Abstract: |
The Wetland Inventory of Eyre Peninsula documents a representative sample of inland wetlands by recording their physical, chemical and biological attributes. Twenty-seven wetlands were surveyed (in September 2000), the majority of these comprised saline lake systems and brackish water bodies, with only 1 freshwater wetland being recorded during the survey.
The aquatic invertebrate fauna was notably scarce in many of the wetlands surveyed. This may be attributed to the high conductivity readings in the majority of wetlands, only 4 wetlands displayed good invertebrate diversity. The correlation between increasing salinity levels and decreasing biological activity was clear, and this decline is of concern for the health of many wetlands.
Several wetlands surveyed are considered to be nationally important as they meet the ANZECC criteria of being a good example of a wetland type occurring within a biogeographic region in Australia. These wetlands include the saline lake systems within Lincoln National Park and Lake Newland Conservation Park. Seven wetlands are recommended for monitoring, and include four wetlands in the District Council of Elliston and three wetlands managed by the Department for Environment and Heritage. |