Dracophyllum macranthum
| Dracophyllum macranthum | |
|---|---|
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Asterids |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Dracophyllum |
| Species: | D. macranthum
|
| Binomial name | |
| Dracophyllum macranthum | |
Dracophyllum macranthum is a small shrub in the family Ericaceae. Plants grow to 0.6–2.0 metres tall, and produce rose-to-pink coloured flowers between August and October.[2] It is endemic to the northern coast of New South Wales, Australia.
Etymology
[edit]The specific epithet, macranthum, is derived from two Greek words: μακρός (macros, meaning large) and ἄνθος (anthos, meaning flower).[2]
Distribution and habitat
[edit]Dracophyllum macranthum has a restricted range in the forests north of Taree, New South Wales. The species is known to be found in the Lansdowne and Comboyne State Forests, and in Coorabakh National Park.[3][4]
Plants are typically found on rocky outcrops, such as those found in stream gullies, or on roadside cuttings.[2]
Status and conservation
[edit]Estimates of the population of Dracophyllum macranthum have ranged widely. One study from 2007 estimated the population to be around 2,500–5,000,[5] while a 2018 study estimated it to be at least 100,000.[6]
Threats to Dracophyllum macranthum include invasive weeds such as Lantana camara and Ageratina riparia, as well as road and track maintenance.[4][5] The pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi is also thought to be a potential threat, though whether the plant is susceptible is yet to be tested.[5]
In 2008, the NSW Scientific Committee listed Dracophyllum macranthum as a 'Vulnerable Species' under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, due to its restricted range and small population.[5] The species continues to be listed as such under the later Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, which repealed the former Act.[7] However, subsequent research has suggested that the population may be large enough to warrant being de-listed from this category.[6]
References
[edit]- ^ "Dracophyllum macranthum". APNI. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
- ^ a b c Brown, Elizabeth A; Streiber, Nikola (1999). "Systematic studies in Dracophyllum (Epacridaceae) 2. New species of Dracophyllum in New South Wales". Telopea. 8 (3): 393–401.
- ^ Brown, Elizabeth A. "Dracophyllum macranthum E.A.Br. & N.Streiber". PlantNET. Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
- ^ a b "Dracophyllum macranthum – profile". NSW Office of Environment & Heritage. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
- ^ a b c d NSW Scientific Committee (2008). Dracophyllum macranthum – vulnerable species listing. Final Determination (Report). Sydney, NSW. Retrieved 24 April 2021.
- ^ a b Bell, Stephen; Sims, Ryan (2018). "Extensive populations of Dracophyllum macranthum (Ericaceae) in Coorabakh National Park suggest a review of threat status". Australasian Plant Conservation. 27 (2): 11–14.
- ^ Biodiversity Conservation Act (Act). NSW Government. 2016.
 Species of the Dracophyllum genus | |
|---|---|
| subg. Dracophyllum | |
| subg. Oreothamnus |
|
| subg. Cystanthe | |
| subg. Richea | |