BioCondition Benchmarks for Regional Ecosystem Condition ... · Department of Science, Information...

Department of Science, Information Technology andInnovation

BioCondition Benchmarks for Regional Ecosystem Condition Assessment

Benchmarks are quantitative values for each vegetation condition attribute assessed in BioCondition (Eyre et al. 2015), and

are used as a reference for comparison purposes within and between regional ecosystems. Benchmarks are subject to

regular review and updates based on additional data.

BioCondition benchmarks are compiled from quantitative site data from reference sites, data from the Queensland

Herbarium’s CORVEG database and expert opinion, and are specific to each regional ecosystem vegetation community.

BioCondition benchmarks aim to reflect the natural variability in structure and floristic composition under a range of climatic

and natural disturbance regimes throughout the geographic extent of a regional ecosystem. However, data from local

reference sites should be collected where possible to account for spatial and temporal (seasonal and annual) variability

when undertaking BioCondition assessments.

In some rangeland ecosystems, seasonal conditions can account for wide variation in the values obtained for someattributes assessed in BioCondition. Therefore in these ecosystems a range is expressed instead of a single benchmarkvalue. When using rangeland regional ecosystem benchmarks to assess condition, the lower value of the benchmark rangecan be used as the benchmark, or if assessing a site under good seasonal conditions then use of the average value as thebenchmark.

Definitions

Attribute Brief description

Recruitment of dominant canopyspecies

Proportion of the dominant canopy (ecologically dominant layer) species withevidence of recruitment.

Native plant species richness The number of species expected in four life form groups, i.e. tree, shrub, grass,forbs and other species

Tree strata:

• Canopy

• Sub-canopy

• Large trees

A tree is defined as a woody plant, single stemmed >2 m tall.

• Height – median height in metres

• Cover - percentage cover (assessed as opaque crowns)

• DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) – For large trees only; dbh threshold(cm).

• Typical tree species

Shrub strata:

• Native shrub cover

A shrub is defined as a woody plant, multi-stemmed from base or singlestemmed and <2 m tall.

• Cover - percentage cover (assessed as opaque crowns)

• Typical shrub species

Ground cover:

• Native perennial grass cover

• Litter cover

• Cover – percentage cover (assessed as projected foliage cover)

• Typical ground cover species

Coarse woody debris • Total length in metres of woody debris > 10 cm diameter and > 0.5 mper hectare

Non-native plant cover • Cover – The percentage cover of non-native plants

• Typical non-native species listed with common names and declaredpest status1

Conditions of use

BioCondition benchmarks have been developed from information published by the State of Queensland and remain theproperty of the State of Queensland. BioCondition benchmarks are not to be included on internet sites other than theQueensland Government website.

Users should reference information contained in the BioCondition benchmarks as: Queensland Herbarium (year*)BioCondition benchmarks for Regional Ecosystems, (month, year*) (Department of Science, Information Technology andInnovation: Brisbane). * Date shown in footnote of individual descriptions.

While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is as reliable as possible, the State of Queenslandaccepts no liability and gives no assurance in respect of its accuracy and shall not be liable for any loss or damage arisingfrom its use. BioCondition benchmarks are based on a combination of quantitative and qualitative information and shouldbe used as a guide only. BioCondition benchmarks are subject to review and are updated as additional data becomesavailable.

For more information, contact:

Queensland Herbarium, DSITIBrisbane Botanic Gardens (Mt Coot-tha), Mt Coot-tha Road, Toowong QLD 4066

Last reviewed 5/10/2016

1 Declared—either: a) a plant or animal species listed in Schedule 2 of the Biosecurity Act 2014; or b) an exotic plant that is listed in a localgovernment pest management plan.

Table of Contents4.3.14.3.24.3.34.3.44.3.84.3.104.3.124.3.144.3.154.3.164.3.174.3.184.3.194.3.204.4.14.5.14.5.24.5.34.5.44.5.54.5.64.5.84.5.94.7.14.7.24.7.44.9.14.9.1a4.9.24.9.44.9.54.9.74.9.7a4.9.84.9.104.9.114.9.124.9.134.9.144.9.154.9.16

456789

1011121314151617181920212223242526272829303132333435363738394041424344

4.9.17 45

BioCondition benchmark for regional ecosystem condition assessment

4.3.1Mitchell Grass Downs Regional ecosystem:

Eucalyptus camaldulensis +/- Melaleuca spp. woodland on drainage lines

Bru

ce W

ilson

Tree: 2-7

Shrub: 1-7

Grass: 2-19

Forbs and other: 10-27

Tree canopy median height (m): 3-18

Tree canopy cover (%): 10-30

Tree sub-canopy median height (m): na

Tree sub-canopy cover (%): na

Large eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 30

Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: no data

Large non-eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 20

Number of large non-eucalypt trees per hectare: no data

Native shrub cover (%): 0-1

Typical shrub species: Acacia salicina (doolan), Muehlenbeckia florulenta (lignum)

Benchmark

Native plant species richness:

Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Dichanthium fecundum (curly bluegrass), Leptochloa digitata (umbrella canegrass), Bothriochloa ewartiana (desert bluegrass), Cyperus victoriensis, Aeschynomene indica (budda pea)

Native perennial grass cover (%): 10-30

Coarse woody debris:

Non-native plant cover

Typical non-native species: Parkinsonia aculeata^ (Jerusalem thorn), Acacia farnesiana^ (mimosa bush)

Total length (m) of debris ≥ 10cm diameter and ≥0.5m in length per hectare: no data

Typical tree species: Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum), Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Melaleuca argentea (silver tea-tree)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees

BioCondition attribute

0

Organic litter cover (%): no data

100Recruitment of dominant canopy species (%):

29/11/2012

Selected typical species are those that characterize the ecosystem, community or stratum at reference sites. Up to five frequently occurring species for each stratum are selected. Users should refer to the regional ecosystem description database (REDD) and/or the technical description for more complete lists of characteristic species. Only the most frequently used common name is given. Other common names may be used in other regions. Declared pest species in Queensland are designated (^).



Eucalyptus camaldulensis +/- E. coolabah woodland on drainage lines

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 2-8

Shrub: 4-12

Grass: 9-19







Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: 12


Number of large non-eucalypt trees per hectare: 72


Typical shrub species: Acacia tetragonophylla (dead finish), Eremophila bignoniiflora (eurah)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Dichanthium fecundum (curly bluegrass), Leptochloa digitata (umbrella canegrass), Bothriochloa ewartiana (desert bluegrass), Cyperus victoriensis, Alternanthera nodiflora (joyweed)




Typical non-native species: Acacia farnesiana^ (mimosa bush)

Total length (m) of debris ≥ 10cm diameter and ≥0.5m in length per hectare: 446

Typical tree species: Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum), Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Acacia stenophylla (belalie)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0

Organic litter cover (%): 30


29/11/2012




Eucalyptus coolabah, E. camaldulensis +/- Lysiphyllum gilvum open-woodland on drainage lines

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0-7

Shrub: 1-9

Grass: 6-27






Large eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 38-50

Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: 1-14

Large non-eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 20-25

Number of large non-eucalypt trees per hectare: 0-26


Typical shrub species: Eremophila maculata, Chenopodium auricomum (Queensland blue bush), Muehlenbeckia florulenta (lignum)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Paspalidium jubiflorum (warrego grass), Leptochloa digitata (umbrella canegrass), Bothriochloa ewartiana (desert bluegrass), Cyperus bifax (western nutgrass), Alternanthera nodiflora (joyweed)




Typical non-native species: Pennisetum ciliare^ (buffel grass)

Total length (m) of debris ≥ 10cm diameter and ≥0.5m in length per hectare: 15-299

Typical tree species: Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum), Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Acacia stenophylla (belalie)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0

Organic litter cover (%): 8-48


29/11/2012




Eucalyptus coolabah open-woodland on drainage lines/plains

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 1-7

Shrub: 3-4

Grass: 5-19






Large eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 35-47

Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: 8-10

Large non-eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): 20-37



Typical shrub species: Eremophila maculata, Acacia victoriae (gundabluie)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Paspalidium jubiflorum (warrego grass), Leptochloa digitata (umbrella canegrass), Brachyachne convergens (common native couch), Cyperus bifax (western nutgrass), Alternanthera nodiflora (joyweed)




None listed

Total length (m) of debris ≥ 10cm diameter and ≥0.5m in length per hectare: 15-193

Typical tree species: Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum), Acacia stenophylla (belalie)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei low woodland on braided channels or alluvial plains

Bru

ce W

ilson

Tree: 2-4

Shrub: 2-8

Grass: 5-29











Typical shrub species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Carissa lanceolata (conkle berry)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Eulalia aurea (silky browntop), Cyperus victoriensis, Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Corymbia terminalis +/- Lysiphyllum gilvum and Acacia victoriae low open-woodland on alluvium

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 4

Shrub: 6

Grass: 11

Forbs and other: 7










Typical shrub species: Acacia victoriae (gundabluie), Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Capparis nummularia

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida holathera (erect kerosene grass), Dichanthium sericeum (Queensland bluegrass), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed), Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell)

Native perennial grass cover (%): no data



None listed


Typical tree species: Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood), Lysiphyllum gilvum (bauhinia), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Chenopodium auricomum +/- Muehlenbeckia florulenta open-shrubland on swamps

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 1-2

Shrub: 1-4

Grass: 5-10











Typical shrub species: Chenopodium auricomum (Queensland blue bush), Acacia stenophylla (belalie), Muehlenbeckia florulenta (lignum)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Eragrostis setifolia (neverfail grass), Sporobolus mitchellii (rat's tail couch), Echinochloa turneriana (channel millet), Eleocharis pallens (pale spikerush), Alternanthera nodiflora (joyweed)




None listed


Typical tree species: Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Eremophila bignoniiflora (eurah)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla lappacea, Astrebla spp. +/- Eulalia aurea grassland on alluvium

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0-3

Shrub: 0-7

Grass: 3-16






Large eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): na

Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: na

Large non-eucalypt tree dbh threshold (cm): na

Number of large non-eucalypt trees per hectare: na


Typical shrub species: Acacia victoriae (gundabluie), Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Senna phyllodinea

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Cyperus victoriensis, Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




Typical non-native species: Parkinsonia aculeata^ (Jerusalem thorn), Acacia nilotica subsp. indica^

Total length (m) of debris ≥ 10cm diameter and ≥0.5m in length per hectare: na

Typical tree species: Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Acacia tephrina (boree), Acacia stenophylla (belalie)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0


naRecruitment of dominant canopy species (%):

29/11/2012




Astrebla squarrosa +/- Dichanthium spp. +/- Eulalia aurea grassland on alluvium

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 0-2

Shrub: 4

Grass: 6-19











Typical shrub species: Chenopodium auricomum (Queensland blue bush), Muehlenbeckia florulenta (lignum), Eremophila maculata

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla squarrosa (bull mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Cyperus victoriensis, Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




Typical non-native species: Parkinsonia aculeata^ (Jerusalem thorn)


Typical tree species: Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla elymoides +/- A. squarrosa +/- Aristida latifolia grassland on alluvium

Tree: 2

Shrub: 4

Grass: 19

Forbs and other: 29










Typical shrub species: Chenopodium auricomum (Queensland blue bush), Muehlenbeckia florulenta (lignum), Sesbania chippendalei

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Astrebla squarrosa (bull mitchell grass), Aristida latifolia (feathertop wiregrass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




Typical non-native species: Parkinsonia aculeata^ (Jerusalem thorn)



Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla pectinata +/- Astrebla spp. +/- Aristida latifolia grassland on alluvium

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0-1

Shrub: 0-7

Grass: 7-18











Typical shrub species: Acacia victoriae (gundabluie), Eremophila maculata, Senna phyllodinea

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Crotalaria dissitiflora, Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




None listed



Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Eulalia aurea, Astrebla squarrosa +/- Astrebla spp. grassland on alluvial plains

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 1

Shrub: 0

Grass: 22

Forbs and other: 25









Native shrub cover (%): 0

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Dichanthium fecundum (curly bluegrass), Eulalia aurea (silky browntop), Dichanthium sericeum subsp. polystachyum, Aeschynomene indica (budda pea), Neptunia monosperma




None listed



Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Dichanthium spp., Eulalia aurea, Astrebla spp. grassland on alluvium

Tree: 1

Shrub: 0

Grass: 3-22

Forbs and other: 25










Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Dichanthium fecundum (curly bluegrass), Dichanthium sericeum subsp. polystachyum, Eulalia aurea (silky browntop), Aeschynomene indica (budda pea), Sclerolaena anisacanthoides (yellow burr)




None listed



Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Atriplex spp. and Sclerolaena spp. +/- Astrebla spp. +/- short grasses +/- forbs, open-herbland on

braided or flat alluvial plainsM

elin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0-5

Shrub: 0-8

Grass: 3-17











Typical shrub species: Chenopodium auricomum (Queensland blue bush), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Senna phyllodinea

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Sporobolus mitchellii (rat's tail couch), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Eragrostis setifolia (neverfail grass), Pycnosorus pleiocephalus, Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Eucalyptus coolabah (coolabah), Eucalyptus camaldulensis (river red gum)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla pectinata +/- Aristida latifolia +/- Eulalia aurea grassland on Tertiary sediments overlying

limestoneV.J.Neldner

Tree: 0

Shrub: 0-2

Grass: 7-11


Tree canopy median height (m): 0

Tree canopy cover (%): 0








Typical shrub species: Acacia victoriae (gundabluie)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Sida trichopoda (high sida), Ipomoea lonchophylla (common cowvine)




None listed


Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia aneura +/- Atalaya hemiglauca +/- Grevillea striata low woodland on sand plains

Miria

m S

chm

eid

er

Tree: 1-3

Shrub: 2-7

Grass: 7-20











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. helmsii, Eremophila latrobei (crimson turkeybush), Eremophila bowmanii (silver turkeybush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida obscura, Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Thyridolepis mitchelliana (mulga mitchell grass), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Tribulus astrocarpus




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia aneura (mulga), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Grevillea striata (beefwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia aneura tall open-shrubland on Quaternary sand sheets

Tree: 5

Shrub: 6

Grass: 7

Forbs and other: 7










Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Eremophila latrobei (crimson turkeybush), Acacia sericophylla

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida holathera (erect kerosene grass), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Thyridolepis xerophila, Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Sclerolaena cornishiana




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia aneura (mulga), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Grevillea striata (beefwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia aneura, Triodia brizoides or Triodia molesta tall open-shrubland on Tertiary sand sheets

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 1-3

Shrub: 3-8

Grass: 3-10











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Senna artemisioides subsp. helmsii, Acacia ligulata (umbrella wattle)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia brizoides, Triodia molesta, Themeda triandra (kangaroo grass), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia aneura (mulga), Acacia excelsa (ironwood), Grevillea striata (beefwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Archidendropsis basaltica and/or Acacia aneura +/- Corymbia terminalis low open-woodland on

sand plainsN

ick C

uff

Tree: 3-13

Shrub: 4-9

Grass: 7-17











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides (silver desert cassia), Capparis lasiantha (nipan), Eremophila bowmanii (silver turkeybush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia bitextura, Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Eriachne mucronata (mountain wanderie grass), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed), Indigofera linnaei (Birdsville indigo)






Typical tree species: Archidendropsis basaltica (red lancewood), Acacia aneura (mulga), Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Corymbia terminalis, Triodia pungens +/- Acacia spp., Senna spp., Eucalyptus spp. low open-

woodland on sand plainsH

ele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 1-8

Shrub: 7-16

Grass: 6-16











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Senna artemisioides subsp. helmsii, Grevillea wickhamii

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia pungens, Aristida holathera (erect kerosene grass), Themeda triandra (kangaroo grass), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell)




None listed


Typical tree species: Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Ventilago viminalis (supplejack)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei, Senna spp., Sida platycalyx tall open-shrubland on Quaternary sand sheets

Tree: 4-8

Shrub: 0-12

Grass: 4-13











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Eremophila gilesii (Charleville turkeybush), Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida holathera var. holathera (erect kerosene grass), Eragrostis eriopoda (woollybutt), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Sclerolaena cornishiana




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Eremophila mitchellii (false sandalwood), Flindersia maculosa (leopardwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Triodia pungens hummock grassland wooded with Acacia spp. +/- Eucalyptus spp. on

Quaternary sand sheets

Tree: 11

Shrub: 11-17

Grass: 4-10











Typical shrub species: Acacia adsurgens, Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Eremophila longifolia (berrigan)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia pungens, Aristida jerichoensis (Jericho three-awn), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Sclerolaena cornishiana




None listed


Typical tree species: Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Grevillea striata (beefwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei, Archidendropsis basaltica and mixed species open-woodland on sand plains

Tree: 7-16

Shrub: 7-10

Grass: 6-17











Typical shrub species: Acacia excelsa (ironwood), Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Psydrax oleifolia (wild lemon)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida holathera (erect kerosene grass), Aristida jerichoensis (Jericho three-awn), Enteropogon acicularis (curly windmill grass), Sida platycalyx (lifesaver burr), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed)






Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Archidendropsis basaltica (red lancewood), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia shirleyi, Triodia spp. +/- Eucalyptus spp. low woodland on scarps

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 2-3

Shrub: 6-13

Grass: 3-6

Forbs and other: 6



Tree sub-canopy median height (m): 4-6

Tree sub-canopy cover (%): 5-60






Typical shrub species: Eremophila latrobei (crimson turkeybush), Indigofera leucotricha, Acacia bivenosa

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia molesta, Triodia longiceps (giant grey spinifex), Triodia brizoides, Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia shirleyi (lancewood), Eucalyptus leucophloia (snappy gum), Eucalyptus thozetiana (yapunyah)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Eucalyptus normantonensis tall open-shrubland with Triodia spp. on plateau margins

Dan K

elm

an

Tree: 1-4

Shrub: 7-14

Grass: 5-11

Forbs and other: 14










Typical shrub species: Acacia ancistrocarpa, Acacia bivenosa, Acacia cowleana (Halls Creek wattle)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia molesta, Triodia longiceps (giant grey spinifex), Aristida inaequiglumis, Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell), Sclerolaena cornishiana




None listed


Typical tree species: Eucalyptus normantonensis (Normanton box), Corymbia aparrerinja, Eucalyptus thozetiana (yapunyah)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei tall open-shrubland with Triodia spp. +/- Senna spp. near eroding edges of

Tertiary plateausB

ruce W

ilson

Tree: 1

Shrub: 6

Grass: 9-14

Forbs and other: 10










Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Senna phyllodinea

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Triodia brizoides, Triodia longiceps (giant grey spinifex), Enteropogon acicularis (curly windmill grass), Ptilotus obovatus (silver mulla mulla), Sclerolaena lanicuspis (wooly copperburr)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla lappacea +/- Aristida latifolia +/- Panicum decompositum grassland on Cretaceous

sedimentsM

elin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0-4

Shrub: 0-5

Grass: 2-24











Typical shrub species: Senna planitiicola, Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Aristida latifolia (feathertop wiregrass), Panicum decompositum (native millet), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed)




Typical non-native species: Acacia nilotica subsp. indica^


Typical tree species: Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Flindersia maculosa (leopardwood), Ventilago viminalis (supplejack)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012



4.9.1aMitchell Grass Downs Regional ecosystem:

Aristida spp. Enneapogon spp. open-grassland wooded with scattered Atalaya hemiglauca,

Ventilago viminalis

Tree: 2-3

Shrub: 2-3

Grass: 14-16











Typical shrub species: Acacia tetragonophylla (dead finish), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Senna glutinosa subsp. pruinosa

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida latifolia (feathertop wiregrass), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Eragrostis xerophila, Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell)




None listed


Typical tree species: Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Grevillea striata (beefwood), Ventilago viminalis (supplejack)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla lappacea and A. pectinata +/- A. elymoides grassland on Cretaceous sediments

Hele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 0

Shrub: 1-2

Grass: 5-25











Typical shrub species: Acacia victoriae (gundabluie), Acacia farnesiana^ (mimosa bush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Enneapogon avenaceus (bottle washers), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Sida trichopoda (high sida)




Typical non-native species: Portulaca oleracea (pigweed)


Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla pectinata and herbs +/- Astrebla spp. grassland on Cretaceous sediments

Melin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 0

Shrub: 1

Grass: 6-13











Typical shrub species: Acacia farnesiana^ (mimosa bush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Sida trichopoda (high sida)




Typical non-native species: Acacia farnesiana^ (mimosa bush)


Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla lappacea and Sclerolaena spp. +/- Enneapogon spp. open-herbland on Cretaceous

sedimentsB

ruce W

ilson

Tree: 0

Shrub: 2-4

Grass: 6-19











Typical shrub species: Senna phyllodinea, Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Acacia tetragonophylla (dead finish)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Enneapogon avenaceus (bottle washers), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




None listed


Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla spp. grassland wooded with Acacia tephrina +/- A. cambagei and Atalaya hemiglauca

on Cretaceous sedimentsH

ele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 3-8

Shrub: 2-6

Grass: 3-20











Typical shrub species: Eremophila maculata, Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Solanum esuriale (quena), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia tephrina (boree), Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012



4.9.7aMitchell Grass Downs Regional ecosystem:

Acacia tephrina low woodland

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 5-6

Shrub: 3-6

Grass: 10-16











Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Eremophila maculata

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Panicum decompositum (native millet), Sporobolus caroli (fairy grass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Solanum esuriale (quena)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia tephrina (boree), Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Astrebla spp. grassland wooded with Atalaya hemiglauca +/- Alectryon oleifolius +/- Flindersia

maculosa on Cretaceous sedimentsH

ele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 4-8

Shrub: 3-5

Grass: 7-24











Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Eremophila mitchellii (false sandalwood)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Astrebla elymoides (hoop mitchell grass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Solanum esuriale (quena)




None listed


Typical tree species: Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Alectryon oleifolius subsp. elongatus (boonaree), Flindersia maculosa (leopardwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia georginae tall open-shrubland on Cambrian limestone

Bru

ce W

ilson

Tree: 1

Shrub: 2-6

Grass: 5-14











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Rhagodia spinescens (thorny saltbush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Aristida latifolia (feathertop wiregrass), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Enteropogon acicularis (curly windmill grass), Indigofera linnaei (Birdsville indigo), Solanum quadriloculatum




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia georginae (Georgina gidgee), Acacia cambagei (gidgee)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei low woodland with scattered shrubs such as Eremophila mitchellii and Geijera

parviflora on fresh Cretaceous sedimentsM

elin

da L

aid

law

Tree: 2-11

Shrub: 3-12

Grass: 2-26




Tree sub-canopy median height (m): 2-8

Tree sub-canopy cover (%): 0-40


Number of large eucalypt trees per hectare: 0




Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Santalum lanceolatum (sandalwood)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Enneapogon polyphyllus (leafy nine-awn), Sporobolus actinocladus (katoora grass), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed), Sclerolaena bicornis (goathead burr)






Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Flindersia maculosa (leopardwood), Alectryon oleifolius (boonaree)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Corymbia terminalis low open-woodland with Astrebla pectinata +/- Eulalia aurea on plains and

low lying areas

Tree: 4

Shrub: 6

Grass: 11

Forbs and other: 7










Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Acacia victoriae (gundabluie), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Eulalia aurea (silky browntop), Chrysopogon fallax (golden beardgrass), Cleome viscosa (tick-weed), Evolvulus alsinoides (tropical speedwell)






Typical tree species: Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Lysiphyllum gilvum (bauhinia)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Senna artemisioides subsp. helmsii +/- S. artemisioides subsp. oligophylla +/- Acacia georginae

+/- Acacia spp. open-shrubland on tops and footslopes of Cambrian limestone residualsB

ruce W

ilson

Tree: 1-3

Shrub: 3-7

Grass: 4-10











Typical shrub species: Senna artemisioides subsp. helmsii, Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Scaevola laciniata

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Enneapogon avenaceus (bottle washers), Enneapogon cylindricus (jointed nine-awn), Digitaria coenicola, Cleome viscosa (tick-weed), Trichodesma zeylanicum (cattle bush)




None listed


Typical tree species: Corymbia terminalis (long-fruited bloodwood), Acacia georginae (Georgina gidgee), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia georginae or A. cambagei low open-woodland with Astrebla spp. on limestone

V.J.Neldner

Tree: 1

Shrub: 6

Grass: 6-12











Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla pectinata (barley mitchell grass), Aristida latifolia (feathertop wiregrass), Eragrostis setifolia (neverfail grass), Rhynchosia minima (ryncho), Goodenia fascicularis (fan flower)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia georginae or Acacia cambagei

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia harpophylla tall shrubland with scattered emergent Atalaya hemiglauca +/- Eucalyptus

spp. on Cretaceous sedimentsH

ele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 2-8

Shrub: 1-4

Grass: 9-17











Typical shrub species: Apophyllum anomalum (broom bush), Eremophila deserti (Ellangowan poison bush), Santalum lanceolatum (sandalwood)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Astrebla lappacea (curly mitchell grass), Enneapogon avenaceus (bottle washers), Sporobolus actinocladus (katoora grass), Sida trichopoda (high sida)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia harpophylla (brigalow), Atalaya hemiglauca (western whitewood), Brachychiton rupestris (bottle tree)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia cambagei +/- scattered shrub species including Santalum lanceolatum and Eremophila

mitchellii tall open-shrublandH

ele

n C

arta

n

Tree: 1-3

Shrub: 1-6

Grass: 6-16











Typical shrub species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Senna artemisioides subsp. oligophylla, Carissa lanceolata (conkle berry)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Enteropogon acicularis (curly windmill grass), Bothriochloa ewartiana (desert bluegrass), Chrysopogon fallax (golden beardgrass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Sida trichopoda (high sida)




None listed


Typical tree species: Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Flindersia maculosa (leopardwood), Santalum lanceolatum (sandalwood)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012




Acacia harpophylla +/- A. cambagei low woodland on undulating clay plains

Tree: 2-16

Shrub: 1-6

Grass: 5-14











Typical shrub species: Enchylaena tomentosa (ruby saltbush), Eremophila deserti (Ellangowan poison bush), Scaevola spinescens (prickly fan flower)

Benchmark


Trees:

Shrubs:

Ground cover (%):

Typical ground cover species: Paspalidium constrictum (knottybutt grass), Enteropogon acicularis (curly windmill grass), Sporobolus caroli (fairy grass), Abutilon malvifolium (bastard marshmallow), Sida trichopoda (high sida)






Typical tree species: Acacia harpophylla (brigalow), Acacia cambagei (gidgee), Brachychiton rupestris (bottle tree)

Tree canopy

Tree sub-canopy

Large trees


0



29/11/2012


BioCondition Benchmarks for Regional Ecosystem Condition ... · Department of Science, Information...

Documents

Transcript of BioCondition Benchmarks for Regional Ecosystem Condition ... · Department of Science, Information...