
normally as a sand specialist) is syntopic with clearing of mallee lands since the mid 1960s has resulted
Tympanocryptis tetraporophora (heavy soil / gibber in the permanent removal of 26 species from those areas.
specialist) at quadrat BEN12301. This is in thin sand Cogger (1989) has recorded species diversity to be
over heavier soil with a very open chenopod cover. This directly proportional to the structural complexity of the
may provide the sand for C. brooksii and the flat open understorey vegetation. The substantial habitat alteration
structure for T. tetraporophora. Some more examination through grazing and changed fire regimes has almost
of the existing data with this hypothesis in view may certainly affected the abundance of many reptile species.
assist in the understanding of the cohabitation of some Other threats to reptile populations are predation by
species. introduced carnivores, indirect poisoning from chemicals
and perhaps more subtle effects such as soil-compaction
BIOGEOGRAPHY
(Cogger, 1989). More research is needed to accurately
Most of the reptile species found in the North Olary assess the status of many species and populations to
Plains survey area were generally widespread, for understand the key threats.
example, the Painted Dragon (Ctenophorus pictus),

167
Figure 93
The spectacularly marked Narrow-banded Snake, Simoselaps fasciolatus is a rarely seen burrowing snake, found during
the survey.
Photo: A. Robinson

Figure 94
The Central Netted Dragon, Ctenophorus nuchalis often digs its burrows into the edge of station tracks and can be seen
sitting by them on warm days.
Photo: A. Robinson

168
Figure 95
The Mallee Dragons, Ctenophorus fordi found in this area belong to a more orange coloured northern population, distinct
from the greyer animals of the mallee areas further south.
Photo: A. Robinson

Figure 96
The Common Scaly-foot, Pygopus lepidopodus is a harmless legless lizard that can be readily distinguished from snakes by
its ear openings and the flap-like remains of its hind legs.
Photo: A. Robinson

169
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Conclusions & Conservation

Recommendations
by R. M. Playfair1

THE NORTH OLARY PLAINS ENVIRONMENT shrublands, which is of high priority nationally as a
biogeographic region in need of further conservation
One aspect which has been obvious from the start is the effort.
very low numbers of mammals and reptiles in particular,
BIOLOGICAL COMMUNITIES
which were recorded in this survey as well as the
previous South Olary Plains survey in 1992. There are of Twenty nine different vegetation associations were
course seasonal, climatic and logistical reasons why such identified and mapped in the North Olary Plains, with ten
a survey would not necessarily return high abundances, major associations extending over large parts of the area:
but other factors such as habitat destruction through long
• Senna / Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland
term grazing of domestic ungulates and the impact of
• Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland
rabbits and goats and kangaroos are also extremely • Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open
significant in this apparent lack of native wildlife in this shrubland
region. It appears that almost in its entirety, this region • Acacia aneura / A. victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open
has become severely degraded in terms of its native low woodland
wildlife diversity and abundance. • Casuarina pauper Low woodland
• Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland
Intensive interpretation is now required on these data
• Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland
outputs to determine whether any of these records or the
• Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland
relationships which show up through the analysis
• Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland
processes actually point to any conservation issues. • Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland
The four and a half million hectare area covered by the Native vertebrate species diversity information is
North Olary Plains includes a variety of environments: insufficient to detect clear patterns.
• the sand dune systems of the north-east SPECIES RICHNESS
• the silty loam outwash plains of the northern
Flinders Ranges Information brought together for this report shows that
• Lake Frome and its gypseous sand margins the North Olary Plains supports 1059 plant species
• the low hills of the Olary Spur (whole Eastern Botanical Region), 55 mammal species,
• the arid plains immediately to the north of the Olary 201 bird species, 71 reptile species and 5 amphibian
Spur species. The field survey in 1995 and 1996, with over
• the swampy red dunefields south-east of Lake 11,500 observations of flora and fauna, recorded a
Frome reasonable proportion of this total species richness for the
• outliers of the southern Flinders Ranges area with 448 plants, 22 mammals, 125 birds, 50 reptiles
• ephemeral watercourses and 2 amphibians.
• floodouts and claypans of the central plain area. Compared with the South Olary Plains (Forward &
Robinson. 1996), the North Olary Plains survey has a
It constitutes a north-south transition zone between the general species richness of about two thirds to three
plains which provide a catchment (including the low hills quarters. The trapping effort, in total trap nights was
of the Olary Spur) draining north into Lake Frome and about half that of the South Olary Plains. This reflects an
the longitudinal dune systems of the Strzelecki Desert. expected lower biological diversity in the more arid north
Lake Frome also acts as a barrier between the southern than in the south where rainfall is higher and more
extremities of these dunefields and the depositional areas reliable.
fed from the northern Flinders Ranges.
Table 11 shows the total numbers of flora and fauna
It also constitutes western portion of the Broken Hill species recorded at each fauna survey quadrat used in the
Complex (IBRA Region), a large area extending into analysis. These sites of high species richness provide a
NSW supporting chenopod shrublands and mulga open very crude indication of potential areas of high
1
R. M. Playfair, Resource Monitoring and Planning Pty Ltd, P O Box 2, DAW PARK. SA 5041

171
biodiversity and possible high priority areas for nature that a given habitat type in good condition will support an
conservation. Some extrapolation of this inferred equally rich range of vertebrate species in another
conservation value may be possible, on the assumption location.

Table 11 Numbers of vascular plant and vertebrate fauna species found at each fauna survey quadrat.
Numbers and quadrats in bold indicate the two highest diversities (number of species) for each biota type.

Quadrat ID Plants Mammals Birds Reptiles Amphibians Total

KOO11201 58 1 26 5 0 90
OLA01101 60 1 24 5 0 90
MIN02101 59 4 22 4 0 89
BEN11201 51 2 25 7 0 85
PAR07401 47 2 19 15 0 83
MIN02601 57 1 21 2 1 82
OLA05301 50 2 22 6 0 80
BEN14201 43 1 21 13 1 79
PAR03101 44 1 22 4 0 71
BEN11301 44 2 18 6 0 70
PAR03201 46 2 13 6 0 67
WIL09201 32 2 31 2 0 67
CNE12201 47 3 10 6 0 66
WIL09301 30 1 25 7 0 63
BEN12401 34 2 18 7 1 62
PAR10101 42 1 14 5 0 62
MIN02301 46 4 6 5 0 61
MIN02501 48 2 8 0 2 60
PAR07201 28 1 24 6 0 59
KOO06101 27 1 22 8 0 58
MIN02201 41 3 13 1 0 58
MIN02701 50 1 6 1 0 58
PAR03401 36 2 14 3 0 55
PAR07301 34 1 14 6 0 55
CNE08401 35 1 14 3 1 54
MIN09101 39 0 12 3 0 54
OLA08101 39 0 13 2 0 54
BEN12301 29 2 11 7 1 50
KOO14101 25 0 21 3 0 49
CNE09301 32 2 13 1 0 48
MIN09201 35 0 9 4 0 48
PAR05101 38 3 4 3 0 48
WIL09401 16 1 25 4 0 46
CNE08501 34 0 11 0 0 45
CNE09101 26 2 13 4 0 45
KOO11101 21 0 20 4 0 45
OLA05601 31 1 11 2 0 45
BEN13101 32 2 6 3 0 43
OLA01201 16 0 24 3 0 43
BEN09101 27 1 6 7 1 42
CNE08201 23 0 17 0 0 40
BEN14101 24 1 7 6 1 39
OLA01301 18 3 14 3 0 38
OLA10501 20 0 8 1 0 29
OLA10401 16 1 6 1 0 24
KOO15101 12 1 9 1 0 23
CNE08301 1 0 20 0 0 21
CNE12401 10 3 6 2 0 21
Total 1653 67 738 197 9 2664

The quadrats with the highest species diversities were: KOO11201 is in a mulga / blackoak community on
Total species - KOO11201 and OLA01101 loamy sand with a wide variety of middle level shrubs,
Plants - OLA01101 and MIN02101 chenopods and grasses. Not the richest quadrat for birds,
Birds - WIL09201 and KOO11201 but still providing habitat for at least 26 different species,
Mammals - MIN02101 and MIN02301 there are significant amounts of fallen timber from dead
Reptiles - PAR07401 and BEN14201 mulga which provides micro-habitats for small mammals,
reptiles and invertebrates. Three fly families were

172
captured at this quadrat possibly highlighting a genera of ants out of a possible 20 were recorded here,
relationship between the abundance of Phoridae flies in possibly providing a more reliable food source for small
particular and general species richness. This quadrat is in reptiles and insectivorous birds. Only 5% (2 species) of
the Koonamore Vegetation Reserve and consequently has plant species recorded were introduced, and much of the
had no domestic stock running in it for about 70 years, soil surface was bare, unstable sand with very little litter.
and a comprehensive rabbit control program has been in Reptile recordings were dominated by the small skinks,
place since 1981. These factors almost certainly have a dragons and geckos, all generally quite common.
bearing on the level of biological diversity. Only 6
BEN14201, a cottonbush run-on area of only moderate
introduced plant species (13%) were listed at this quadrat.
plant species richness provides habitat for 13 different
OLA01101 represents a red gum lined watercourse with native reptiles. Reptile recordings were again dominated
adjacent prickly wattle terraces in a wider landscape of by the common small skinks, dragons and geckos. Of
blackbush and saltbush plains. The apparent species note however, is the fact that the other quadrat of high
richness in this case may be related more to the adjacency reptile richness (PAR07401) shares very few physical
of different linear habitat types bringing about a wider characteristics, with a different soil type, a different
range of species in a small geographic area than to a high vegetation mix and different landscape situation.
diversity within a particular habitat type. The situation Similarities only appear to extend to shrub density and
on a watercourse with 13 introduced plant species (22%) structure, and the amount of bare ground between areas
probably indicates a moderate level of disturbance of vegetative cover (safety from overhead predators). A
through flooding and stock use. Nevertheless, an above hypothesis for determining reptilian habitat preferences
average species richness is still evident. may possibly revolve around these factors rather than the
more obvious and quantifiable attributes such as
WIL09201, on a very rocky hillside, sparsely covered
vegetation type or soil texture.
with mulga, lobed hopbush, sticky cassinia with
occasional emergent coolabahs within 1km of a red gum SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
lined watercourse (WIL09301) and red mallee with
A number of ecologically noteworthy flora and fauna
spinifex (WIL09401), this site provided the highest bird
species were recorded during the North Olary Plains
species richness with 31 unique records. Again, this is
survey and some species of national and state
probably related to the adjacency of other differing
conservation significance are known to occur in the area.
habitat types and the mobility of vertebrate species
between them. WIL09301 and WIL09401 both recorded Plants
25 bird species. Pitfall traps could not be dug at this
Acacia carnei (Needle Wattle)
quadrat, so captures of small mammals and reptiles are
probably artificially low as a result. About 16% (5 Codonocarpus pyramidalis (Slender Bell Fruit)
species) of plants are introduced at this quadrat, with
Maireana pentagona (Hairy Bluebush)
evidence of both goat and kangaroo impacts.
Malococera gracilis (Slender soft-horns)
MIN02301, in open saltbush plains and soil of clay loam
texture, this site is well down the list in terms of total Mammals
species richness, but it was a quadrat where 4 native
mammals were listed, one of which was Forrest’s mouse, Macropus giganteus (Eastern Grey Kangaroo)
a rare species in NSW, though stable and secure in South Leggadina forresti (Forrest’s Mouse)
Australia. 5 plant species (11%) were introduced and the
area contains only very occasional groves of blackoak Birds
which provide a more diverse localised habitat. Only 6 Struthidea cinerea (Apostlebird)
birds, (one raptor), were recorded here. Where these
patches are large enough the biodiversity is dramatically Certhionyx variegatus (Pied Honeyeater)
increased as at quadrat MIN02101. Falco peregrinus (Peregrine Falcon)
MIN02101, by contrast has a sparse overstorey of Neophema chrysostoma (Blue-winged Parrot)
blackoak over a similar chenopod understorey, thus
providing a much richer choice of nesting and feeding Anas rhynchotis (Australasian Shoveler)
sites for birds whilst containing similar quality of habitat
for ground dwelling small mammals. With only another
13 plant species (20%), the bird diversity (22 species) has Sub-fossil material
been quadrupled. These blackoak groves appear like Bones collected from five sub-fossil deposits on the
richer islands in the poorer chenopod plains. fringes of the North Olary Plains revealed a large variety
PAR07401, with the highest variety of reptiles, is in a of mammal species which occurred historically in the
Eremophila duttonii / Senna spp. open shrubland on a area. They provide a very strong indication that
low sandy rise in the far north-west of the survey area. It substantial biodiversity decline has occurred in a recent
is situated within 2km of a red gum lined creek with historical context, probably primarily since European
prickly wattle terraces and surrounded by cottonbush / settlement.
Mitchell grass plains. These adjacent habitats probably Introduced species
influence the species diversity in this habitat type. 8

173
A significant number of introduced species of flora and Some species regularly move between adjacent habitats
fauna occur on the North Olary Plains, comparatively where they are close together, which may be confusing
many fewer than in the previously surveyed South Olary when attempting to describe relationships between
Plains (in square brackets): species, (or suites of species) and their "preferred" habitat
types. However, these areas with a diversity of readily
43 plant species (9% survey total) [160]
available habitat types, are often places where increased
2 bird species (1.6% survey total) [6] conservation effort can provide the most benefit. The
geographic focus need not be large to encompass a range
9 mammal species (41% survey total) [9]
of interdependent habitat types, some of which may be of
Higher density of settlements and the intensity of high conservation value in their own right.
historical land use in the areas to the south are probably
This approach then allows for a broader and less
factors which partially explain this increase in invasion
quantitative methodology when attempting to assign
from exotics further south. The increasing aridity
conservation value judgements to patches of land. From
gradient as one goes further north has probably also
an ongoing management perspective, these areas for
prevented the spread of introduced plants (from
increased conservation focus must be in contiguous
Mediterranean climates) in particular into areas where
blocks to minimise the edge effects incurred by small
they cannot survive and reproduce sufficiently well to
islands.
become widespread.
Threatened species and species richness
CAUSES OF POPULATION AND HABITAT
DECLINE AND ONGOING THREATS Several areas where endangered and vulnerable species
have been recorded are considered to be of conservation
The decline in numbers of the now endangered,
significance. Some of these coincide with areas of
vulnerable or rare flora and fauna species and
potentially high species richness and high vertebrate
communities in the region has been brought about by a
diversity. These areas are worthy of examination to
number of factors. Stephens (1992) has compiled a list of
ascertain whether current management can be altered to
causes of decline and ongoing threats to the environment
enhance their biodiversity.
for the Murray mallee, most of which are also relevant in
the North Olary Plains. A very similar suite of degrading The areas where Acacia carnei exists, particularly in the
factors is described at length by Dickman et al. (1993) valley south-east of Bimbowrie and adjacent to the
with particular reference to the decline of native mammal Cockburn - Mulyungarie road. In these areas, other
populations in the arid parts of western NSW. The diverse habitats are nearby providing a range of different
ecological costs of livestock grazing are described in a habitat types in close proximity, allowing for a richer
variety of contexts by Fleischner (1994), Hayward et al. species mix.
(1997) and Auld (1993). The most important of these
The other significant plant Codonocarpus pyramidalis
degrading factors are:
was only recorded at one quadrat in the valley floor, but
• habitat degradation through long term within the rocky hills of the geologically unique
overgrazing, particularly during drought, by all Bibliando Dome in the far south-west of the survey area.
herbivores. This includes domestic stock, feral The species richness noted here, again due to adjacency
goats, rabbits and the various kangaroos of differing habitat types at quadrats WIL09201,
• introduced predators, mainly foxes and cats WIL09301 and WIL09401 enhance the conservation
• competition with introduced species value for species richness reasons also.
• altered fire regimes In terms of vegetation associations which are
Nowhere in the survey area are any of these factors geographically small within this survey area, the Callitris
effectively controlled at present. glaucophylla associated with the mulga plains on the
NSW border north of Mulyungarie were not specifically
Reservation of certain areas for biodiversity conservation sampled except for vegetation, but may represent a
purposes may be appropriate, but must be complemented different suite of habitat types currently undescribed.
by more effective management and broad-scale reduction
in the populations of feral species and other threatening The mallee communities including Eucalyptus socialis /
processes, if the current species diversity is to be Eucalyptus dumosa over Triodia (eg. KOO06101) are
maintained. Long term monitoring of indicators must be common and well represented south of the survey area
undertaken to provide trend information, and (Forward & Robinson. 1996) and are included in the
reintroductions of species could only be considered formalised Reserves system. The Casuarina pauper
where all threatening processes have been removed. Woodlands are like the mallee, on the northern extremity
of their range as dense woodlands and conservation effort
SIGNIFICANT AREAS FOR CONSERVATION - further south may provide better quality examples of this
Qualitative Approach habitat type.
Given that there are no formal conservation reserves in The permanent wetland created by Coonee Bore running
the survey area, any part which has conservation south to Lake Coonee (Rotten Swamp) as well as the
significance for any reason is worthy of examination of extensive wetlands running east along Yandama Creek
its current management with a view to maintaining or from Moolawatana Bore in the far north provide unique
preferably enhancing the existing conservation value.

174
water bird habitat in a region where surface water is practices. The successional pathway may go towards
extremely scarce all year round. colonisation by exotics and unpalatable species, or there
may still be sufficient viable seed reserves in the soil to
The combined species richness as demonstrated at
begin to replace some of the lost original vegetation
quadrat PAR07401 being adjacent also to Mitchell grass
mixes which historically provided habitat for a more
plains typified by PAR03101 also point to the need for
abundant native fauna. The fortuitous assistance in rabbit
conservation management on some parts of the plains
control effort given by the spread of Rabbit Calicivirus
dissected by the big creeks on Wooltana Station.
through this region, followed by extensive above average
SIGNIFICANT AREAS FOR CONSERVATION - rainfall in early 1997 should provide some significant
Quantitative Approach insights into how the country responds to favourable
regeneration conditions. Every effort should be made on
No meaningful interpretation was possible from the
the part of landholders, Government agencies, and
GLIM analysis due to the inadequate data. Data
research institutions to take advantage of the valuable
collection for such analysis must focus on the relevant
ecological information made available by this unique
variables, many of which are poorly sampled in a survey
combination of events.
method focussed around mapping from representative site
data. Ongoing management of the high conservation value
areas mentioned above for biodiversity enhancement
In addition, any conservation analysis must include data
goals requires some very serious issues to be addressed
from the entire Broken Hill Complex bioregion. The
and resolved. This is likely to require some difficult
present survey and the previous South Olary Plains
political and socially significant decisions to be made.
survey provide systematically collected data from across
These issues relate to whether we are serious about
the South Australian part of this bioregion. No
sustainable management of the arid lands. The following
comparable data has yet been collected in the New South
actions should form a basis for discussion on the
Wales portion.
development of ecologically sustainable management
RECOMMENDATIONS practices.
The North Olary Plains study area currently contains no • Liaise with managers and lessees who currently
formal conservation reserves. Recommendations for control these areas of potential conservation value,
enhanced conservation management in specific areas is with a view to enhancing their understanding of the
still premature due to the incomplete analysis of the entire other values of these areas, in addition to producing a
bioregion, however an increased awareness of those areas fodder resource for domestic stock.
mentioned above by land managers, and pastoral
• Look at all options for cooperative management for
management and conservation-oriented agencies, will
areas of high conservation value, particularly with
assist any negotiations toward future management
respect to positioning of water points and total
changes. The bulk of this survey area is held under
grazing management.
pastoral leasehold tenure, with some small perpetual
leasehold properties along the southern boundary. • Institute a monitoring process for those areas
The legacy of many years of grazing domestic stock as highlighted above to determine their biodiversity
well as the extra pressure brought to bear by the feral trend under current management regimes.
herbivores and the often large populations of kangaroos, • Reassess the current arrangements for the control of
means that all of this area has been significantly altered in kangaroos in the region, taking into account the effect
terms of the diversity of habitats and the abundance of which the Dog Fence has on their movements and
much of the native flora and fauna. Some has been population densities.
altered to the extent that the seed sources and substrate to
support the regeneration of the original vegetation types • Restructure the goat industry to provide incentives for
are no longer there. In these areas, which include the land managers to aim for eradication.
poverty bush (Sclerolaena divaricata) plains, blackbush / • Augment research effort into the control of rabbits,
nitrebush (Maireana pyramidata / Nitraria billardierei) foxes and feral cats with a view to gaining some
run-on areas and flood-outs and the rock sida (Sida broad-scale control over these populations in the short
petrophila)-covered low hills of the Olary Spur, it is term.
debatable whether substantial gains in biodiversity could
be made through changing pastoral management

175
176
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

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299
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix I

Pastoral Leases in the North Olary Plains Study Area (see Fig. 30 for maps)

* Perpetual Lease

Abminga Koonamore Plumbago

Aroona West Lake Dismal Portion of Upalinna
Baratta Lakeside Pt Pine Creek
Benagerie Lignum Pt Saltia
Benda Lilydale Pt Tin Hut
Bibliando Maldorkey Quinyambie
Billeroo West Mannawarra Radium Hill
Bimbowrie Martins Well Saltia
Bindarrah Melton Strathearn
Boolcoomatta Minburra Taltabooka
Bulloo Creek Moolawatana *Teetulpa
Bundera Mooleulooloo Telechie
Canewood Morialpa Tepco
Curnamona Mt Falkland *Wadnaminga
Cutana / Tikalina Mt Victor Wawirra
Devonborough Downs Mulga View Weekeroo
Eringa Park Mulga View South Wertaloona
Erudina Mulyungarie Wiawera
Florina Mundi Mundi Willippa
Frome Downs Mutooroo Willow Springs
Glen Warwick Oulnina Winnininnie
Glenorchy Oulnina Park Wirrealpa
Holowilena Outalpa Witchitie
Holowilena South Peters Wompinie
Kalabity Pinda Springs Wooltana
Kalkaroo Pine Creek Yarramba

189
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix II

Composition of Annual and Introduced Plant species by Site and Vegetation Type
+ not consistently detectable / annual
+* not consistently detectable / annual, introduced
P perennial / consistently detectable
P* perennial / consistently detectable, introduced
§ No. of species on site list upon which PATN groupings were based

Note: All sites with 3 or less in the “for Analysis” column were not included and were assigned to vegetation groupings later.
“Veg Group” column is an abbreviation for the associations listed in the Results section.

Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
BEN01101 A.lig 23 2 2 3 3 7 29% 57%
BEN01201 Samph 34 1 1 1 0% 0%
BEN01301 herbs 37 10 2 4 4 16 13% 75%
BEN04101 A.ves 32 9 4 4 13 0% 69%
BEN04201 A.ves 32 8 1 8 8 17 6% 53%
BEN04301 A.ves 32 17 5 11 11 33 15% 67%
BEN04401 Samph 34 11 2 15 15 28 7% 46%
BEN05201 swale 24 7 2 6 6 15 13% 60%
BEN05301 A.ves 32 12 1 17 17 30 3% 43%
BEN05401 S.divar 31 2 9 9 11 0% 18%
BEN06101 C.paup 22 5 2 3 3 10 20% 70%
BEN06201 swale 24 10 3 6 6 19 16% 68%
BEN08101 Canegr 35 5 8 8 13 0% 38%
BEN08201 A.ves 32 9 1 6 6 16 6% 63%
BEN09101 A.ves 32 8 1 6 6 15 7% 60%
BEN11101 A.ves 32 7 5 5 12 0% 58%
BEN11201 D.vis 19 6 8 8 14 0% 43%
BEN11301 C.paup 22 15 2 11 11 28 7% 61%
BEN12201 A.tet 1 10 1 7 7 18 6% 61%
BEN12301 S.divar 31 12 9 9 21 0% 57%
BEN12401 A.ves rise 16 11 1 7 7 19 5% 63%
BEN13101 A.ves 32 10 1 6 6 17 6% 65%
BEN13201 S.divar 31 6 1 10 10 17 6% 41%
BEN14101 A.ves 32 8 1 6 6 15 7% 60%
BEN14201 M.aph 10 4 1 3 3 8 13% 63%
CNB01101 M.astro 25 7 13 1 14 21 5% 33%
CNB01201 S.divar 31 5 6 1 7 12 8% 42%
CNB04101 herbs 37 8 1 6 1 7 16 13% 56%
CNB04201 A.lig 23 4 1 3 3 8 13% 63%
CNB06101 swale 24 9 2 8 8 19 11% 58%
CNB06301 A.ves rise 16 8 2 10 10 20 10% 50%
CNB06401 A.lig 23 5 2 3 3 10 20% 70%
CNB07101 S.obliq 38 8 1 6 1 7 16 13% 56%
CNB07201 N.bill 8 1 1 4 4 6 17% 33%
CNB08101 M.aph 29 12 1 8 1 9 22 9% 59%
CNB08201 Samph 34 2 3 3 5 0% 40%
CNB11101 M.astro 25 16 2 9 1 10 28 11% 64%
CNB11201 swale 24 4 2 6 1 7 13 23% 46%
CNB11301 A.lig 23 7 2 3 1 4 13 23% 69%
CNE02101 A.lig 23 8 2 5 5 15 13% 67%
CNE03101 Sedge 36 1 4 4 5 0% 20%
CNE03201 E.larg 17 4 2 2 6 0% 67%
CNE03301 A.ves rise 16 10 1 4 4 15 7% 73%
CNE08101 A.lig 23 2 4 4 6 0% 33%
CNE08201 E.larg 17 4 1 3 3 8 13% 63%
CNE08301 Sedge 36 1 1 1 0% 0%
CNE08401 A.lig 23 5 2 4 4 11 18% 64%
CNE08501 swale 24 9 1 8 8 18 6% 56%
190
CNE09101 A.lig 23 3 2 7 7 12 17% 42%
CNE09201 Canegr 35 6 3 3 9 0% 67%
Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
CNE09301 swale 24 7 1 7 7 15 7% 53%
CNE11101 swale 24 8 2 2 2 12 17% 83%
CNE11201 A.lig 23 3 1 2 2 6 17% 67%
CNE12201 A.ves rise 16 8 1 12 12 21 5% 43%
CNE12401 S.divar 31 1 4 4 5 0% 20%
CNE12501 E.larg 17 7 2 5 5 14 14% 64%
CTB01101 E.larg 17 3 1 9 1 10 14 14% 29%
CTB01201 N.bill 8 4 1 4 4 9 11% 56%
CTB02101 E.larg 17 9 1 11 1 12 22 9% 45%
CTB02201 swale 24 8 1 6 6 15 7% 60%
CTB03101 D.vis 19 8 1 11 11 20 5% 45%
CTB06101 Canegr 35 6 3 3 9 0% 67%
CTB06201 swale 24 9 2 9 1 10 21 14% 52%
CTB09101 A.ves rise 16 12 2 14 1 15 29 10% 48%
CTB09201 swale 24 6 2 8 1 9 17 18% 47%
CTB09301 S.divar 31 8 1 11 11 20 5% 45%
CTB10101 A.lig 23 5 1 5 1 6 12 17% 50%
CUR01201 M.astro 25 9 1 9 9 19 5% 53%
CUR01301 A.vic 2 8 2 16 16 26 8% 38%
CUR03101 C.paup 22 15 1 10 1 11 27 7% 59%
CUR03201 E.larg 17 6 15 15 21 0% 29%
CUR04101 M.astro 25 16 14 14 30 0% 53%
CUR06201 M.sed 4 7 2 10 10 19 11% 47%
CUR06401 Senna 5 9 2 23 23 34 6% 32%
CUR06501 Senna 5 10 6 32 32 48 13% 33%
CUR07101 M.astro 25 9 15 15 24 0% 38%
CUR07201 M.sed 4 6 1 7 7 14 7% 50%
CUR09201 Mulga pl 20 8 1 11 11 20 5% 45%
CUR11101 C.paup 22 3 33 33 36 0% 8%
CUR14201 Senna 5 13 2 17 17 32 6% 47%
CUR14301 Mulga pl 20 10 1 14 1 15 26 8% 42%
CUR15101 A.ves 32 12 6 14 1 15 33 21% 55%
CUR15201 A.ves 32 15 3 12 1 13 31 13% 58%
CUR15301 A.aneura 21 11 3 14 14 28 11% 50%
FRO01101 Senna 5 4 20 20 24 0% 17%
FRO01201 A.ves 32 2 12 12 14 0% 14%
FRO01301 A.ves 32 5 1 13 1 14 20 10% 30%
FRO01401 D.vis 19 2 2 13 13 17 12% 24%
FRO02101 S.divar 31 5 1 8 8 14 7% 43%
FRO02201 M.astro 25 4 12 1 13 17 6% 24%
FRO02301 M.pyr 28 7 14 14 21 0% 33%
FRO03101 Senna 5 1 1 14 14 16 6% 13%
FRO03201 M.astro 25 1 11 11 12 0% 8%
KAL01101 S.divar 31 7 1 5 5 13 8% 62%
KAL01201 M.astro 25 10 1 4 4 15 7% 73%
KAL01301 C.paup 22 4 1 7 7 12 8% 42%
KAL01401 Canegr 35 6 7 7 13 0% 46%
KAL02101 M.astro 25 12 1 8 8 21 5% 62%
KAL03101 C.paup 22 12 2 10 10 24 8% 58%
KAL03201 M.aph 10 2 1 4 4 7 14% 43%
KAL04101 C.paup 22 12 13 13 25 0% 48%
KAL04201 A.ves 32 9 3 8 8 20 15% 60%
KAL04301 Mulga pl 20 9 1 6 6 16 6% 63%
KAL06101 A.ves 32 8 1 10 10 19 5% 47%
KAL06201 G.quad 15 13 1 13 13 27 4% 52%
KAL07101 G.quad 15 10 2 9 9 21 10% 57%
KAL08101 A.ves 32 13 2 9 9 24 8% 63%
KAL09101 M.pyr 28 10 7 17 17 34 21% 50%
KAL09201 A.ves 32 13 2 10 10 25 8% 60%
KAL10201 S.divar 31 7 3 4 4 14 21% 71%
KAL12501 A.aneura 21 5 4 12 12 21 19% 43%
KAL13101 A.ves 32 5 1 9 9 15 7% 40%
KAL13201 A.ves 32 18 4 11 11 33 12% 67%
KAL13301 Mulga pl 20 2 2 8 8 12 17% 33%
KAL13401 S.divar 31 11 8 11 11 30 27% 63%
KOO01101 S.obliq 38 2 3 6 6 11 27% 45%
KOO02101 M.pyr 28 7 2 18 18 27 7% 33%

191
KOO02201 S.obliq 38 7 2 12 12 21 10% 43%
KOO03101 Samph 34 1 2 2 3 0% 33%
KOO05101 E.soc 9 4 5 13 13 22 23% 41%
KOO06101 E.soc 9 5 2 12 12 19 11% 37%
KOO08101 A.ves 32 4 11 11 15 0% 27%
Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
KOO09101 A.ves 32 7 2 18 18 27 7% 33%
KOO10101 Senna 5 11 5 16 16 32 16% 50%
KOO11101 M.sed 4 5 2 11 11 18 11% 39%
KOO11201 Mulga pl 20 9 6 21 21 36 17% 42%
KOO12101 M.sed 4 5 1 12 12 18 6% 33%
KOO12201 Senna 5 4 3 12 1 13 20 20% 35%
KOO14101 M.pyr 28 4 4 13 13 21 19% 38%
KOO15101 Canegr 35 3 1 2 1 3 7 29% 57%
KOO16101 A.ves 32 5 1 17 17 23 4% 26%
KOO18101 A.ves 32 8 5 10 2 12 25 28% 52%
KOO18201 C.paup 22 1 7 7 8 0% 13%
KOO24101 M.aph 29 8 6 8 8 22 27% 64%
KOO27101 A.ves 32 5 2 4 1 5 12 25% 58%
KOO29101 M.sed 4 7 4 9 9 20 20% 55%
KOO30101 S.obliq 38 5 7 6 1 7 19 42% 63%
KOO30201 A.vic 2 3 5 5 1 6 14 43% 57%
KOO32101 M.sed 4 4 1 5 1 6 11 18% 45%
KOO33101 M.pyr 28 5 5 7 1 8 18 33% 56%
KOO34101 A.ves 32 6 3 4 1 5 14 29% 64%
KOO35101 E.soc 9 1 1 8 8 10 10% 20%
KOO37101 UNCLASS 3 3 6 1 7 13 31% 46%
KOO38101 UNCLASS 1 6 1 7 8 13% 13%
KOO40101 S.obliq 38 1 3 7 1 8 12 33% 33%
KOO41101 M.pyr 28 1 5 6 1 7 13 46% 46%
LCH01101 Mulga pl 20 7 2 4 4 13 15% 69%
LCH01201 M.astro 25 7 3 3 10 0% 70%
LCH01301 S.divar 31 3 2 2 5 0% 60%
LCH02101 Mulga pl 20 4 2 6 6 12 17% 50%
LCH02201 C.paup 22 7 2 7 7 16 13% 56%
LCH03101 A.lig 23 7 2 6 6 15 13% 60%
LCH03201 S.divar 31 5 1 9 9 15 7% 40%
LCH03301 G.quad 15 5 3 11 11 19 16% 42%
LCH04101 E.larg 17 6 2 6 6 14 14% 57%
LCH04201 swale 24 8 2 2 2 12 17% 83%
LCH05101 A.ves rise 16 4 2 5 5 11 18% 55%
LCH05201 D.vis 19 4 2 5 5 11 18% 55%
LCH06101 E.larg 17 4 2 10 10 16 13% 38%
LCH06201 C.paup 22 8 2 13 13 23 9% 43%
LCH06301 Mulga pl 20 6 2 9 9 17 12% 47%
LCH08101 G.quad 15 9 1 12 12 22 5% 45%
LCH08201 E.larg 17 4 2 5 5 11 18% 55%
LCH09101 C.paup 22 8 1 7 7 16 6% 56%
LCH09201 G.quad 15 7 1 4 4 12 8% 67%
LCH10101 G.quad 15 9 2 9 9 20 10% 55%
LCH10201 C.paup 22 7 1 6 6 14 7% 57%
LCH11101 M.aph 29 9 1 2 2 12 8% 83%
LCH11201 G.quad 15 13 10 10 23 0% 57%
LCH11301 C.paup 22 4 1 9 9 14 7% 36%
LCH12101 M.aph 10 4 6 6 10 0% 40%
LCH12201 D.vis 19 7 1 9 9 17 6% 47%
MIN01201 A.ves 32 7 3 3 3 13 23% 77%
MIN01401 A.ves 32 6 4 9 9 19 21% 53%
MIN02101 S.divar 31 11 2 15 1 16 29 10% 45%
MIN02201 S.divar 31 8 4 5 5 17 24% 71%
MIN02301 S.divar 31 14 3 7 7 24 13% 71%
MIN02401 A.ves 32 6 1 7 1 8 15 13% 47%
MIN02501 Canegr 35 10 5 6 6 21 24% 71%
MIN02601 A.ves 32 4 6 14 3 17 27 33% 37%
MIN02701 S.divar 31 10 6 9 9 25 24% 64%
MIN05101 A.vic 2 3 5 8 3 11 19 42% 42%
MIN06201 A.tet 1 7 3 7 7 17 18% 59%
MIN07101 A.aneura 21 15 6 15 15 36 17% 58%
MIN07201 M.sed 4 6 1 8 8 15 7% 47%
MIN09101 A.ves 32 10 2 10 10 22 9% 55%

192
MIN09201 A.ves 32 8 2 11 11 21 10% 48%
MIN10101 A.tet 1 4 5 1 6 10 10% 40%
MIN10201 A.aneura 21 9 4 15 15 28 14% 46%
MIN11101 S.divar 31 3 3 11 11 17 18% 35%
MIN11201 E.cam 18 4 4 4 1 5 13 38% 62%
MIN12101 M.sed 4 5 3 19 1 20 28 14% 29%
MIN12201 A.ves 32 4 1 5 5 10 10% 50%
MIN12301 A.ves 32 7 3 5 1 6 16 25% 63%
Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
MUL01101 S.divar 31 14 1 4 4 19 5% 79%
MUL01201 A.ves rise 16 13 11 11 24 0% 54%
MUL02101 M.aph 10 6 4 10 10 20 20% 50%
MUL02201 E.soc 9 10 3 7 7 20 15% 65%
MUL02301 A.ves 32 17 1 6 6 24 4% 75%
MUL02401 A.ves rise 16 14 2 12 12 28 7% 57%
MUL03201 A.ves 32 11 5 1 6 17 6% 65%
MUL03301 D.vis 19 8 12 1 13 21 5% 38%
MUL03401 E.larg 17 5 4 4 9 0% 56%
MUL05201 G.quad 15 11 1 5 5 17 6% 71%
MUL05301 S.divar 31 9 3 3 1 4 16 25% 75%
MUL05401 A.ves 32 16 2 7 7 25 8% 72%
MUL06101 C.paup 22 8 1 20 20 29 3% 31%
MUL06201 A.ves 32 11 2 7 7 20 10% 65%
MUL06301 A.ves 32 15 2 13 13 30 7% 57%
MUL06401 D.vis 19 15 11 11 26 0% 58%
MUL06501 S.divar 31 16 1 26 26 43 2% 40%
MUL09101 A.ves 32 12 2 9 1 10 24 13% 58%
MUL10101 A.ves 32 13 2 17 1 18 33 9% 45%
MUL10301 E.larg 17 11 3 23 1 24 38 11% 37%
MUL11101 S.divar 31 10 3 6 1 7 20 20% 65%
MUL11201 A.ves 32 11 4 7 7 22 18% 68%
MUL11301 S.divar 31 11 2 2 1 3 16 19% 81%
MUL12101 S.divar 31 14 2 4 4 20 10% 80%
MUL13101 A.vic 2 5 2 2 2 9 22% 78%
OLA01101 E.cam 18 6 4 19 19 29 14% 34%
OLA01201 M.pyr 28 1 1 6 6 8 13% 25%
OLA01301 M.sed 4 4 8 8 12 0% 33%
OLA01401 A.aneura 21 10 5 15 15 30 17% 50%
OLA01501 M.pyr 28 10 3 4 4 17 18% 76%
OLA02101 A.aneura 21 11 7 19 19 37 19% 49%
OLA04101 A.aneura 21 12 1 17 17 30 3% 43%
OLA04201 E.soc 9 1 1 14 14 16 6% 13%
OLA05101 A.aneura 21 13 3 20 20 36 8% 44%
OLA05301 A.aneura 21 8 4 21 1 22 34 15% 35%
OLA05401 M.pyr 28 11 10 10 21 0% 52%
OLA05501 A.aneura 21 12 3 13 13 28 11% 54%
OLA08101 A.vic 2 2 5 10 1 11 18 33% 39%
OLA09101 A.vic 2 3 11 2 13 16 31% 19%
OLA10101 N.bill 8 1 4 4 5 20% 20%
OLA10401 N.bill 8 1 5 5 5 11 45% 55%
OLA10501 S.divar 31 3 1 2 2 6 17% 67%
OLA10601 A.aneura 21 7 5 7 7 19 26% 63%
OLA12101 A.ves 32 4 1 5 1 6 11 18% 45%
OLA12201 M.pyr 28 1 3 6 1 7 11 36% 36%
OLA12301 A.vic 2 1 7 7 2 9 17 53% 47%
OLA12401 A.tet 1 6 3 8 8 17 18% 53%
PAR01101 M.aph 29 12 9 1 10 22 5% 55%
PAR01201 M.aph 29 12 8 1 9 21 5% 57%
PAR01301 M.aph 29 8 16 16 24 0% 33%
PAR01401 Senna 5 12 1 17 17 30 3% 43%
PAR02101 M.aph 29 20 1 24 1 25 46 4% 46%
PAR02201 A.ves rise 16 9 1 13 13 23 4% 43%
PAR03101 M.aph 29 11 11 1 12 23 4% 48%
PAR03201 M.aph 10 11 12 12 23 0% 48%
PAR03301 M.pyr 28 3 1 10 10 14 7% 29%
PAR03401 M.aph 10 3 7 7 10 0% 30%
PAR05101 S.divar 31 8 1 9 1 10 19 11% 47%
PAR05201 D.vis 19 7 7 7 0% 0%
PAR05301 A.vic 2 5 8 8 13 0% 38%
PAR06101 M.aph 29 6 9 9 15 0% 40%

193
PAR06201 S.divar 31 1 9 9 10 0% 10%
PAR07101 M.aph 10 6 13 13 19 0% 32%
PAR07201 A.vic 2 1 14 14 15 0% 7%
PAR07301 Senna 5 1 10 10 11 0% 9%
PAR07401 Senna 5 4 2 19 19 25 8% 24%
PAR08101 A.ves rise 16 5 1 12 12 18 6% 33%
PAR09101 S.divar 31 4 1 5 5 10 10% 50%
PAR10101 S.divar 31 2 17 17 19 0% 11%
PAR11101 Senna 5 4 17 17 21 0% 19%
PAR11201 M.aph 10 3 15 15 18 0% 17%
PAS01101 UNCLASS 1 3 7 7 11 27% 36%
Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
PAS06101 M.pyr 28 3 2 4 4 9 22% 56%
PAS06201 A.ves 32 12 8 8 20 0% 60%
PAS06301 M.aph 10 1 10 10 11 0% 9%
PAS01201 M.astro 25 8 1 12 12 21 5% 43%
PAS06401 M.astro 25 12 7 7 19 0% 63%
PAS07101 M.aph 29 9 5 5 14 0% 64%
PAS08101 A.ves 32 11 2 19 1 20 33 9% 39%
PAS10101 S.divar 31 7 3 10 10 20 15% 50%
PAS11101 M.astro 25 11 3 11 1 12 26 15% 54%
PAS11201 D.vis 19 5 1 7 1 8 14 14% 43%
PAS12101 A.ves 32 12 1 13 1 14 27 7% 48%
PAS13101 M.pyr 28 9 2 16 16 27 7% 41%
PAS14101 Senna 5 15 1 11 1 12 28 7% 57%
PAS15101 C.paup 22 6 2 7 7 15 13% 53%
PAS15201 A.ves 32 8 1 14 14 23 4% 39%
PAS15301 Canegr 35 8 3 15 15 26 12% 42%
REA01101 A.aneura 21 6 1 16 16 23 4% 30%
REA01201 M.sed 4 2 12 12 14 0% 14%
REA01301 E.gill 39 1 9 9 10 0% 10%
REA01401 E.soc 9 3 12 12 15 0% 20%
REA01501 M.astro 25 7 1 12 12 20 5% 40%
REA02101 M.astro 25 8 1 13 13 22 5% 41%
REA02201 M.astro 25 9 1 10 10 20 5% 50%
REA02301 M.astro 25 9 17 17 26 0% 35%
REA02401 M.astro 25 10 1 19 19 30 3% 37%
REA02601 herbs 37 4 4 4 8 0% 50%
REA02701 Senna 5 8 14 14 22 0% 36%
REA03101 Senna 5 7 14 14 21 0% 33%
REA03201 E.cam 18 3 4 8 8 15 27% 47%
REA03301 A.vic 2 8 1 16 16 25 4% 36%
REA03501 A.aneura 21 4 10 10 14 0% 29%
REA04101 M.astro 25 8 4 29 29 41 10% 29%
REA04201 M.astro 25 8 3 14 14 25 12% 44%
REA05101 S.divar 31 3 1 13 13 17 6% 24%
REA06101 E.cam 18 2 2 8 8 12 17% 33%
REA06201 Senna 5 5 1 15 15 21 5% 29%
REA07101 M.sed 4 2 2 7 7 11 18% 36%
REA07201 N.bill 8 2 1 6 6 9 11% 33%
REA07301 A.ves 32 5 1 9 9 15 7% 40%
REA07401 A.aneura 21 10 5 22 22 37 14% 41%
REA08101 M.aph 10 3 1 11 11 15 7% 27%
REA08201 E.cam 18 3 5 8 8 16 31% 50%
REA08301 M.aph 29 7 2 9 9 18 11% 50%
REA09101 M.astro 25 9 3 14 14 26 12% 46%
REA09201 M.astro 25 6 1 10 10 17 6% 41%
REA10101 M.astro 25 10 1 17 17 28 4% 39%
REA10201 Mulga pl 20 6 1 15 15 22 5% 32%
REA10301 A.aneura 21 12 6 23 23 41 15% 44%
REA11101 M.pyr 28 10 1 10 10 21 5% 52%
REA11201 A.vic 2 4 1 18 18 23 4% 22%
REA11301 M.pyr 28 4 6 10 1 11 21 33% 48%
THU04101 M.astro 25 16 1 8 8 25 4% 68%
THU06101 M.astro 25 8 2 6 6 16 13% 63%
THU06201 A.lig 23 5 2 4 4 11 18% 64%
THU07101 S.divar 31 4 4 4 8 0% 50%
THU07201 A.ves rise 16 14 1 9 9 24 4% 63%
THU08101 E.larg 17 9 2 4 4 15 13% 73%
THU09101 swale 24 9 2 2 2 13 15% 85%

194
THU09201 swale 24 6 2 3 3 11 18% 73%
THU10101 A.ves rise 16 6 1 5 5 12 8% 58%
THU10201 Mulga pl 20 8 2 6 6 16 13% 63%
THU11101 swale 24 11 2 3 3 16 13% 81%
THU11201 E.soc 9 10 2 4 4 16 13% 75%
THU11301 S.divar 31 8 4 6 6 18 22% 67%
WIL01101 M.pyr 28 1 2 11 11 14 14% 21%
WIL01201 A.aneura 21 8 16 16 24 0% 33%
WIL02101 M.astro 25 6 5 10 10 21 24% 52%
WIL02201 M.aph 29 13 1 15 1 16 30 7% 47%
WIL02301 N.bill 8 9 2 12 12 23 9% 48%
WIL02401 M.aph 10 12 3 9 1 10 25 16% 60%
WIL02501 M.pyr 28 7 4 10 10 21 19% 52%
WIL03101 M.sed 4 9 4 14 14 27 15% 48%
Site Identifier Veg Group Freq + Freq +* Freq P Freq P* for Total % Introd % not in
Analysis § Analysis
WIL03401 A.aneura 21 2 18 18 20 0% 10%
WIL04101 M.aph 29 14 3 16 1 17 34 12% 50%
WIL04201 M.aph 29 12 1 17 1 18 31 6% 42%
WIL06101 A.aneura 21 10 3 23 23 36 8% 36%
WIL03201 M.sed 4 2 2 13 13 17 12% 24%
WIL03301 M.astro 25 7 2 9 9 18 11% 50%
WIL06201 E.gill 39 6 14 14 20 0% 30%
WIL06301 C.paup 22 7 7 7 0% 0%
WIL06401 A.aneura 21 6 3 12 12 21 14% 43%
WIL08101 M.astro 25 11 4 11 11 26 15% 58%
WIL08201 A.aneura 21 10 5 16 16 31 16% 48%
WIL08301 A.ves 32 11 1 9 9 21 5% 57%
WIL09101 A.aneura 21 10 5 19 19 34 15% 44%
WIL09201 A.aneura 21 4 4 20 20 28 14% 29%
WIL09301 E.cam 18 5 8 11 11 24 33% 54%
WIL09401 E.soc 9 12 12 12 0% 0%
WIL09501 E.gill 39 6 12 12 18 0% 33%
WIL09601 C.paup 22 9 9 9 0% 0%
WIN01101 Senna 5 7 2 9 9 18 11% 50%
WIN01201 Senna 5 4 2 28 28 34 6% 18%
WIN01301 A.ves 32 4 4 15 15 23 17% 35%
WIN01401 A.ves 32 3 2 9 9 14 14% 36%
WIN01501 A.ves 32 2 1 6 6 9 11% 33%
WIN03101 A.ves rise 16 7 2 12 1 13 22 14% 41%
WIN03201 A.aneura 21 9 4 26 26 39 10% 33%
WIN03301 M.pyr 28 10 2 10 10 22 9% 55%
WIN05101 S.obliq 38 5 5 5 5 15 33% 67%
WIN05301 A.ves 32 6 3 9 9 18 17% 50%
WIN06101 E.soc 9 2 1 9 9 12 8% 25%
WIN07101 A.ves 32 4 1 5 5 10 10% 50%
WIN08101 N.bill 8 4 5 10 10 19 26% 47%
WIN08201 E.soc 9 9 9 9 0% 0%
WIN08401 A.ves 32 4 2 5 5 11 18% 55%
WIN09101 A.ves 32 12 7 4 4 23 30% 83%
WIN09201 A.aneura 21 9 6 11 11 26 23% 58%
WIN10101 M.sed 4 2 2 6 1 7 11 27% 36%
WIN10201 A.ves 32 3 2 8 1 9 14 21% 36%
WIN10301 N.bill 8 1 4 3 1 4 9 56% 56%
WIN11101 A.aneura 21 8 5 17 1 18 31 19% 42%
WIN11201 E.soc 9 2 4 11 1 12 18 28% 33%
WIN12201 M.pyr 28 1 4 9 1 10 15 33% 33%
WIN12301 M.pyr 28 3 4 8 1 9 16 31% 44%
WIN12401 N.bill 8 2 3 8 1 9 14 29% 36%

195
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix III
NORTH OLARY PLAINS SURVEY QUADRAT LOCATIONS
(The floristic vegetation group numbers correspond to
Quadrat locations are shown by 1:100,000 mapsheets, those listed in the vegetation chapter).
listed in alphabetical order by name.
Fauna survey quadrats where permanent photographic
Detailed location data, physical environment information monitoring points were established are shown in bold.
and floristic vegetation type for each quadrat are listed.

BENAGERIE - 6935
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
BEN01101 408800 6565250 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 23
BEN01201 410620 6564000 Plain lake light clay 34
BEN01301 411450 6564590 Plain hill footslope sand 37
BEN04101 409890 6555150 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
BEN04201 419320 6554330 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 32
BEN04301 416750 6546070 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 32
BEN04401 416990 6552630 Plain stream channel silt loam 34
BEN05201 424740 6545280 Longitudinal dunefield swale sand 24
BEN05301 427100 6544420 Plain hill slope clayey sand 32
BEN05401 427420 6544420 Plain lake light clay 31
BEN06101 447830 6552730 Plain dune crest sand 22
BEN06201 446820 6551280 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 24
BEN08101 421940 6533380 Plain lake silty clay loam 35
BEN08201 421080 6533270 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
BEN09101 430180 6532540 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
BEN11101 406000 6525000 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
BEN11201 409200 6521740 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 19
BEN11301 412660 6523330 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 22
BEN12201 414150 6523870 Plain closed depression silty clay loam 31
BEN12301 421700 6524590 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 16
BEN12401 429100 6523450 Plain dune footslope sandy loam 32
BEN13101 438060 6522960 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silt loam 31
BEN13201 441510 6526870 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 15
BEN14101 447850 6522340 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 32
BEN14201 449510 6521720 Plain flood out light medium clay 10

COONARBINE - 6936
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
CNB01101 415270 6621320 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression clayey sand 25
CNB01201 415270 6621320 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression medium clay 31
CNB04101 407470 6597880 Dunefield dune/consolidated dune sand 37
CNB04201 405530 6597540 Dunefield dune crest sand 23
CNB06101 448050 6612270 Longitudinal dunefield hill footslope sandy loam 24
CNB06301 449620 6599930 Longitudinal dunefield swale silty clay loam 16
CNB06401 444920 6609820 Longitudinal dunefield dune footslope sand 23
CNB07101 406600 6586930 Rises hill footslope sand 38
CNB07201 407340 6588570 Rises hill footslope loamy sand 8
CNB08101 421290 6585070 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression clay loam, sandy 29
CNB08201 419630 6593410 Longitudinal dunefield swamp loamy sand 34
CNB11101 424760 6574010 Longitudinal dunefield swale loamy sand 25
CNB11201 422590 6579590 Longitudinal dunefield fore dune sand 24
CNB11301 421760 6581670 Longitudinal dunefield dune slope sand 23

COONEE - 7037
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group

196
CNE02101 477280 6675390 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 23
CNE03101 489150 6678090 Longitudinal dunefield stream channel silt loam 36
CNE03201 497660 6679920 Longitudinal dunefield flood out silty clay loam 17
CNE03301 479960 6676140 Longitudinal dunefield swale sandy loam 16
CNE08101 467430 6648200 Longitudinal dunefield lake medium clay 23
CNE08201 468190 6649890 Longitudinal dunefield open depression sandy clay loam 17
CNE08301 470350 6653330 Plain stream channel clayey sand 36
CNE08401 471550 6652580 Longitudinal dunefield dune slope sand 23
CNE08501 474630 6653000 Longitudinal dunefield swale silty clay loam 24
CNE09101 498700 6652630 Longitudinal dunefield dune slope sand 23
CNE09201 498830 6652520 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression silty clay loam 35
CNE09301 498480 6652240 Longitudinal dunefield swale sandy loam 24
CNE11101 471910 6627500 Longitudinal dunefield swale silty clay loam 24
CNE11201 472330 6627030 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 23
CNE12201 494690 6629900 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam 16
CNE12401 497500 6633280 Flood plain lake medium clay 31
CNE12501 496890 6636420 Plain stream channel silt loam 17

COOTABARLOW - 6937
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
CTB01101 426230 6672970 Flood plain flood out sandy clay loam 17
CTB01201 415370 6668000 Longitudinal dunefield swale sand 8
CTB02101 433480 6677450 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression clayey sand 17
CTB02201 433480 6677450 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression light clay 24
CTB03101 413390 6661760 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 19
CTB06101 410750 6645250 Dunefield closed depression light medium clay 35
CTB06201 412130 6650740 Dunefield closed depression loamy sand 24
CTB09101 416480 6628170 Longitudinal dunefield swale loamy sand 16
CTB09201 416660 6631780 Longitudinal dunefield dune footslope sand 24
CTB09301 415630 6633580 Plain closed depression light medium clay 31
CTB10101 421510 6635060 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 23

CURNAMONA - 6834
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
CUR01201 362410 6509740 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 25
CUR01301 362440 6499820 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 2
CUR03101 390670 6505420 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 22
CUR03201 389050 6513080 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 17
CUR04101 397150 6502940 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 25
CUR06201 361400 6492860 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 4
CUR06401 367630 6496680 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 5
CUR06501 370560 6488740 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) light clay 5
CUR07101 381100 6492790 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 25
CUR07201 386270 6500490 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) light clay 4
CUR09201 371480 6478150 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 20
CUR11101 379560 6461090 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 22
CUR14201 381720 6466840 Alluvial plain sandy plain loamy sand 5
CUR14301 385020 6468510 Low hills hill crest loamy sand 20
CUR15101 401880 6468720 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
CUR15201 402110 6468660 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
CUR15301 391840 6464500 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21

FROME - 6836
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
FRO01101 367460 6623910 Plain flat loamy sand 5
FRO01201 367250 6612110 Plain flat loamy sand 32
FRO01301 363870 6606720 Plain flat loamy sand 32
FRO01401 361750 6607140 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 19
FRO02101 375260 6622380 Plain flat light clay 31
FRO02201 374560 6622390 Plain flat loamy sand 25
FRO02301 372280 6622360 Plain flat loamy sand 28
FRO03101 356870 6606490 Plain flat sandy clay loam 5
FRO03201 359950 6601680 Plain flat loamy sand 25

KALABITY - 6934
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group

197
KAL01101 418400 6509860 Plain flood out light clay 31
KAL01201 418400 6509990 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 25
KAL01301 418800 6508860 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
KAL01401 418410 6509250 Plain swamp silty clay loam 35
KAL02101 431750 6510250 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 25
KAL03101 437410 6513590 Plain flood out sandy clay loam 22
KAL03201 445280 6503160 Plain flood out silty clay loam 10
KAL04101 408030 6494180 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
KAL04201 415730 6493300 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
KAL04301 408370 6494440 Plain stream channel sand 20
KAL06101 436470 6491820 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
KAL06201 444460 6498390 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 15
KAL07101 450670 6499960 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 15
KAL08101 419790 6479050 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
KAL09101 434800 6473230 Plain flood out sandy loam 28
KAL09201 428050 6481590 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
KAL10201 447200 6484530 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) light clay 31
KAL12501 424800 6461750 Hills hill slope sandy loam 21
KAL13101 441660 6475310 Low hills hill crest light clay 32
KAL13201 438090 6467140 Low hills hill footslope sandy clay loam 32
KAL13301 441340 6474560 Low hills flood out silty clay loam 20
KAL13401 447660 6466410 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 31

KOONAMORE - 6733
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
KOO01101 315220 6455150 Plain flat sandy clay loam 38
KOO02101 321950 6456010 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 28
KOO02201 322000 6456010 Low hills hill footslope sandy loam 38
KOO03101 333380 6452040 Plain flat light clay 34
KOO05101 347220 6454410 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 9
KOO06101 355990 6452880 Plain flat loamy sand 9
KOO08101 326080 6447860 Plain flat clay loam 32
KOO09101 330380 6449060 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 32
KOO10101 342170 6444660 Plain flat sandy loam 5
KOO11101 350570 6452160 Plain flat sandy clay loam 4
KOO11201 343360 6444420 Plain flat loamy sand 20
KOO12101 355900 6448600 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 4
KOO12201 353380 6447830 Plain flat clayey sand 5
KOO14101 327550 6439800 Plain flat loamy sand 28
KOO15101 335880 6443040 Plain open depression light clay 35
KOO16101 348390 6441920 Plain flat sandy loam 32
KOO18101 314990 6431860 Plain flat sandy loam 32
KOO18201 315800 6434920 Plain flat sandy clay loam 22
KOO24101 314780 6427190 Plain flat light clay 29
KOO27101 339270 6425700 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 32
KOO29101 352180 6425230 Plain flat sandy clay loam 4
KOO30101 316640 6416460 Rises hill slope clay loam, sandy 38
KOO30201 316640 6416440 Plain flat light clay 2
KOO32101 330740 6419750 Low hills hill slope clay loam, sandy 4
KOO33101 335790 6418190 Plain flat light clay 28
KOO34101 347000 6420210 Rises hill slope sandy loam 32
KOO35101 355130 6416040 Hills hill slope sandy loam 9
KOO37101 327940 6413570 Plain flat sandy clay loam 0
KOO38101 332800 6412870 Hills hill footslope sandy loam 0
KOO40101 348640 6410440 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 38
KOO41101 358390 6409170 Plain flat light clay 28

198
LAKE CHARLES - 7035
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
LCH01101 455180 6565430 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 20
LCH01201 456280 6567700 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 25
LCH01301 468580 6565280 Plain flood out light medium clay 31
LCH02101 472830 6560440 Longitudinal dunefield plain (incl undulating plain) sand 20
LCH02201 472930 6567140 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
LCH03101 484510 6566080 Longitudinal dunefield dune slope sand 23
LCH03201 491000 6562530 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 31
LCH03301 497090 6562660 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clayey sand 15
LCH04101 455750 6555480 Longitudinal dunefield stream channel sand 17
LCH04201 452330 6557650 Longitudinal dunefield swale sand 24
LCH05101 465940 6549610 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 16
LCH05201 468460 6550470 Longitudinal dunefield dune/consolidated dune sand 19
LCH06101 490010 6552470 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 17
LCH06201 479540 6543100 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
LCH06301 494530 6557370 Plain dune crest sand 20
LCH08101 469280 6535020 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 15
LCH08201 462890 6535030 Plain flood out sand 17
LCH09101 478960 6535060 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
LCH09201 484840 6535000 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 15
LCH10101 497140 6535120 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 15
LCH10201 499370 6535130 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 22
LCH11101 467380 6520730 Plain flood out silty clay loam 29
LCH11201 470000 6526250 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 15
LCH11301 461270 6527310 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 22
LCH12101 481620 6522750 Plain flood out silty clay loam 17
LCH12201 482000 6518950 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 19

MINGARY - 7033
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
MIN01201 470370 6448490 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
MIN01401 474490 6445510 Plain sandy plain sand 32
MIN02101 485090 6457960 Plain open depression silty clay loam 31
MIN02201 491390 6458010 Plain drainage depression silty clay loam 31
MIN02301 491250 6456220 Plain sandy plain clay loam 31
MIN02401 492230 6456160 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
MIN02501 492420 6448730 Plain closed depression light medium clay 35
MIN02601 494320 6449630 Plain stream channel sandy loam 32
MIN02701 492180 6448190 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 31
MIN05101 492910 6437670 Rises stream channel sand 2
MIN06201 459940 6422620 Rises ridge sandy clay loam 1
MIN07101 465700 6425480 Low hills hill slope silt loam 21
MIN07201 464930 6434190 Rises ridge sandy loam 4
MIN09101 492110 6431380 Rises hill slope sandy clay loam 32
MIN09201 492790 6429280 Rises hill slope silty clay loam 32
MIN10101 456710 6416260 Hills ridge silt loam 1
MIN10201 459150 6417790 Hills ridge sandy clay loam 21
MIN11101 477600 6408660 Rises hill slope silty clay loam 31
MIN11201 477530 6406110 Plain stream channel silty clay loam 18
MIN12101 492860 6414100 Rises ridge clay loam, sandy 4
MIN12201 485860 6417360 Plain hill crest silty clay loam 32
MIN12301 489620 6411910 Rises ridge clay loam 32

199
MULYUNGARIE - 7034
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
MUL01101 465510 6503230 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) light medium clay 31
MUL01201 459650 6509900 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 16
MUL02101 471620 6511490 Plain stream channel silty clay loam 10
MUL02201 478100 6508980 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 9
MUL02301 469220 6502980 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
MUL02401 471530 6507390 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 16
MUL03201 490770 6501670 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
MUL03301 484920 6512120 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sand 19
MUL03401 484420 6511920 Plain stream channel silty clay loam 17
MUL05201 467590 6496530 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 15
MUL05301 468980 6489940 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 31
MUL05401 468440 6490620 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
MUL06101 488650 6489110 Plain flood out sandy loam 22
MUL06201 483500 6488570 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
MUL06301 480480 6494320 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 32
MUL06401 484920 6497260 Plain sandy plain sand 19
MUL06501 488390 6488620 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 31
MUL09101 476310 6483800 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
MUL10101 490180 6478950 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
MUL10301 489600 6484630 Plain closed depression silty clay loam 17
MUL11101 465720 6463870 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 31
MUL11201 468060 6473170 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
MUL11301 473830 6467090 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) light medium clay 31
MUL12101 485230 6469330 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) silty clay loam 31
MUL13101 492710 6470840 Plain flood out clayey sand 2

OLARY - 6933
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
OLA01101 423760 6450810 Plain stream channel sand 18
OLA01201 426060 6447760 Alluvial plain sandy plain loamy sand 28
OLA01301 420920 6456470 Hills hill slope silty clay loam 4
OLA01401 421320 6446920 Hills hill slope clay loam, sandy 21
OLA01501 421320 6446920 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 28
OLA02101 442030 6452210 Low hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
OLA04101 406790 6443700 Hills hill crest sandy loam 21
OLA04201 410310 6432000 Low hills hill crest sandy clay loam 9
OLA05101 434110 6447200 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 21
OLA05301 432130 6441710 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 21
OLA05401 428320 6434670 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 28
OLA05501 424500 6441520 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 21
OLA05601 434110 6439770 Low hills flat clay loam 28
OLA08101 423250 6422800 Flood plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 2
OLA09101 433170 6421140 Plain drainage depression clay loam, sandy 2
OLA10101 412490 6413700 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam, sandy 8
OLA10401 416580 6420050 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam 8
OLA10501 415010 6419470 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam 31
OLA10601 421950 6411850 Low hills hill slope clay loam 21
OLA12101 436030 6417800 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
OLA12201 440970 6419320 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) clay loam 28
OLA12301 442650 6415330 Plain flood out clay loam 2
OLA12401 448940 6411130 Rises ridge clay loam, sandy 1

200
PARALANA - 6837
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
PAR01101 395320 6671450 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 29
PAR01201 385950 6678370 Plain flat light medium clay 29
PAR01301 387150 6671990 Plain flat light clay 29
PAR01401 383950 6665960 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 5
PAR02101 403920 6671160 Plain flat clayey sand 29
PAR02201 402110 6670820 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 16
PAR03101 374180 6659960 Plain flat light clay 29
PAR03201 383690 6660410 Plain flat sandy clay loam 10
PAR03301 384880 6655390 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 28
PAR03401 384670 6653670 Plain drainage depression clayey sand 10
PAR05101 364620 6644860 Plain flat light clay 31
PAR05201 371790 6644730 Plain dune/consolidated dune clayey sand 19
PAR05301 374980 6652910 Plain flat clayey sand 2
PAR06101 388180 6646670 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 29
PAR06201 390260 6642610 Plain closed depression light clay 31
PAR07101 373140 6630820 Longitudinal dunefield swale clay loam, sandy 10
PAR07201 366130 6640890 Flood plain flood out light clay 2
PAR07301 365570 6640620 Plain flat sandy clay loam 5
PAR07401 364060 6639640 Plain dune/consolidated dune sand 5
PAR08101 382510 6633500 Longitudinal dunefield dune slope sand 16
PAR09101 360310 6664350 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) light clay 31
PAR10101 361410 6652580 Plain drainage depression light clay 31
PAR11101 360100 6637190 Plain flat loamy sand 5
PAR11201 360090 6629140 Plain flat sandy clay loam 10

PASMORE - 6835
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
PAS01101 363240 6556180 Flood plain stream channel light clay 8
PAS01201 360040 6562470 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 25
PAS06101 375090 6545580 Alluvial plain flat loamy sand 28
PAS06201 362970 6546390 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 32
PAS06301 362440 6546450 Plain open depression light clay 10
PAS06401 362970 6546390 Plain flat loamy sand 25
PAS07101 391420 6550290 Dunefield swale medium clay 29
PAS08101 393720 6546420 Dunefield dune slope sand 32
PAS10101 371660 6534230 Plain swamp medium clay 31
PAS11101 390990 6536570 Rises hill slope loamy sand 25
PAS11201 387220 6540410 Dunefield dune crest sand 19
PAS12101 361390 6524270 Plain flat loamy sand 32
PAS13101 369860 6528480 Plain open depression clayey sand 28
PAS14101 387830 6524330 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 5
PAS15101 403310 6526570 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 22
PAS15201 402060 6526470 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 32
PAS15301 386370 6528490 Alluvial plain swamp sandy clay loam 35

201
REAPHOOK - 6735
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
REA01101 329000 6555120 Low hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
REA01201 328390 6554800 Plain flat sandy clay loam 4
REA01301 324720 6558150 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 39
REA01401 324170 6560450 Low hills hill slope sandy clay loam 9
REA01501 311680 6562510 Plain flood out sandy loam 25
REA02101 343220 6565870 Plain flat sandy clay loam 25
REA02201 340970 6561140 Plain flat loamy sand 25
REA02301 344690 6557840 Plain flat loamy sand 25
REA02401 342900 6557770 Plain flat loamy sand 25
REA02601 333500 6559390 Plain flat clay loam 37
REA02701 331400 6556900 Hills hill footslope sandy clay loam 5
REA03101 347080 6559630 Plain flat sandy loam 5
REA03201 350480 6563900 Flood plain flood out silty clay loam 18
REA03301 347730 6568260 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 2
REA02501 338420 6558530 Plain flat sandy clay loam 21
REA04101 320310 6549830 Plain flat clay loam, sandy 25
REA04201 324360 6543680 Plain flat sandy clay loam 25
REA05101 339940 6545280 Plain flat light clay 31
REA06101 356060 6552090 Flood plain flood out silty clay loam 18
REA06201 345550 6553590 Plain flat loamy sand 5
REA07101 325760 6539860 Plain flat sandy clay loam 4
REA07201 328900 6534370 Flood plain flood out light clay 8
REA07301 330820 6530470 Plain flat light clay 32
REA07401 330810 6527670 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
REA08101 344340 6539240 Plain flat light clay 10
REA08201 344990 6538740 Plain flood out light clay 18
REA08301 344830 6535740 Plain flat light clay 29
REA09101 317640 6522010 Plain flat light clay 25
REA09201 312170 6527610 Plain flat sandy clay loam 25
REA10101 335290 6524100 Low hills hill slope silt loam 25
REA10201 337400 6522810 Low hills flat clay loam 20
REA10301 327870 6515380 Hills hill slope clay loam, sandy 21
REA11101 342280 6525550 Alluvial plain flat sandy clay loam 28
REA11201 340880 6523100 Alluvial plain flat clay loam, sandy 2
REA11301 343110 6515500 Flood plain flood out sandy clay loam 28

THURLOOKA - 7036
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
THU04101 460970 6602120 Longitudinal dunefield dune footslope sandy loam 25
THU06101 488950 6608300 Longitudinal dunefield swale silty clay loam 25
THU06201 489070 6608340 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 23
THU07101 460480 6595100 Longitudinal dunefield closed depression light medium clay 31
THU07201 460710 6595110 Longitudinal dunefield plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 16
THU08101 468600 6586360 Longitudinal dunefield interdune corridor clay loam, sandy 17
THU09101 490090 6596860 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 24
THU09201 492970 6595310 Longitudinal dunefield swale sandy loam 24
THU10101 469180 6575530 Longitudinal dunefield swale sandy clay loam 16
THU10201 459200 6580960 Longitudinal dunefield dune crest sand 20
THU11101 480890 6576720 Plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 24
THU11201 487150 6576340 Plain stream channel sand 9
THU11301 476140 6578220 Plain drainage depression light medium clay 31

202
WILLIPPA - 6734
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
WIL01101 322240 6505810 Plain flat light clay 28
WIL01201 327430 6504350 Hills hill slope clay loam 21
WIL02101 346000 6513290 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 25
WIL02201 343500 6501080 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) medium clay 29
WIL02301 333150 6512350 Flood plain flood out sandy clay loam 8
WIL02401 343740 6507110 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) medium clay 10
WIL02501 343900 6512080 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 28
WIL03101 329460 6490780 Low hills hill slope clay loam 4
WIL03201 318390 6489520 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 4
WIL03301 313680 6490980 Plain flat clay loam 25
WIL03401 323230 6498870 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
WIL04101 343130 6491750 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) loamy sand 29
WIL04201 337670 6486510 Plain flat light clay 29
WIL06101 320770 6473470 Hills ridge sandy clay loam 21
WIL06201 323470 6475820 Hills hill footslope sandy loam 39
WIL06301 324050 6477180 Hills hill slope clayey sand 22
WIL06401 323850 6477560 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
WIL08101 354490 6476100 Hills hill footslope loamy sand 25
WIL08201 354490 6476100 Hills hill slope clay loam 21
WIL08301 354240 6479440 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
WIL09101 321230 6459530 Hills hill slope sandy loam 21
WIL09201 319900 6465020 Hills ridge sandy loam 21
WIL09301 319730 6465480 Hills stream channel sand 18
WIL09401 319660 6466600 Hills hill footslope silty clay loam 9
WIL09501 320500 6470560 Hills hill footslope silty clay loam 39
WIL09601 320440 6472010 Hills plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 22

WININNINNIE - 6833
Site Number Easting Northing Landform Pattern Landform Element Surface Soil Texture Veg Group
WIN01101 374960 6454570 Rises hill slope sand 5
WIN01201 368920 6451230 Alluvial plain hill footslope sandy clay loam 5
WIN01301 370790 6450060 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 32
WIN01401 373620 6444330 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
WIN01501 375380 6442220 Alluvial plain hill slope sandy loam 32
WIN03101 394970 6453180 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) clayey sand 16
WIN03201 394980 6455020 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
WIN03301 398400 6452430 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) clayey sand 28
WIN05101 379020 6436270 Rises hill slope sandy loam 38
WIN05301 378670 6436660 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 32
WIN06101 402050 6436630 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 9
WIN07101 362290 6425300 Rises hill slope sandy loam 32
WIN08101 380330 6426340 Plain flat clay loam 8
WIN08201 370460 6423900 Low hills hill slope clay loam 9
WIN08401 374760 6428710 Low hills hill slope sandy loam 32
WIN09101 383400 6421970 Rises hill slope silt loam 32
WIN09201 395150 6428860 Hills hill slope sandy clay loam 21
WIN10101 359940 6407280 Low hills hill footslope clay loam 4
WIN10201 362510 6405400 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 9
WIN10301 362510 6405400 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) light medium clay 0
WIN11101 378830 6406860 Hills hill slope loam 21
WIN11201 384710 6404060 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy loam 9
WIN12201 403890 6408550 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 28
WIN12301 403090 6407160 Alluvial plain plain (incl undulating plain) sandy clay loam 28
WIN12401 401800 6405090 Rises hill slope sandy clay loam 8

203
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix IV
Percentage of Survey Area covered by Vegetation Associations

Note: Derived from the map of Plant Communities and the Associated mosaics. For Floristic Groups see Table 5, p.59

Area Plant % Total Area Plant % Total Area Plant % Total Area Plant % Total
(km2) Community Area (km2) Community Area (km2) Community Area (km2) Community Area
192 1 0.41 815 8 1.72 5 21 / 4 0.01 627 29 1.32
426 2 0.90 209 8 / 28 0.61 279 21 / 9 0.59 214 29 / 5 / 32 0.45
17 2/3 0.04 89 8 / 34 0.19 55 21 / 22 0.12 2,026 31 4.27
55 2 / 3 / 25 0.12 97 8 / 37 0.20 39 22 0.08 36 31 / 16 0.08
11 2 / 18 0.02 14 8 / 38 0.03 22 22 / 28 0.05 26 31 / 34 0.05
640 2 / 28 1.35 116 9 0.24 1,876 23 3.95 86 31 / 35 0.18
133 2 / 28 / 8 0.28 18 9 / 39 0.04 1,032 23 / 24 2.18 5,564 32 11.73
186 2 / 28 / 38 0.39 139 10 0.29 2 23 / 25 / 24 0.00 844 32 / 4 1.78
183 2 / 38 0.39 7 10 / 17 0.01 7,818 24 16.48 409 32 / 4 / 38 0.86
5 3 0.01 13 10 / 19 0.03 83 24 / 25 / 16 0.18 443 32 / 8 0.93
107 3 / 10 0.22 94 15 0.20 767 25 1.62 227 32 / 8 / 25 0.48
154 3 / 31 0.32 1,518 15 / 20 3.20 3,385 25 / 5 7.14 486 32 / 16 1.02
25 4 0.05 25 16 0.05 7 25 / 5 / 22 0.01 96 32 / 19 / 28 0.20
531 4 / 5 / 25 1.12 6 16 / 22 0.01 90 25 / 5 / 38 0.19 201 32 / 21 0.42
111 4 / 21 0.23 9 16 / 24 0.02 1,119 25 / 28 2.36 36 32 / 25 / 4 0.08
131 4 / 21 / 22 0.28 60 17 0.13 85 25 / 28 / 29 0.18 312 32 / 38 0.66
129 4 / 25 / 31 0.27 13 17 / 10 0.03 278 25 / 31 0.59 65 34 0.14
96 4 / 32 / 22 0.20 126 18 0.27 939 25 / 32 1.98 6 35 0.01
42 4 / 38 / 32 0.09 13 18 / 8 0.03 335 25 / 32 / 38 0.71 6 36 0.01
311 5 0.66 20 18 / 10 0.04 135 25 / 38 0.29 23 36 / 17 0.05
726 5 / 29 1.53 183 19 0.39 270 28 0.57 4 36 / 17 / 31 0.01
1,223 5 / 32 2.58 78 19 / 10 0.16 295 28 / 5 0.62 291 37 0.61
81 5 / 38 0.17 267 19 / 15 / 20 0.56 749 28 / 32 1.58 278 38 0.59
359 5 / 38 / 25 0.76 94 19 / 28 / 15 0.20 26 28 / 38 0.06 233 38 / 4 0.49
1,902 21 4.01 100 39 / 21 / 22 0.21

Summary of some of the more spatially significant communities derived from table above.

Mapped Community Area (km2) % Survey Area

Maireana sedifolia Low open shrubland (4) 24 0.05
-as a mosaic with other communities 2,530 5.33
Senna/Eremophila / Rhagodia spinescens Open shrubland (5) 320 0.66
-as a mosaic with other communities 6,920 14.59
Acacia aneura / A. victoriae / Sida petrophila Very open low woodland (21) 1,900 4.01
-as a mosaic with other communities 882 1.86
Casuarina pauper Low woodland (22) 40 0.08
-as a mosaic with other communities 420 0.88
Acacia ligulata Very open shrubland (23) 1,875 3.95
-as a mosaic with other communities 1,034 2.18
Acacia aneura / Enneapogon spp. Low open woodland(24) 7,816 16.48
-as a mosaic with other communities 1,130 2.38
Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland (25) 770 1.62
-as a mosaic with other communities 7,970 16.81
Maireana pyramidata Low open shrubland (28) 270 0.57
-as a mosaic with other communities 3,940 8.3
Sclerolaena divaricata Low very open shrubland (31) 2,025 4.27
-as a mosaic with other communities 710 1.5
Atriplex vesicaria / Maireana astrotricha Low open shrubland (32) 5,560 11.73
-as a mosaic with other communities 6,070 12.8

204
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix V
PLANT SPECIES RECORDED FROM THE K Uncertain - likely to be either threatened or rare but
NORTH OLARY PLAINS SURVEY AREA insufficient data for a more precise assessment.
U Uncommon - less common species of interest but
Species are arranged in alphabetic order of family. Plant not rare enough to warrant special protective
taxonomy follows Jessop (1993) and common names are measures.
from the SA FLORA database. N Not of particular significance/Common.
# Not yet assessed but flagged as being of possible
* Introduced species significance.

Conservation status codes are shown in bold following The columns indicate the source of plant species records
the scientific name, listed in sequence Australian as follows:
(species)/South Australian/Regional, according to Briggs 1 Playfair, Hyde, and Robinson, 1996. (this survey) Records
and Leigh (1995) and Lang and Kraehenbuehl (1994). from survey sites
Regional status refers only to the Eastern region. + Hyde 1995. (this survey) Opportunistic records
2 Tiver, 1994 (may include species from a portion of the
South Olary Plains)
E Endangered - rare and in danger of becoming
3 Douglas, 1983 (may include species from a portion of the
extinct in the wild. Flinders Ranges at Balcanoona)
V Vulnerable - rare and at risk from potential threats 4 Williams and Levitzke, 1980. Strathearn and Kalabity
or long term threats which could cause the speices to pastoral leases
become endangered in the future. 5 Laut et al., 1977. Entire region
T Threatened - likely to be either endangered or 6 Osborn, Wood, Paltridge, 1935. Koonamoore
vulnerable but insufficient data for a more precise 7 Carrodus, Specht and Jackman, 1965. Koonamoore
assessment. 8 S A Herbarium specimens from the Eastern Region
R Rare - having a low overall frequency of occurrence: Note: many inadequate specimens are lodged with the State
Herbarium and are unidentifiable within the current
confined to a restricted range or scattered sparsely
taxonomic system. These are often kept for future
over a wider area. Not currently exposed to taxonomic work and appear on this list as incomplete
significant threats but warranting monitoring and identifications of specimens at the Herbarium.
protective measures to prevent reduction of
populations.

Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

ISOETACEAE
Isoetes muelleri rock quillwort 8
OPHIOGLOSSACEAE
Ophioglossum lusitanicum austral adder's-tongue 8
Ophioglossum polyphyllum large adder's-tongue 8
ADIANTACEAE
Cheilanthes sp. rock-fern 8
Cheilanthes distans bristly cloak-fern 3 8
Cheilanthes lasiophylla woolly cloak-fern 1 3 7 8
Cheilanthes sieberi ssp. sieberi mulga fern 1 3 8
Paraceterach reynoldsii scaly rock-fern 3 8
ASPLENIACEAE
Pleurosorus rutifolius blanket fern 1 3 7 8
Pleurosorus sp. blanket fern 8
Pleurosorus subglandulosus clubbed blanket fern 8
MARSILEACEAE
Marsilea drummondii common nardoo 1 2 4 7 8
Marsilea hirsuta short-fruit nardoo 8
Marsilea sp. nardoo 8
CUPRESSACEAE
Callitris glaucophylla northern cypress-pine 1 2 3 5 8
Callitris preissii southern cypress pine 8
Callitris sp. native pine 8
CASUARINACEAE
Allocasuarina muelleriana ssp. muelleriana slaty sheoak 3 8
Allocasuarina verticillata drooping sheoak 8

205
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Casuarina pauper black oak 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Casuarinaceae sp. sheaok family 8
SALICACEAE
* Salix babylonica weeping willow 8
URTICACEAE
Parietaria cardiostegia mallee smooth-nettle 8
Parietaria cardiostegia/debilis smooth-nettle 8
Parietaria debilis smooth-nettle 1 2 3 4 7 8
* Urtica urens stinging nettle 3 8
PROTEACEAE
Grevillea huegelii comb grevillea 2 8
Grevillea nematophylla water bush 8
Grevillea striata beefwood 8
Hakea ednieana corkbark 3 8
Hakea leucoptera needle bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Hakea sp. hakea/needlewood 8
SANTALACEAE
Exocarpos aphyllus leafless ballart 1 2 3 6 7 8
Santalum acuminatum quandong 1 2 3 6 7 8
Santalum lanceolatum plumbush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Santalum spicatum KN sandalwood 3 6 7 8
LORANTHACEAE
Amyema linophyllum ssp. orientale buloke mistletoe 8
Amyema maidenii ssp. maidenii pale-leaf mistletoe 1 2 3 6 7 8
Amyema miquelii box mistletoe 1 2 3 8
Amyema miraculosum ssp. boormanii fleshy mistletoe 1 8
Amyema preissii wire-leaf mistletoe 1 2 3 6 7 8
Lysiana exocarpi ssp. exocarpi harlequin mistletoe 1 2 3 6 7 8
Lysiana subfalcata + 8
POLYGONACEAE
* Acetosa vesicaria wild hops 1 3 4 5 8
* Acetosella vulgaris dock 1 8
* Emex australis three-corner jack 1 2 8
Muehlenbeckia coccoloboides +
Muehlenbeckia diclina ssp. diclina weeping lignum 8
Muehlenbeckia florulenta lignum 1 2 3 8
Persicaria lapathifolia pale knotweed 8
* Polygonum aviculare wireweed 2 8
Polygonum plebeium small knotweed 3 4 8
Rumex brownii swamp dock 3 8
* Rumex crispus curled dock 2 4 8
Rumex crystallinus shiny dock 8
Rumex dumosus var. dumosus wiry dock 8
Rumex sp. dock 8
Rumex tenax shiny dock 8
GYROSTEMONACEAE
Codonocarpus pyramidalis slender bell-fruit 1 3 8
NYCTAGINACEAE
Boerhavia coccinea tar-vine 8
Boerhavia dominii tar-vine + 2 4 6 7 8
Boerhavia schomburgkiana Schomburgk's tar-vine 8
Boerhavia sp. tar-vine 8
Commicarpus australis pink gum-fruit 3 8
AIZOACEAE
Aizoaceae sp. pigface family 8
Disphyma crassifolium ssp. clavellatum round-leaf pigface 8
Glinus lotoides hairy carpet-weed 4 8
Gunniopsis papillata twin-leaved pigface 8
Gunniopsis quadrifida Sturt's pigface 1 2 3 4 5 8
Gunniopsis sp. pigface 4 8
Mollugo cerviana wire-stem chickweed 8
* Psilocaulon tenue match-head plant 8
Sarcozona praecox sarcozona 8
Tetragonia eremaea desert spinach 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Tetragonia eremaea/tetragonoides native spinach 8
Tetragonia tetragonioides Warragul cabbage 8
Trianthema triquetra red spinach 1 2 7 8
PORTULACACEAE
Calandrinia eremaea small purslane 1 2 7 8
Calandrinia ptychosperma creeping parakeelya 8
Calandrinia sp. purslane/parakeelya 4 8
Portulaca oleracea common pigweed 1 2 4 7 8
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Caryophyllaceae sp. pink family 8
* Gypsophila tubulosa annual chalkwort 8
* Herniaria cinerea rupturewort 1 2 8
206
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

* Minuartia mediterranea slender sandwort 8

* Polycarpon tetraphyllum allseed 2 8
* Sagina apetala annual pearlwort 8
Scleranthus pungens prickly knawel 2 3 8
* Silene apetala sand catchfly 8
* Silene nocturna Mediterranean catchfly 2 8
* Spergularia diandra lesser sand-spurrey 1 2 8
* Spergularia marina salt sand-spurrey 8
* Spergularia rubra red-spurrey 8
* Spergularia sp. sand-spurrey 4 8
CHENOPODACEAE
Atriplex acutibractea ssp. acutibractea pointed saltbush 1 2 3 8
Atriplex angulata fan saltbush 1 2 4 7 8
Atriplex eardleyae small saltbush 2 6 7 8
Atriplex eichleri Eichler's saltbush 4 8
Atriplex holocarpa pop saltbush 1 2 8
Atriplex intermedia 1 8
Atriplex limbata spreading saltbush 1 2 4 6 8
Atriplex lindleyi ssp. baldoo 3 4 6 8
Atriplex lindleyi ssp. conduplicata baldoo 2 8
Atriplex lindleyi ssp. inflata corky saltbush 2 4 7 8
Atriplex lindleyi ssp. lindleyi baldoo 1 8
Atriplex lindleyi ssp. quadripartita baldoo 8
Atriplex nummularia ssp. nummularia old-man saltbush 1 2 5 8
Atriplex pseudocampanulata mealy saltbush 1 8
Atriplex semibaccata berry saltbush 1 8
Atriplex sp. saltbush 1 3 4 8
Atriplex spongiosa pop saltbush 1 3 4 5 6 7 8
Atriplex stipitata bitter saltbush 1 2 6 7 8
Atriplex velutinella sandhill saltbush 1 2 6 8
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. bladder saltbush 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. calcicola bladder saltbush 1 8
Atriplex vesicaria ssp. macrocystidia bladder saltbush 8
Chenopodiaceae sp. goosefoot family 1 8
Chenopodium auricomum golden goosefoot 1 5 8
Chenopodium cristatum crested goosefoot + 2 6 7 8
Chenopodium curvispicatum cottony goosefoot 2 8
Chenopodium desertorum ssp. desert goosefoot 4 8
Chenopodium desertorum ssp. anidiophyllum mallee goosefoot 2 8
Chenopodium desertorum ssp. desertorum desert goosefoot + 2 3 8
Chenopodium desertorum ssp. rectum erect goosefoot 8
Chenopodium melanocarpum forma black crumbweed 2 8
melanocarpum
* Chenopodium murale nettle-leaf goosefoot + 2 3 8
Chenopodium nitrariaceum nitre goosefoot 1 2 8
Chenopodium pumilio small crumbweed 2 3 7 8
Chenopodium sp. goosefoot 8
Dissocarpus biflorus var. biflorus twin-horned copperburr 1 2 3 4 8
Dissocarpus paradoxus ball bindyi 1 2 3 6 7 8
Dysphania glomulifera ssp. globular crumbweed 8
Dysphania glomulifera ssp. eremaea globular pigweed 8
Dysphania glomulifera ssp. glomulifera globular crumbweed 8
Dysphania plantaginella plantain crumbweed 8
Dysphania platycarpa flat-fruit crumbweed 8
Dysphania simulans erect crumbweed 8
Dysphania sp. pigweed 8
Einadia nutans ssp. climbing saltbush 1 2 4 8
Einadia nutans ssp. nutans climbing saltbush 1 3 8
Einadia nutans ssp. oxycarpa pointed-fruit climbing 8
saltbush
Enchylaena tomentosa var. tomentosa ruby saltbush 1 2 4 5 7 8
Eriochiton sclerolaenoides woolly-fruit bluebush 1 2 3 6 7 8
Halosarcia halocnemoides ssp. grey glasswort 3 8
halocnemoides
Halosarcia halocnemoides ssp. longispicata grey glasswort 1 8
Halosarcia indica ssp. brown-head samphire 1 8
Halosarcia indica ssp. bidens brown-head samphire 8
Halosarcia indica ssp. leiostachya brown-head samphire 1 8
Halosarcia nitida shining glasswort 8
Halosarcia nitida shining samphire 8
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. black-seed samphire 1 8
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. divaricata black-seed samphire 3 8
Halosarcia pergranulata ssp. pergranulata black-seed samphire 8
Halosarcia pterygosperma green samphire 7 8
ssp.pterygosperma
Halosarcia sp. samphire 1 5 8
207
 Maireana aphylla cotton-bush 1 2 3 4 5 7 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Maireana appressa grey bluebush 1 2 4 6 8

Maireana astrotricha grey bluebush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Maireana brevifolia short-leaf bluebush 1 2 7 8
Maireana campanulata bell-fruit bluebush 4 8
Maireana carnosa cottony bluebush 8
Maireana ciliata hairy bluebush 1 3 7 8
Maireana coronata crown fissure-weed 8
Maireana eriantha woolly bluebush 1 8
Maireana erioclada rosy bluebush 2 7 8
Maireana excavata bottle bluebush 1 7 8
Maireana georgei slit-wing bluebush 1 3 6 7 8
Maireana georgei/turbinata satiny bluebush 8
Maireana integra entire-wing bluebush 1 2 3 8
Maireana lobiflora lobed bluebush 1 3 7 8
Maireana microcarpa swamp bluebush 8
Maireana oppositifolia salt bluebush 8
Maireana pentagona hairy bluebush 1 8
Maireana pentatropis erect bluebush 1 3 8
Maireana pyramidata black bluebush 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Maireana sedifolia bluebush 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Maireana sp. bluebush/fissure-plant 1 8
Maireana spongiocarpa spongy-fruit bluebush 3 8
Maireana tomentosa ssp.urceolata 1 8
Maireana trichoptera mallee bluebush 2 7 8
Maireana triptera three-wing bluebush 2 8
Maireana turbinata top-fruit bluebush 1 2 3 8
Malacocera albolanata woolly soft-horns + 8
Malacocera biflora 1 8
Malacocera gracilis KN slender soft-horns 1 8
Malacocera sp. woolly saltbush 1 8
Malacocera tricornis goat-head soft-horns 1 8
Osteocarpum acropterum var. bonefruit 1 4 8
Osteocarpum acropterum var. acropterum water weed 1 3 7 8
Osteocarpum acropterum var. deminutum wingless bonefruit 2 8
Osteocarpum dipterocarpum two-wing bonefruit 3 4 8
Rhagodia parabolica mealy saltbush 1 2 3 8
Rhagodia sp. saltbush 8
Rhagodia spinescens spiny saltbush 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Rhagodia ulicina spiny saltbush 2 3 8
Salsola kali roly-poly 1 2 4 6 7 8
Scleroblitum atriplicinum purple goosefoot 8
Sclerolaena bicornis goathead burr 1 2 7 8
Sclerolaena brachyptera short-wing bindyi 1 4 7 8
Sclerolaena convexula tall bindyi 2 8
Sclerolaena cuneata poverty-bush 1 2 8
Sclerolaena decurrens green copperburr 1 2 3 4 8
Sclerolaena diacantha grey bindyi 1 3 7 8
Sclerolaena diacantha/uniflora grey bindyi 2 8
Sclerolaena divaricata poverty-bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Sclerolaena eriacantha silky copperburr 1 4 8
Sclerolaena holtiana 1 8
Sclerolaena intricata tangled poverty-bush 1 2 4 8
Sclerolaena lanicuspis woolly bindyi 1 2 3 4 7 8
Sclerolaena limbata pearl copperburr 1 3 7 8
Sclerolaena longicuspis long-spine poverty-bush 1 3 7 8
Sclerolaena obliquicuspis limestone copperburr 1 2 3 6 8
Sclerolaena parviflora small-flower bindyi 2 8
Sclerolaena patenticuspis spear-fruit bindyi 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Sclerolaena sp. bindyi 1 5 8
Sclerolaena tatei Tate's bindyi 8
Sclerolaena uniflora small-spine bindyi 1 6 8
Sclerolaena ventricosa salt bindyi 1 2 3 4 7 8
Sclerostegia medullosa glasswort 1 8
Sclerostegia sp. samphire 8
Sclerostegia tenuis slender glasswort 1 2 3 4 5 7 8
AMARANTHACEAE
Alternanthera denticulata lesser joyweed 8
Alternanthera nodiflora common joyweed 8
Alternanthera sp. joyweed 4 8
Amaranthus grandiflorus large-flower amaranth 8
Amaranthus mitchellii Boggabri weed 8
Ptilotus exaltatus var. exaltatus tall mulla mulla 2 3 8
Ptilotus gaudichaudii var. parviflorus paper foxtail 2 8
Ptilotus helipteroides var. helipteroides hairy mulla mulla 8
Ptilotus nobilis var. nobilis regal fox-tail 3 7 8
208
 Ptilotus obovatus var. 1 7 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Ptilotus obovatus var. obovatus mulla mulla 1 2 3 8

Ptilotus polystachyus var. polystachyus long-tails 2 7 8
Ptilotus sp. mulla mulla 1 8
CACTACEAE
* Opuntia vulgaris drooping prickly pear 8
RANUNCULACEAE
Clematis microphylla old man's beard 3 8
* Myosurus minimus var. australis mousetail 4 8
Ranunculus hamatosetosus hill buttercup 8
Ranunculus pentandrus var. platycarpus inland buttercup 4 8
Ranunculus pumilio var. ferny buttercup 2 8
Ranunculus pumilio var. politus small-flower buttercup 8
Ranunculus pumilio var. pumilio ferny buttercup 8
GUTTIFERAE
Hypericum gramineum small St John's wort 8
PAPAVERACEAE
* Argemone subfusiformis ssp. subfusiformis Mexican poppy 2 4 8
* Glaucium corniculatum var. corniculatum bristly horned-poppy 2 8
* Papaver hybridum rough poppy 8
CAPPARACEAE
Capparis mitchellii native orange 3 8
CRUCIFERAE
* Alyssum linifolium flax-leaf alyssum 1 2 4 8
Arabidella filifolia thread-leaf cress 8
Arabidella nasturtium yellow cress 1 4 8
Arabidella procumbens creeping cress 4 8
Arabidella trisecta shrubby cress 1 2 3 4 7 8
Blennodia canescens native stock 8
Blennodia pterosperma wild stock 1 3 8
* Brassica tournefortii long-fruit wild turnip 1 2 3 4 8
* Capsella bursapastoris shepherd's purse 8
* Carrichtera annua Ward's weed 1 2 3 4 8
Cruciferae sp. cress family 8
* Diplotaxis muralis var. muralis wall rocket 8
* Diplotaxis tenuifolia Lincoln weed + 2 7 8
Geococcus pusillus earth cress 1 4 6 7 8
Harmsiodoxa blennodioides hairypod cress 1 2 4 7 8
Harmsiodoxa brevipes var. brevipes short cress 1 8
Harmsiodoxa sp. native cress 8
Harmsiodoxa puberula + 8
* Hymenolobus procumbens oval purse 8
* Lepidium africanum common peppercress 2 8
Lepidium fasciculatum bundled peppercress 1 2 8
Lepidium muelleri-ferdinandi Mueller's peppercress 8
Lepidium oxytrichum green peppercress 1 2 3 4 8
Lepidium papillosum warty peppercress 1 3 4 8
Lepidium phlebopetalum veined peppercress 1 2 8
Lepidium rotundum veined peppercress 1 3 4 8
Lepidium sagittulatum fine-leaf peppercress 2 8
Lepidium sp. peppercress 1 8
Menkea australis fairy spectacles 8
Menkea crassa fat spectacles 8
Pachymitus cardaminoides sand cress 8
Phlegmatospermum cochlearinum downy cress 1 2 3 4 8
* Sisymbrium erysimoides smooth mustard 1 2 3 4 8
* Sisymbrium irio London rocket 3 8
* Sisymbrium orientale wild mustard 2 4 8
* Sisymbrium sp. wild mustard 8
Stenopetalum lineare narrow thread-petal 1 2 3 4 7 8
RESEDACEAE
* Reseda luteola wild mignonette 2 7 8
CRASSULACEAE
Crassula colorata var. dense stonecrop 1 4 7 8
Crassula colorata var. acuminata dense stonecrop 8
Crassula colorata var. colorata dense stonecrop 2 8
Crassula colorata/sieberana crassula 8
Crassula sieberiana ssp. tetramera Australian stonecrop 1 2 7 8
Crassula sp. crassula/stonecrop 1 8
PITTOSPORACEAE
Bursaria spinosa sweet bursaria 3 8
Pittosporum phylliraeoides var. microcarpa native apricot 1 2 3 7 8
ROSACEAE
* Malus sylvestris wild crab apple 8
LEGUMINOSAE
Acacia aneura mulga 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
209
 Acacia aneura var. aneura mulga 1 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Acacia aneura complex mulga 8

Acacia argyrophylla silver mulga-bush 2 8
Acacia ayersiana var. latifolia broad-leaf mulga 1 3 8
Acacia barattensis Baratta wattle 8
Acacia beckleri Barrier Range wattle 1 2 8
Acacia burkittii sandhill wattle 1 2 4 6 7 8
Acacia calamifolia wallowa 1 2 4 8
Acacia carnei purple-wood wattle 1 2 4 7 8
Acacia cibaria umbrella mulga 5 8
Acacia colletioides wait-a-while 2 8
Acacia continua thorn wattle 2 3 8
Acacia farnesiana sweet acacia 8
Acacia hakeoides hakea wattle 8
Acacia havilandii needle wattle 3 8
Acacia ligulata umbrella bush 1 2 3 5 7 8
Acacia loderi eastern myall 2 8
Acacia murrayana sandplain wattle 8
Acacia nyssophylla spine bush 1 2 8
Acacia oswaldii umbrella wattle 1 2 3 7 8
Acacia paradoxa kangaroo thorn 8
Acacia paradoxa hybrid kangaroo thorn hybrid 8
Acacia pravifolia coil-pod wattle 8
Acacia pycnantha golden wattle 8
Acacia salicina willow wattle 1 2 3 7 8
Acacia tetragonophylla dead finish 1 2 3 4 8
Acacia victoriae ssp. victoriae elegant wattle 1 2 4 7 8
Acacia wilhelmiana dwarf nealie 8
* Astragalus hamosus milk-vetch 8
* Astragalus sesameus purple milk-vetch 2 8
Cassia sturtii grey cassia 8
Crotalaria eremaea ssp. eremaea bluebush pea + 4 8
Daviesia genistifolia URN broom bitter-pea 3 8
Daviesia stricta Flinders Ranges bitter-pea 8
Glycine canescens silky glycine 1 8
Glycine clandestina var. 1 2 3 8
Glycyrrhiza acanthocarpa native liquorice 1 8
Goodia lotifolia var. lotifolia golden-tip 8
Hardenbergia violacea native lilac 8
Indigofera australis var. australis austral indigo 2 3 4 8
Indigofera helmsii 1 8
Lotus australis Australian trefoil 1 6 8
Lotus cruentus red-flower lotus 1 2 3 4 7 8
* Medicago minima var. minima woolly burr-medic 1 2 8
* Medicago polymorpha var. polymorpha burr-medic 1 2 3 4 7 8
* Medicago sp. medic 8
Petalostylis labicheoides + 3 4 8
* Prosopis juliflora mesquite 2 8
Psoralea australasica tall scurf-pea 4 7 8
Psoralea cinerea hoary scurf-pea + 2 8
Psoralea parva small scurf-pea 8
Psoralea sp. scurf-pea 8
Rhynchosia minima rhynchosia 8
Senna artemisioides nothossp. artemisioides silver senna 1 2 3 7 8
Senna artemisioides nothossp. coriacea broad-leaf desert senna 1 2 3 7 8
Senna artemisioides nothossp. sturtii grey senna 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. desert senna 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. alicia desert senna 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. filifolia fine-leaf desert senna 1 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. helmsii blunt-leaf senna 1 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. oligophylla limestone senna 3 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. petiolaris flat-stalk senna 1 2 3 6 7 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. quadrifolia four-leaf desert senna 1 8
Senna artemisioides ssp. zygophylla twin-leaf desert senna 2 3 8
Senna cardiosperma ssp. gawlerensis Gawler Ranges senna 8
Swainsona adenophylla + 4 8
Swainsona fissimontana Broken Hill pea 2 8
Swainsona flavicarinata yellow-keel swainson-pea 8
Swainsona formosa Sturt's desert-pea 2 3 7 8
Swainsona murrayana ssp. KN Murray swainson-pea 2 8
Swainsona murrayana ssp. eciliata Murray swainson-pea 8
Swainsona murrayana ssp. murrayana slender Darling pea 8
Swainsona oliveri 8
Swainsona phacoides ssp. phacoides dwarf swainsona 2 3 7 8
Swainsona procumbens Broughton pea 8
Swainsona pyrophila yellow Darling pea 8
210
 Swainsona sp. swainson-pea 1 3 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Swainsona stipularis orange Darling pea 1 2 8

Swainsona swainsonioides downy Darling pea 2 4 8
Swainsona tephrotricha ashy-haired swainsona 3 8
Swainsona viridis QN creeping Darling pea 2 8
Templetonia aculeata spiny mallee-pea 8
Templetonia egena desert broombush 2 6 7 8
Tephrosia sphaerospora mulga trefoil 1 8
Trigonella suavissima channel clover 2 4 7 8
* Vicia monantha spurred vetch 1 2 8
* Vicia sativa ssp. nigra narrow-leaf vetch 8
* Vicia sp. vetch 8
OXALIDACEAE
Oxalis perennans native sorrel 1 2 7 8
Oxalis sp. native sorrel 1 8
GERANIACEAE
* Erodium aurium 1 2 3 8
* Erodium cicutarium common stork's-bill 1 2 4 6 8
Erodium crinitum blue stork's-bill 1 2 4 7 8
Erodium crinitum/cygnorum blue heron's-bill 6 8
Erodium cygnorum ssp. cygnorum blue heron’s-bill 1 4 6 8
Erodium cygnorum ssp. glandulosum clammy heron's-bill 1 2 7 8
Erodium sp. stork's-bill 1 3 8
Geranium solanderi var. solanderi native geranium 8
ZYGOPHYLLACEAE
Nitraria billardierei nitre-bush 1 2 3 5 7 8
* Peganum harmala African rue + 7 8
Tribulus eichlerianus bull-head 8
* Tribulus terrestris caltrop 2 4 6 8
Zygophyllum ammophilum sand twinleaf 1 2 4 6 7 8
Zygophyllum angustifolium scrambling twinleaf 8
Zygophyllum apiculatum pointed twinleaf 2 3 8
Zygophyllum aurantiacum shrubby twinleaf 1 3 7 8
Zygophyllum aurantiacum/eremaeum shrubby twin-leaf 2 8
Zygophyllum billardierei scrambling twinleaf 3 7 8
Zygophyllum compressum rabbit-ears twinleaf 8
Zygophyllum confluens forked twinleaf 8
Zygophyllum crenatum notched twinleaf 1 2 7 8
Zygophyllum eremaeum climbing twinleaf 8
Zygophyllum howittii clasping twinleaf 1 8
Zygophyllum humillimum KN small-fruit twinleaf 8
Zygophyllum iodocarpum violet twinleaf 1 2 6 7 8
Zygophyllum ovatum dwarf twinleaf 2 3 6 7 8
Zygophyllum prismatothecum square-fruit twinleaf 1 2 3 6 7 8
Zygophyllum sp. twinleaf 1 8
LINACEAE
Linum marginale wild flax 3 8
EUPHORBIACEAE
Adriana klotzschii coast bitter-bush 8
Beyeria lechenaultii pale turpentine bush 2 3 8
Euphorbia australis caustic weed 2 8
Euphorbia drummondii caustic weed 1 2 4 6 7 8
Euphorbia parvicaruncula rough-seeded spurge 8
Euphorbia sp. spurge 1 8
Euphorbia stevenii bottletree caustic 8
Euphorbia tannensis ssp. eremophila bottle tree caustic 1 2 7 8
Euphorbia wheeleri Wheeler's spurge 8
Euphorbiaceae sp. spurge family 8
Phyllanthus lacunarius lagoon spurge 1 3 4 8
Phyllanthus saxosus UN rock spurge 8
* Ricinus communis castor oil plant + 2 3 4 8
Sauropus ramosissimus KN 8
Sauropus rigens stiff spurge 7 8
Sauropus trachyspermus slender spurge + 8
RUTACEAE
Correa glabra smooth correa 8
Eriostemon linearis narrow-leaf wax-flower 2 7 8
Geijera parviflora wilga 2 8
ANACARDIACEAE
* Schinus areira pepper-tree 2 8
SAPINDACEAE
Alectryon oleifolius ssp. canescens bullock bush 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Atalaya hemiglauca whitewood 5 8
Dodonaea baueri crinkled hop-bush 2 3 8
Dodonaea lobulata lobed hop-bush 1 2 3 7 8

211
 Dodonaea microzyga var. microzyga brilliant hop-bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Dodonaea sp. hop-bush 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Dodonaea stenozyga desert hop-bush 1 8

Dodonaea viscosa ssp. sticky hop-bush 8
Dodonaea viscosa ssp. angustissima narrow-leaf hop-bush 1 2 4 7 8
Dodonaea viscosa ssp. spatulata sticky hop-bush 8
STACKHOUSIACEAE
Stackhousia muricata western stackhousia 8
Stackhousia muricata ssp. yellow candles 8
"Perennial"(W.R.Barker 3641)
Stackhousia muricata ssp. western candles 8
"Perennial"(W.R.Barker 3641)
RHAMNACEAE
Cryptandra amara var. longiflora long-flower cryptandra 8
Spyridium phlebophyllum inland spyridium 2 3 8
MALVACEAE
Abutilon fraseri dwarf lantern-bush 1 2 7 8
Abutilon halophilum plains lantern-bush 1 2 8
Abutilon leucopetalum desert Chinese-lantern 1 2 3 8
Abutilon malvaefolium scrambling lantern-bush 8
Abutilon otocarpum desert Chinese-lantern 1 2 3 8
Abutilon sp. lantern-bush 3 4 8
Gossypium sturtianum var. sturtianum Sturt's desert rose 3 8
Hibiscus krichauffianus velvet-leaf hibiscus 1 8
Hibiscus sp. 1 8
Hibiscus sturtii var. grandiflorus hill hibiscus 1 3 8
Lavatera plebeia native hollyhock 2 3 7 8
Lawrencia glomerata clustered lawrencia 1 2 3 8
Lawrencia squamata thorny lawrencia 2 8
* Malva parviflora marshmallow 1 2 3 4 8
Malvastrum americanum malvastrum 1 2 3 7 8
Sida ammophila sand sida 1 3 8
Sida corrugata var. corrugated sida 1 2 3 7 8
Sida corrugata var.A corrugated sida 1 2 8
Sida corrugata var. angustifolia corrugated sida 4 8
Sida fibulifera silver sida 1 2 7 8
Sida intricata twiggy sida 1 2 7 8
Sida petrophila rock sida 1 2 7 8
Sida phaeotricha hill sida 8
Sida sp. sida 1 8
Sida trichopoda narrow-leaf sida 1 2 8
STERCULIACEAE
Gilesia biniflora western tar-vine 8
Lasiopetalum behrii pink velvet-bush 8
Melhania oblongifolia velvet hibiscus 8
THYMELAEACEAE
Pimelea micrantha curved riceflower 8
Pimelea microcephala ssp. microcephala mallee riceflower 1 2 3 4 8
Pimelea petrophila rock riceflower 8
Pimelea simplex ssp. desert riceflower 1 2 3 4 8
Pimelea simplex ssp. continua desert riceflower 8
Pimelea simplex ssp. simplex desert riceflower 1 8
Pimelea stricta erect riceflower 8
Pimelea trichostachya spiked riceflower 3 8
VIOLACEAE
Hybanthus monopetalus slender violet-bush 8
TAMARICACEAE
* Tamarix aphylla Athel pine 1 2 8
FRANKENIACEAE
Frankenia crispa hoary sea-heath 1 8
Frankenia cupularis 8
Frankenia serpyllifolia bristly sea-heath 1 2 3 4 8
Frankenia sp. sea-heath 3 4 8
ELATINACEAE
Bergia trimera three-part water-fire 8
CUCURBITACEAE
* Citrullus lanatus bitter melon 7 8
* Cucumis myriocarpus paddy melon 1 2 4 7 8
Cucurbitaceae sp. melon family 8
LYTHRACEAE
Lythrum wilsonii Wilson's loosestrife 8
MYRTACEAE
Baeckea crassifolia desert baeckea 8
Callistemon teretifolius needle bottlebrush 3 8
Calytrix tetragona common fringe-myrtle 3 8
Eucalyptus aff. viridis green mallee 8
212
 Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. river red gum 1 2 3 4 5 7 8
Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. camaldulensis river red gum 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Eucalyptus camaldulensis var. obtusa northern river red gum 8

Eucalyptus coolabah ssp. arida coolibah 8
Eucalyptus dumosa white mallee 2 3 8
Eucalyptus dumosa complex white mallee 8
Eucalyptus flindersii Flinders grey mallee 2 3 8
Eucalyptus gillii curly mallee 1 2 3 5 8
Eucalyptus gracilis yorrell 1 2 8
Eucalyptus intertexta gum-barked coolibah 1 2 3 8
Eucalyptus largiflorens river box 1 2 8
Eucalyptus leptophylla narrow-leaf red mallee 8
Eucalyptus microtheca coolibah 8
Eucalyptus oleosa red mallee 2 7 8
Eucalyptus porosa mallee box 2 3 8
Eucalyptus sideroxylon ssp. sideroxylon red ironbark 8
Eucalyptus socialis red mallee 1 2 3 5 8
Melaleuca glomerata desert paper-bark 1 3 5 8
Melaleuca lanceolata dryland tea-tree + 2 3 7 8
Myrtaceae sp. myrtle family 8
HALORAGACEAE
Gonocarpus elatus hill raspwort 3 8
Gonocarpus sp. raspwort 8
Gonocarpus tetragynus small-leaf raspwort 8
Haloragaceae sp. raspwort 3 8
Haloragis aspera rough raspwort + 2 4 8
Haloragis sp. raspwort 1 8
Myriophyllum verrucosum red water-milfoil 2 8
UMBELLIFERAE
Apium prostratum ssp. prostratum native celery 8
* Conium maculatum hemlock 2 8
Daucus glochidiatus native carrot 1 2 3 4 7 8
Hydrocotyle callicarpa tiny pennywort 8
Hydrocotyle sp. pennywort 8
Hydrocotyle trachycarpa wild parsley 8
Trachymene glaucifolia wild parsnip 3 8
Umbelliferae sp. celery family 8
EPACRIDACEAE
Astroloma humifusum native cranberry 3 8
PRIMULACEAE
* Anagallis arvensis blue/scarlet pimpernel 1 2 3 8
* Anagallis minima chaffweed 8
Samolus repens creeping brookweed 8
LIMONIACEAE
* Limonium lobatum winged sea-lavender 1 2 8
OLEACEAE
Jasminum didymum ssp. lineare native jasmine 2 3 8
LOGANIACEAE
Logania nuda leafless logania 8
GENTIANACEAE
* Centaurium spicatum spike centaury 2 8
ASCLEPIADACEAE
Marsdenia australis native pear 1 2 3 7 8
Sarcostemma viminale ssp. australe caustic bush 2 3 7 8
RUBIACEAE
Asperula conferta common woodruff 8
Asperula sp. woodruff 1 8
Galium gaudichaudii rough bedstraw 3 8
Galium migrans loose bedstraw 2 8
* Galium murale bedstraw 1 8
Galium sp. bedstraw 8
* Galium spurium ssp. ibicinum bedstraw 8
* Galium tricornutum three-horned bedstraw 8
Pomax umbellata pomax 3 8
CONVOLVULACEAE
Convolvulaceae sp. bindweed family 8
Convolvulus erubescens Australian bindweed 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Convolvulus erubescens/remotus native bindweed 8
Convolvulus eyreanus native bindweed 8
Convolvulus microsepalus small-flower bindweed 8
Convolvulus remotus grassy bindweed 1 2 8
Cressa cretica rosinweed 8
Evolvulus alsinoides var. decumbens tropical speedwell 8
BORAGINACEAE
* Anchusa arvensis ssp. arvensis bugloss 8
Boraginaceae sp. borage family 8
213
 * Buglossoides arvensis sheepweed 2 8
* Echium plantagineum Salvation Jane 1 2 3 4 7 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

* Echium vulgare viper's bugloss 8

Embadium uncinatum Gawler Ranges slipper-plant 8
Halgania cyanea rough halgania 2 3 8
* Heliotropium curassavicum smooth heliotrope 8
* Heliotropium europaeum potato weed 1 2 4 6 7 8
Heliotropium sp. heliotrope 8
* Heliotropium supinum prostrate heliotrope 4 8
Omphalolappula concava burr stickseed 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Plagiobothrys plurisepaleus white forget-me-not 1 4 6 7 8
Trichodesma zeylanicum camel bush + 3 8
VERBENACEAE
* Verbena officinalis common verbena 4 8
* Verbena supina trailing verbena 3 7 8
LABIATAE
Ajuga australis form A austral bugle 2 3 8
Labiatae sp. mint family 8
* Marrubium vulgare horehound 1 2 3 8
Plectranthus intraterraneus purple mintbush 3 8
Prostanthera striatiflora striated mintbush 1 2 3 7 8
* Salvia reflexa mintweed 8
* Salvia verbenaca form wild sage 1 2 8
* Salvia verbenaca form A wild sage 1 8
* Salvia verbenaca form B wild sage 1 8
Teucrium albicaule scurfy germander 8
Teucrium racemosum grey germander 1 2 4 7 8
Teucrium sessiliflorum camel bush 8
Westringia rigida stiff westringia 1 2 3 8
SOLANACEAE
* Datura ferox fierce thorn-apple 8
* Datura inoxia downy thorn-apple 8
* Datura leichhardtii native thorn-apple + 2 3 8
* Datura sp. thorn-apple 8
* Datura stramonium common thorn-apple 8
Duboisia hopwoodii pituri 2 8
Lycium australe Australian boxthorn 1 2 6 7 8
* Lycium ferocissimum African boxthorn 1 2 8
* Nicotiana glauca tobacco bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Nicotiana goodspeedii small-flower tobacco 1 2 7 8
Nicotiana simulans native tobacco 3 8
Nicotiana sp. tobacco 3 8
Nicotiana velutina velvet tobacco 1 2 8
Solanum chenopodinum goosefoot potato-bush 1 8
Solanum coactiliferum tomato-bush 8
Solanum ellipticum potato-bush 1 2 3 7 8
Solanum esuriale quena 1 2 8
Solanum ferocissimum spiny potato-bush 8
* Solanum nigrum black nightshade 1 2 3 4 7 8
Solanum petrophilum rock nightshade 1 2 3 4 8
Solanum quadriloculatum tomato bush 1 8
* Solanum retroflexum 1 8
Solanum sp. nightshade/potato-bush 3 8
Solanum sturtianum Sturt's nightshade 1 2 3 4 7 8
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Derwentia decorosa rock speedwell 8
Glossostigma cleistanthum spoon mud-mat 8
Glossostigma diandrum two-anther mud-mat 8
Glossostigma sp. mud-mat 8
Limosella curdieana large mudwort 2 4 8
Limosella curdieana var. "curdieana" large mudwort 8
Limosella curdieana var. "Long- large mudwort 8
pedicelled"(W.R.Barker 3577)
Peplidium foecundum dwarf peplidium 8
Stemodia florulenta bluerod 1 8
ACANTHACEAE
Rostelluaria adscendens ssp. adscendens pink tongues 1 3 8
OROBANCHACEAE
Orobanche cernua var. australiana Australian broomrape 2 8
MYOPORACEAE
Eremophila alternifolia narrow-leaf fuchsia-bush 1 2 3 7 8
Eremophila deserti turkey-bush 1 2 4 8
Eremophila duttonii harlequin fuchsia-bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Eremophila freelingii rock fuchsia-bush 1 2 3 7 8
Eremophila glabra ssp. glabra tar bush 1 2 3 4 8
Eremophila longifolia weeping emubush 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
214
 Eremophila maculata var. maculata spotted emubush 2 3 7 8
Eremophila oppositifolia var. oppositifolia twin-leaf emubush 1 2 3 4 7 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Eremophila scoparia broom emubush 1 2 3 6 7 8

Eremophila serrulata green fuchsia-bush 2 3 4 7 8
Eremophila sp. emubush/turkey-bush 8
Eremophila sturtii turpentine bush 1 2 3 6 7 8
Myoporum montanum native myrtle 2 3 4 8
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. false sandalwood 1 2 3 5 6 7 8
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. perbellum mallee sandalwood 8
Myoporum platycarpum ssp. platycarpum false sandalwood 1 8
PLANTAGINACEAE
* Plantago coronopus ssp. coronopus bucks-horn plantain 8
Plantago drummondii sago weed 1 2 8
* Plantago scabra rough plantain 2 8
Plantago sp. plantain 3 4 8
CAMPANULACEAE
Isotoma petraea rock isotome 2 3 8
Wahlenbergia communis tufted bluebell 1 2 3 8
Wahlenbergia gracilenta annual bluebell 1 2 4 7 8
Wahlenbergia luteolus native blubell 1 2 7 8
Wahlenbergia sp. native bluebell 1 4 8
Wahlenbergia stricta ssp. stricta tall bluebell 2 3 7 8
Wahlenbergia tumidifructa swollen-fruit bluebell 1 2 8
GOODENIACEAE
Goodenia albiflora white goodenia 8
Goodenia berardiana twin-head goodenia 8
Goodenia calcarata streaked goodenia 8
Goodenia cycloptera serrated goodenia 3 8
Goodenia fascicularis silky goodenia 1 2 7 8
Goodenia havilandii hill goodenia 8
Goodenia lunata stiff goodenia 1 8
Goodenia pinnatifida cut-leaf goodenia 1 2 3 8
Goodenia pusilliflora small-flower goodenia 1 2 3 8
Goodenia sp. goodenia 1 8
Goodenia vernicosa wavy goodenia 8
Goodeniaceae sp. goodenia family 8
Scaevola collaris + 3 8
Scaevola humilis inland fanflower 8
Scaevola parvibarbata small-beard fanflower 1 2 8
Scaevola sp. fanflower 8
Scaevola spinescens spiny fanflower 1 2 3 4 8
Velleia arguta spur velleia 1 2 8
Velleia paradoxa spur velleia 3 8
COMPOSITAE
Actinobole uliginosum flannel cudweed 1 2 4 7 8
Anemocarpa podolepidium rock everlasting 8
Angianthus brachypappus spreading cup-flower 1 4 8
Angianthus tomentosus hairy cup-flower 2 8
* Aster subulatus wild aster 2 8
Asteridea athrixioides forma athrixioides wirewort 8
Brachycome campylocarpa large white daisy 8
Brachycome ciliaris var. variable daisy 8
Brachycome ciliaris var. brachyglossa rayless variable-daisy 2 8
Brachycome ciliaris var. ciliaris variable daisy 1 2 3 8
Brachycome ciliaris var. lanuginosa woolly variable daisy 1 2 3 4 8
Brachycome debilis weak daisy 8
Brachycome dentata toothed daisy 1 3 8
Brachycome eriogona KN woolly-seed daisy 2 8
Brachycome goniocarpa dwarf daisy 8
Brachycome iberidifolia Swan River daisy 8
Brachycome lineariloba hard-head daisy 1 2 4 7 8
Brachycome perpusilla tiny daisy 8
Brachycome sp. native daisy 8
Bracteantha bracteata golden everlasting 2 3 8
* Calendula arvensis field marigold 1 2 8
Calocephalus platycephalus billybuttons 8
Calotis cymbacantha showy burr-daisy 1 2 4 7 8
Calotis erinacea tangled burr-daisy 1 2 4 8
Calotis hispidula bogan flea 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Calotis lappulacea yellow burr-daisy 1 2 8
Calotis latiuscula leafy burr-daisy 1 3 8
Calotis multicaulis woolly-headed burr-daisy 2 4 8
Calotis plumulifera woolly-headed burr-daisy 1 2 8
Calotis porphyroglossa channel burr-daisy 8
Calotis sp. burr-daisy 8
* Carthamus lanatus saffron thistle 1 2 7 8
215
 Cassinia laevis curry bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
* Centaurea melitensis Maltese cockspur 1 2 3 4 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Centipeda cunninghamii common sneezeweed 8

Centipeda minima sneezeweed 1 8
Centipeda thespidioides desert sneezeweed 1 2 4 8
Chrysocephalum apiculatum common everlasting 2 8
Chrysocephalum pterochaetum shrub everlasting 2 3 8
Chrysocephalum semicalvum ssp. hill everlasting 1 2 3 8
semicalvum
Chrysocephalum semipapposum clustered everlasting 2 3 8
Chrysocephalum sp. everlasting 8
* Cirsium vulgare spear thistle 2 3 8
Compositae sp. daisy family 1 8
* Conyza bonariensis flaxleaf fleabane 2 8
Craspedia chrysantha golden billy-buttons 8
Craspedia glauca billy-buttons 8
Craspedia pleiocephala soft billy-buttons 1 2 3 4 7 8
Craspedia sp. billy-buttons 8
Cratystylis conocephala bluebush daisy 1 2 8
* Cynara cardunculus artichoke thistle 8
* Dittrichia graveolens stinkwort 1 7 8
Elachanthus glaber shiny elachanth 8
Elachanthus pusillus elachanth 1 8
Elachanthus sp. elachanth 8
Epaltes australis spreading nut-heads 8
Eriochlamys behrii woolly mantle 2 8
Erodiophyllum elderi Koonamore daisy 1 2 6 7 8
Euchiton sphaericus annual cudweed 8
Flaveria australasica yellow twin-stem 8
* Gnaphalium polycaulon western cudweed 8
Gnephosis arachnoidea spidery button-flower 1 2 3 8
Gnephosis drummondii 1 8
Gnephosis eriocarpa native camomile 1 3 8
Gnephosis tenuissima dwarf cup-flower 1 2 6 8
Haeckeria punctulata sticky haeckeria 2 8
* Helianthus annuus sunflower 2 8
Hyalosperma demissum pygmy sunray 1 8
Hyalosperma glutinosum ssp. glutinosum golden sunray 8
Hyalosperma glutinosum/semisterile sunray 8
Hyalosperma semisterile orange sunray 1 2 8
Hyalosperma sp. sunray 8
* Hypochaeris glabra smooth cat's ear 1 2 8
* Hypochaeris radicata dandelion 1 8
Isoetopsis graminifolia grass cushion 1 2 7 8
Ixiochlamys cuneifolia 1 8
Ixiochlamys nana small fuzzweed 2 7 8
Ixiolaena chloroleuca pale plover-daisy 1 2 8
Ixiolaena leptolepis stalked plover-daisy 1 2 3 4 7 8
Ixiolaena leptolepis/tomentosa plover-daisy 8
Ixiolaena tomentosa woolly plover-daisy 1 2 3 8
Kippistia suaedifolia fleshy minuria 8
* Lactuca serriola prickly lettuce 2 8
Lemooria burkittii wires-and-wool 1 2 4 7 8
Leptorhynchos baileyi 1 2 8
Leucochrysum molle hoary sunray 1 4 8
Microseris lanceolata yam daisy 8
Millotia greevesii ssp. greevesii creeping millotia 1 2 8
Millotia macrocarpa large-fruit millotia 4 7 8
Millotia myosotidifolia broad-leaf millotia 2 7 8
Millotia perpusilla tiny bow-flower 2 8
Millotia sp. millotia/bow-flower 8
Minuria annua annual minuria 1 4 8
Minuria cunninghamii bush minuria 1 2 3 4 7 8
Minuria denticulata woolly minuria 1 2 4 8
Minuria integerrima smooth minuria 1 8
Minuria leptophylla minnie daisy 1 2 3 8
Myriocephalus pluriflorus inland woolly-heads 8
Myriocephalus rhizocephalus var. woolly-heads 4 8
rhizocephalus
Olearia ciliata var. ciliata fringed daisy-bush 8
Olearia decurrens clammy daisy-bush + 2 3 8
Olearia floribunda var. floribunda heath daisy-bush 8
Olearia muelleri Mueller's daisy-bush 2 3 8
Olearia passerinoides ssp. passerinoides feather daisy-bush 8
Olearia picridifolia rasp daisy-bush 8
Olearia pimeleoides ssp. pimeleoides showy daisy-bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
216
 Olearia sp. daisy-bush 8
Olearia subspicata shrubby daisy-bush 2 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

* Onopordum acaulon stemless thistle 1 2 8

Othonna gregorii fleshy groundsel 1 2 3 4 7 8
Ozothamnus scaber rough bush-everlasting 8
* Pentzia incana African sheep bush 8
Picris angustifolia ssp. angustifolia QKN hawkweed 8
Pluchea dentex bowl daisy 1 8
Podolepis arachnoidea clustered copper-wire daisy 1 8
Podolepis canescens large copper-wire daisy 2 8
Podolepis capillaris invisible plant 1 2 8
Podolepis muelleri small copper-wire daisy 1 8
Polycalymma stuartii poached-egg daisy 1 2 3 4 8
Pseudognaphalium luteoalbum Jersey cudweed 2 3 7 8
Pterocaulon sphacelatum apple-bush 1 2 3 4 7 8
* Reichardia tingitana false sowthistle 2 8
Rhodanthe corymbiflora grey sunray 1 2 4 8
Rhodanthe floribunda white everlasting 1 2 7 8
Rhodanthe microglossa clustered everlasting 1 2 3 4 8
Rhodanthe moschata musk sunray 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Rhodanthe polygalifolia brilliant sunray 1 2 4 8
Rhodanthe pygmaea pigmy sunray 1 2 3 3 8
Rhodanthe sp. everlasting 8
Rhodanthe sp. sunray 8
Rhodanthe stricta slender sunray 1 2 3 7 8
Rhodanthe stuartiana clay sunray 4 8
Rhodanthe troedelii small paper-everlasting 2 3 4 8
Rhodanthe uniflora woolly sunray 2 8
Rutidosis helichrysoides grey wrinklewort 2 8
Rutidosis multiflora small wrinklewort 7 8
Schoenia ramosissima dainty everlasting 1 8
Senecio anethifolius feathery groundsel 1 2 3 4 7 8
Senecio cunninghamii var. cunninghamii bushy groundsel 8
Senecio cunninghamii var. serratus shrubby groudsel 1 2 8
Senecio cunninghamii var. shrubby groundsel 1 8
Senecio glomeratus annual fireweed 1 8
Senecio glossanthus slender groundsel 1 2 3 4 8
Senecio lautus variable groundsel 1 2 3 4 8
Senecio magnificus showy groundsel 1 2 3 4 7 8
Senecio quadridentatus cotton fireweed 1 2 4 7 8
Senecio runcinifolius tall groundsel 2 8
Senecio sp. groundsel 8
Sigesbeckia australiensis Australian sigesbeckia 3 8
* Silybum marianum variegated thistle 8
* Sonchus asper ssp. glaucescens rough sow-thistle 8
* Sonchus oleraceus common sow-thistle 1 2 3 4 7 8
Sonchus sp. sow-thistle 8
Streptoglossa adscendens desert daisy 1 8
Streptoglossa liatroides Wertaloona daisy 3 8
Stuartina hamata prickly cudweed 1 8
Stuartina muelleri spoon cudweed 4 8
Trichanthodium skirrophorum woolly yellow-heads 1 2 3 8
Triptilodiscus pygmaeus common sunray 8
Vittadinia blackii narrow-leaf New Holland 8
daisy
Vittadinia cervicularis var. cervicularis waisted New Holland daisy 2 8
Vittadinia cuneata var. fuzzy New Holland daisy 1 8
Vittadinia cuneata var. cuneata fuzzweed 8
Vittadinia cuneata var. morrisii New Holland daisy 8
Vittadinia dissecta var. hirta dissected New Holland daisy 2 3 4 8
Vittadinia eremaea desert New Holland daisy 1 2 3 7 8
Vittadinia gracilis woolly New Holland daisy 2 8
Vittadinia pterochaeta fuzzweed 1 2 8
Vittadinia sp. New Holland daisy 1 7 8
Vittadinia sulcata furrowed New Holland daisy 1 2 8
Waitzia acuminata var. acuminata orange immortelle 2 8
* Xanthium occidentale Noogoora burr 8
* Xanthium sp. burr 8
* Xanthium spinosum Bathurst burr 1 2 3 7 8
JUNCAGINACEAE
Triglochin calcitrapum spurred arrowgrass 8
Triglochin centrocarpum dwarf arrowgrass 8
Triglochin sp. arrowgrass/water-ribbons 8
POTAMOGETONACEAE
Potamogeton ochreatus blunt pondweed 8
LILIACEAE
217
 Arthropodium minus small vanilla-lily 1 8
Arthropodium sp. 1
Arthropodium strictum vanilla-lily 1 3 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

* Asphodelus fistulosus onion weed 1 2 7 8

Bulbine alata winged leek-lily 3 8
Bulbine bulbosa. leek-lily 1 8
Bulbine semibarbata annual leek-lily 1 2 8
Bulbine sp. bulbine-lily 8
Dianella longifolia var. porracea pale flax-lily 1 8
Dianella longifolia var. ? yellow-anther flax-lily 8
Dianella revoluta var. revoluta black-anther flax-lily 3 8
Liliaceae sp. lily family 8
Lomandra effusa scented iron-grass 2 8
Lomandra leucocephala ssp. robusta woolly mat-rush 2 8
Lomandra multiflora ssp. dura iron-grass 3 8
Thysanotus baueri mallee fringe-lily 2 3 8
Thysanotus sp. fringe-lily 8
Wurmbea centralis inland star-lily 2 8
Wurmbea dioica ssp. "citrina" green early Nancy 8
Wurmbea dioica ssp. dioica early Nancy 1 2 8
Wurmbea sp. early Nancy 8
Xanthorrhoea quadrangulata Mount Lofty grass-tree 2 3 8
AGAVACEAE
* Agave americana var. americana American aloe 2 8
AMARYLLIDACEAE
Calostemma purpureum purple bells 1 8
Crinum flaccidum Darling lily 2 8
HYPOXIDACEAE
Hypoxis glabella var. glabella tiny star 8
JUNCACEAE
Juncus aridicola tussock rush 1 3 8
Juncus bufonius toad rush 3 8
Juncus sp. rush 1 3 8
Juncus subsecundus finger rush 3 8
CENTROLEPIDACEAE
Centrolepis drummondiana Drummond's centrolepis 8
Centrolepis eremica dryland centrolepis 8
GRAMINEAE
Agrostis avenacea var. common blown-grass 3 8
Agrostis avenacea var. avenacea common blown-grass 8
Agrostis avenacea var. perennis perennial blown-grass 8
* Alopecurus geniculatus marsh fox-tail 4 8
Aristida anthoxanthoides pale wire-grass 8
Aristida behriana brush wire-grass 8
Aristida contorta mulga grass 1 2 3 5 8
Aristida holathera var. holathera tall kerosene grass 1 4 5 8
Aristida latifolia feathertop wiregrass 8
Aristida nitidula brush threeawn 1 2 3 8
Aristida personata 1 8
Aristida sp. threeawn/wire-grass 1 5 8
Aristida strigosa rough wire-grass 8
* Arundo donax giant reed 2 8
Astrebla lappacea curly Mitchell-grass 2 4 8
Astrebla pectinata barley Mitchell-grass 1 3 5 8
Astrebla sp. Mitchell-grass 8
* Avena barbata/fatua wild oat 2 8
* Avena fatua wild oat 8
Bothriochloa macra red-leg grass 8
Bromus arenarius sand brome 1 2 4 8
* Bromus catharticus prairie grass 2 8
* Bromus rubens red brome 1 2 8
Bromus sp. brome 8
* Cenchrus ciliaris buffel grass 1 8
Chloris pectinata comb windmill grass 2 4 8
Chloris sp. windmill grass/chloris 8
Chloris truncata windmill grass 1 4 8
* Critesion murinum ssp. barley-grass 2 8
* Critesion murinum ssp. glaucum northern barley-grass 1 4 8
* Critesion murinum ssp. leporinum barley-grass 3 8
Cymbopogon ambiguus lemon-grass 1 2 3 4 7 8
Cymbopogon obtectus silky-heads 8
* Cynodon dactylon couch-grass + 3 8
Dactyloctenium radulans button-grass 1 2 4 7 8
Danthonia caespitosa common wallaby-grass 1 2 8
Danthonia setacea var. setacea bristly wallaby-grass 3 8
Danthonia sp. wallaby-grass 1 8
218
 Dichanthium sericeum ssp. silky blue-grass 1 2 4 8
Dichanthium sericeum ssp. humilius dwarf blue-grass 8
Dichanthium sericeum ssp. sericeum silky blue-grass 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Digitaria ammophila spider grass 8

Digitaria brownii cotton panic-grass 1 2 3 8
Digitaria coenicola spider grass 8
Digitaria sanguinalis crab grass 1 8
Digitaria sp. summer-grass 1 8
Diplachne fusca brown beetle-grass 4 8
* Echinochloa crus-galli barnyard grass 8
* Echinochloa utilis Japanese millet 8
Elymus scabrus var. scabrus native wheat-grass 2 3 8
Enneapogon avenaceus common bottle-washers 1 2 3 4 7 8
Enneapogon caerulescens var. caerulescens blue nineawn 2 3 8
Enneapogon cylindricus jointed bottle-washers 1 2 3 7 8
Enneapogon intermedius + 8
Enneapogon nigricans black-heads 1 2 8
Enneapogon polyphyllus limestone bottle-washers 1 3 4 7 8
Enneapogon sp. bottle-washers/nineawn 1 5 8
Enteropogon acicularis umbrella grass 1 2 3 8
Enteropogon ramosus umbrella grass 8
Enteropogon sp. windmill grass 8
Eragrostis australasica cane-grass 1 2 4 5 8
* Eragrostis barrelieri pitted love-grass 2 8
* Eragrostis cilianensis stink grass 8
Eragrostis dielsii var. dielsii mulka grass 1 2 3 4 7 8
Eragrostis eriopoda woollybutt 1 2 8
Eragrostis falcata sickle love-grass 1 2 3 8
Eragrostis lacunaria neverfail 2 8
Eragrostis laniflora hairy-flower woollybutt 8
Eragrostis leptocarpa slender love-grass 2 8
* Eragrostis minor smaller stinkgrass 8
Eragrostis parviflora weeping love-grass 2 8
* Eragrostis pergracilis small love-grass 8
Eragrostis setifolia narrow-leaf neverfail 2 3 4 8
Eragrostis sp. love-grass 1 8
* Eragrostis tenellula delicate love-grass + 8
Eragrostis xerophila knotty-butt neverfail 1 3 4 8
Eriachne aristidea three-awned wanderrie 1 8
Eriachne mucronata mountain wanderrie grass 8
Eriachne pulchella pretty wanderrie grass 8
Eriachne sp. wanderrie grass 8
Eriochloa australiensis Australian cupgrass 2 8
Eriochloa pseudoacrotricha perennial cupgrass 8
Eriochloa sp. cupgrass 8
Eulalia aurea silky browntop + 8
Gramineae sp. grass family 1 8
* Hyparrhenia hirta Tambookie grass 8
Iseilema membranaceum small Flinders-grass 8
* Lamarckia aurea golden-top 1 2 8
Leptochloa digitata umbrella cane-grass 8
* Lolium rigidum Wimmera ryegrass 8
Monachather paradoxa bandicoot grass 8
Neurachne alopecuroidea fox-tail mulga-grass 8
Panicum decompositum var. decompositum native millet 1 2 4 8
Panicum effusum var. effusum hairy panic 8
Panicum laevinode 1 8
* Panicum miliaceum common millet 8
Panicum sp. panic/millet 1 8
Paractaenum novae-hollandiae ssp. barbed-wire grass 1 3 8
reversum
Paspalidium clementii Clement's paspalidium 8
Paspalidium constrictum knotty-butt paspalidium 1 3 8
Paspalidium sp. summer-grass 1 8
* Phalaris minor annual canary grass 8
* Phalaris paradoxa paradoxical canary-grass 8
* Phalaris sp. canary grass 8
Phragmites australis common reed 8
Poa fordeana Forde's poa 8
* Polypogon maritimus coast beard-grass 8
* Polypogon monspeliensis annual beard-grass 3 8
* Polypogon viridis water bent 3 8
* Rostraria cristata annual cat's-tail 1 4 8
* Rostraria pumila tiny bristle-grass 1 2 7 8
* Schismus barbatus mulga grass 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Setaria dielsii Diel's pigeon-grass 8
219
 * Setaria italica foxtail millet 8
* Setaria sp. pigeon-grass 8
* Sorghum halepense Johnson grass 8
Family Scientific Name Common Name Source

Sporobolus actinocladus ray grass 1 2 8

Sporobolus caroli yakka grass 8
Stipa acrociliata graceful spear-grass 1 2 8
Stipa blackii crested spear-grass 8
Stipa densiflora foxtail spear-grass 8
Stipa drummondii cottony spear-grass 2 8
Stipa elegantissima elegant spear-grass 2 3 8
Stipa eremophila desert spear-grass 1 2 3 8
Stipa flavescens spear-grass 1 8
Stipa nitida Balcarra spear-grass 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Stipa nodosa tall spear-grass 1 2 3 8
Stipa platychaeta flat-awn spear-grass 1 2 7 8
Stipa scabra ssp. scabra rough spear-grass 8
Stipa scabra group falcate-awn spear-grass 1 2 8
Stipa sp. spear-grass 1 8
Stipa tuckeri Tucker's spear-grass 8
Themeda triandra kangaroo grass 1 8
Thyridolepis mitchelliana window mulga-grass 8
Tragus australianus bur grass 1 2 4 6 8
Triodia irritans complex porcupine grass 5 7 8
Triodia scariosa ssp. scariosa porcupine grass 1 2 3 8
Tripogon loliiformis five-minute grass 1 2 4 8
Triraphis mollis purple heads 1 2 4 7 8
Urochloa gilesii ssp. gilesii hairy-edged arm-grass 8
Urochloa praetervisa large arm-grass 8
Urochloa sp. arm-grass 8
Vulpia muralis wall fescue 1 2 8
* Vulpia myuros forma myuros silver grass 2 8
Zygochloa paradoxa sandhill cane-grass 1 3 5 8
TYPHACEAE
Typha domingensis bullrush 1 2 3 8
CYPERACEAE
Bolboschoenus caldwellii sea club-rush 1 8
Cyperaceae sp. sedge family 8
Cyperus alterniflorus umbrella flat-sedge 8
Cyperus bulbosus bulbous flat-sedge 8
Cyperus difformis rice sedge 8
Cyperus gilesii KN Gile's flat-sedge 8
Cyperus gymnocaulos spiny flat-sedge 2 3 8
Cyperus laevigatus bore-drain sedge 1 8
Cyperus rigidellus dwarf flat-sedge 8
Cyperus sp. flat-sedge 8
Cyperus squarrosus bearded flat-sedge 2 8
Eleocharis pallens pale spike-rush 2 8
Eleocharis sp. spike-rush 8
Fimbristylis dichotoma common fringe-rush 2 8
Isolepis australiensis southern club-rush 8
Isolepis congrua slender club-rush 8
Isolepis sp. club-rush 8
Schoenoplectus dissachanthus inland club-rush 8
Schoenoplectus litoralis shore club-rush 8
Schoenoplectus litoralis/validus club-rush 8
ORCHIDACEAE
Caladenia sp. spider-orchid 8
Caladenia toxochila dryland spider-orchid 8
Microtis unifolia common onion-orchid 8
Prasophyllum odoratum scented leek-orchid 8
Pterostylis aff. excelsa dryland greenhood 8
Pterostylis biseta rusty-hood 8
Pterostylis “Mt Victoria Uranium 8
Mine”(R.Bates 16740) KN
Pterostylis mutica midget greenhood 8
Pterostylis “Oraton Rock”(R.Bates 16756) 8
KN
Pterostylis robusta large striped greenhood 8
Pterostylis rufa group rusty-hood 8
Pterostylis sp. greenhood 8

220
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix VI
BIRD SPECIES RECORDED FROM THE NORTH V Vulnerable - taxa believed likely to move into
OLARY PLAINS SURVEY AREA endangered category in the near future if the causal
factors continue operating.
Species are listed by common name in taxonomic order R Rare - taxa with small populations in South Australia
of Family using the nomenclature of Parker and Horton that are not at present endangered or vulnerable but
(1990). Subspecies are not listed unless they are are at risk.
morphologically distinct enough to be accurately I Indeterminate - taxa suspected of belonging to the
identified in the field. endangered or vulnerable categories but for which
insufficient information is currently available.
* Introduced species
The columns indicate the source of bird species records
Conservation status codes are shown in bold following as follows:
the common name. The first code is the Australian status
according to the Commonwealth Endangered Species 1 Playfair & Robinson (1997), site data (this survey)
Protection Act 1992 (codes E & V) (based on the 2 Playfair & Robinson (1997), opportunistic data (this
‘ANZECC List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna, April survey)
1991’) and The Action Plan For Australian Birds 3 Royal Australasian Ornithologists Union records from
(Garnett, 1992) (codes R & I); the second is the state the RAOU S.A. Database and RAOU Atlas (Blakers
status according to the South Australian National Parks et al., 1984)
and Wildlife Act 1972 schedule, and the third is from the 4 South Australian Museum records from the survey
state classification of Parker and Horton (1990) which area
has been updated in Threatened Species Strategy Steering 5 Birds listed in the Honeymoon Uranium Mine EIS
Committee (1993) and Carpenter and Reid (1994). Bird (Gutteridge, Haskins & Davey, 1981)
species of the pastoral regions have not yet been assessed 6 Birds listed near Lakes Frome and Callabonna by
on a regional basis. Pedler and Ragless (1978)
7 Birds listed in the Lake Frome District by McGilp
Status code definitions are: (1923)
E Endangered - taxa in danger of extinction and whose 8 Birds listed in the Beverley Uranium Mine EIS (Close
survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue . & Williams, 1979)

Common Name Scientific Name Source

CASUARIIDAE
Emu Dromaius novaehollandiae 1 2 3 5 6 7 8

PHASIANIDAE
Stubble Quail Coturnix novaezelandiae 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Brown Quail Coturnix ypsilophorus 7

ANATIDAE
Chestnut Teal Anas castanea 3 7
Australasian Grey Teal Anas gracilis 1 2 3 7 8
* Mallard Anas platyrhynchos 3 7
Australasian Shoveler -RR Anas rhynchotis 2 3 6 7
Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa 1 2 3 5 6 7 8
Magpie Goose Anseranas semipalmata 7 8
Hardhead -R Aythya australis 2 3 6 7 8
Musk Duck -VU Biziura lobata 3 5 7 8
Wood Duck Chenonetta jubata 2 3 5 7 8
Black Swan Cygnus atratus 2 3 4 6 7 8
Plumed Whistling-Duck -R Dendrocygna eytoni 7
Pink-eared Duck Malacorhynchus membranaceus 2 3 4 7 8
Blue-billed Duck -R Oxyura australis 3 7
Freckled Duck RVV Stictonetta naevosa 7
Common Name Scientific Name Source

221
 Australian Shelduck Tadorna tadornoides 1 3 7 8

TURNICIDAE
Little Button-quail Turnix velox 1 2 3 4 7 8

DACELONIDAE
Red-backed Kingfisher Halcyon pyrrhopygia 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Sacred Kingfisher Halcyon sancta 3 7

MEROPIDAE
Rainbow Bee-eater Merops ornatus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

CUCULIDAE
Fan-tailed Cuckoo Cacomantis flabelliformis 3
Horsfield's Bronze-cuckoo Chrysococcyx basalis 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Black-eared Cuckoo Chrysococcyx osculans 3 7 8
Pallid Cuckoo Cuculus pallidus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

PSITTACIDAE

Red-winged Parrot Aprosmictus erythropterus 6 7

Ringneck Parrot Barnardius zonarius 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Major Mitchell Cockatoo -VV Cacatua leadbeateri 3
Little Corella Cacatua sanguinea 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Galah Eolophus roseicapilla 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Budgerigah Melopsittacus undulatus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Blue-winged Parrot-VV Neophema chrysostoma 2 3 6
Elegant Parrot --I Neophema elegans 3 7 8
Scarlet-chested Parrot RRR Neophema splendida 4 7
Blue Bonnet Northiella haematogaster 1 2 3 4 5 6 8
Cockatiel Nymphicus hollandicus 1 2 3 4 7 8
Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus 3 7
Mulga Parrot Psephotus varius 1 2 3 4 7 8

APODIDAE
Fork-tailed Swift Apus pacificus 3 7 8

TYTONIDAE
Barn Owl Tyto alba 2 3 4 6 7 8

STRIGIDAE
Barking Owl -V Ninox connivens 8
Boobook Owl Ninox novaeseelandiae 2 3 4 7 8

EUROSTOPODIDAE
Spotted Nightjar Eurostopodus argus 1 2 3 7 8

AEGOTHELIDAE
Australian Owlet-nightjar Aegotheles cristatus 2 3 4 7 8

PODARGIDAE
Tawny Frogmouth Podargus strigoides 2 3 4 6 7 8

COLUMBIDAE
* Feral Pigeon Columba livia 2 3
Diamond Dove Geopelia cuneata 2 3 4 7 8
Peaceful Dove Geopelia placida 1 2 3 8
Crested Pigeon Ocyphaps lophotes 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

OTIDIDAE
Australian Bustard -VV Ardeotis australis 3 4 7 8

RALLIDAE
Eurasian Coot Fulica atra 2 3 5 6 7 8
Common Name Scientific Name Source

Dusky Moorhen Gallinula tenebrosa 3

Black-tailed Native-hen Gallinula ventralis 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

222
 Purple Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio 3 6 7
Australian Crake Porzana fluminea 2 3 7

GRUIDAE
Brolga -V Grus rubicundus 3 7

PEDIONOMIDAE
Plains-wanderer Pedionomus torquatus 7

SCOLOPACIDAE
Sharp-tailed Sandpiper Calidris acuminata 2 3 6 7
Latham's Snipe Gallinago hardwickii 6
Greenshank Tringa nebularia 3 8

BURHINIDAE
Southern Stone Curlew (Bush Thick-knee) --E Burhinus grallarius (B. magnirostris) 3 4 7

RECURVIROSTRIDAE
Banded Stilt Cladorhynchus leucocephalus 4
White-headed Stilt Himantopus leucocephalus 4 6 7
Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus 2 3
Red-necked Avocet Recurvirostra novaehollandiae 2 3 4 6 7

CHARADRIIDAE
Red-capped Dotterel Charadrius ruficapillus 2 4 6 7 8
Black-fronted Dotterel Elseyornis melanops 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Red-kneed Dotterel Erythrogenys cinctus 2 3 4 7
Masked Lapwing Hoplopterus miles 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Banded Lapwing Hoplopterus tricolor 1 2 3 4 7 8
Inland Dotterel Peltohyas austalis 1 2 3 7 8

GLAREOLIDAE
Australian Pratincole Stiltia isabella 3 4 7 8

LARIDAE
Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybridus 2 3 4 6 7
Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica 2 4 6 7
Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia 6 7
Silver Gull Larus novaehollandiae 3 4 6 7

ACCIPITRIDAE
Collared Sparrowhawk Accipiter cirrhocephalus 1 2 3 4 7 8
Brown Goshawk Accipiter fasciatus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Wedge-tailed Eagle Aquila audax 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Swamp Harrier Circus aeruginosus 3 7
Spotted Harrier Circus assimilus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus 3 6 8
Letter-winged Kite -R Elanus scriptus 2 3 4
Little Eagle Hieraaetus morphnoides 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Whistling Kite Haliastur sphenurus 3 4 6 7 8
Black-breasted Kite Hamirostra melanosternon 3 4 6 7 8
Black Kite Milvus migrans 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

FALCONIDAE
Brown Falcon Falco berigora 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Australian Kestrel Falco cenchroides 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Grey Falcon -V Falco hypoleucos 4 7 8
Little Falcon Falco longipennis 2 3 4 6 7 8
Peregrine Falcon (-RR if ssp. macropus) Falco peregrinus 2 3 7
Black Falcon Falco subniger 2 3 4 6 7 8

PODICIPEDIDAE
Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus 3
Common Name Scientific Name Source

Hoary-headed Grebe Poliocephalus poliocephalus 3 4 5 7

Australasian Grebe Tachybaptus novaehollandiae 1 2 3 5 6

ANHINGIDAE
223
 Darter Anhinga melanogaster 3 7

PHALACROCORACIDAE
Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo 3 6 8
Little Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax melanoleucos 3 5 7 8
Little Black Cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris 3 7 8
Pied Cormorant Phalacrocorax varius 3 6

ARDEIDAE
Great Egret Ardea alba 3 8
White-faced Heron Ardea novaehollandiae 2 3 5 6 7 8
Pacific Heron Ardea pacifica 3 7 8
Nankeen Night Heron Nycticorax caledonicus 3 6 7 8

THRESKIORNITHIDAE (PLATALEIDAE)
Yellow-billed Spoonbill Platalea flavipes 3 6 7 8
Royal Spoonbill Platalea regia 3 7 8
Glossy Ibis --R Plegadis falcinellus 3 7
Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus 3 7 8
Straw-necked Ibis Threskiornis spinicollis 3 6 7

PELECANIDAE
Australian Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus 3 6 7

CLIMACTERIDAE
White-browed Treecreeper Climacteris affinis 1 3 4
Brown Treecreeper Climacteris picumnus 3 7

MALURIDAE

Variegated Wren Malurus lamberti 1 2 3 8

Purple-backed Wren Malurus lamberti assimilis 4 6 7
White-winged Wren Malurus leucopterus 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Splendid Blue Wren Malurus splendens 3
Black-backed Wren Malurus splendens melanotus 4

AMYTORNITHIDAE
Striated Grasswren IVV Amytornis striatus 6

MELIPHAGIDAE
Spiny-cheeked Honeyeater Acanthogenys rufogularis 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Gibberbird Ashbyia lovensis 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Pied Honeyeater --R Certhionyx variegatus 1 2 4 7 8
White-fronted Chat Ephthianura albifrons 1 2 3 7
Orange Chat Ephthianura aurifrons 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Crimson Chat Ephthianura tricolor 1 2 3 4 7 8
Yellow-throated Miner Manorina flavigula 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
White-eared Honeyeater Meliphaga leucotis 3
Yellow-plumed Honeyeater Meliphaga ornata 3 7
White-plumed Honeyeater Meliphaga penicillata 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Grey-fronted Honeyeater Meliphaga plumula 3 6 7 8
Singing Honeyeater Meliphaga virescens 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Brown-headed Honeyeater Melithreptus brevirostris 1 3
White-fronted Honeyeater Phylidonyris albifrons 1 3 4 6 7 8
New Holland Honeyeater Phylidonyris novaehollandiae 7
Striped Honeyeater -VV Plectorhyncha lanceolata 7
Black Honeyeater -R Sugomel niger 1 3 7

PARDALOTIDAE
Spotted Pardalote Pardalotus punctatus 1
Striated Pardalote Pardalotus striatus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Common Name Scientific Name Source

Red-browed Pardalote Pardalotus rubricatus 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

ACANTHIZIDAE
Inland Thornbill Acanthiza apicalis 1 3 4 6 8
Yellow-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza chrysorrhoa 1 2 3 4 5 7 8
Brown Thornbill Acanthiza pusilla 7

224
 Chestnut-rumped Thornbill Acanthiza uropygialis 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Southern Whiteface Aphelocephala leucopsis 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Banded Whiteface -R Aphelocephala nigricincta 2 4 7
Western Fieldwren Calamanthus campestris 1 2 4 7
Shy Hylacola -VV Hylacola cauta 7
Redthroat Pyrrholaemus brunneus 1 2 3 7 8
Fieldwren (Calamanthus) Sericornis fuliginosus 3 8
Weebill Smicrornis brevirostris 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

EOPSALTRIIDAE
Varied Sittella Daphoenositta chrysoptera 3 7 8
Southern Scrub-robin Drymodes brunneopygia 3
Hooded Robin Melanodryas cucullata 1 3 7
Jacky Winter Microeca leucophaea 2 3
Red-capped Robin Petroica goodenovii 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

POMATOSTOMIDAE
Chestnut-crowned Babbler Pomatostomus ruficeps 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
White-browed Babbler Pomatostomus superciliosa 1 3 4 6 7 8

CINCLOSOMATIDAE
Chestnut Quail-thrush -VV Cinclosoma castanotum 7
Cinnamon Quail-thrush Cinclosoma cinnamomeum 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Chirruping Wedgebill Psophodes cristatus 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

CORCORACIDAE
Apostlebird --R Struthidea cinerea 1 2 3 5

PACHYCEPHALIDAE
Grey Shrike-thrush Colluricincla harmonica 1 2 3 6 7 8
Crested Bellbird Oreoica gutturalis 1 2 3 4 7 8
Rufous Whistler Pachycephala rufiventris 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

CORVIDAE
Black-faced Woodswallow Artamus cinereus 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Dusky Woodswallow Artamus cyanopterus 3 7
White-breasted Woodswallow Artamus leucorhynchus 1 2 3 6 7
Little Woodswallow --R Artamus minor 3 4
Masked Woodswallow Artamus personatus 2 3 4 7
White-browed Woodswallow Artamus superciliosus 2 3 7
Ground Cuckoo-shrike Coracina maxima 3 6
Black-faced Cuckoo-shrike Coracina novaehollandiae 1 2 3 6 7 8
Little Crow Corvus bennetti 1 2 3 4 7 8
Australian Raven Corvus coronoides 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Little Raven Corvus mellori 6
Pied Butcherbird Cracticus nigrogularis 1 7
Grey Butcherbird Cracticus torquatus 1 2 3 5 7 8
Australian Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
White-winged Triller Lalage sueurii 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Grey Currawong Strepera versicolor 3

DICRURIDAE
Magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Restless Flycatcher Myiagra inquieta 3 7
Grey Fantail Rhipidura fuliginosa 2 3 6 7 8
Willie Wagtail Rhipidura leucophrys 1 2 3 5 6 7 8

STURNIDAE
* European Starling Sturnus vulgaris 3 7 8
Common Name Scientific Name Source

HIRUNDINIDAE
White-backed Swallow Chermoeca leucosternum 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Fairy Martin Hirundo ariel 1 2 3 6 7 8
Welcome Swallow Hirundo neoxena 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Tree Martin Hirundo nigricans 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

ZOSTEROPIDAE
Silvereye Zosterops lateralis 1 3 6 7

225
SYLVIDAE
Clamorous Reed-warbler Acrocephalus stentoreus 3 7 8
Brown Songlark Cinclorhamphus cruralis 1 2 3 4 6 7 8
Rufous Songlark Cinclorhamphus mathewsi 1 2 3 4
Little Grassbird Megalurus gramineus 1 2 3 8

ALAUDIDAE
Singing Bushlark Mirafra javanica 1

NECTARINIIDAE
Mistletoe Bird Dicaeum hirundinaceum 1 2 3 4 6 7 8

PASSERIDAE
* House Sparrow Passer domesticus 1 2 3 4 7 8

MOTACILLIDAE
Richard's Pipit Anthus novaeseelandiae 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

ESTRILDIDAE
Zebra Finch Poephila guttata 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

226
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix VII
MAMMAL SPECIES RECORDED FROM THE V Vulnerable - taxa believed likely to move into
NORTH OLARY PLAINS SURVEY AREA endangered category in the near future if the causal
factors continue operating.
Species are listed by scientific name in taxnomic order of
pV Potentially vulnerable.
family using the nomenclature of Kemper and Queale
(1990). R Rare - taxa with small populations in South
Australia that are not at present endangered or
Conservation status codes are shown in bold following vulnerable but are at risk.
the scientific name. The first code is the Australian status
according to the Commonwealth Endangered Species I Indeterminate - taxa suspected of belonging to the
Protection Act 1992 (codes X, E & V only) (based on the endangered, vulnerable or rare categories but for
‘ANZECC List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna, April which insufficient information is currently available.
1991’) and updated from the Australian marsupial action U Uncommon - taxa occurring at relatively low
plan (Kennedy, 1992) and the rodent action plan (Lee, numbers in South Australia but not rare.
1995). The second code is the South Australian
classification from Threatened Species Strategy Steering O vagrant or seasonal visitor
Committee (1993). The status of mammal species have The columns indicate the source of mammals species
not yet been assessed on a regional basis. records as follows:

Conservation status code definitions are: 1 Playfair & Robinson (1997), site data (this survey)
X Extinct - species not definitely located in the wild 2 Playfair & Robinson (1997), opportunistic data
during the past 50 years. 3 South Australian Museum Mammal Section records
up to 1997.
pX Presumed extinct. F Sub-fossil material of locally extinct species (i.e.
E Endangered - taxa in danger of extinction and could be up to several thousand years old), found by
whose survival is unlikely if the causal factors Forward & Robinson 1996 at Anabama Hill or by
continue operating. others at Chambers Gorge, Moro Gorge and Old
Quinyambie. Material identified by G. Medlin at the
SA Museum.

Scientific Name Common Name Source

TACHYGLOSSIDAE
Tachyglossus aculeatus Short-beaked Echidna 1 3 F

DASYURIDAE
Antechinomys laniger pVR Kultarr 3 F
Dasycercus cristicauda VE Mulgara F
Dasycercus byrnei RR Kowari F
Dasyurus geoffroii EX Western Quoll F
Phascogale calura EX Red-tailed Phascogale F
Planigale gilesi -U Giles’ Planigale 1 3
Planigale tenuirostris -U Narrow-nosed Planigale 1 3 F
Sminthopsis crassicaudata Fat-tailed Dunnart 1 3 F
Sminthopsis macroura Stripe-faced Dunnart 1 3 F

MACROPODIDAE
Macropus fuliginosus Western Grey Kangaroo 1 2 3
Macropus giganteus -V Eastern Grey Kangaroo 1 2 3
Macropus robustus Euro 1 2 3
Scientific Name Common Name Source

227
 Macropus rufus Red Kangaroo 1 2 3
Onychogalea lunata XX Crescent Nailtail Wallaby F
Petrogale xanthopus pVR Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby 3 F

PERAMELIDAE
Chaeropus ecaudatus XX Pig-footed Bandicoot F
Isoodon cf. auratus EX Golden Bandicoot F
Macrotis lagotis VX Greater Bilby 3 F
Perameles bougainville EX Western Barred Bandicoot F

PHALANAGERIDAE
Trichosurus vulpecula Common Brushtail F

POTORIDAE
Bettongia lesueur EX Burrowing Bettong F
Caloprymnus campestris XX Desert Rat-kangaroo F

MURIDAE
Leggadina forresti -R Forrest’s Mouse 1 3 F
Leporillus apicalis XX Lesser Stick-nest Rat F
Leporillus conditor VE Greater Stick-nest Rat F
Mus domesticus House Mouse 1 2 3 F
Notomys cervinus Fawn Hopping Mouse F
Notomys cf. fuscus1 VE Dusky-Hopping Mouse 1 3 F
Notomys longicaudatus XX Long-tailed Hopping-mouse F
Notomys amplus XX Short-tailed Hopping-mouse F
Pseudomys australis VR Plains Rat F
Pseudomys bolami Bolam's Mouse 1 3 F
Pseudomys desertor IR Desert Mouse F
Pseudomys gouldii XX Gould’s Mouse F
Rattus villosissimus Long-haired (Plague) Rat 3 F

MEGADERMATIDAE
Macroderma gigas RX Ghost Bat 3 F

MOLOSSIDAE
Mormopterus planiceps Little Mastiff-bat 3
Nyctinomus australis White-striped Mastiff-bat 3

VESPERTILIONIDAE
Chalinolobus gouldii Gould's Wattled Bat 3
Chalinolobus picatus RR Little Pied Bat
Vespadelus baverstocki Inland Eptesicus 3
Vespadelus finlaysoni Little Brown Bat
Nyctophilus geoffroyi Lesser Long-eared Bat 2 3
Scotorepens balstoni Western Broad-nosed Bat 3
Scotorepens greyii Little Broad-nosed Bat 3

LEPORIDAE
* Oryctolagus cuniculus European Rabbit 1 2

CANIDAE
* Canis familiaris dingo Dingo 1 2 3
* Vulpes vulpes Fox 1 2 3

FELIDAE
* Felis catus Cat 1 2 3
Scientific Name Common Name Source
BOVIDAE
* Bos taurus Cattle 1 2

1
Sub-fossil material is probably this species as too small for N. mitchelli (pers. comm. G. Medlin).
228
* Capra hircus Goat 1 2 3
* Ovis aries Sheep 1

EQUIDAE
* Equus caballus Horse 2

229
 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix VIII

REPTILE AND AMPHIBIAN SPECIES Status code definitions are:

RECORDED FROM THE NORTH OLARY PLAINS E Endangered - taxa in danger of extinction and whose
SURVEY AREA survival is unlikely if the causal factors continue
operating.
Species are listed by scientific name in taxonomic order V Vulnerable - taxa believed likely to move into
of family using the nomenclature of Edwards and Tyler endangered category in the near future if the causal
(1990) which has been updated by the South Australian factors continue operating.
Museum (M. Hutchinson, pers. comm.). Alternative R Rare - taxa with small populations in South Australia
common and scientific names are shown in parentheses. that are not at present endangered or vulnerable but
are at risk.
Conservation status codes are shown in bold following I Indeterminate - taxa suspected of belonging to the
the scientific name. The first code is the Australian status endangered, vulnerable or rare categories but for
according to the Commonwealth Endangered Species which insufficient information is currently available.
Protection Act 1992 (codes E & V only) (based on the
‘ANZECC List of Threatened Vertebrate Fauna, April The four columns indicate the source of reptile species
1991’); the second is also a national status, according to records as follows:
The Action Plan for Australian Reptiles (Cogger et al.,
1993) and the third is the South Australian classification 1 Playfair & Robinson (1997), site data (this survey)
from Threatened Species Strategy Steering Committee 2 Playfair & Robinson (1997), opportunistic data
(1993) and M. Hutchinson (pers. comm.). The status of 3 Herbert (1997), opportunistic data
reptiles species have not yet been assessed on a regional 4 South Australian Museum Herpetology Section
basis. records prior to 1996 (whole area)

Scientific Name Common Name Source

REPTILES

AGAMIDAE
Ctenophorus fordi Mallee Dragon 1 4
Ctenophorus pictus Painted Dragon 1 4
Ctenophorus nuchalis Central Netted Ground Dragon 1 4
Diporiphora winneckei Canegrass Two-lined Dragon 4
Pogona vitticeps Central Bearded Dragon 1 2 4
Tympanocryptis intima Gibber Earless Dragon 2 4
Tympanocryptis lineata Five-lined Earless Dragon 1 2 4
Tympanocryptis tetraporophora Eyrean Earless Dragon 1 3 4

GEKKONINAE
*Gehyra ‘2N=44’ Southern Rock Dtella 1 2 4
Gehyra variegata Tree Dtella 1 2 3 4
Heteronotia binoei Bynoe's Gecko 1 2 4

DIPLODACTYLINAE

Diplodactylus byrnei Pink-blotched Gecko 1 2 4

Diplodactylus damaeus Beaded Gecko 1 4
Diplodactylus tessellatus Tessellated Gecko 1 3 4
Diplodactylus vittatus Eastern Stone (Wood) Gecko 1 2 4
Nephrurus levis Smooth Knob-tailed Gecko 2 4
Nephurus milii Barking (Thick-tailed) Gecko 2 4
Scientific Name Common Name Source

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Oedura marmorata Marbled Velvet Gecko 4
Rhynchoedura ornata Beaked Gecko 1 2 3 4
Strophurus ciliaris Northern Spiny-tailed Gecko 1 3 4
Strophurus elderi Jewelled Gecko 4
Strophurus williamsi Eastern Spiny-tailed Gecko 2 4
Strophurus intermedius Southern Spiny-tailed Gecko 4

PYGOPODINAE
Delma australis Barred Snake-lizard 4
Delma butleri Spinifex Snake-lizard 1 4
Delma tincta Excitable Snake-lizard 4
Lialis burtonis Burton's LeglessLizard 4
Pygopus nigriceps Black-headed Scaly-foot 1 4

SCINCIDAE
SPHENOMORPHOUS GROUP
Ctenotus brachyonyx Eastern Ctenotus 4
Ctenotus brooksi Sandhill Ctenotus 1 4
Ctenotus leae Orange-tailed Finesnout Ctenotus 4
Ctenotus leonhardii Leonhardi’s Ctenotus 1 3 4
**Ctenotus “olympicus” Spotted Ctenotus 1 2 3 4
Ctenotus pantherinus Leopard Skink 3
Ctenotus regius Eastern Desert Ctenotus 1 2 3 4
Ctenotus robustus Eastern Striped Skink 1 2 4
Ctenotus schomburgkii Sandplain Ctenotus 1 2 3 4
Ctenotus strauchii Short-legged Ctenotus 1 2 3 4
Ctenotus uber Spotted Ctenotus 1 2 3 4
Eremiascincus fasciolatus Narrow-banded Sand Swimmer 1 4
Eremiascincus richardsonii Broad-banded Sand Swimmer 2 4
Lerista labialis Eastern Two-toed Slider 1 2 3 4
Lerista muelleri Dwarf Three-toed Slider 1 2 4
Lerista punctatovittata Spotted Slider 2 3 4
Lerista xanthura Yellow-tailed Slider 1 4

EGERNIA GROUP
Egernia inornata Desert Skink 4
Egernia margatetae Masked Rock Skink 2 4
Egernia stokesii Gidgee (Spiny-tailed) Skink 4
Egernia striolata Tree Skink 1 2 4
Tiliqua occipitalis Western Bluetongue 4
Tiliqua rugosa Sleepy Lizard / Shingle Back 1 2 4

EUGONGYLUS GROUP
Cryptoblepharus carnabyi Speckled Wall Skink 2 4
Cryptoblepharus plagiocephalus Desert Wall Skink 1 2 3 4
Menetia greyii Dwarf Skink 1 2 3 4
Morethia adelaidensis Adelaide Snake-eye 1 2 4
Morethia boulengeri Common Snake-eye 1 2 3 4

VARANIDAE
Varanus gouldii Sand (Gould's) Goanna 1 4

TYPHLOPIDAE
Ramphotyphlops australis Southern Blind Snake 4
Ramphotyphlops bituberculatus Rough-nosed Blind Snake 4
Ramphotyphlops endoterus Interior Blind Snake 4

BOIDAE
Morelia spilota -(V)R Carpet (Diamond) Python 4
Scientific Name Common Name Source

Antaresia stimsoni Large-blotched Python 4

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ELAPIDAE
Pseudechis australis Mulga (King Brown) Snake 4
Pseudonaja modesta Five-ringed Snake 1 4
Pseudonaja nuchalis Western Brown Snake (Gwardar) 1 2 4
Pseudonaja textilis Eastern Brown Snake 4
Simoselaps australis Coral Snake 4
Simoselaps fasciolatus Narrow-banded Shovel-nosed Snake 1 4
Suta nigriceps Mitchell’s Short-tailed Snake 4
Suta spectabilis Mallee Black-headed Snake 2 4
Suta suta Curl Snake 2 4

AMPHIBIANS

HYLIDAE
Cyclorana platycephala Water-holding Frog 4
Litoria rubella Red Tree Frog 3 4

LEPTODACTYLIDAE
Limnodynastes tasmaniensis Spotted Grass Frog 1 4
Neobatrachus centralis Trilling Frog 1 4
Neobatrachus pictus Painted Frog 4

* Gehyra ‘2N=44’ is a new as yet unpublished species, closely related to Gehyra variegata. Voucher specimens of both
G. variegata and the new species collected in this area have been lodged with the S A Museum.
** Ctenotus “olympicus” is a new species (Hutchinson & Donellan in press) which in this region will replace the current
records of Ctenotus uber. All previously collected specimens of C. uber in this area have been assigned to the new
species of Ctenotus “olympicus”.

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 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix IX
WEATHER CONDITIONS DURING THE NORTH OLARY PLAINS VERTEBRATE SURVEY PERIOD

CAMP DATE SUN SHADE COMMENTS

MIN MAX MIN MAX
Cockburn 28 Aug 96 10 23 10 18 Westerly in morning, scattered high cloud.
29 Aug 96 5 32 6 27 Scattered cloud throughout day.
30 Aug 96 3 29 4 27 SE breeze in pm, scattered cloud, mainly fine.
31 Aug 96 5 29 6 22 Still, cloudless morning.

Bimbowrie 28 Aug 96 8 28 10 16 Overcast.

29 Aug 96 6 30 9 19 Clear, cool.
30 Aug 96 5 29 8 17 Cold, strong breeze.
31 Aug 96 5 29 8 19

Wooltana 28 Aug 96 10 26 11 26
29 Aug 96 9 27 12 27
30 Aug 96 5 31 9 24
31 Aug 96 8 30 10 23

Coonee 1 Sept 96 2 38 4 24 Fine & warm, light breeze.

2 Sept 96 9 39 10 18 Very light rain overnight, south wind all day.
3 Sept 96 2 48 4 22 Fine & warm, very light breeze.
4 Sept 96 5 38 7 25 Cloudless, gusty westerly all pm, fine & warm.

Koonamore 1 Sept 96 5 29 7 24 Mostly overcast, cool & windy. Light rain in evening.
2 Sept 96 3 26 8 22 Mostly overcast, cool & windy.
3 Sept 96 0 27 6 22 Clear, fine, mild. Overcast later.
4 Sept 96 13 35 11 24 Partly overcast then clearing, windy, warm.
5 Sept 96 0 28 8 22 Clear, warm to mild, light breeze.

Billeroo West 2 Sept 96 4 39 6 37 Light rain during night, overcast all night - no moon.
3 Sept 96 1 25 6 30 Cold wind all day, clear still night.
4 Sept 96 9 37 8 33 Fine, still, warm day, cold, clear night.
5 Sept 96 0 31 5 29 Early overcast & cold wind clearing to fine clear cold night.

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 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix X

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN VEGETATION STRUCTURAL FORMATIONS

adapted from Specht (1970) and Muir (1977)

Life Form/ Canopy Cover of Tallest Stratum

Height Class
Dense (70-100%) Mid-dense (30-70%) Sparse (10-30%) Very sparse (<10%)
Trees < 30m Tall closed forest Tall open forest Tall woodland Tall open woodland
Trees 10-30m Closed forest Open forest Woodland Open woodland
Trees 5-10m Low closed forest Low open forest Low woodland Low open woodland
Trees <5m Very low closed forest Very low open forest Very low woodland Very low open woodland
Mallee tree (>3m) Closed tree mallee Tree mallee Open tree mallee Very open tree mallee
Mallee shrub (<3m) Closed shrub mallee Shrub mallee Open shrub mallee Very open shrub mallee
Shrubs > 2m Tall closed shrubland Tall shrubland Tall open shrubland Tall very open shrubland
Shrubs 1-2m Closed shrubland Shrubland Open shrubland Very open shrubland
Shrubs < 1m Low closed shrubland Low shrubland Low open shrubland Low very open
shrubland
Hummock grasses Closed Hummock Hummock grassland Open hummock Very open hummock
grassland grassland grassland
Tussock grasses Closed (tussock) (Tussock) grassland Open (tussock) Very open (tussock)
grassland grassland grassland
Sedges Closed sedgeland Sedgeland Open sedgeland Very open sedgeland
Herbs Closed herbland Herbland Open herbland Very open herbland
Ferns Closed fernland Fernland Open fernland Very open fernland

Trees - woody; perennial; erect; canopy raised well above the ground. Depth of canopy is usually less than or equal to two
thirds of the total tree height. Single stemmed, or if multistemmed, fewer than five individual trunks resulting from
branching of a single short trunk, that is not a mallee-like lignotuber. Height usually >2m.
Mallees - genus Eucalyptus; multi-stemmed, trunks arising from lignotuber. Shrub mallee - five or more trunks. Tree
mallee - usually less than five trunks.
Shrubs- woody; perennial; erect, procumbent or weeping; foliage occupies all or part of total plant height; multiple stems
and branches arising from a rootstock or very short common trunk; generally <5m tall.
Hummock Grass - Genera Triodia or Plectrachne only.
Grasses (tussock) - family Poaceae (Graminae); leaf sheath always split.
Sedges - herbaceous, usually perennial, erect, generally tufted; arise from stolons, tubers, bulbs, rhizomes or seeds. Leaf
sheath never split. Includes Cyperaccae, Juncaceae, Restionaceae, Typhaceae and Xyridaceae and other sedge-like forms.
Herbs - herbaceous or slightly woody; annual or sometimes perennial; erect or creepers; rarely exceeds 0.5m height.
Ferns - vascular cryptogram of Order Filicales.

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 North Olary Plains Biological Survey

Appendix XI

GLOSSARY OF GEOLOGICAL TERMS

Definitions are taken largely from Bates and Jackson (1980)

aeolian pertaining to the wind

alluvial pertaining to or composed of sediments deposited by rivers
anastomosing net-like pattern
barchan dune crescent-shaped dune lying transverse to the direction of prevailing wind
calcrete sediment or rock cemented by calcium carbonate
conformable said of sedimentary strata deposited with no major time breaks
craton part of the Earth's crust that has been stable for a prolonged period
duricrust hard or indurated crust that is part or all of a soil
etch surface erosional surface formed by downward removal of weathered rock
geosyncline a basin or complex succession of basins formed by a mobile downwarping of the Earth's crust in
which sediments accumulate
gilgai surface relief of the order of centimetres to metres in a vertical sense
hiatus a break in deposition of sediments ie a time interval of non-deposition
intermontane located between mountain ranges
lacustrine of or pertaining to a lake
lunette low, wind-built mound on the lee-side of a lake
metamorphism change that occurs in rocks (below the influence of weathering) under conditions (eg temperature)
that differ from those in which they first formed
monadrock a hill that rises above the general plain level, that is an isolated remnant of an earlier cycle of erosion
orogeny event or process of mountain building
palaeo- old or fossil
playa dried up lake
regression the retreat of the sea thereby exposing more land
silcrete siliceous duricrust
stratigraphy science of rock strata
tectonic pertaining to the forces involved in forming the broad architecture of the Earth's crust
tor usually granitic rocky peak or rocks with rounded form
transgression the spread or extension of the sea over land

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