| Abstract: |
This project aims to improve the conservation status of Allocasuarina robusta (Mount Compass Oak-bush) by increasing the size and number of populations, and improving the protection and condition of habitat.
A. robusta is a nationally-endangered shrub, endemic to the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia.
It generally grows in low-lying wet heath or open eucalypt woodland with a heath understorey, often near the margins of swamps and watercourses in sandy loam soils. It is often associated with critically endangered Swamps of Fleurieu Peninsula.
A. robusta is currently known from 24 populations (2011-16), with a total population size of approximately 1200 plants. Most sub-populations are very small, and comprise entirely of mature plants. The majority of populations occur in degraded roadside vegetation, and are subject to a range of threats which are causing population decline. The main threats to the species are habitat loss and fragmentation, livestock grazing, road works, herbicide spraying, and weed invasion. It is imperative that all existing populations of A. robusta are protected, and measures are taken to maintain and enhance populations.
The priority actions in this plan include:
1. Inform key stakeholders to ensure awareness of the species
2. Install roadside markers and implement protective measures
3. Collect and preserve seed from all sub-populations
4. Undertake targeted weed control programs at priority sites
5. Propagate and plant seedlings into existing sub-populations
6. Re-establish large populations within reserves
7. Establish a recovery team to coordinate implementation.
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