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: Coprosma inopinata
Gazetted date:
15 Dec 2023
Profile last updated:
22 Jan 2025
Description
A compact shrub to 50 cm, growing close to the ground, or scrambling. The small, hairless leaves are pointed and 7 - 1.3 mm long by 3 - 6 mm wide, and are slightly thickened. The leaf edges are sometimes slightly curved under and there are rigid points 2 - 3 mm long growing out from the stems. Young stems are finely hairy. The small, solitary, green flower has purple margins and is followed by a rounded, 5 - 6 mm orange fruit.
Distribution
The Small-leaved Currant Bush is only found in the southern mountains of Lord Howe Island.
Habitat and ecology
- Largely restricted to the narrow, exposed south-westerly or south-easterly ridges of Mounts Lidgbird and Gower, and nearby more sheltered pockets.
- All populations are reserved within the Permanent Park Preserve.
- It is likely that there are less than 250 mature plants known.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Recreational disturbance
- Weed invasion, particularly by Asparagus fern, Cherry Guava and Ochna.
- Risk of extinction due to small population size.
- Risk of extinction due to restricted distribution.
- Climate change due to limited habitat in susceptible areas.
- Potential for recreational users accessing areas where the species occurs to introduce diseases (eg Phytopthera, myrtle rust) and / or weed seeds.
- Predation and browsing by black rats.
- Climate change modifying habitat
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
- Establish ex-situ collections in the event of local extinctions.
- Take care when walking on ridges in the southern mountains.
- Continue weed control programs in areas of known habitat.
- Establish monitoring sites to enable early detection of impacts of climate change on Lord Howe Island.
- Support climate change initiatives.
- Research into the biological control of Crofton Weed and Tiger Lily.
- Undertake research into the biology and ecological requirements of the species.
- Monitor population dynamics and threats to the species at know populations.
Information sources
- Auld, T.D. and Hutton, I. (2004) Conservation issues for the vascular flora of Lord Howe Island. Cunninghamia 8(4): 490-500
- Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW (2007) Lord Howe Island Biodiversity Management Plan. (DECC NSW, Sydney South)
- Green, P.S. (1993) Notes relating to the floras of Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands, IV. Kew Bulletin 48(2): 307-324
- Green, P.S. (1994) Flora of Australia. Volume 49 Oceanic Islands 1. (Australian Government Press Service, Canberra)
- Hutton, I. (2001) Rare plant surveys Lord Howe Island. Report prepared for the NSW Scientific Committee, Sydney.
- Hutton, I. (2002) Field Guide to the Plants of Lord Howe Island. (Ian Hutton, Lord Howe Island)
- NSW Scientific Committee (2002) Coprosma inopinata (a shrub) - Endangered species determination - final.
|
IBRA Bioregion
|
IBRA Subregion
|
Known or predicted
|
Geographic restrictions region
|
|---|