Wetland Flora and Fauna

Most plants and animals depend on water for life, so it is not surprising that wetlands are species-rich in both flora and fauna. However, because of the dynamic nature of wetlands, with periods of drying and inundation varying in frequency and duration over time, not all plants and animals that live in wetlands are present in them all of the time.

Some plants, such as nardoo, may be hidden and lie dormant as seeds or bulbs in the soil waiting for water, while others, such as river red gums and mangroves, are more permanent and conspicuous landmarks of a wetland environment.

The use of wetlands by animals is also variable. There are some casual visitors, such as flocks of pigeons that drink at billabong fringes, but for many animals wetlands are critical for their existence. Some use the habitat occasionally (for example, dragonflies and frogs when they lay their eggs), while others use it permanently (for example, freshwater fish).

Animals considered wetland indicator species are those that exhibit specific adaptations that make them dependent on wetlands for at least part of their life cycle. Lists of flora and fauna wetland indicator species have been prepared to help identify wetlands in Queensland.

Flora and fauna inventory

Information describing the flora and fauna of wetlands is an important component of wetland inventory. A wetland inventory database is being developed to store and disseminate a wide range of wetland data for Queensland, including details on plants and animals.

An interactive field survey proforma will be available here by the end of 2007 to capture and submit your on-ground inventory data electronically to the wetland inventory database. Information and links to a wide range of wetland assessment tools are also available.

For more information on the fauna and flora that are indicator species in Queensland’s wetlands just follow the links.

Last updated: 13 November 2009