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.
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The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Tinospora smilacina
Profile last updated:
14 Jun 2020
Description
Tinospora Vine is a slender climber, more or less deciduous, and often has a succulent stem. The leaves vary in shape, from heart-shaped to triangular. They are rather thin, and 4 – 10 cm long. The leaf stalk varies in length from 1 to 8 cm, with a swelling at its junction with the stem. Male and female flowers are borne on separate plants, and are small and inconspicuous in long, unbranched clusters, often produced when the plant is leafless. The fleshy fruits are produced in groups of three.
Distribution
North from the Coffs Harbour district in north-east NSW, where it is rare. Its distribution also includes Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia.
Habitat and ecology
- Dry rainforest and along the boundaries of dry rainforest and dry eucalypt forest.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Clearing, fragmentation, and degradation of habitat, including from overgrazing
- Disturbance from forestry operations including roading, clear felling and debris as well as promotion of bell miner associated dieback conditions
- High frequency fire impacting population viability, exacerbated by the cumulative threats of weeds and bell miner associated dieback
- Invasion of habitat by weeds including lantana, cats claw creeper, and overgrowth of native vines
- Accidental damage to plants when cutting introduced vines during bush regeneration.
- Habitat degradation from bell miner associated dieback including changes to soil moisture
- Limited known sites for the species reducing NSW population viability
Recovery strategies
A Saving Our Species conservation project is currently being developed for this species and will be available soon. For information on how you can contribute to this species' recovery, see the Activities to assist this species section below.
Activities to assist this species
- Support local Landcare groups and bush regeneration teams.
- Protect rainforest edges from fire.
- Identify populations near roads and harvesting areas and protect them during logging operations.
- Identify and protect Tinospora Vine during regeneration work in areas of habitat.
- Control weeds in and near known habitat, taking particular care when other species of vine require cutting.
- Protect areas of habitat from clearing.
- Expand and connect remaining areas of habitat.
Information sources
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) Threatened Species of the Upper North Coast of NSW: Flora. (NSW NPWS, Coffs Harbour)
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