Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
(
click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Genowlan Point Allocasuarina nana Heathland
Gazetted date:
18 Dec 1998
Profile last updated:
07 Sep 2017
Description
A dwarf low closed heath community dominated by Allocasuarina nana, it is distinct structurally and in species composition from other heathlands in the greater Blue Mountains. The presence in the heathland of the combination of Xanthorrhoea johnsonii, Micromyrtus sessilis, Pseudanthus divaricatissimus, Callitris muelleri and Isopogon prostratus is, as far as is known, unique.
Distribution
This EEC occurs at a single location on a narrow peninsula (Genowlan Point) in the Capertee Valley in the Lithgow Local Government Area. It is restricted to a continuous patch of around 10 hectares within Mugii Murum-ban State Conservation Area.
Habitat and ecology
- Occupies part of a narrow peninsula (Genowlan Point) of the Genowlan-Airly mesa complex; it is bounded to the west by a vertical cliff up to 300 metres high.
- Within this community, Allocasuarina nana is close to its northern limit of distribution, and Xanthorrhoea johnsonii close to its southern limit. A number of other species in the community are close to distributional limits.
- The dwarf heath community is believed to have developed as a result of an extensive ironstone band that prevents tree growth.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Lack of fire may be causing reduction in species diversity. Site has not been burned since the 1970s.
- Habitat degradation due to 4WD vehicles and trail bikes.
- The limited extent of the TEC, combined with recreational disturbance, makes it susceptible to soil-borne pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi.
- Disturbance and browsing by goats, particularly during drought.
- Highly restricted distribution renders TEC susceptible to extinction through stochastic events.
- Potential for impacts from underground mining activity.
- Natural cliff-fall diminishes size of TEC.
Recovery strategies
A targeted strategy for managing this species has been developed under the Saving Our Species program; click
here for details. For more information on the Saving Our Species program click
here
Activities to assist this species
- Restrict vehicular access.
- Liase with local 4WD clubs and install interpretive signs to alert and inform he public.
- Mitigate impacts from goats, in the broader area via aerial control and by minimising unnatural water accumulation and supply.
- Investigate fire response in order to prescribe an appropriate targeted fire regime.
- Undertake monitoring, particularly with regard to potential incidences of Phytophthora infection and also senescence in the absence of fire.
Information sources
- NSW Scientific Committee (1998) Genowlan Point Allocasuarina nana heathland - Endangered ecological community determination - final. DEC (NSW), Sydney.
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Known or predicted
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