Celebrating biodiversity: New species discovered on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

Celebrating biodiversity: New species discovered on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve
Photo supplied Australia Zoo

By Jill Dando News

Two new plant species have been discovered on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve.

The findings are according to Paulo Baleeiro, a PhD student at The University of Queensland and Dr. Richard Jobson, a Senior Research Scientist at the National Herbarium of NSW in Sydney. 

One of the newly discovered species is Utricularia irwinica, named in honour of the reserve, highlighting its rich biodiversity and significance for scientific research.

The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, spanning 330,000 acres of untouched wilderness, is home to an array of rare and endangered species.

Mr. Baleeiro's PhD research, focusing on the phylogenetics and population genetics of Australian Eriocaulon, led to this significant discovery.

SIWRLingCreek-KB21-8188.jpg
Photo Australia Zoo - Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

"Discovering and sharing the wonders of Queensland fills me with pride. With countless species still to be found, the role of taxonomy becomes indispensable," said Paulo Baleeiro.

Utricularia irwinica is a carnivorous plant with deep cream-white flowers and mauve markings. The second species discovered is Eriocaulon insectum, or Pipewort, featuring golden flower heads.

Wildlife conservationist Terri Irwin said, "These findings highlight the rich biodiversity of the reserve and underscore the importance of our conservation efforts.

It emphasizes the critical need to protect and study our planet's unique yet threatened flora and fauna species."

DON'T MISS: https://goodnewspost.co.uk/lecturer-takes-to-saddle-to-raise-cash-for-autism-charity/

The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve is currently home to over 40 species of conservation significance, including the palm cockatoo, saltwater crocodile, and red goshawk.

It's also where the Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors team conducts annual crocodile research.

To find out more about Wildlife Warriors and how you can help, visit www.wildlifewarriors.org.au.

For more stories from Jill Dando News click here

Read more

Highlighting Coffee farmers and more – success as thousands turn out to support Fairtrade’s ‘Be The Change’ campaign

Highlighting Coffee farmers and more – success as thousands turn out to support Fairtrade’s ‘Be The Change’ campaign

By Jill Dando News Fairtrade Fortnight – two weeks of events and awareness-raising about Fairtrade in the UK – has concluded, with thousands of committed Fairtrade supporters turning out to support its ‘Be the Change’ Campaign. * The Fairtrade Foundation reports a significant increase (up 11%) in awareness of Fairtrade Fortnight following its

By Good News Post