Appendix 2 - Vegetation Communities and Regional Ecosystems

Vegetation Communities and 

Regional Ecosystems 

of 

The Torres Strait Islands, 

Queensland, Australia. 

An Accompaniment to Land Zone, 

Vegetation Community and 

Regional Ecosystem Maps. 

Final Report to 

Torres Strait Regional Authority 

Land & Sea Management Unit. 

by 3d Environmental 

Stanton, D.J., Fell, D.G. and Gooding, D.O. 

August, 2008

Executive Summary 

The Torres Strait region, lying between the tip of Cape York Peninsula and the south-western 

coast of Papua New Guinea, has long been recognised for its cultural and ecological 

uniqueness and diversity. The need to preserve and appropriately manage the cultural, social 

and environmental values identified throughout the region is now more than ever apparent 

and vital given the pressures imposed by a range of current and potentially threatening 

processes. 

Under funding from the Natural Heritage Trust administered through the Torres Strait 

Regional Authority Land and Sea Management Unit, a regional vegetation classification and 

mapping survey of the Torres Strait Islands has been undertaken. The report and 

accompanying maps present the first comprehensive assessment of the regions vegetation 

with previous studies either much broader in scale or focused on particular areas or islands. 

The information is intended to directly address priority issues identified in the Torres Strait 

Regional Land and Sea Management Strategy being; lack of information on terrestrial 

biodiversity ecology or biological process; and the lack of a spatial representation of 

vegetation communities (and regional ecosystems) at an appropriate scale for local land use 

planning initiatives. Furthermore, the information provided in this study serves to provide 

baseline data layers to support the development of Pilot Sustainable Land Use Plans on six 

islands (Saibai, Boigu, Dauan, Iama, Masig, and Erub). 

The study focused on detailed stereoscopic interpretation of the available aerial photography, 

both recent and historical, supported by satellite imagery as a basis for vegetation community 

delineation. A field survey undertaken to provide floristic characterisation of representative 

vegetation communities was completed by two field ecologists between 16 October and 2 

December, 2007. The survey collected data at 1 372 survey locations over a total land area of 

892 km 2 , supplementing 37 sites surveyed during previous data collection exercises (Neldner 

and Clarkson 2005), providing a spatial scale of sampling at scale of roughly 1:25 000. A 

secondary phase of field sampling was completed in July 2008 for Badu Island. 

In total, the study identified 158 remnant vegetation communities within 27 Broad Vegetation 

Groups. These vegetation communities are classified into the regional ecosystem framework 

based on landform association, structural type and floristic assemblage. Seventy-six regional 

ecosystems are identified in the study area, of which 10 are recognised as new ecosystem 

types for the Cape York Peninsula Bioregion, within which 218 regional ecosystems are 

currently recognised. This accounts for approximately one third of the total ecosystem 

diversity present in the bioregion within a recognised sub-region contributing less than 0.01% 

to the bioregions total land area (12,050,307.0576 ha – IBRA Version 5). The vascular flora 

is similarly diverse with 1 330 vascular flora species known and including 196 naturalised 

species, seven species declared on the Land Protection Act 2002, and 31 species listed as 

endangered, vulnerable or rare under Queensland’s Nature Conservation Act (Wildlife) 

Regulation 2006. The Torres Strait flora approximates 40% of the species known for the Cape 

York Peninsula bioregion and some 13% of the Queensland vascular flora. 

The Islands that make up the Torres Strait sub-region are truly unique and biologically diverse 

terrestrial ecosystems which support outstanding terrestrial biodiversity values much of which 

has been previously unrecognised. The findings identify a number of highly significant 

vegetation types, which include those with very restricted distribution within the study area, 

bioregionally endemic types, extensive wetlands, and vegetation that provides important 

habitat for flora of national, state and regional significance. Furthermore, the vegetation and 

flora exhibit evidence of the evolving and ongoing fragmentation of the biomes of northern 

Australia and New Guinea. 

3D Environmental – Torres Strait Regional Ecosystem Mapping Project – August 2008 i

Acknowledgments 

This project was funded with the assistance of the Federal Government’s Natural Heritage 

Trust (NHT) through the Torres Strait Regional Authority-Land and Sea Management Unit. 

The authors would like to acknowledge and thank the following people and organisations for 

their assistance with the project: 

• All island Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) bodies and members who granted 

permission for access to traditional lands; 

• All island Council Chairpersons, CEO’s and executive for coordination and logistical 

support throughout the survey; 

• Kaurerag field rangers particularly Mr. John Wigness and Mr. Kathawa Rattler for 

assistance in the field on Kaurerag country, and liaison support by Mr Milton Savage 

and Mr Eliza Wasaga; 

• TSRA Land and Sea Management Unit staff Damian Miley, Miya Isherwood, and 

Vic McGrath for assistance with project management and cultural liaison. Ben 

Hanrahan and Marianne Helling provided valuable background information 

throughout; 

• Dr. Garrick Hitchcock for advice and guidance on issues pertaining to cultural 

protocols and ethnography, provision of background literature and review of the draft 

report; 

• Mary Bani of TSRA Native Title Office for assistance with introductory 

correspondence and advice on Native Title matters; 

• EPA Senior Botanist Eda Addicot and Dr John Neldner for advice and assistance on 

vegetation and Regional Ecosystem classification; 

• Barbara Waterhouse for provision of background information valuable to project 

planning and for botanical advice; 

• Peter Stanton for provision of comments on the draft report; 

• AQIS staff throughout Torres Strait; 

• Mr John Dowe for advice on palm distributions and identifications; 

• John and Linda Fell for accommodation on Zuna Island 

• Keith and Moroma Fell for accommodation on Mabuiag Island. 

Cover Photographs 

1. Mangroves and salt pan on Land Zone 1, Horn Island. 

2. Semi deciduous vine forest on Land Zone 2, Erub. 

3. Pandanus grassland complex on Land Zone 3, Saibai. 

4. Vine thicket remnants on Land Zone 7, Saibai. 

5. Grassland and vine thicket on Land Zone 8, Erub. 

6. Rainforest on Land Zone 12, Moa Island. 

3d Environmental – Torres Strait Regional Ecosystem Mapping Project – August 2008 

ii

Table of Contents 

Executive Summary...................................................................................... i 

Acknowledgments....................................................................................... ii 

Table of Contents ........................................................................................iii 

1. Introduction ........................................................................................... 1 

1.1 Study Area Description....................................................................................1 

1.1.1 Study Location and Context...................................................................................1 

1.1.2 Climate ......................................................................................................................2 

1.1.3 Geology and Geomorphology ...............................................................................2 

2. Aims and Scope..................................................................................... 6 

3. Methods .................................................................................................. 7 

3.1 Desktop Literature Review..............................................................................7 

3.2 Image Base Compilation and Aerial Photograph Analysis ........................9 

3.3 Site Locations...................................................................................................10 

3.4 Field Survey Procedure..................................................................................17 

3.5 Classification of Land and Vegetation.........................................................18 

3.5.1 Non-Rainforest Vegetation...................................................................................19 

3.5.2 Classification of Rainforest Vegetation...............................................................19 

3.5.3 Classification of Remnant/Non-Remnant Vegetation .....................................20 

3.6 Scale of Survey.................................................................................................21 

3.7 Image Interpretation and Attribution Method ...........................................21 

3.8 Pre-clearing Vegetation Method...................................................................21 

3.9 Digital Processing and Accuracy..................................................................22 

3.10 Limitations and Constraints ..........................................................................22 

4.0 Results – Field Analysis ..................................................................... 24 

4.1 Classification of Land and Vegetation.........................................................24 

4.1.1 Land Zones .............................................................................................................24 

4.1.2 Vegetation Communities ......................................................................................24 

4.1.3 Regional Ecosystems .............................................................................................34 

5.0 Results Analysis and Discussion ...................................................... 40 

5.1 Clarifications on the Classification of Land Zones in the Study Area ....40 

5.1.1 Land Zone 1............................................................................................................40 






5.1.7 Land Zone 12..........................................................................................................45 

5.2 Regional Ecosystem Descriptions and Rationale for Classification ........46 

5.2.1 Regional Ecosystem 3.1.1......................................................................................46 






iii

5.2.6 Regional Ecosystem 3.1.7 (New RE)....................................................................52 

5.2.7 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.2a....................................................................................54 

5.2.8 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.2b....................................................................................56 







5.2.15 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.10c ..................................................................................71 

5.2.17 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.14....................................................................................71 








5.2.26 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.5c ....................................................................................81 








5.2.34 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.17b..................................................................................92 






5.2.40 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.48b................................................................................102 

5.2.41 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.51..................................................................................103 




5.2.45 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.68 (New RE)................................................................108 






5.2.51 Regional Ecosystem 3.5.17a................................................................................116 

5.2.52 Regional Ecosystem 3.5.19a................................................................................117 

5.2.53 Regional Ecosystem 3.5.23x1..............................................................................117 



5.2.56 Regional Ecosystem 3.7.1x1b..............................................................................120 

5.2.57 Regional Ecosystem 3.8.4b..................................................................................121 


iv

5.2.58 Regional Ecosystem 3.8.5 (New RE)..................................................................124 




5.2.62 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.11................................................................................133 





5.2.67 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.21a..............................................................................140 




5.2.71 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.31x1a (New RE)........................................................147 

5.2.72 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.33b..............................................................................150 

5.2.73 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.34c ..............................................................................151 

5.2.74 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.35 (New RE)..............................................................154 




5.3 Retrospective Classifications.......................................................................169 

5.3.1 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.1c (Cleared).................................................................169 

5.4 Non-Remnant Classifications......................................................................170 

5.5 Other Classifications.....................................................................................173 

6.0 Spatial Extent of Regional Ecosystems .......................................... 173 

7.0 Significant Vegetation and Flora .................................................... 175 

7.1 Summary of Significant Vegetation ...........................................................175 

7.2 Summary of Flora .........................................................................................178 

7.2.1 Regional Flora ......................................................................................................178 

7.2.2 Introduced and Naturalised Flora.....................................................................179 

7.2.3 Significant Flora ...................................................................................................181 

8.0 Ecosystem Condition........................................................................ 186 

9.0 Recommendations............................................................................. 189 

9.1 Additional Survey Requirements ...............................................................189 

9.2 Future Opportunities....................................................................................189 

10. Bibliography....................................................................................... 191 

11. Appendices ........................................................................................ 196 

Appendix A1. Map Legend - Vegetation Communties....................................196 

Appendix A2. Map Legend – Land Zones .........................................................202 

Appendix B. Torres Strait Islands Flora Species List ......................................204 


v

1. Introduction 

Three (3)d Environmental have been commissioned by the Torres Strait Regional Authority 

(TSRA) Land and Sea Management Unit to undertake a vegetation community and regional 

ecosystem assessment of the Torres Strait and Kaurareg Islands. The study is one of the major 

regional scale initiatives of the ‘Land and Sea Management Strategy for Torres Strait’ developed 

in late 2005 to co-ordinate the delivery of funding and programs through the National Heritage 

Trust (NHT) program. The major objectives of the Strategy are biodiversity conservation, 

sustainable use of natural resources, and community capacity building and institutional change 

(Torres Strait NRM Reference Group 2005). The study is third in a series of regional ecosystem 

assessments funded through this initiative. The first of these assessments, undertaken by 

Greening Australia (Freebody 2002) identified areas within the Torres Strait with outstanding 

biodiversity values. Natural Resource Assessments (2003) completed vegetation survey on two 

islands (Mer and Moa) and identified their outstanding conservation values. 

As a regional survey, this study presents by far the most comprehensive assessment of vegetation 

undertaken in the Torres Strait Islands to date and presents data in a regionally consistent 

framework. The information will directly inform priority issues identified in the Strategy, that is; 

lack of information on terrestrial biodiversity; ecological and biological processes; and 

incomplete vegetation mapping at appropriate scale for use in land use planning. Furthermore, 

the information within this study serves to provide baseline data layers to support the 

development of Sustainable Land Use Plans on six islands (Saibai, Boigu Dauan, Iama, Masig, 

and Erub). The land use plans are a NHT initiative being concurrently delivered by the TSRA 

Land and Sea Management Unit. 

1.1 Study Area Description 

1.1.1 Study Location and Context 

The study area encompasses islands extending from the tip of Cape York Peninsula to within five 

kilometres (km) of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) coastline and encompasses some 35 000 km 2 of 

shallow open seas. Within this area are about one hundred and fifty islands of which 17 are 

inhabited and supporting approximately 8 000 indigenous people (about 20% of Australia’s total 

Torres Strait Islander population) (Arthur and Morphy 2005). Historically the islands within the 

region have been occupied for between 8 000 and 6 000 years with permanent island occupation 

occurring after 3 500-3 000 years BP (Rowe 2006). The recognition of the Kaurareg Islands 

acknowledges the traditional owners of the southern continental group of islands (the Kaurareg 

People). In future reference within this report, the Kaurareg Islands are recognised within the 

broader group referred to as the ‘The Torres Strait Islands’. The Islands, with regional context 

and island distribution shown in Figure 1, are located within Sub-region 3 (Cape York-Torres 

Strait) and the Barrier Reef Island sub-region of the Cape York Peninsula Bioregion. These can 

be characterised geographically into five major island groups being: 

• Eastern Group – Comprising Mer (Murray), Erub (Darnley), Ugar (Stephen), Dauar and 

Waier (Mer Group) and Bramble Cay. These islands are of mostly volcanic in origin 

comprising mainly basic volcanic and igneous basement rocks. The latter island is a 

coral cay; 

• Central Group – Comprising Warraber (Sue), Poruma (Coconut), Masig (Yorke), Sassie 

are low sandy islands (often with some basement rock exposure) developed on coral 

platforms while Naghir (Mt Ernest) and Iama (Yam) Islands are generally volcanic in 

origin; 


1

• Top Western Group - Saibai, Boigu, and Dauan Islands. Saibai and Boigu are 

comprised dominantly of alluvial muds overlying old coral platforms. These islands are 

low, swampy, and dominated by mangroves and saltpans with difficult access to interior 

areas. Dauan is on granite basement forming low hills with steep rocky interior areas 

which are topographically accessible; 

• Near Western –Moa, Badu and Mabuiag Islands comprised predominantly of old 

volcanic and granite rocks. Also includes a number of small uninhabited islands and 

islets; and 

• Inner – Waibene (Thursday), Kirriri (Hammond), Ngurapai (Horn), Paliliug (Goods), 

Zuna (Entrance), Tuesday, Maiwai (Wednesday), Giralug (Friday), Muralug (Prince of 

Wales), Morilug (Mt Adolphus-Little Adolphus), Possession and Albany Islands. These 

are topographically elevated cluster of continental islands comprising basement igneous 

and volcanic rock. 

Whilst geographical classification places these islands in a spatial context, geological typing of the 

islands has been undertaken in Section 1.1.3 for descriptive purposes. 

1.1.2 Climate 

The climate of the island group on a whole is tropical monsoonal with 90% of annual rainfall (1 

750-2 000 mm) occurring in the summer (December – April) period where winds are 

predominantly from the north-west and coinciding with highest astronomical spring tides. Strong 

south-easterly trade winds blow during the winter months (May – September) with moisture 

generated from ocean fetch falling in sporadic showers which tend to clear rapidly. The islands 

in general receive more than 1 600 mm of rainfall annually (Sattler and Williams 1999). 

Mean temperatures recorded over a 12-year period from the Horn Island meteorological station 

(1995-2007) record mean maximum temperatures of 28.6º for July, and 31.8º for November. For 

the same weather station and same period, the driest month on average is September with 2.8 mm 

of rainfall, and wettest is February with 499.5mm on average, and an average annual rainfall of 

1804.6 mm (BOM 2008). Records for historical weather stations are not readily available. 

1.1.3 Geology and Geomorphology 

The geology of the islands is presented in a number of regional reports on the island group, of 

which the major findings are summarised here in a broad regional overview. A more detailed 

analysis of the geology, geomorphology and landform evolution of the island group is presented 

in Section 5.1 where land zones (according to legislative definition) are described. The islands 

can be placed in five broad geological groupings described below. 

Islands Formed on Acidic Volcanic and Plutonic Basement: This is the most extensive 

geological grouping extending from the inner island group in the south; through the near western 

islands of Moa and Badu and Mabuiag; the central group with Iama and Gebar; and the top 

western group where Dauan forms the sole representative. This grouping represents the 

continuation of the Australian continental basement northwards to New Guinea, having its most 

northerly expression at Mabaduan Hill on the southern PNG coast (Loffler 1977). 


2

Waral Kawa (Deliverance) Is. 

ARAFURA 

SEA 

0 15 30 45 60 

N O T E S: 

Kilometres 

(i) This figure has been produced for exclusive use 

of the client TSRA Land & Sea Management Unit and 3D Environmental 

TORRES 

Wassi Kussa R. 

Mai Kussa R. 

Giralag (Friday) Is. 

Papua New Guinea (Western Province) 

CORAL SEA 

Mabuiag Is. 

Badu Is. 

Kirriri (Hammond) Is. 

Palilag (Goods) Is. 

Boigu Is. 

Muralug (Prince of 

Wales) Is. 

Buru (Turnagain) Is. 

Moa Is. 

Zurath (Phipps) Is. 

Dauan Is. 

Warral (Hawksberry) Is. 

Cape York Peninsula 

Naghir (Mt Ernest) Is. 

Maiwaii (Wednesday) Is. 

Waibene (Thursday Is.) 

Zuna Is. 

Ngurapai (Horn) Is. 

Bamaga 

Saibai Is. 

Gebar Is. 

Mabaduan 

Iama (Yam) Is. 

Zagai (Dungeness) Is. 

Sassie Is. 

SOUTH 

Morilag (Mt Adolphus) Is. 

Somerset 

Tudu (Warrior) Is. 

Warraber (Sue) Islet 

STRAIT 

Poruma (Coconut) Is. 

PACIFIC 

Aureed Is. 

OCEAN 

Masig (Yorke) Is. 

Ugar (Stephens) Is. 

Figure 1. Study Area Location 

Client 

Scale 

1:900,000 

Erub (Darnley Is.) 


Dawar Is. Waier Is. 

Mer (Murray) Is. 

3D Environmental 

Vegetation Assessment 

& Mapping Specialists 

P. O. Box 959 

Kenmore, Qld 4069 

Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 

www.3denvironmental.com.au 

File Path C:\3D Environmental\ 

Drawn By DG Checked DF Torres\3d_TS_Maps_A3L.mxd Date 

25/03/08 

A3

Literature often refers to the string of continental islands extending northwards to PNG as the 

northern extension of Australia’s Great Dividing Range (Torres Strait NRM Reference Group 

2005). As the Great Dividing Range is a geographical rather than geological feature, dividing the 

watershed on Australia’s east coast into west flowing and east flowing streams (in a broad sense), 

the term is considered irrelevant to the islands. 

A range of lithologies are represented in this group with acid welded tuff, agglomerate, rhyolite 

and andesite of the Torres Strait Volcanics most extensive in the southern group of islands 

although extending through Moa, Mabuiag, and Gebar Islands (Willmott and Powell 1977). The 

volcanics have been variably intruded by the Badu Granite, a coarse biotite granite which forms 

the highest peaks on many of the islands including Banks Peak on Moa Island, the highest Peak 

in the island group at 399m, and Mount Cornwallis on Dauan at 242m. These later intrusive 

events have resulted in extensive horfeldsing of the rhyolite basement manifest in a number of 

extremely resistant knolls and ridgelines, most prominent on Moa Island. 

The larger islands in this geological group generally have well-developed coastal flats, often in 

broad embayments separated by coastal headlands. The most extensive of these is located on 

Moa Island where an extensive area of residual sand forms a thin cover over the granite and 

volcanic basement rock. Relict alluvial fans, generally deeply dissected, often fringe these 

residual areas and were once probably considerably more extensive. Similar features are noted 

on Muralug, and to a lesser extent on Horn Island. 

Coastal dunes are a common feature on the coastline of the acid volcanic islands, with younger 

prograding beach ridge systems pronounced in a number of locations. The best development of 

these features is on the south-west facing coastline of Muralug Island, as well as Friday Island 

(see Swan 1981) where the dunes have developed aeolian (wind blown) features including 

blowouts and some broad deflation hollows. An extensive relict dune system is mapped on Badu 

Island, the extent of which has not been recognised in the previous studies of Willmott and 

Powell (1977). The system is developed behind exposed embayments on the islands southeastern 

side, and is represented by a gently sloping broad sand ridge which tapers to a near 

uniform sand sheet on the dunes landward margins where it terminates against a series of low 

granite escarpments. Field evidence indicates that dune sand has pushed over the top of low 

granite saddles and headlands in some locations, being strong evidence that the broad system is a 

relict feature from a period of transgressive dune building. The majority of the system is 

stabilised with vegetation ranging from sedgeland to eucalypt woodland, which has resulted in a 

suppressed and evenly graded morphology. In the area to the south-west of the Badu township 

(in the vicinity of the current borefield), a large portion of the dunefield is in unstable form with 

the dominant surface area of the dune formed by exposed coarse silica sand demonstrating 

undulating morphologies which include shallow deflation basins, blowouts and low depositional 

mounds (see Photograph 1). 

The initiation of transgressive dune development is often linked to sea level rise (Hesp and Thom, 

1990) and it is feasible to conclude that the transgressive event on Badu can be linked to a sea 

level highstand inferred by Burne et al. (1995) as being 6 000 yrs B.P. It is also feasible to 

conclude that the dune has degraded to the suppressed and stable morphology manifest in todays 

landscape in the period lapsed since this sea level high stand. The timing of the event responsible 

for dune destabilisation is unknown, although it is clear that it is relatively recent as the unstable 

area forms a broad deflational basin which truncates well-wooded and stable dunes to the 

immediate south. Orme (1990) suggests that periods of dune instability may be initiated by 

anthropogenic disturbance such as burning. It is considered possible that dune instability is coincident 

with the advent of permanent human occupation, prompted by indigenous land 

management practices. 


4

Photograph 1. A deflation scar in 

the early stages of stabilisation. 

Transgressive dune sequence - Near 

Western Island group. 

Extensive deposits of estuarine sediment are found on many of the island embayments, 

particularly on Muralug in the Port Lihou area, although broad estuarine sequences supporting 

mangroves are found on all of the larger islands. Many of the smaller islands including Iama, 

Gebar and Dauan have similar features developed to a lesser extent. 

Islands of Recent Basic Volcanics: This geologic grouping is exclusive to the Eastern Group of 

Islands including Mer (and associated islets), Erub and Ugar. These islands have resulted from 

recent Pleistocene Age (

Island Remnants of the Southern Papuan Lowlands: The Fly platform is the largest tract of 

low lying country in Papua New Guinea (Loffler 1977), occupying nearly a third of the mainland. 

Flat areas are poorly drained and swampy, terminating with extensive estuarine swamplands on 

the southern coast. The islands of Boigu and Saibai represent remnants of this coastal plain, 

possibly separated from the mainland through the erosive actions of major PNG river systems, 

which include the Pahoturi, the Mai Kussa, and the Wassi Kussa Rivers. Saibai Island forms the 

most elevated expression of this remnant coastal plain with gently domed inner alluvial regions 

broken by tidal swamplands and marshes. Profiles in the alluvial system indicate up to a metre of 

grey silty clay loam at surface, often with vertic nature (cracking clays) passing into mottled 

heavy clay soils at depth. On Saibai, a well-developed lateritic profile is exposed on the northern 

coastline of the island on which the major settlement is developed. This laterite is suffering 

extreme erosion on the coastal fringe. 

Boigu represents a lower and swampier version of Saibai, with suppressed and fragmented 

alluvial remnants scattered across the islands interior, as well as on the developed northern 

coastal fringe. The majority of Boigu comprises marine swamplands with limited land available 

for development or settlement. 

Suppressed beach ridges occur on both Boigu and Saibai Islands. These are scattered around 

islands fringes forming low rises in mangrove forests. They are most extensive on the exposed 

southern coast of Boigu, and the south-eastern and north-western coast of Saibai. 

Coral Cays: This grouping represents a large number of smaller islands coral sand islands, 

mostly (although not restricted to) the central group of islands. The most prominent of these are 

Masig, Poruma, Aureed and Warraber although a large number of smaller cays are scattered 

throughout the island chain. These islands are formed on coral platforms and are extremely low 

lying, generally not more than 6m high (Willmott 1972). Heights for Warraber are reported as 2- 

8m above mean sea level (Hart et al. nd). In contrast to the continental and volcanic islands, the 

sand cays are relatively dynamic, shaped by prevailing tidal currents and subject to shifting 

shorelines in response to extreme weather events. 

Mangrove Islands: This is an interesting island grouping which is poorly referenced in available 

literature. The mangrove Islands of Buru and Zagai are built on coral platforms, although unlike 

coral cays, the islands are subject to complete tidal inundation. These Islands in the central island 

group have no land elevated above the higher tidal ranges and their entire above tidal expression 

is as a mangrove forest. Sassie Island has areas of elevated coral rubble and calcareous sand, 

although the interior is swampy and frequently inundated within the normal tidal range. 

2. Aims and Scope 

The study aims to document the nature of vegetation communities in the Torres Strait Island 

Group through the provision of detailed description and mapping and placement of these 

communities into Queensland’s regional ecosystem framework. The developed dataset provides 

baseline information suitable for sustainable land use planning and for broader natural resource 

management planning, as well as providing a means to assess the regional conservation status of 

Torres Strait vegetation communities under relevant state and federal legislative process. 

The project scope extends to assessment of all islands with terrestrial biodiversity values. This 

includes documentation of the floristic composition, structure, and extent of all vegetation 

communities which have coverage under suitable remotely sensed imagery. 


6

3. Methods 

3.1 Desktop Literature Review 

A search of relevant literature and databases provided background information on the intensity 

and results of previous survey, the presence and distribution of vegetation communities and flora 

species in the broader region. Site data sourced from the Queensland Herbarium’s CORVEG 

database provided information on the location of previous survey sites and data extracts sourced 

from HERBRECS and the CORVEG database provided information on flora species distribution. 

The method also included a review of previous studies completed by private organisations and 

government agencies over relevant sections of the study area. Relevant publications included 

project specific reports, state government biodiversity planning studies, regional management 

strategies, as well as any useful academic studies. 

A regional perspective of the vegetation communities across the Torres Strait Islands is limited to 

the mapping carried out as part of the Cape York Peninsula Land Use Study (CYPLUS) in 1995 

(Neldner and Clarkson 1995). This work produced pre-clearing mapping at 1: 250 000 scale 

using Aerial Photograph Interpretation (API) only for islands north of Badu Island and a 

combination of API and limited ground-truthing. Using the analysis of that work by Neldner 

(1998), the regional analysis of vegetation prior to the current survey is as follows. 

Table 1. Extent of amalgamated broad vegetation groups in the Torres Strait islands (Neldner 1998). 

Amalgamated Broad Vegetation Groups 

Area 

(km 2 ) 

% of total 

area 

Corymbia/Eucalyptus spp. dominated woodlands, open-woodlands and 

open-forests 

231.7 25.9 

Melaleuca spp. low open-woodlands, low woodlands and tall shrublands 105.0 11.7 

Grasslands and grassy open-woodlands 59.7 6.7 

Closed-forests (excluding mangroves) 156.1 17.5 

Mangrove closed-forests 220.9 24.7 

Heathlands 11.7 1.3 

Other communities (littoral vegetation, sedgelands, saltpans and wetlands) 108.1 12.1 

TOTAL 893.2 100.0 

Table 2. Percentage and area of each structural formation in Torres Strait Islands (Neldner 1998) 

Torres Strait Islands 

Structural Formation No. of map 

Area km 2 % of total area 

Woodland 

Low open-woodland 

Tall woodland 

Open woodland 

Closed-forest 

Open-heath 

Open-forest 

Closed-tussock grassland 

Tussock grassland 

Sparse-herbland 

Low closed-forest 

Low woodland 

Low open-forest 

Open-sedgeland 

Tall shrubland 

Lakes and lagoons 

units 

7 

3 

- 

- 

7 

2 

5 

4 

1 

4 

9 

2 

1 

- 

1 

- 

233.2 

43.5 

- 

- 

212.0 

1.6 

11.0 

56.5 

3.3 

58.4 

183.1 

55.5 

18.0 

- 

0.6 

- 


26.1 

4.9 

- 

- 

23.7 

0.2 

1.2 

6.3 

0.4 

6.5 

20.5 

6.2 

2.0 

- 

0.1 

- 

7

Structural Formation No. of map 

units 

Dwarf open-heath 

2 

Closed-sedgeland 

2 

Tall open-shrubland 

- 

Closed-scrub 

1 

Closed herbland 

1 


Area km 2 % of total area 

Freebody (2002) utilized the mapping data to assess the spatial distribution of each different 

vegetation community and to provide analysis of ‘rarity’ across the region. In a detailed review 

of island vegetation across the region incorporating 123 islands, Freebody (2002) reports 58 

vegetation units that have been mapped by the Queensland Herbarium, with 34 units described as 

significant and representing 16% of the total terrestrial area of the Torres Strait. Significant 

vegetation units occur on at least 46 of the islands. Wannan and Bousi (2003) describe the 

vegetation and ecological values of Mer (Murray) and Moa Islands as part of a Natural Heritage 

Trust funded project Torres Strait Terrestrial Biodiversity Assessment for Sustainable 

Development. 

The extent of the known total flora of 1065 species as deduced from the Queensland Herbarium 

Herbrecs database includes 154 (14%) introduced species (Neldner 1998, Freebody 2002), and 

recognises the lack of systematic survey and collecting work. Despite these inadequacies, the 

table below from Neldner (1998) indicates a high floristic diversity within the Torres Strait Islands 

evidenced by the presence of 32% of the diversity of the vascular flora in 0.7% of the area of Cape 

York Peninsula (Neldner 1998). 

Table 3. Summary of the native vascular flora of the Torres Strait islands in comparison with Cape York 

Peninsula (from Neldner and Clarkson 1995 in Neldner 1998). 

Families 

Taxa 

Cape York 

Peninsula 

Families 

Taxa 


9.5 

3.2 

- 

2.3 

2.1 

Pteridophytes Gymnosperms Angiosperms Total 

11 

26 

1 

1 

139 

977 

1.1 

0.4 

- 

0.3 

0.2 

155 

1,067 


30 

157 

5 

6 

183 

3,173 

218 

3,338 

Analysis of data extracted from Herbrecs 2007 lists 26 species listed as Endangered, Vulnerable 

and Rare (EVR) (see Appendix C). An online search of the Environment Protection Biodiversity 

and Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) for the Torres Shire identifies 18 threatened flora species 

and the potential occurrence of one Threatened Ecological Community. 

Previously, much of the published information relevant to the regions natural and cultural history 

is available in ‘Bridge and Barrier’ (Walker 1972), which, in addition to a wealth of information 

on environmental, faunal and cultural topics, offers detailed analyses on aspects of plant 

biogeography. These include papers on; ecological comparisons of vegetation on either side of 

Torres Strait (Webb and Tracey 1972); species distribution patterns (Hoogland 1972); 

biogeography of tropical eucalypts (Carr 1972) and distribution of Loranthaceae (Barlow 1972). 

Wace (1972) in his discussion on the plant geography around Torres Strait reflects how the 

aforementioned are: “based upon more or less insecure taxonomic foundations, and 

acknowledged gaps in distributional data”, and further that “a common theme underlying all the 

papers is our almost total ignorance of past environments in the Torres Strait itself” (in Walker 

1972 pp. 198). The conclusions of Walker (1972), Mulrennan (1992), Mackey et al. (2006) and 

Freebody (2002) all refer to a lack of taxonomic and distributional data required to determine the 

limits of most plants at a species level within the region the need for detailed biological surveys 

to inform planning and management of unique and fragile island natural and cultural values. 

8

Plant taxonomy and distributional data have been considerably advanced through initiatives such 

as CYPLUS and various taxonomic treatments. 

Studies of past environments have also developed an increasing body of literature. Palynological 

studies (Rowe 2006, Parr 2003, Barham 1999) and archaeological and anthropological 

investigations (David et al. 2004, David and Badugal 2006, Barham and Harris 1987, Barham et 

al. 2004, Shnukal 2004, McNiven 2008) offer an important cultural context for biodiversity 

assessment and elucidate anthropogenic influences on island biodiversity over a period of human 

occupation in the region of between 8 000 and 6 000 years (Rowe 2006) with permanent island 

occupation occurring between around 3 800–2 500 years (BP) (David and Badugal 2006). 

3.2 Image Base Compilation and Aerial Photograph Analysis 

The initial stage of desktop assessment involved a compilation of remotely sensed imagery 

suitable for vegetation mapping purposes. Aerial photography was the preferred information 

base, allowing stereoscopic assessment of vegetation and landform patterns and giving greater 

confidence to assignment of land zone and vegetation structure classification. Historical aerial 

photography also provided a means to assess the pre-clearing distribution of vegetation 

communities in a large number of cases. Satellite imagery was used as a secondary means of 

vegetation community assessment where suitable aerial photography was not available, and was 

used as a base for photo-registration during digital processing, as well as a means of standardising 

vegetation mapping scales. A summary of aerial photography used in this assessment is provided 

in Table 4 below. Assessment of photograph quality relates to a subjective appraisal of image 

clarity, site coverage, shadow and cloud cover. 

Table 4. Aerial photography used for vegetation assessment purposes. 

Island/Island 

Group 

Year Scale 

Schenckler Aerial Survey 

Negative Quality 

Buru 1999 1:12 000 Colour Excellent 

Mabuiag 1999 1:8 000 Colour Excellent 

Erub 1999 1:8 000 Colour Excellent 

Stephen 1999 1:4 000 Colour Excellent 

Iama 1999 1:4 000 Colour Excellent 

Yorke 1999 1:4 000 Colour Excellent 

Zagai 1999 1:16 000 Colour Excellent 

Ului 1999 1:8 000 Colour Excellent 

Zurat 1999 1:8 000 Colour Excellent 

Aureed 1999 1:9 000 Colour Excellent 

Warral 1999 1:16 000 Colour Excellent 

Deliverance 1999 1:4 000 

Commonwealth Flying 

Colour Excellent 

Murray 1988 1:30 000 B&W Moderate 

Dauan 1988 1:18 000 B&W Moderate 

Gabba 1988 1:25 000 Colour Excellent 

Deliverance 1971 1:42 000 B&W Moderate 

Adolphus 1973 1:34 000 B&W Poor 

Tudu 1973 1:12 000 B&W Excellent 

Moa 

Badu 

1974 1:34 000 B&W Poor 

Moa-Badu 1971 1:85 000 B&W Excellent 

Sassie, Burpa, 

Warraber 

1973 1:50 000 

State Flying 

B&W Moderate 


9

Island/Island 

Group 

Cooktown-Crab 

Island (Prince of 

Wales, Thursday 

Group) 

Torres Strait Island 

– Coconut Island 

Boigu Island 74 

Project Aerial 

Photography 

Saibai Island 

Photography 1 

Year Scale Negative Quality 

1992 1:50 000 

Colour 


Excellent 

1975 1:37 800 B&W Excellent 

1974 1:10 000 B&W Excellent 

1974 1:10 000 B&W Excellent 

Two sources of satellite imagery were provided to the project by TSRA. Of these, satellite 

imagery sourced from Ikononos was by far the most usable, supplied in a single false colour 

image for a number of the individual islands including Saibai and Boigu. Quickbird imagery for 

the majority of the larger continental islands, including the Inner and Near Western Island 

Groups, was provided in a number of separate tiles. The full satellite image coverage of Muralug 

for example consisted of 40 individual unreferenced tiles of different sizes and shapes. The 

spectral signatures of these tiles lacked consistency, requiring a high degree of image 

manipulation to ensure spectral signatures could be matched between tiles, and matching could 

not always be achieved. Due to the enormous processing power required, it was not possible to 

load more than a limited number of tiles at any time, and this did not allow for an overview of the 

broader landscape as is required in a regional mapping exercise. For this reason Quickbird 

imagery proved unsuitable for the supplied purpose other than to provide a basis for aerial 

photograph rectification. The data format provided for the Quickbird imagery resulted in 

considerable time being used to reference tiles, and added greatly to the time taken for the digital 

processing (8-10 days). The usefulness of both Ikononos and Quickbird imagery was hindered 

by considerable cloud cover and resulting shadow in some areas, particularly on Muralug, Dauan, 

Mabuiag and Saibai Islands. 

3.3 Site Locations 

Aerial photography was analysed stereoscopically in an initial phase of pre-survey interpretation 

designed specifically to: 

a) target a representative range of habitats within the study area; 

b) sample those communities that are useful for provision of reference condition, or ‘best 

type examples’ of specific vegetation types, and; 

c) direct detailed sampling towards those communities that could not be adequately 

categorised through API, or were considered critical to a range of significant flora 

species. 

Further sites were added opportunistically during the field survey to provide a more complete 

data coverage and allow a verification of the mapping units to standard herbarium procedure. 

The locations of field survey sites is spatially illustrated in Figure 2a to 2e. A summary of 

islands and sites provided in Table 5 indicates 1 372 sites completed during the field survey. 

This comprised 74 secondary level sites, 2 tertiary level sites and 1 296 quaternary level sites. 

1 Aerial photography for the southern portion of Saibai Island only. 

10

Table 5. Site survey effort in Stage 1 and broader study areas 

Island 

Quaternary 

Sites 

Secondary Sites Tertiary Sites 

Total Sites per 

Island 

Aureed* 3 - - 3 

Badu 2 43 4 - 47 

Boigu** 96 2 - 98 

Buru* 1 - - 1 

Dauan 50 6 - 56 

Erub (Darnley) 51 11 - 62 

Gaboy* 1 - - 1 

Giralug (Friday) 26 - - 26 

Gebar** 34 - - 34 

Iama (Yam) 30 4 - 34 

Keriri (Hammond)** 40 - - 40 

Layoak* 2 - - 2 

Masig (Yorke) 5 11 - 16 

Mabuiag 51 7 - 58 

Mawai (Wednesday) 21 - - 21 

Mer (Murray) 32 4 - 36 

Mer/Duaur* 10 - - 10 

Moa** 178 9 2 189 

Muralug (PoW)** 222 3 - 225 

Morilug (Little Adolphus)* 8 - - 8 

Morilug (Mt Adolphus)* 27 - - 27 

Naghir** 11 - - 11 

Ngurupai (Horn)** 65 - - 65 

Palilug (Goode) 9 - - 9 

Possession* 4 - - 4 

Saibai** 185 12 - 197 

Sassie** 9 1 - 10 

Tudu** 8 - - 8 

Waibene (Thursday) 13 - - 13 

Warraber (Sue)* 6 - - 6 

Warral (Hawkesbury)** 25 - - 25 

Zagai* 10 - - 10 

Zuna (Entrance) 20 - - 20 

Total Sites 

* indicates helicopter survey only 

1296 74 2 1372 

** indicates on ground sites supplemented by helicopter sites 

2 Badu Is. sites limited to Council managed lands in close vicinity to community. 


11

Legend 

Waral Kawa (Deliverance) Is 

Quaternary 

Quaternary (Helicopter) 

Secondary 

Tertiary 

PAPUA NEW GUINEA 

Western Province 

TORRES 

0 15 30 45 60 

N O T E : S 

(i) his T plan has n produced bee r exclusive fo use 

of the ient cl and 3D Environmental 

Kilometres 

Boigu Is 

Buru (Turnagain) Is. 

Dauan Is 

CORAL SEA 

F igur e 2a . Surve y locati ons – 

Top Wester n Isl ands 

Client 

STRAIT 

To res Stra it Reg ional Aut hority 

Gebar Is. 

Saibai Is 


Vegetati on Ass essm ent 


P. O. x Bo 95 9 

Kenmore, ld Q 69 40 

Phone: (07) 9072; 3411 (07) 3878 44 43 

M obil e: 404 0 7 57285 

; 0409 426 691 

www.3denv ironm ental.com .au 

Scale 


1:360,000 Drawn By DGChecked 

DS Torres\3d_TS_Maps_A3L.mxd 

Date 

25/03 /08 

A3

Legend 

Quaternary 

Ugar (Stephens) Is 

Quaternary (Helicopter) 

Secondary 

Tertiary 

0 5 10 15 20 

N O T E : S 

Kilometres 



Erub (Darnley) Is 

Client 

Dawar 

F igur e 2b . Surve y locati ons – Easte rn slands I 

To res Stra it ion Reg al Aut hority 

Waier 

Mer (Murray) Islands 




P. O. x Bo 95 9 


Phone: (07) 9072; 3411 (07) 3878 44 43 

M obil e: 404 0 7 57285 

; 0409 426 691 


Scale 



DS Torres\3d_TS_Maps_fig2.mxd Date 

25/03 /08 

A3

Gebar Island 

0 5 10 15 20 

N O T E : S 

Kilometres 



Iama (Yam) Island 

Bet - Bara Island 

Sassie Island 

Warraber (Sue) Islet 

Zagai Island 

Tudu Island 

Poruma (Coconut) Is 

Client 

STRAIT 

Aureed Island 

F igur e 2c. Survey locati ons – Cent ralIsl 

ands 


Legend 

Masig (Yorke) Islands 

Quaternary 

Quaternary (Helicop 

Secondary 

Tertiary 




P. O. x Bo 95 9 


Phone: (07) 9072; 3411 (07) 3878 44 43 

M obil e: 404 0 7 57285 

; 0409 426 691 


Scale 




25/03 /08 

A3

TORRES 

0 5 10 15 20 

N O T E : S 

Kilometres 



Mabuiag Island 

Badu Island 

Warral Island 

Moa Island 

Client 

Naghir (Mt Ernest) Island 

F igur e 2d . Surve y locati ons – 

Near estern W Isl ands 


Legend 

Quaternary 

Quaternary (Helicop 

Secondary 

Tertiary 




P. O. x Bo 95 9 


Phone: (07) 9072; 3411 (07) 3878 44 43 

M obil e: 404 0 7 57285 

; 0409 426 691 


Scale 




25/03 /08 

A3

Giralag (Friday) Island 

Kirriri (Hammond) Island 

Palilag (Goods0 Island 

Muralug (Prince of 

Wales) Island 

Waibene (Thursday) Island 

0 5 10 15 20 

N O T E : S 

(i) his T plan has n produced bee r exclusi fove 

use 


Kilometres 

Ngurapai (Horn) Island 

Maiwaii (Wednesday) Island 

Zuna (Entrance0 Island 

Possession Island 

Client 

Cape York Peninsula 

F igur e 2e . Surve y locati ons – ner In Isl ands 


Legend 

Quaternary 

Quaternary (Helico 

Secondary 

Tertiary 

Little Adolphus Island 

Mount Adolphus Island 

Albany Is. 




P. O. x Bo 95 9 


Phone: (07) 9072; 3411 (07) 3878 44 43 

M obil e: 404 0 7 57285 

; 0409 426 691 


Scale 




25/03 /08 

A3

3.4 Field Survey Procedure 

The execution of the field survey within the time and budgetary constraints of the project 

presented a number of logistical challenges. As a priority, protocols necessary to achieve access 

to island communities and native title lands were developed in consultation and support of 

TSRA’s Land and Sea Management Unit and Native Title office. These consisted of an initial 

round of introductory letters to all island councils and Prescribed Body Corporate (PBC) bodies 

followed by phone or fax communication prior to the actual field visit where possible to organize 

time of arrival, accommodation etc. Meetings with appropriate community representatives and 

AQIS officers were held on each island and served to advise and guide the survey team in regards 

to adherence to cultural protocols whilst on country. Where necessary and possible, cultural 

monitors accompanied the survey team. 

The requirement to achieve a regional overview within a short time frame and with consideration 

to budget necessitated a single and continuous field trip over a seven week period between 16 

October and 2 December 2007 wherein two ecologists aimed to access and describe as many 

representative vegetation communities as possible. Access to islands was achieved mainly by 

commercial air service (Aero Tropics) and also by charter plane and helicopter. The use of a 

survey vehicle on Moa, Erub, Thursday, Horn and Masig assisted site coverage although survey 

by walking traverses guided by stereoscopic use of aerial photography was the predominant mode 

of survey. A charter boat was used to access islands in the Inner Group particularly Muralug, 

Zuna, Friday, Hammond, and Wednesday. This provided a preliminary, although thorough 

assessment of vegetation in the study area that was supplemented by 11 hours of helicopter 

flying. The latter was an invaluable means of gaining a regional perspective of the islands, 

increasing site coverage and allowing the establishment of vegetation sites in otherwise 

inaccessible locations. 

Field survey method followed Queensland Herbarium standards as identified in Neldner et al. 

(2005) using a combination of formalised secondary, tertiary and quaternary level sampling 

procedures, as well as informal site observation. Data relevant to requirements of Neldner et al. 

(2005) were modified to suit sampling requirements specific to the study and were entered into 

field notebooks. The core field information recorded included location, tenure, air photo and site 

photo references, landform and geological features, and community structure. Complete species 

lists were compiled wherever these were considered appropriate and were not limited to 

secondary sites. Canopy height was meticulously measured at all sample locations using a 

clinometer and linear regression table, and canopy cover was recorded in the majority of sites 

using measured crown intercept transects. A Garmin GPS 60 (Geographic Positioning System) 

was used to accurately record map coordinates for the site locations (GDA94). Digital 

photographs of all sites as well as geological and landform features and significant flora species 

were captured using a digital camera. 

Secondary sites of non-rainforest vegetation consisted of a 50m x 10m plot located along the 

contour with attempts made to avoid the sampling across vegetation community boundaries, 

which became difficult in some of the lineal vegetation communities. Bitterlich measurements, 

as described in Grosenbaugh (1952), were used to record community basal area at all sites except 

in highly linear communities where the method proved inappropriate. Full species lists for all 

strata were established during the secondary sampling procedure wherein the 500m 2 plot was 

intensively sampled followed by a detailed search of the vicinity. While the vicinity search was 

broadly defined by the extent of the basal area sweep, it was in all cases confined to the target 

community. The abundance of all species within the plot was recorded by stem counts and by a 

visually assessed abundance ranking. 


17

Data at rainforest sites were collected using a variable area 32 nearest neighbour method as 

consistent with data collected for the Cape York Bioregion (Stanton and Fell 2005). Tertiary 

sites were completed in a similar fashion to secondary procedure, except non-woody species were 

not recorded. Sites recorded at tertiary level consisted of full species lists in a search area 

established via a radial sweep of the Bitterlich device. 

Quaternary sites comprised a description of floristic structure, composition, and associated 

landform. Vegetation communities were also recorded on walking traverses. Botanical voucher 

specimens were collected throughout the field survey to verify site floristics and enable 

identification of those species that were problematic. All material was pressed in the field before 

being packaged in ethanol as required under AQIS Quarantine Permit. A total of 740 vouchers 

were collected. 

3.5 Classification of Land and Vegetation 

Photograph 3. Helicopter landing 

site Saibai Island. 

A vegetation type is defined as a unit of structurally and floristically similar vegetation, whilst a 

land type is defined as a unit of structurally and floristically similar vegetation on a similar 

geology (Stanton and Morgan 1977, Sattler and Williams 1998). Vegetation types are referred to 

as ‘vegetation communities’ (VC) and are consistently referred to as such throughout this 

document, whilst land types are incorporated into the broader RE classification. Vegetation 

communities have been amalgamated to form ‘Broad Vegetation Groups’ (BVG’s) and are used 

to describe structurally similar vegetation groups, or in specific cases, vegetation groups 

controlled by similar ecological conditions. Broad Vegetation Groups are useful both as a means 

to spatially represent detailed floristic information, and to define associated ecological parameters 

including faunal habitat. The BVG is used as a primary subdivision to define a floristic/structural 

type. This is followed by an alpha suffix to define a specific VC. A VC code may be 

complemented by an appended code indicating particular structural attributes (e.g. a vine forest 

sub-canopy), or as an indicator of vegetation condition. Explanatory notes for vegetation coding 

are described in Section 4.1. 

Vegetation communities are assigned to RE’s on the basis of a three-part code of which the 

primary subdivision is bio-regional zone, followed by geology or land zone, with specific floristic 

attributes providing the tertiary subdivision. Vegetation communities are often amalgamated to 

form RE’s, and these communities may retain autonomy through classification as a RE sub-unit. 

RE’s are assessed on a state wide basis for conservation significance, as regulated by 


18

Queensland’s Vegetation Management Act (1999), (VMA). The RE classification system 

requires detailed knowledge and understanding of both landform and geology and these features 

have been described and classified in this report. 

3.5.1 Non-Rainforest Vegetation 

Vegetation structure is classified according to the system of Neldner et al. (2005) modified from 

Specht (1970) and this classification has been applied consistently to vegetation throughout the 

field survey and broader flora study. Structural formation classes as qualified by Neldner et al. 

(2005) are detailed in Table 6. 

3.5.2 Classification of Rainforest Vegetation 

The classification of rainforest vegetation is based on the classification of Walker and Hopkins 

(1990) which is adapted from Webb (1959). This classification describes rainforest in terms of 

several attributes including: 

1. Complexity of life forms including species diversity in a number of structural layers. The 

presence / absence of structural features including plank buttresses, banyans etc. 

Complexity is recorded as either simple, simple-complex, and complex; 

2. The leaf sizes of the dominant plants/strata. Leaf size options are macrophyll, mesophyll, 

notophyll, microphyll and nanophyll; 

3. The floristic composition of the dominant stratum including the tendency for one or more 

species to dominate or otherwise; 

4. Indicator growth forms including the presence of palms, moss etc.; and 

5. Height and crown cover classes including the presence of emergents; 

6. Thicket is used to described stunted rainforest vegetation in which the canopy closes at 3- 

9 m (Webb, 1959); 

7. ‘Deciduous’ in reference to a rainforest stand means that the species in question, or at 

least certain individuals in the species population, completely lose their leaves for a time 

and that this behaviour is obligatory and fixed for the species (Webb, 1959). 

8. ‘Semi- deciduous’ indicates that most leafless species are truly deciduous, but that some 

are facultative, i.e. leaf-fall is controlled by the severity of the dry season, rather than by 

being obligate (Webb, 1959); and 

9. ‘Semi-evergreen’ means that few or none the species are truly deciduous, and that most 

of those that shed their leaves do so incompletely depending on the severity of the dry 

season (Webb, 1959). 

It should be noted that in accordance with the classification of Walker and Hopkins (1990), 

emergents are classified as trees clearly above the dominant stratum whose crown cover is less 

than 5% of the total canopy cover. This classification of an emergent stratum is not extended to 

severely disturbed communities whose structural integrity has been compromised through human 

intervention. 

Table 6. Structural formation classes qualified by height for Non-Rainforest Vegetation: Neldner et al. 

2005) modified from Specht (1970). 

Projective Foliage 

Cover 

70-100% 30-70% 10-30% 30m tall closed-forest tall open-forest tall woodland tall open- 

3 Growth form of the predominant layer (the ecologically dominant layer). 


19

Projective Foliage 

Cover 

70-100% 30-70% 10-30%

3.6 Scale of Survey 

In vegetation survey, sampling scale is determined by sampling intensity, influenced by 

vegetation complexity and the areal extent of remnant vegetation. The Agricultural Organisation 

of the United Nations (FAO 1979) recommends 25 sites per km 2 for 1:10 000 scale soil survey, 

although Neldner et al. (2005) recommend a minimum of half of this sampling density for 

vegetation survey, dependant on the vegetation complexity and areal extent of remnant 

vegetation. Reference to Table 5 indicates 1 372 survey locations recorded during the initial 

phase of field survey, with an additional 34 sites recorded during previous mapping exercises 

(EPA Corveg sites). Resultant sampling equates to roughly 1:25 000 scale, based on a total land 

area of 892 km 2 and minimum site requirements as per Neldner et al. (2005). This data is suitable 

for incorporation into detailed state wide regional ecosystem assessments at present sampling 

intensity, although additional sites will be gathered during any subsequent survey phases. 

The spatial scale and accuracy of a mapping product is determined in part by the scale of the 

image base used for vegetation community delineation. Reference to Table 4 indicates 

considerable disparity between aerial photographic scales used in the assessment, ranging from 

1:4 000 scale on Iama Island to 1:85 000 on Moa. This disparity in spatial scales was addressed 

to a degree during the photo rectification process, whereby photographic line work was registered 

against satellite imagery at a standardised 1:25 000 scale, as required in the project brief. Whilst 

this process will have rectified disparities in spatial scale between islands to a large degree, 

variations in the scale of vegetation community delineation between islands as well as spatial 

accuracy of vegetation linework can be expected. 

3.7 Image Interpretation and Attribution Method 

Aerial photography was purchased as contact prints and subject to detailed stereoscopic 

assessment. The aim of stereoscopic analysis is to delineate consistently mappable units 

(polygons) of homogenous vegetation characterised through similarity of aerial photographic 

pattern or signature. During this process, geological and vegetation community boundaries were 

marked directly onto the aerial photography with removable white china ink, and a 0.25mm 

Rotring pen. The width of vegetation line work produced was between 0.25mm and 0.5mm with 

finer line work resulting in a more accurate delineation of vegetation community boundaries. 

Polygon attribution is based on a hierarchical system identifying landform/geological affiliation, 

vegetation structure, and floristic composition. This stratification was consistent with basic rules 

of vegetation classification detailed in Section 3.5. 

Where suitable aerial photographic material was not available, satellite imagery was used as a 

base for vegetation community delineation with vegetation line work established directly on the 

digital image and incorporated into the broader spatial database. In the case of Saibai Island, 

where suitable aerial photographic coverage was available for only half of the island, the line 

work established during aerial photographic interpretation was extrapolated across the broader 

study area, over the top of available satellite imagery. 

3.8 Pre-clearing Vegetation Method 

The oldest available photographic imagery was utilised to establish pre-clearing vegetation 

communities within the study area. Vegetation line work was established on these photographs, 

attributed accordingly, and overlain with the recent satellite imagery to determine the extent of 

clearing. Vegetation polygons were clipped to cleared boundaries on recent imagery to produce a 

‘Remnant Vegetation Layer’. 


21

Historically cleared vegetation was attributed with a code indicative of its pre-clearing status, and 

an appended designator of its current status, whether it be cleared or in varying stages of 

regrowth. Where no suitable historical photography was available, ecological and geological 

knowledge gathered throughout the course of the survey was used to reconstruct the original 

vegetation mosaic. Existing vegetation communities and community boundaries are extrapolated 

across areas of similar geology and landform to re-construct the pre-clearing landscape. 

Reconstructed polygons were attributed with a code to indicate pre-clearing status and appended 

with a symbol to designate current status and/or condition. A separate pre-clearing layer was 

generated from re-constructed vegetation community mapping, allowing an assessment of the 

relative impacts of past land use practice on specific vegetation communities. 

3.9 Digital Processing and Accuracy 

The marked aerial photographs were scanned at a resolution of 300dpi. Each photo was then 

registered within ArcMap using the geo-registration extension against the supplied Satellite 

imagery at 1:25 000 scale or greater. Upon completion of photo registration, the identified 

boundaries were captured as line-work. Final editing was performed when all of the boundaries 

had been captured, prior to generation of polygons in ARC/INFO format. 

As described in Section 3.6, spatial accuracy is determined largely by the scale of the image base 

used for the mapping exercise, the thickness of the vegetation linework, and photographic 

distortion (RMS error). Although photo registration and rectification was undertaken on a 

spatially consistent satellite image base, variations in spatial accuracy will occur due to the wide 

range of aerial photographic scales used during the assessment. All vegetation line-work was 

approximately 0.5 mm wide on the aerial photography and as a general rule, 0.5 mm on aerial 

photography at 1:10 000 scale (as used on Saibai and Boigu) is equivalent to 500 mm on the 

ground, which is equivalent to an accuracy of +/- 5 m. On 1:85 000 scale photography as was 

used on Moa Island, an accuracy of +/- 85 m can be expected. Standardisation of the spatial 

accuracy between individual islands was achieved to some degree during the registration process 

which utilised standardized satellite imagery at 1:25 000 scale. On islands where smaller scale 

photography was used during the vegetation mapping process, particular attention was paid to 

ensure the coastline and areas around urban settlement were mapped with a spatial accuracy of 

1:25 000 scale or greater. 

The RMS error obtained during the registration process varied from photo to photo and between 

islands, although was particularly high on mountainous islands such as Mabuiag which were 

captured with low level photography. RMS error was introduced by the considerable radial 

distortion of the landscape on the peripheries of the photography. Once again, this distortion was 

significantly reduced during the linework rectification process by utilizing standardized scale 

satellite imagery. It should be noted that in areas of significant cloud cover on satellite imagery, 

the spatial accuracy of the linework cannot be guaranteed. 

3.10 Limitations and Constraints 

The survey objectives were largely achieved, however a number of limitations and constraints are 

worthy of mention. 

• As previously discussed, Quickbird imagery proved unsuitable for the supplied purpose 

other than to provide a basis for aerial photograph rectification. The spectral signatures 

of Quickbird tiles lacked consistency, requiring a high degree of image manipulation to 

ensure spectral signatures could be matched between tiles which in many cases could not 

be achieved. This process consumed considerable time and effort (approximately 80 

hours of GIS time) that was not accounted for in the project budget. Furthermore, cloud 


22

cover on both satellite formats created significant information gaps, particularly on 

Muralug, Mabuiag, Dauan and Saibai Islands. 

• Due to unforeseen circumstances, introductory letters sent to Badu Island Council and the 

PBC were not received by the appropriate representatives. Therefore the acting PBC 

Chair, executive and members had no prior knowledge of the projects purpose, and 

subsequently, access to Native Title lands was denied. Access to the small extent of 

DOGIT land was granted through Badu Council, however the lack of representative 

vegetation communities within the DOGIT land deemed it necessary for a secondary field 

trip to be scheduled to cover the entirety of the island. Following liaison with 

representatives of Mura Badulgal (Torres Strait Islander) Corporation PBC Body, Badu 

Council and the TSRA Land and Sea Management Unit, a second field trip to Badu 

Island was carried out between 22 July and 29 July 2008. Access to all areas outside of 

Council duristiction was however once again denied on the basis that the PBC body was, 

at that time, not a functioning entity and could not therefore facilitate a process to secure 

the consent of traditional owners for the survey team to access Native Title lands. The 

survey was therefore limited to a small portion of the DOGIT land around Badu village. 

• Minimal field data was collected on a number of small islands including atolls throughout 

the study area. Whilst such islands are indeed small, a number supported terrestrial 

vegetation and would be worthy of inspection. These include the more remote islands 

such as Deliverance where review of documentation from previous studies has proved 

valuable to achieve a preliminary classification of vegetation communities. The use of 

helicopter survey enabled a rapid overview of vegetation structure. In a number of 

instances however, assessment of the floristic composition could not be achieved. These 

areas include (but are not limited to) rainforest on the steep terrain of Gebar, Mt. 

Adolphus, and Naghir Islands which are recommended for on ground assessment during 

future field work programs. 

• Throughout the survey, every attempt was made to collect detailed site based floristic 

data, and provide collections of voucher specimens for species not readily identified in 

the field, or for records of poorly collected taxa. A thorough analysis of this floristic data 

however remains outside of the project scope. Vouchers of a number of species 

necessary for full floristic descriptions of vegetation communities and regional 

ecosystems await identification and are referred to with collection numbers throughout. 

A detailed floristic analysis utilizing the taxonomic and distributional data collected 

during the survey in combination with pre-existing data would be a valuable future 

supplement to the study, and would result in a significant contribution to the current 

knowledge of plant biogeography of the region. 


23

4.0 Results – Field Analysis 

4.1 Classification of Land and Vegetation 

4.1.1 Land Zones 

Aerial photographic analysis completed in conjunction with detailed field survey effort indicates 

11 broad geological/landform associations in the study area relevant to land zone classification as 

per Neldner et al. (2005) and Harris (undated). These are given a specific geological attribute in 

the mapping process to allow associations between land zone and vegetation to be recognised, 

and RE’s classified. The landform/geological associations relevant to land zone classification 

that are recognised in the study area are identified in Table 7 below and spatially illustrated in 

accompanying maps 3a to 3e. The derivation of these classifications is discussed briefly in 

Section 5.1. 

Table 7. Geological types and land zones identified in the Torres Strait Islands. 

Geological 

Geological Description 

Attribute 

E Estuarine muds, alluvium (saline and brackish alluvium), coastal sands and 

rock shelves subject to saltwater incursion. 

D Coastal dunes, cheniers, calcareous beach sands (including atolls), beach 

ridges and associated swales. 

A Alluvial plains, alluvial fans (active), terraces and fluvial sediments. 

Excludes alluvial sediments affected by tidal/saltwater incursion. 


EPA Land 

Zone 

T Remnant colluvial surfaces. 5 

As Residual sandy plains and sandy terraces. 5 

L Exposed duricrust 7 

B Basalt escarpments and terraces. 8 

V Volcanic cones formed on ash and scoria. 8 

G Granite hillslopes and footslopes including boulder talus and colluvium. 12 

Gd Diorite and Dacite. 12 

Mg Metamorphosed granitoid rocks including hornfels. 12 

R Rhyolites and associated fine grained volcanic rocks including tuff, 

ignimbrite and a range of other acid volcanic extrusive and intrusive rocks. 

4.1.2 Vegetation Communities 

The VC’s identified within the study area, in relation to specific Broad Vegetation Groups 

(BVG’s) and land zone affiliations are listed in Table 8 below with distribution maps presented 

in the accompanying maps 4a to 4e. One hundred and fifty eight VC’s are identified within 27 

BVG’s. It should be noted that this classification relates to remnant vegetation only and 

classification of non-remnant vegetation communities is discussed in Section 6.1.3. It should be 

noted in respect to the vine forest and thicket communities, that relatively fine scale floristic and 

1 

2 

3 

12 

24

structural variations have been differentiated between islands and island groups. This was 

possible due to the geographic isolation that islands impose on their inherent vegetation, giving 

confidence that fine scale floristic variations are consistently represented and delineated. These 

communities however represent a snapshot of the floristic and structural variation present within 

the island group and a large number of intermediate variations may be present. 

Table 8. Vegetation Communities in the Project Area. 

Vegetation 

Community 

Description 

Evergreen/Semi-evergreen vine forest and vine thicket 

Geologies 

1a Evergreen notophyll vine forest + Acmenospermum claviflorum 

+ Syzygium puberulum + Ganophyllum falcatum + Arytera 

divaricata + Ficus microcarpa + *Mangifera indica. 

G 

1b Evergreen notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Manilkara 

kauki + Intsia bijuga + Pouteria sericea + Aglaia elaeagnoidea 

+ Garcinia warrenii + Pandanus sp. 

G 

1c Evergreen notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Manilkara 

kauki + Celtis philippensis + Terminalia muelleri + Diospyros 

maritima + Thespesia populneiodes + Drypetes deplanchei. 

D 

1d Mesophyll/notophyll vine forest + Endiandra glauca + Acacia 

polystachya + Syzygium bungadinnia + Canarium australianum 

+ Dysoxylum oppositifolium. 

GD, R 

1e Mesophyll/notophyll vine forest + Myristica insipida + G 

Maranthes corymbosa + Cryptocarya cunninghamii + 

1f 

Dysoxylum latifolium + Calophyllum sil +/- Arenga australasica. 

Complex notophyll vine forest + Pouteria sp. + Calophyllum sil 

+ Argyrodendron polyandrum + Palaquium galactoxylon + 

Acmenospermum claviflorum + Licuala ramsayi. 

G 

1g Evergreen notophyll vine thicket + Calophyllum sil + Syzygium 

branderhorstii + Diospyros hebecarpa + Schefflera actinophylla 

+ Podocarpus grayae +Licuala ramsayi. 

G 

1h Evergreen notophyll vine thicket with Buchanania arborescens + R 

Drypetes deplanchei + Eleaodendron melanocarpum + 

1i** 

Endiandra glauca + Elaeocarpus arnhemicus + Chionanthus 

ramiflora. 

Evergreen mesophyll vine forest + Horsfieldia australiana, 

Syzygium bamagense + Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra 

+ Buchanania arborescens. 

A 

1j Tall evergreen notophyll vine forest + Syzygium angophoroides + 

Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra + Acacia auriculiformis 

+ Syzygium forte subsp. forte + Podocarpus grayae 

Deciduous/Semi deciduous vine forest and vine thicket 

A 

2a Deciduous/Semi-deciduous vine forest + Erythrina variegata + 

Manilkara kauki + Terminalia subacroptera + Mimusops elengi 

+ Cordia subcordata. 

D 

2b Semi deciduous vine forest/thicket + Canarium australianum + 

Terminalia subacroptera + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + 

Cochlospermum gillivraei + Cleistanthus peninsularis + Ficus 

virens var. sublanceolata. 

G,R 

2c Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Mimusops elengi + Acacia 

auriculiformis + Terminalia subacroptera + Diospyros spp. +/- 

Manilkara kauki +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla. 

A 

2d Semi deciduous vine forest + Tetrameles nudiflora + Canarium 

australianum + Ficus spp. + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum +/- 

Alstonia spectabilis. 

G 

2e Semi deciduous vine thicket + Terminalia subacroptera + Intsia 

bijuga + Hibiscus tiliaceus + Excoecaria agallocha + Thespesia 

populneoides + Cathormion umbellatum subsp. moniliforme. 

L 


25


Community 

Description Geologies 

2f Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Canarium australianum + 

Manilkara kauki + Dalbergia densa var. australis + Buchanania 

arborescens + Sterculia sp. (Annan River L.J. Brass 20319) + 

Cochlospermum gillivraei. 

R 

2g Semi deciduous notophyll vine forest + Canarium australianum 

+ Terminalia subacroptera + Semecarpus australiensis + 

Buchanania arborescens + Acacia auriculiformis +/- Erythrina 

variegata +/- Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Parinari nonda +/- 

Chionanthus ramiflora. 

A 

2h Deciduous notophyll vine forest + Erythrina insularis +/- 

Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla+/- Terminalia subacroptera 

+/- Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum +/- Canarium australianum + 

Acacia auriculiformis. 

G,R 

2i Semi deciduous notophyll vine thicket + Berrya javanica + 

Cupaniopsis anacardioides + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + 

B 

Diospyros hebecarpa + Mimusops elengi + Melicope 

2j 

peninsularis. 

Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest + Bombax ceiba var. B 

leiocarpum + Diospyros hebecarpa +/- Alectryon 

2k 

repandodentatus + Cupaniopsis anacardiodes + Alstonia 

spectabilis +/- Melicope peninsularis. 

Deciduous vine forest + Gyrocarpus americanus + Bombax ceiba 

var. leiocarpum + Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla + 

Canarium australianum + Cathormion umbellatum subsp. 

B, GD, R 

monoliforme + Garuga floribunda var. floribunda +/- 

2l 

Adenanthera pavonina +/- Maranthes corymbosa. 

Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest + Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum + Gyrocarpus americanus + Garuga floribunda var. 

floribunda + Manilkara kauki + Diospyros maritima + Celtis 

philippensis. 

D 

2m Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest + Milletia pinnata + 

Terminalia spp. + Diospyros maritima + Manilkara kauki + 

Aglaia elaeagnoidea + Pouteria obovata + Drypetes deplanchei 

+/- Erythrina spp. 

D 

2n Semi deciduous notophyll vine thicket + Canarium australianum 

+ Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla + Acacia auriculiformis + 

Terminalia subacroptera + Manilkara kauki + Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum. 

G 

2o Semi deciduous notophyll vine forest + Acacia auriculiformis + 

Barringtonia calyptrata + Maranthes corymbosa + Syzygium 

forte subsp. forte + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Canarium 

australianum. 

MG 

2p Semi deciduous vine thicket (windsheared) + Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum + Premna serratifolia + Acacia crassicarpa + 

D 

Manilkara kauki + Drypetes deplanchei + Terminalia 

2q 

subacroptera +/- Arenga australasica. 

Tall semi deciduous vine forest + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum 

+ Berrya javanica + Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla + 

Garuga floribunda var. floribunda + Canarium australianum +/- 

Albizia lebbeck +/- Syzygium bamagense +/- Maranthes 

corymbosa. 

Gd 

2r Semi deciduous vine forest + Sterculia quadrifida + Canarium Gd, G 

australianum + Cleistanthus peninsularis + Terminalia 

2s 

subacroptera + Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla +/- 

Paraserianthes toona + Alstonia actinophylla +/- Xanthoxylum 

rhetsa +/- Maniltoa lenticellata var. lenticellata. 

Semi-deciduous notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Pouteria G 


26


Community 

Description 

sericea + Ficus virens var. sublanceolata + Schefflera 

actinophylla + Garcinia warrenii + Syzygium puberulum. 

Geologies 

2t Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest and occasional thicket with 

Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Canarium australianum + 

Terminalia spp. + Acacia polystachya. 

G, Gd, R 

2u Semi-deciduous vine forest + Manilkara kauki + Terminalia spp. 

+ Sterculia quadrifida + Premna serratifolia + Acacia 

crassicarpa + Drypetes deplanchei + Millettia pinnata. 

D 

2v Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Acacia polystachya and R 

2w 

Terminalia subacroptera. 

Deciduous vine thicket + Garuga floribunda var. floribunda+ 

Gyrocarpus americanus + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum +/- 

Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla. 

B 

2x Deciduous vine thicket + Cochlospermum gillivraei + Bombax 

ceiba var. leiocarpum + Terminalia subacroptera +Sterculia 

quadrifida + Psydrax reticulata + Drypetes deplanchei. 

R 

2y Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Manilkara kauki + Terminalia 

subacroptera + Cordia subcordata + Premna serratifolia + 

Indeterminate species. 

D 

2z Low groved notophyll vine thicket + Sterculia quadrifida + 

Manilkara kauki + Eugenia reinwardtiana + Pandanus sp. 

D 

2xx Semi-deciduous vine forest + Terminalia catappa + Acacia 

auriculiformis + Myristica insipida 

Swamp and riparian forest and forest complexes 

A 

3a Lophostemon suaveolens + Melaleuca quinquenervia + Syzygium 

angophoroides + Asteromyrtus brassii + Dillenia alata swamp 

forest complex 

A, As, D 

3b Medium to tall Melaleuca leucadendra +/- Melaleuca argentea + 

Syzygium forte subsp. forte + Dillenia alata open forest. 

A 

3c Tall Melaleuca dealbata / Melaleuca leucadendra open 

forest/Acacia sp. open forest / Mesophyll vine forest complex. 

A 

3d Evergreen mesophyll vine forest / Sclerophyll vine forest 

complex + Syzygium forte subsp. forte + Syzygium bamagense + 

A 

Horsfieldia Australiana +/- Melaleuca leucadendra +/- 

3e 

Lophostemon suaveolens. (1i/3b- 50/50) 

Melaleuca quinquenervia + Pandanus sp. +/- Deplanchea D 

tetraphylla swamp forest/ Lophostemon suaveolens +/- 

3f 

Asteromyrtus brassii +/- Acacia crassicarpa +/- Deplanchea 

tetraphylla open swamp forest complex (7d/8b -50/50). 

Lophostemon suaveolens + Melaleuca leucadendra + Corymbia 

clarksoniana open forest. 

A 

3g Tall Melaleuca dealbata + Acacia crassicarpa + Acmena 

hemilampra + Deplanchea tetraphylla + Syzygium forte subsp. 

forte swamp forest complex. 

Welchiodendron dominant closed to open forests and woodlands 

A 

4a Welchiodendron longivalve + Acacia polystachya +/- Terminalia 

subacroptera +/- Canarium australianum +/- Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum open to closed forest. 

A, G, MG, Gd, R 

4b Welchiodendron longivalve low woodland, low open woodland 

and tall open shrubland 

G, R 

4c Low Welchiodendron longivalve + Melaleuca dealbata open 

forest. 

Eucalypt dominant open forests and woodlands 

G, A 

5a Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. As 

peninsularis woodland and open forest. 


27


Community 


5b Corymbia clarksoniana + Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia 

tessellaris +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis +/- 

Welchiodendron longivalve woodland and open forest. 

A, G, Mg 

5c Corymbia clarksoniana + Melaleuca stenostachya + Melaleuca 

viridiflora +/- Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa +/- Parinari nonda 

+/- Asteromyrtus brassii woodland. 

A 

5d Low Corymbia clarksoniana + Melaleuca viridiflora + 

Welchiodendron longivalve + Asteromyrtus brassii + Acacia 

leptocarpa woodland and shrubland complex. 

R 

5e Low to medium Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Welchiodendron 

longivalve +/- Eucalyptus leptophleba open forest and woodland. 

R, G 

5f Eucalyptus leptophleba +/- Acacia polystachya woodland and 

open forest. 

G 

5g Corymbia tessellaris + Acacia polystachya +/- Welchiodendron 

longivalve woodland and open forest. 

A, G 

5h Corymbia spp. + Melaleuca saligna + Acacia crassicarpa +/- 

Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Eucalyptus brassiana open forest. 

A 

5i Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- 

Livistona muelleri woodland and open forest. 

A, D 

5j Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia 

clarksoniana +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Corymbia stockeri 

subsp. peninsularis open forest. 

AS, D 

5k Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis 

+/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta woodland and open forest. 

A, AS, D 

5l Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis +/- Corymbia nesophila 

+/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta +/- Eucalyptus cullenii woodland. 

G, GD, R 

5m Low Corymbia spp. (C. stockeri, C. nesophila, C. clarksoniana) 

+ Melaleuca stenostachya +/- Melaleuca viridiflora +/- 

Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa woodland. 

A, D 

5n Eucalyptus platyphylla + Erythrophloeum chlorostachys +/- 

Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Eucalyptus 

tetrodonta +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis woodland 

and open forest. 

A, D 

5o Corymbia tessellaris +/- Corymbia clarksoniana woodland and 

open woodland. 

A, D, GD 

5p Low Corymbia polycarpa/Corymbia novoguinensis + Acacia 

crassicarpa + Terminalia subacroptera +/- Sterculia quadrifida 

+/- Syzygium suborbiculare woodland and open woodland. 

D 

5q Low Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis open forest. A, AS,D 

5r Corymbia nesophila woodland and open forest. R 

5s Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Corymbia tessellaris woodland. A, GD 

5t Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis 

+/- Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia clarksoniana woodland. 

5u Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia tessellaris woodland and 

open woodland. 

5v Corymbia stockeri subsp peninsularis + Welchiodendron 

longivalve + Acacia polystachya +/- Corymbia tessellaris 

woodland / open forest complex. 

Acacia dominant open forests and woodlands 

6a Low to medium Acacia auriculiformis +/- Terminalia 

subacroptera +/- Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla +/- Bombax 

ceiba var. leiocarpum open forest / woodland & occasional 

shrubland. 


R 

A, G, R 

G 

G, R 

28


Community 


6b Low to medium Acacia auriculiformis +/- Parinari nonda +/- 

Pandanus sp. +/- Semecarpus australiensis open forest/woodland 

(and occasional shrubland). 

A 

6c Low Acacia crassicarpa + Terminalia subacroptera + Sterculia 

quadrifida + Manilkara kauki + Syzygium suborbiculare open 

forest and woodland. 

D 

6d Low Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca spp. open forest. D 

6e Low Acacia polystachya + Alstonia actinophylla + Buchanania 

arborescens + Manilkara kauki + Pouteria sericea + Sterculia 

quadrifida open to closed forest. 

GD 

6f Acacia sp. closed shrubland R 

6g Acacia crassicarpa +Asteromyrtus brassii open forest and low 

open forest. 

Melaleuca dominant open forests 

D 

7a Low Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla open forest. A 

7b/7bs Melaleuca saligna open forest. A, D 

7c Tall Melaleuca dealbata + Corymbia clarksoniana open forest. A 

7d Melaleuca quinquenervia +/- Melaleuca saligna +/- Melaleuca 

cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Lophostemon suaveolens open 

forest. 

A, D 

7e Low Melaleuca dealbata +/- Melaleuca saligna +/- Lophostemon 

suaveolens open forest. 

A, D 

7f/7fs Melaleuca leucadendra open forest. A, D 

7g Melaleuca dealbata woodland and open forest. D 

Lophostemon dominant woodland and open forest 

8a Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. 

platyphylla +/- Pandanus sp. +/- Livistona muelleri woodland 

and open forest. 

8b Low Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Asteromyrtus brassii +/- 

Acacia crassicarpa +/- Melaleuca saligna +/- Deplanchea 

tetraphylla open forest and swamp forest. 

8c Low Lophostemon suaveolens + Corymbia clarksoniana + 

Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa + Melaleuca saligna + Melaleuca 

viridiflora +/- Corymbia latifolia open woodland. 

Asteromyrtus/Neofabricia dominant open forests 

9a Asteromyrtus brassii + Syzygium angophoroides + Acmena 

hemilampra subsp. hemilampra +/- Acacia crassicarpa +/- 

Melaleuca quinquenervia open forest. 

9b Neofabricia myrtifolia + Parinari nonda + Sterculia quadrifida 

+ Terminalia muelleri +Milletia pinnata closed to open forest. 

Casuarina dominant woodland and open forest 

10a Casuarina equisetifolia open forest + Diospyros maritima + 

Premna serratifolia + Milletia pinnata. 

10b Casuarina equisetifolia woodland and open forest +/- Terminalia 

catappa woodland and open forest. 

Pandanus dominant woodland and shrubland 

11a Pandanus sp. +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- 

Acacia leptocarpa +/- Melaleuca acacioides shrubland and low 

woodland. 


A 

A, D 

D 

As 

D 

D 

D 

A 

29


Community 


11b Pandanus sp. +/- Melaleuca viridiflora open forest, woodland 

and shrubland. 

B, D, A, G 

Palm dominant forest and woodlands 

12a Livistona meulleri woodland. G 

12b Low Nypa fruticans closed forest. E 

Melaleuca dominant shrublands and woodlands 

13a Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Pandanus sp. shrubland and low 


A, D, R 

13b Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Pandanus sp. 


A 

13c Melaleuca viridiflora + Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa +/- As. A 

13d 

Asteromyrtus brassii + /- Banksia dentata +/- Melaleuca saligna 

+/- Leucopogon ruscifolius shrubland. 

Melaleuca saligna + Melaleuca viridiflora + Asteromyrtus 

symphyocarpa +/- Asteromyrtus brassii +/- Corymbia spp. +/- 

Banksia dentata low woodland. 

A, AS 

13e Melaleuca acacioides shrubland. A 

13f Low Melaleuca viridiflora + Corymbia clarksoniana woodland. A 

13g Low Melaleuca saligna shrubland. A 

13h Low Melaleuca arcana closed shrubland. D 

13i Melaleuca stenostachya shrubland +/- Melaleuca viridiflora low 


A, AS, Gd,R 

13j Melaleuca acacioides +/- Melaleuca viridiflora open shrubland. A 

Shrublands and shrubland complexes 

14a Dwarf Welchiodendron longivalve + Alyxia spicata +/- 

Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Acacia spp. +/- Asteromyrtus brassii 


R 

14b Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla + Acacia auriculiformis 

+/- Terminalia subacroptera open scrub and low open forest. 

A 

14c Welchiodendron longivalve shrubland. R, Gd 

14d Cochlospermum gillivraei +/- Canarium australianum +/- 

Welchiodendron longivalve deciduous shrubland. 

G, R 

14e Low open shrubland with Baeckea frutescens, Melaleuca 

viridiflora and Asteromyrtus brassii. 

D 

14f Melaleuca viridiflora + Melaleuca stenostachya + G, R 

Welchiodendron longivalve + Acacia leptocarpa +/- 

14g 

Cochlospermum gillivraei shrubland. 

Low Alyxia spicata + Manilkara kauki +/- Buchanania 

arborescens +/- Canarium australianum +/- Diospyros spp. +/- 

Pandanus sp. low closed shrubland/ rock pavement complex. 

G, R 

14h Acacia polystachya +/- Welchiodendron longivalve closed 


G 

14i Asteromyrtus brassii + Melaleuca saligna + Baeckea frutescens AS 

+ Leucopogon yorkensis + Leucopogon ruscifolius +/- 

14j 

Lophostemon suaveolens shrubland and low shrubland. 

Acacia brassii +/- Welchiodendron longivalve closed shrubland. R 

14k Low Melaleuca stenostachya + Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa + 

Jacksonia thesioides + Melaleuca viridiflora shrubland. 


R 

30


Community 


14l Low Melaleuca sp. (Zuna DGF9257+) + Welchiodendron 

longivalve + Corymbia spp. + Acacia brassii + Melaleuca 

stenostachya + Jacksonia thesioides shrubland. 

R 

14m Grevillea striata + Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca viridiflora + 

Parinari nonda + Pandanus sp. + Corymbia tessellaris 


A 

14n Acacia crassicarpa + Leucopogon ruscifolius +/- Neofabricia 

myrtifolia +/- Pouteria sericea +/- Psydrax banksii +/- Halfordia 

kendack shrubland and open shrubland. 

D 

14o Melaleuca saligna dominant riparian shrubland complex. A 

14p Asteromyrtus brassii + Petalostigma pubescens + Melaleuca 

viridiflora + Asteromyrtus brassii + Acacia crassicarpa + 

Corymbia clarksoniana shrubland. 

R 

14q Low Cycas sp. open shrubland. D 

14r Acacia crassicarpa + Pandanus sp. + Melaleuca viridiflora +/- 

Parinari nonda +/- Banksia dentata +/- Lophostemon suaveolens 


14s Low sparse Leucopogon ruscifolius + Acacia crassicarpa + 

Syzygium suborbiculare shrubland with Corymbia novoguinensis 

emergents. 

14t Low sparse Cochlospermum gillivraei + Canarium australianum 

+ Eugenia reinwardtiana + Terminalia sp. + Pandanus sp. 


14u Low Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsualris + Welchiodendron 

longivalve open forest / Welchiodendron longivalve closed scrub/ 

Deciduous shrubland/rock pavement complex (5v/4a/18a/18d – 

30/40/20/10). 

14u Low Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis + Welchiodendron 

longivalve open forest / Welchiodendron longivalve closed scrub / 

Deciduous shrubland / rock pavement complex (5v/14c/18a/18d – 

30/40/20/10). 

14v Eucalyptus leptophleba + Grevillea parallela + Exocarpos 

latifolius + Terminalia sp. + Acacia crassicarpa shrubland. 

14w Eucalyptus cullenii + Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis 

woodland +/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Welchiodendron 

14x 

longivalve + Melaleuca stenostachya shrubland / Low Acacia 

brassii shrubland / Deciduous shrubland complex (5l/14x/14j/18a 

– 20/40/30/10). 

Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Welchiodendron longivalve + Melaleuca 

stenostachya open to sparse shrubland. 

14y Low Premna serratifolia + Cordia subcordata +/- Pemphis 

acidula +/- Drypetes deplanchei shrubland. 

Coastal headland forest complexes 

15a Semi deciduous vine thicket / Pandanus sp. open forest complex 

(2w/11a – 60-40). 

Coastal dune complexes 

16a Coastal foredune grassland, herbland and shrubland complex. 

(17j/14y – 70/30) 

16b Coastal foredune grassland / Casuarina equisetifolia +/- 

Pandanus sp. +/- Acacia crassicarpa shrubland complex (17j/ 

10b/6c – 30/20/50). 

16c Coastal dune swale shrubland / Low open forest complex + 

Cochlospermum gillivraei + Canarium australianum + 

Terminalia subacroptera + Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca 


A 

D 

D 

G 

G 

D 

R 

R 

D 

B 

D 

D 

D 

31


Community 

saligna + Melaleuca acacioides (14t/7b – 70/30). 


16d Coastal dune shrubland and vine forest complex (14t/2aa – 

70/30). 

D 

16e Corymbia tessellaris woodland and open forest / shrubland / vine 

thicket complex (5o/14t/2aa – 40/40/20). 

D 

16f Casuarina equisetifolia woodland and open forest/vine thicket 

complex (10b/2aa – 60/40). 

D 

16g Low Acacia crassicarpa/Melaleuca dealbata open forest dune 

swale complex (6c/7g - 80/20). 

D 

16h Low groved notophyll vine thicket + Terminalia muelleri + 

Diospyros maritima + Premna serratifolia + Thespesia 

populneoides + Manilkara kauki (2y/17j – 80/20). 

D 

16i Low open shrubland with Terminalia sp., Premna serratifolia, 

Diospyros maritima. 

D 

16j Low groved notophyll vine thicket/ grassland and herbland 

complex (2z/17j - 80/20). 

D 

16k Coastal foredune grassland, herbland, woodland and vine thicket 

complex (17j/17d/10b/2aa – 50/20/20/10). 

Grasslands and grassland complexes 

D 

17a Tall Ischaemum australe +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Themeda 

triandra +/- Mnesithea rottboellioides +/- Heteropogon triticeus 

grassland. 

A 

17b Themeda triandra +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Mnesithea 

rottboellioides grassland. 

B, V 

17c Open to closed tussock grassland with emergent shrubs. GD, R 

17d Medium to tall Mnesithea rottboellioides + Heteropogon triticeus 

+ Cymbopogon spp. +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Themeda 

triandra grassland. 

A. AS. D, G, L 

17e Relic cultivated alluvial plains with anastomosing channel 

morphology. 

A 

17f Imperata cylindrica dominant grassland. D 

17g Imperata/Themeda grassland complex with emergent shrubs. A 

17h Imperata cylindrica + Themeda triandra grassland / G 

17i 

Welchiodendron longivalve open forest and woodland complex 

(17f/4a – 90/10). 

Low sedgeland with emergent shrubs and trees. AS, D 

17j Low Spinifex sericeus + Vigna marina + Ipomoea pes-caprae 

subsp. brasiliensis + Sesuvium portulacastrum grassland and 

forbland complex. 

Rock pavement and pavement complexes 

D 

18a Deciduous shrubland / Rock pavement complex. R 

18b Low Acacia brassii +/- Welchiodendron longivalve +/- 

Cochlospermum gillivraei shrubland/ rock pavement complex 

(18a/14j -50/50). 

18c Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Acacia polystachya closed 

shrubland / Low deciduous shrubland/rock pavement complex 

(18a/14c – 50/50). 

18d Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis + Welchiodendron 

longivalve + Psydrax banksii + Dodonoea sp. + Ficus sp. rock 

pavement complex. 


Gd, R 

G, R 

G 

32


Community 


Boulder slope vineland/shrubland complexes 

19a Open vineland/deciduous shrubland/boulder slope complex. G, Gd 

Wetland complexes and mosaics 

20a Eleocharis dulcis closed sedgeland. A 

20b Open wetland complex. D 

Successional vine forest communities 

21a Low vine forest and vine thicket with Barringtonia calyptrata + 

Macaranga involucrata var. mallotoides + Hibiscus tiliaceus + 

Semecarpus australiensis successional vine forest and thicket. 

Anthropogenically altered (secondary) vine forest and thicket 

22a Tall palm (Cocos nucifera) woodland and open forest with 

mesophyll/notophyll vine forest sub-canopy of Myristica insipida 

and Lepidopetalum fructoglabrum. 

22b Semi deciduous vine thicket (secondary) + Buchanania 

arborescens + Manilkara kauki + Scolopia braunii + Drypetes 

deplanchei + Terminalia muelleri. 

Saline transitional communities 

23a Low Excoecaria agallocha + Hibiscus tiliaceus + Thespesia 

populneoides + Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla open 

forest. 

23b Pemphis acidula +/- Terminalia subacroptera +/- Premna 

serratifolia closed shrubland. 

23c Semi deciduous transitional vine forest + Xylocarpus granatum + 

Manilkara kauki. 

Mangrove forest, woodland and shrubland complexes 

D 

24a Mangrove closed and open forest, woodland and shrubland 

complexes (24d/24c – 80/20). 

E 

24b Pemphis acidula + Osbornia octodonta closed shrubland. E 

24c Avicennia marina subsp. eucalyptifolia open to closed forest. E 

24d Open to closed forest of Bruguiera gymnorhiza +/- Rhizophora 

stylosa. 

Samphire herblands and shrublands and salt pans 

E 

25a Dwarf halophytic shrubland and saltpan. E 

25b Salt pan. E 

26a 

Samphire grasslands 

Closed Sporobolus sp. grassland. E 

26b Sporobolus sp. Grassland / Chenopod forbland and herbland 

complex (26a/25a - 50/50). 

Estuarine wetland complexes and mosaics 

E 

27a Schoenoplectus sp. sedgeland. E 

27b Tall Schoenoplectus sp. Sedgeland / Estuarine wetland complex. E 

*indicates pre-clearing community only 


V 

B 

D 

E 

D 

33

Additional Descriptors: An appended indicator of condition may be applied. As an example a 

community code of 1ax, where ‘x’ is the appended condition indicator, represents a highly 

disturbed VC which has retained sufficient structural integrity to be classified as ‘remnant’ 

according to the VMA (1999). The use of an appended ‘r’, or appended ‘d’ against VC7ba 

vegetation attribute is used to distinguish riparian occurrences and drainage depression 

occurrences respectively, which proved necessary for RE differentiation in this community. 

Pre-clearing Descriptors (including non-remnant vegetation types): Where vegetation has 

been cleared or disturbed to a degree that it can no longer be classified as remnant, the preclearing 

vegetation code is provided as the primary attribute, followed by an appended indicator 

of current status or condition. As an example, the code B2j(c) indicates a presently cleared area 

with a pre-clearing vegetation type of B2j. A list of current status indicators is provided in Table 

9. 

Table 9. Descriptors used to indicate pre-clearing vegetation and current vegetation status. 

Current Status 

Indicator 

Variation 

(Appended) 

(c) Native vegetation has been cleared and remains cleared. Generally, these areas 

are under housing or infrastructure development, or agricultural use. 

(b) Native vegetation has been cleared or disturbed and is currently occupied by 

Bamboo thicket. 

(e) Native vegetation has been cleared or disturbed and is currently occupied by 

exotic species (other than Bamboo). 

(r) Native vegetation has been previously cleared and is currently occupied by native 

regrowth (secondary vegetation) with non-remnant status. 

4.1.3 Regional Ecosystems 

Vegetation communities have been classified into RE’s based on landform association, structural 

type and floristic assemblage. Seventy six RE’s are identified in the study area detailed in Table 

10. This includes recognition of 10 new RE’s of which two are identified on the basis of preclearing 

extent. The spatial distribution of these RE’s is provided in accompanying maps 5a to 

5e. A spatial analysis on the extent of RE’s in the Torres Strait Island Sub-region presented in 

Section 6. Further description of RE’s including classification and derivation is provided in 

Section 5.2. 

Table 10. Regional Ecosystems in the Project Area. 

Regional 

Ecosystem 

Component 


Communities 

Regional Ecosystem Description 4 . 


Management Status 

Land Zone 1- Estuarine muds and alluvium subject to saltwater incursion 

3.1.1 24a (co) Closed forest of Rhizophora stylosa ± Not of Concern 

24b 

Bruguiera gymnorhiza. Occurs as outer 

24d 

12b 

mangroves. 

3.1.2 24c 

Avicennia marina ± Ceriops tagal low open Of Concern 

3.1.2b 23c 

24a (co) 

forest landward side of mangroves. 

3.1.4 23a Excoecaria agallocha ± Aegiceras 

corniculata closed scrub. Upper tidal reaches 

of rivers. 

Of Concern 

3.1.5 26a Sporobolus virginicus closed tussock Not of Concern 

4 Short description as per REDD Version 5.2, 2007 


34


Ecosystem 

Component 



3.1.6 25a 

25b 

26b (co) 

3.1.7** 27a 

27b 


26b (co) grassland. Occurs on coastal plains. 

Sparse herbland or bare saltpans. Associated 

with salt plains and saline flats. 



Not of Concern 

Schoenoplectus sp. estuarine wetland mosaic. Not of Concern 

Land Zone 2 - Coastal Dunes, Cheniers and Sand Sheets and associated Dune Swales. 

3.2.2a 1c 

Semi-deciduous vine thicket on coastal dunes Of Concern 

2p 

2y 

2z 

16d(co) 

16e(co) 

16f(co) 

16h(co) 

16j(co) 

16k(co) 

and beach ridges. 

3.2.2b** 2a 

Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest and Of Concern 

2l 

thicket of prograding beach ridges of the 

2u 

9b 

Torres Strait Islands*. 

3.2.3 7g 

Melaleuca dealbata ± Acacia crassicarpa Of Concern 

7e 

open forest. Occurs in dune swales on the 

6d 

16g (co) 

west coast. 

3.2.4a 7f 

Melaleuca leucadendra ± M. dealbata open Of Concern 

3.2.4b 7d 

forest. In dune swales, and swampy areas. 

3.2.4c 8b 

3e (7d/8b) 

3.2.4d 7b 

16c (co) 

3.2.5a 6c 

Acacia crassicarpa ± Syzygium suborbiculare Not of Concern 

3.2.5b 5p 

± Parinari nonda woodland. On beach 

3.2.5c 6g 

14t 

14v 

14q 

16c(co) 

16b(co) 

16d (co) 

16g (co) 

ridges. 

3.2.6a 10b 

Casuarina equisetifolia woodland. Occurs on Of Concern 

16f(co) 

16b(co) 

16k(co) 

foredunes. 

3.2.6b 10b 

3.2.7 5i 

Corymbia intermedia or C. clarksoniana Not of Concern 

5o 

16e (co) 

woodland in wet coastal areas. 

3.2.8 5k 

Corymbia nesophila ± C. novoguinensis ± Of Concern 

5n 

Eucalyptus spp. woodland on old stabilised 

5m 

5q 

dunes. 

3.2.10c 5j Eucalyptus tetrodonta, Corymbia 

clarksoniana ± E. brassiana or 

Erythrophleum chlorostachys woodland on 

Of Concern 


35


Ecosystem 

Component 






3.2.14 13h 

stabilised dunes. 

Melaleuca arcana low open forest. 

Associated with dune swamps. 

Of Concern 

3.2.15 13a 

Melaleuca viridiflora, Neofabricia myrtifolia Not of Concern 

8c 

17i 

woodland on beach ridges. 

3.2.19a 14n 

Leucopogon yorkensis ± Asteromyrtus brassii Of Concern 

3.2.19b 14e 

open heath on old beach ridges. 

3.2.24 17j 

Closed herbland of mixed graminoids and Of Concern 

17d 

17f 

16a(co) 

16b(co) 

16h(co) 

16k(co) 

forbs. Occurs on exposed foredunes. 

3.2.25 16i 

Sparse herbland of mixed herbaceous species Of Concern 

14y 

16a(co) 

16j(co) 

on foredunes and beach ridges. 

3.2.26 14s Sparse herbland/shrubland and bare sand 

areas. Predominantly on sand blows. 


3.2.27 20b Ephemeral and perennial lakes in coastal 

dunefields 

Of Concern 

3.2.28 2m Evergreen notophyll vine forest on beach 

ridges on coral atolls, shingle cays and sand 

cays. 

Of Concern 

3.2.30 23b Pemphis acidula ± low closed forest. 

Restricted to coral atolls, shingle cays and 

sand cays. 

Of Concern 

Land Zone3 - Alluvial plains, alluvial fans, terraces and fluvial sediments 

3.3.1c*** 2xx Closed semi-deciduous mesophyll vine forest. 

Mainly occurs on loamy alluvia (Pre-clearing 

classification only). 

Extinct (??) 

3.3.5c 1i 

Evergreen notophyll vine forest. Occurs on Not of Concern 

1j 

3d (co) 

alluvia on major watercourses. 

3.3.6 3c(co) Evergreen notophyll vine forest with Of Concern 

3d(co) Melaleuca leucadendra on swamps. 

3.3.7 2g 

Tall semi-deciduous notophyll/microphyll Not of Concern 

4a 

vine thicket (sic-forest). Occurs on colluvial 

6b 

plains. 

3.3.9 3a 

Lophostemon suaveolens open forest. Occurs Not of Concern 

3f 

8b 

on streamlines, swamps and alluvial terraces. 

3.3.10a 3b 

Melaleuca argentea and / or M. fluviatilis ± Not of Concern 

3.3.10b 14o/7br M. leucadendra open forest. Fringes streams 

3.3.10c 5h 

and creeks. 

3.3.10d 3g 

3.3.12 7d Melaleuca quinquenervia open forest. 

Associated with scattered coastal swamps. 

Of Concern 

3.3.13 7bs Melaleuca saligna ± Hakea pedunculata open 

forest. Occurs on edges of salt pans plains. 

Of Concern 

3.3.14 7b 

Melaleuca saligna ± M. viridiflora, 


7e 

Lophostemon suaveolens woodland on 

13g 

drainage swamps. 


36


Ecosystem 

3.3.14b 7fs 

3.3.17b 5o 

5g 

Component 



5s 


Corymbia clarksoniana, Erythrophleum 

chlorostachys woodland on alluvial plains. 

3.3.20c 5b Corymbia clarksoniana ± Erythrophleum 

chlorostachys ± Melaleuca viridiflora 

woodland on alluvial plains. 

3.3.22 5i 

Corymbia clarksoniana or C. novoguinensis 

3.3.27 

5c 

5k 

5q 

5m 

3.3.28 5u 

5n 


Corymbia nesophila ± Eucalyptus tetrodonta 

± Eucalyptus brassiana woodland on alluvial 

sediments. 

Eucalyptus platyphylla ± Corymbia 

clarksoniana woodland on alluvial and 








3.3.42a 13a 

colluvial plains. 

Melaleuca viridiflora low woodland in Not of Concern 

13c 

14m 

14r 

13f 

11b 

drainage areas. 

3.3.42c 13b 

3.3.48b 13d Melaleuca saligna ± M. viridiflora low open 

woodland in drainage depressions. 


3.3.51 13e 

Melaleuca acacioides ± Hakea pedunculata Of Concern 

13j 

tall shrubland on marine plains. 

3.3.57 17d 

Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea 

Of Concern 

17g 

rottboellioides closed tussock grassland on 

coastal plains. 

3.3.62 17a 

Grassland/sedgeland with Pandanus spp. Of Concern 

17e 

11a 

Confined to Torres Strait Islands. 

3.3.63 20a Closed sedgeland dominated by Eleocharis 

dulcis. On seasonally flooded marine plains. 


3.3.65 20b Ephemeral lakes and lagoons on alluvial 

plains and depressions. 


3.3.68** 2c 

Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest and Of Concern 

14b 

thicket on alluvial plains. Northern islands of 

the Torres Strait*. 

3.3.69** 7c 

Melaleuca dealbata +/- Corymbia 

Of Concern 

4d 

4c 

clarksoniana open forest on alluvial plains. 

3.3.70** 8a 

Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Melaleuca Of Concern 

7a 

cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Pandanus sp. 

+/- Livistona muelleri woodland and open 

forest. Alluvial plains of northern Torres 

Strait Islands. 

Land Zone 5 – Sandy plains and rises/ lateritic profiles and remnant alluvial/colluvial surfaces. 

3.5.5 5a Corymbia novoguinensis or C. nesophila ± C. 

tessellaris woodland on northern Cape York 

Peninsula. 

Of Concern 

3.5.8c 5q Eucalyptus tetrodonta ± Corymbia hylandii 

subsp. peninsularis ± C. stockeri woodland 

on erosional plains and sandtone plateaus. 


3.5.15a 13a Melaleuca viridiflora ± Acacia spp. ± Not of Concern 


37


Ecosystem 

3.5.15b 

Component 



13d 

13f 

13c 

17i 


Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa low woodland 

on scattered coastal sand plains. 



3.5.17a 13i Melaleuca stenostachya +/- Melaleuca 

viridiflora low open woodland on flat plains. 

Of Concern 

3.5.19a 14i Asteromyrtus lysicephala, Choriceras 

tricorne open heath on sand sheets. 


3.5.23x1 5j 

Eucalyptus tetrodonta ± Corymbia nesophila Of Concern 

5k 

± C. clarksoniana woodland on undulating 

rises. 

3.5.29 17d Sorghum plumosum var. plumosum ± 

Themeda arguens closed tussock grassland on 

erosional plains. 


3.5.32** 9a Asteromyrtus brassii + Syzygium 

angophoroides + Acmena hemilampra subsp. 

hemilampra open to closed forest on sandy 

rises*. 

Land Zone 7 – Exposed or shallowly covered duricrust 


3.7.1x1b 2e Semi-deciduous notophyll vine thicket on 

lateritic remnants. Northern Torres Strait 

Islands. 

Of Concern 

Land Zone 8 - Basalt escarpments and terraces/Volcanic cones formed on ash and scoria 

3.8.4b 17b Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea 


basalt vents & cones. 

Of Concern 

3.8.5a** 2i 

Semi-deciduous notophyll/microphyll vine Of Concern 

2j 

forest of the Torres Strait Island Sub-region*. 

3.8.5b** 2k 

3.8.5c** 2w 

3.8.5d** 21a 

3.8.5e** 15a 

Land Zone 12 – Acid volcanic and plutonic rocks including hornfelsed granite parent rocks 

3.12.4a 4a 

Notophyll vine forest of Welchiodendron Not of Concern 

4b 

14u (co) 

17h (co) 

longivalve on Torres Strait Islands. 

3.12.4b 1d 

3.12.8 5b 

Corymbia clarksoniana ± C. tessellaris open Not of Concern 

5s 

5e 

forest on coastal ranges and lowlands. 

3.12.9 5g 

Corymbia tessellaris, C. clarksoniana open Not of Concern 

5o 

forest. Occurs on coastal ranges. 

3.12.11 5l 

Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis ± Not of Concern 

5v 

Welchiodendron longivalve woodland on 

14u (co) 

14w(co) 

Torres Strait Islands. 

3.12.13 5r Corymbia nesophila ± C. hylandii subsp. 

peninsularis woodland on acid volcanic hills. 


3.12.16c 13i 

Melaleuca viridiflora, Asteromyrtus brassii Not of Concern 

14k 

woodland. Associated with granitic hills. 

3.12.16d 14x 

14w(co) 

3.12.18 5f Eucalyptus leptophleba, Corymbia 

clarksoniana woodland to open woodland on 



38


Ecosystem 

3.12.20 

3.12.21a 

3.12.23 

Component 



14c 

14d 

14h 

18c(co) 

2b 

2f 

2n 

2s 

2v 

2x 

14j 

14w(co) 

18b(co) 

6f 

3.12.29 17c 

12a 

3.12.30 17f 

17h(co) 

13.12.31x1a 14a 

14f 

14l 

3.12.33b 

3.12.34c 

3.12.35a** 

3.12.35b** 

3.12.35c** 

3.12.35d** 

3.12.35e** 

3.12.35f** 

3.12.36a** 

3.12.36b** 

14g 

19a 

11b 

18a 

18b (co) 

18c (co) 

18d 

14w (co) 

RR 

GG 

2t 

2h 

2d 

2o 

2q 

2r 

6a/6e 

1a 

1e 

1f 

1b 

1g 

1h 

3.12.37** 5t 

5u 

3.12.38** 5d 

14p 

13a 


coastal hills. 

Evergreen notophyll vine forest dominated by 

Welchiodendron longivalve on headlands. 

Deciduous vine thicket. Occurs on granite 

slopes mainly on the Great Dividing Range 

and offshore islands. 

Acacia brassii low open forest on acid 

volcanics on northern ranges and islands. 

Heteropogon triticeus ± Sarga plumosum 

closed tussock grassland on continental 

islands. 

Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea 


steep slopes. 

Shrubland on exposed coastal headlands of 

the Torres Strait Islands.* 

Granite boulders covered with blue-green 

algae. Occurs on Black Mountain and Cape 

Melville. 

Rock pavements associated with hillslopes 

and footslopes of the Torres Strait Islands.* 

Semi-deciduous mesophyll/notophyll vine 

forest on granite slopes of the Torres Strait 

Sub-region.* 

Evergreen to complex evergreen mesophyll to 

notophyll vine forest and thicket on mountain 

ranges of Torres Strait Islands. 

Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia 

stockerii +/- Corymbia clarksoniana 

woodland to open woodland on coastal hills. 

Melaleuca viridiflora ± Neofabricia 

myrtifolia low woodland on granitic ranges. 



Of Concern 


Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 

Of Concern 



*Preliminary description / **New regional ecosystem / *** Pre-clearing representation only / co = Component of 

Vegetation Complex where specific components of this VC are included in the RE. 


39

5.0 Results Analysis and Discussion 

5.1 Clarifications on the Classification of Land Zones in the 

Study Area 

The following provides a brief analysis of the land zone classifications used to derive RE’s in the 

area, including description of their component landforms, rationale for classification, and their 

distribution. 

5.1.1 Land Zone 1 

As per the definition of Harris (nd.), this land zone includes all alluvial deposits subject to 

periodic tidal inundation, including muds, sands and rock bars inundated by brackish or marine 

waters. Whilst this is conceptually simple, Land Zone 1 does present some problem for 

interpretation due its relationship with Land Zone 3. There is often a continuum of landform 

between these land zones and differentiation is possible only through assessment of ground cover 

or shrub species. Land Zone 1 is recognisable through its association with sod grasses, sedges 

and chenopod forbs and in many cases, the upper tidal influence is marked by a low bench or rise, 

particularly on Boigu and Saibai Islands where low alluvial rises define the boundaries between 

tall tussock grasslands and sod grassland/salt flat vegetation. Saibai Island also demonstrates a 

continuum between freshwater and estuarine wetland systems which proved problematic. The 

attenuated arms of tidal swamps that intrude into the islands central alluvial areas are dominated 

by mangroves forests on the seaward portions, merging seamlessly into mixed melaleuca and 

mangrove communities fringing tall brackish sedge swamps, with inland attenuations frequently 

represented by marginally brackish sedgelands with scattered mangrove shrubs, vine thickets and 

melaleuca dominant communities on the fringes. In these areas, the distinction between Land 

Zone 1 and Land Zone 3 was subjective, based on field assessment of the degree of saltwater 

influence in particular portions of the wetland system as observed in the late dry season. In all 

cases, attempts were made to apply a consistent approach to land zone classifications, ensuring 

any future attempts to clarify these land zone boundaries can be addressed on a regionally 

consistent basis. In summary, with reference to the definition provided by Harris (nd.), the 

classification of Land Zone 1 is best indicated by the nature of its constituent species. This land 

zone is recognised by a prominence of halophytic species including mangroves, salt tolerant 

grasses and sedges, and chenopod forbs. 


This land zone includes all landforms composed of marine sands and may include beach ridges, 

cheniers, degraded sand dunes, aeolian dune systems, and the calcareous sand deposits of coral 

cays. It also encompasses dune swales and associated freshwater wetlands. The best developed 

occurrences are on the inner islands with extensive prograding dune systems found on the southwestern 

facing embayments of Muralug and Friday Islands. Land Zone 2 is developed on all of 

the larger islands to some degree, often manifest as a minor sliver of sand (beach ridge) 

immediately above the upper tidal limits. Extensive wind blown (aeolian) sand deposits well 

developed on Badu and Naghir (to a lesser degree) are also classified in this system. Marine 

sands subject to tidal inundation, often occupied by mangrove species, are classified as Land 

Zone 1. 


40


Difficulties with the distinction between Land Zone 1 and Land Zone 3 have been indicated 

previously in Section 5.1.1. Land Zone 3 in this study includes all transported alluvial material 

except those affected by tidal inundation; older sediment and colluvial profiles affected by deep 

weathering, laterisation and clay alteration, and; residual sediments. The major landforms 

associated with Land Zone 3 include piedmont fans and outwash plains; fluvial sediments and 

terraces associated with drainage channels, and; alluvial sediments associated with freshwater 

swamps. Problematic areas which concern the distinction between Land Zone 3 and Land Zone 5 

on Moa and Muralug Islands are described in Section 5.1.4. 

The most extensive occurrences of Land Zone 3 are associated with gently overlapping alluvial 

fans and outwash plains on Muralug and Moa Islands. This is not surprising considering that due 

to their considerable size, these islands have a well-developed drainage network which is lacking 

on many of the smaller islands in the study area. The composition of the alluvial plains depends 

largely on provenance, with alluvium derived from finer grained acid volcanic rocks generally 

being silty and poorly drained. Coarser granitoid rocks produce sandier alluvial types which are 

relatively well-drained, often supporting luxuriant riparian vine-forest vegetation. On the southeastern 

side of Muralug Island where the dominant geology is diorite, relatively fertile clay rich 

alluvial plains have developed. The soil associated with these plains is mildly vertic (shrink and 

swell) with a well-drained upper soil profile and gentle gilgai micro-topography. The geological 

code TQH characterises the majority of the fringing coastal plains on the larger islands, indicating 

an undifferentiated unit comprising Tertiary, Quaternary and Holocene age sediments. In the 

majority of cases (particularly on Horn and Muralug Island), coastal plains are formed by low 

angle, evenly graded alluvial fans which slope to tidal margins without any abrupt variation in 

topography. Local sea level provides a control on the base level of erosion, influencing the angle 

of the fringing alluvial fan, the rate of sedimentation, and the depth of fan incision. It is evident 

that the dominant control on the distribution of surficial sediments on these fans is sheetwash and 

alluvial process rather than being residual sediment weathered insitu. On this account, the 

majority of the more extensive coastal plains are classified as LZ3 features rather than LZ5 as 

might be otherwise inferred. A relative sea level fall would reactivate alluvial process, initiating a 

new episode of fan incision and erosion, forming a transient sequence of relict alluvial surfaces. 

As discussed in Section 5.1.4, relict alluvial surfaces are present in some locations on the larger 

islands, possible testament to a recent sea level fall as inferred by Burne et al (1995). The 

possibility that the alluvial covering on these broad coastal plains is surficial, overlying deeply 

weathered sediments from previous depositional cycles, or bedrock weathered insitu should be 

considered. Until in-depth soil profiling and geomorphic studies are undertaken on these coastal 

plains, it is not possible to confirm their true nature and land zone classification can only be based 

on visible geomorphic character. 

As previously mentioned in Section 1.1.3, remnants of the Fly Platform, manifest as sandy clay 

rises on Saibai and Boigu Islands are described as Quaternary age by Wilmott et al. (1972), 

although broad physiographic groupings of Paijmans et al. (1971) classify the islands as part of 

the Tertiary age Oriomo Plateau. Evidence produced from sediment coring undertaken by 

Barham (1999) support early Pleistocene age for these features, based both on observation of 

ferruginous pisoliths within the soil profile and experimental results. It is therefore not 

inappropriate to classify these broad clay plains as Land Zone 5 features, although this 

reclassification has not been implemented in this study, due largely to the poorly constrained 

definition of what constitutes a LZ5 feature. For the purpose of this study, the majority of the 

alluvial landform on Saibai (and all of Boigu) has been classified as Land Zone 3, corresponding 

to the coastal plain of Bleaker (1983) on the adjacent PNG coast, which shares similarities in both 

landform and vegetation, and is classified as a Holocene feature (Blake and Ollier, 1970). The 

lateritised sediments on the coastal margins of Saibai are classified as Land Zone 7 features and 

are described in the following section. 


41


The classification of Land Zone 5 presents one of the most problematic aspects of land 

classification in the exercise, due largely to its relationship with more recent alluvial features and 

its often subtle characteristics which are not always immediately obvious. The Land Zone is 

most extensive on Moa and Muralug Islands, and discussion on the provenance of these features 

is provided below. Minor areas have been classified on Wednesday and Friday Islands, and a 

number of lateritised colluvial terraces on the south western side of Dauan have also been 

recognised in this category, and are described briefly towards the end of the section. 

Photograph 4. Extensive alluvial 

plains (Land Zone 3) on Saibai 

Island supporting Pandanus. The 

sinuous red-brown feature is a 

desiccated sedge swamp. Dauan 

Island is visible in the far right 

background of the photograph. 

Rationale for the classification of Land Zone 5 on Moa Island, considers the broad physiography 

and landform development of the island, and is described based largely on field observation. The 

present day morphology has been heavily influenced by the intrusion of the Badu Granite (Cub) 

into the Torres Strait Volcanics (Ct) in the Late Carboniferous period. This intrusion altered the 

mineral structure of the earlier volcanic rocks through extreme heating (hornfelsing) which 

hardened them, and resulted in a rock type that is resistant to weathering. The Badu granite in 

contrast, being coarse grained and fresh, was relatively susceptible to both physical and chemical 

breakdown. This differing susceptibility to erosion created an erosion gradient, particularly along 

granite contacts and the Badu Granite was eroded at a much faster rate than the more resilient 

Torres Strait Volcanics. Preferential erosion of the granite resulted in the deposition of significant 

quantities of coarse granite sand, which are well-preserved as thick, gently undulating sand plains 

in the present Moa landscape (incorporated in part into the landform type AS). Active deposition 

on these sand plains has largely ceased and they have been classified as Land Zone 5 features in 

this exercise in recognition of their relict status. It is however clear that these sand plains are 

likely to be of Quaternary age, and are significantly younger than the erosional plain which 

occupies more central parts of the island. Preferential erosion of the younger granite pluton has 

resulted in the broadly semi-circular rim of hardened volcanic rock evident on the southern and 

eastern margins of the island, which has channelled the bulk of the sedimentation towards the 

northwest into a broad topographic depression, where the best preserved and developed examples 

of these relicts sand plains are located. 

There is strong evidence in the present landscape to suggest that the extremely rapid erosion and 

deposition that resulted in formation of the sand plains slowed, or, that sediment deposition was 

re-directed. A considerable proportion of broad plain indicated as AS is clearly an erosional 

feature, with shallow residual sands overlying granite basement which protrudes as numerous 


42

corestones above the surface of what is an otherwise flat leached sandy plain. Residual terraces 

composed of coarse granite sand, being remnants of the former depositional landform, are limited 

to marginal areas of the erosional plain and have clearly retreated in their extent. This landscape 

almost certainly results from a much earlier period of weathering and is clearly a more typical 

Land Zone 5 feature. 

Photograph 5. Deeply weathered 

granite basement on erosional plain 

(Landform AS) on Moa Island. 

Changes in rates of sedimentation can be attributed to either shifts in climatic regime, or as a 

gradual cessation as landforms lower through denudation over time, and both of these 

mechanisms may have been partly responsible for a change in regime from deposition to erosion. 

A change in base level may also have contributed to the shifting regime. Pleistocene (122ka) sea 

level is reported to have been 5 m higher than present in the Cape York Peninsula region (Burne 

et al. 1995) and a drop in sea levels may have contributed to a shift in the regime from coastal 

plain deposition to erosion. An area of extremely weathered sand dune on the broad erosional 

plain provides a clear indication of higher sea levels in the past. It should be noted that this 

contrasts dramatically with the findings of Rowe (2007), who postulates on the basis of the pollen 

record, that sediment deposition rates in the last 2 500 years have increased dramatically due to 

anthropogenic disturbance (landscape burning) facilitating extensive freshwater swamp formation 

(expansion) on Moa Island. At least in the geomorphic sense, there is no evidence for this. 

Through whatever mechanism, this shift in sedimentary regime has resulted in a number of 

features on the north-west coastal plain which are considered unique to the island. Several low 

sandy rises on the north-western side of the island support open forest vegetation comprising 

Melaleuca quinquenervia, Syzygium angophoroides and Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra. 

If landscape position is ignored, these forests would normally be classified as swamp forests, 

typically occupying the lower permanently wet portions of the landscape. That these 

communities occupy low sandy rises presents some problems for landscape interpretation. The 

residual rises may represent relict sand dunes, although are too degraded for this to be 

demonstrated clearly. Vegetation on these rises is also significantly different from communities 

on weathered dunes in other locations, with sparse shrublands being more typical. With this 

considered, it is possible that the forest communities (mapped as VC9a) represent remnants of 

former swamplands that have been subject to a topographic reversal and now occupy the raised 

portions of the erosional plain. In any case, from a landscape sense, there is little alternative to 

classify these low rises as Land Zone 5 features.Furthermore, landform systems similar to the one 

described on Moa are identified on Muralug behind Big Buttertin Beach. In this area, coarse 

sandy terraces are scattered across a coastal plain where thin recent alluvial deposits overly a 


43

deeply leached kaolin profile. The classification of this coastal plain remains problematic, 

dependant largely on the depth of the recent alluvial cover. In the absence of any detailed soil 

auger sampling on these plains, visible surficial morphology provides the only sound basis for 

classification. As such, the classification places them within Land Zone 3. Future soil sampling 

efforts would be required to increase confidence in Land Zone classification in these areas, in 

particular, determination of the depth of recent alluvial cover. The sandy terraces rising above 

these gently sloping plains are often characterised by basal exposures of laterite and as such, are 

classified within Land Zone 5. It should however be considered likely that the sandy overburden 

is a superficial Quaternary deposit which, similar to Moa Island, has been stripped in adjacent 

areas. 

Photograph 6. Exposed laterite 

profile at the base of a remnant sand 

plain on Muralug Island. 

On Wednesday and Friday Islands, Land Zone 5 is recognised in midslope positions, typically on 

eroded and deeply weathered terraces. Iron stained kaolin cements the detrital sediment on 

Wednesday Island, and erosion gullies have incised the landform, generated through excessive 

surface run-off over a relatively impermeable substrate. The landform on Wednesday Island 

corresponds roughly to an area of deeply weathered sandstone reported in the vicinity by Wilmott 

(1977), however this sandstone outcrop was not observed during the traverse. Although in a 

similar topographic location on Friday Island, the facilitation of deep sediment weathering by the 

high permeability of the constituent coarse granitic sediment has favoured a period of relative 

landform stability. This stability has allowed preservation of relict alluvial features, although 

these features may be considerably younger than Tertiary age. 

The classification of Land Zone 5 extends northward to Dauan Island where series of truncated 

colluvial terraces fringe the base of the piedmont slope on the islands western side, mapped as 

landform type ‘T’. Examination of cuttings on these features exposed on drainage incisions 

demonstrates a strong lateritic horizon at approximately 60cm depth in the soil profile in some 

areas. These features have been classified with Land Zone 5 on account of their long term 

stability and weathering history. 

In summary, the classification of Land Zone 5 within the Torres Strait Islands applies to 

extensive erosional plains and remnant sand plains identified on Moa and Muralug Islands, 

weathered alluvial remnants associated with gully heads on Friday and Wednesday Islands, and 

minor areas associated with lateritised colluvial terraces on Dauan. Extensive coastal plains on 

the north-west side of Horn Island and to a lesser extent Wednesday and Friday Islands lack some 

of the geomorphic and landform features described for Moa and Muralug, which makes Land 


44

Zone classification more robust. Thin surficial layers of alluvial sediment and fine silica sand are 

present on some coastal plains on the inner islands although these are generally extremely 

shallow with the majority of the fringing coastal plain being influenced by alluvial process which 

is continuing in the present geomorphic regime. 


A minor area of mapped as Land Zone 7 (geol. prefix T) underlies the settlement on Saibai 

Island, forming the most topographically elevated portion of the island. This landform is 

currently undergoing significant landward erosion through undercutting and collapse of the iron 

cemented hard-pan layer, most actively during the summer periods where northerly trade winds 

prevail. The inclusion of this feature under the classification of Land Zone 7 is based on the 

lateritic exposure evident on the coastline, directed under advice from the Queensland Herbarium, 

and has not been validated through formalised soil profiles or geomorphic analysis. Due to the 

long history of settlement, this landform is largely devoid of remnant vegetation. 


Photograph 7. Slabby exposure of 

lateritic duricrust on the coastal 

fringe of Saibai township. 

Land Zone 8 poses few problems for classification, being restricted to the eastern group of islands 

including Mer, Erub and Ugar. Landforms associated with Land Zone 8, which include 

Pleistocene flow basalts and associated volcanic ejecta, have been adequately characterised in the 

introductory sections of this report (Section 1.1.3) and require little expansion in this section. 

Basaltic terraces and pavements subject to tidal inundation, supporting mangrove communities in 

some locations have been classified as Land Zone 1. 


Land zone 12 occupies a considerable proportion of the combined island mass, and as previously 

described in Section 1.1.3 (i.e. Islands Formed on Acidic Volcanic and Plutonic Basement), 

extends through all island groupings with the exception of the eastern group. This is a relatively 

simple group to define, including all igneous and volcanic rocks greater than Cainozoic in age, 

and as such extends to all basement outcrop in the Torres Strait Islands other than Pleistocene 

basalt. There is however significant chemical and structural variation within the grouping and in 


45

an attempt to better describe the landscape and provide a more comprehensive ecological 

analysis, a number of land zone sub-groupings have been recognised. 

Sub-groupings, as listed in Table 7, are characterised in respect to a rock types specific 

ecological properties. Rhyolite (R), which is extensive on the inner group of islands (including 

Muralug), is generally the least fertile grouping, being fine grained, and resilient to weathering. 

Granites weather to form sandy soils which are relatively well-drained, and can be relatively 

fertile depending on the percentage of iron and magnesium rich mineral in the parent rock. The 

Badu Granite, which comprises a significant proportion of the Badu, Moa, Dauan and Iama land 

masses, is relatively rich in biotite and derived soils are of moderate fertility (as a generalisation). 

By definition, diorite is richer in iron and magnesium rich minerals than both granite and rhyolite, 

and derived soils are of moderate fertility. This feature is a useful indicator to assist 

differentiation of forest types, for example, some of the best-developed examples of vine forest 

on foothills occupy diorite knolls and talus slopes on the south eastern-side of Muralug Island. 

A final classification recognises altered acid plutonic rocks classified as MG, and is indicative of 

rocks that have been hardened through superheating during subsequent intrusive events. These 

rocks, generally termed hornfels, are extremely resistant to weathering and often manifest in the 

landscape as rock piles and knolls comprised of boulder talus as on Moa Island. Although a 

metamorphic rock on a generic level, hornfels is grouped within Land Zone 12 in recognition of 

the limited chemical change parent material undergoes during the heating process. 

5.2 Regional Ecosystem Descriptions and Rationale for 

Classification 

This section provides descriptive notes on the occurrence and characteristics of RE’s in the study 

area. Features of each RE are discussed in relation to component vegetation communities with 

recognition of some marked structural and floristic variations which may occur within individual 

RE’s. It should also be noted that individual vegetation communities may be recorded in a range 

of regional ecosystems dependant on geological association. 

5.2.1 Regional Ecosystem 3.1.1 

Description: Closed forest of Rhizophora stylosa ± Bruguiera gymnorhiza. Occurs as outer 

mangroves. 

Status: Not of Concern 

Vegetation Communities: 24a (co), 24b, 24d, 12b 

Reference Sites: 41 Quaternary 

This is a highly complex and variable RE occupying intertidal areas, generally on the seaward 

fringe of mangroves where tidal exchange is greatest, although may be attenuated well inland 

along estuarine drainage systems. All islands sampled with the exception of the Coral Cays have 

some development of this regional ecosystem on their shorelines, although the most extensive 

occurs on the northern islands of Saibai and Boigu, as well as mangrove islands of Zagai, Buru 

and Sassie. The major component is open to closed forest although a range of structural 

variations including closed shrubland, mangrove woodland and low open forest have been 

included in the classification. As such, VC24a the major component of this RE is described as a 

mangrove forest, woodland and shrubland complex. Vegetation Community 24d is a purer 

expression of RE3.1.1 mapped on the mangrove tidal islands of Sassie and Buru. 


46

The mapping of VC24a as a complex reflects limitations in vegetation sampling which 

concentrated on terrestrial biodiversity values as required within the project scope. Vegetation 

sampling was insufficient to describe all floristic and structural components of this complex with 

confidence. Wherever possible, VC24c is separated from the mangrove complex to allow 

differentiation of RE3.1.2, which is discussed in following sections. There is however 

considerable complexing of this RE which is evident in the spatial data, particularly on the 

northern islands. This RE also includes small areas of Nypa forest on North-West Creek mapped 

as VC12b, and limited occurrences of Pemphis acidula and Osbornia octodonta dominated low 

closed forest on intertidal areas of Iama Island and Sassie Island (VC24b). 

This RE represents the best development of mangrove habitat in the Torres Strait. It provides 

important habitat for estuarine crocodiles, and may provide habitat for the vulnerable listed 

butterfly Hypochrysops apollo, and two other jewel butterflies H. narcissus and H. apelles (EPA 

2007). The occurrence of Nypa forest on Muralug is significant and representing an extension of 

geographical range north from the Jardine River mouth and is the only known occurrence 

between Cape York and PNG. The ecosystem also provides an important cultural resource 

supporting traditional hunting and fishing practises and is fundamental to marine biodiversity and 

fisheries. 

Photograph 8. Tall open forest with 

dominant Bruguiera sp. on Boigu 

Island (RE3.1.1). Canopy height of 

this community exceeded 35m. 

Photograph 9. A grove of Nypa 

Palm (Nypa fruticans) on North- 

West Creek, Muralug Island 

represents the most northern 

occurrence of the palm in Australian 

territory. 


47


Description: Avicennia marina ± Ceriops tagal low open forest landward side of mangroves 

Status: Of Concern 

Vegetation Communities: 24c, 23c, 24a 


Vegetation Community 24c: This regional ecosystem is extensive on the landward fringe of 

mangrove forest complexes, typically on the forest boundary between halophytic forbland 

(RE3.1.6) and Sporobolus grasslands (RE3.1.5). The major occurrences are on the northern 

islands of Saibai and Boigu where they are mapped as a component of mangrove complex type 

VC24a, although smaller areas are present on the majority of islands sampled and have been 

individually differentiated. The dominant canopy tree is Avicennia marina subsp. eucalyptifolia 

with the canopy varying markedly in both height and structure. The majority of communities 

sampled were woodlands, although tall open forests with canopy heights exceeding 30m were 

common on Boigu Island. This RE has been mapped separately wherever convenient, although it 

has been included in a broader complex with RE3.1.1 in the majority of areas. 

Photograph 10. A specimen of 

Avicennia marina subsp. 

eucalyptifolia exceeding 35m. Tall 

open forest (RE3.1.2) on Boigu 

Island. 


48

Photograph 11. Mangrove 

woodland dominated by Avicennia 

marina subsp. eucalyptifolia on 

Boigu Island (RE3.1.2). 

Vegetation Community 23c: The interior of Sassie Island hosts a unique ecosystem, mapped 

here as VC23c. The community is recognised in the sub-grouping of RE3.2.1b due to its limited 

aerial extent and lack of a more appropriate RE classification. This community provides a 

significant floristic departure from other VC’s allocated to this group and its floristic association 

presents features transitional between a mangrove and vine forest community. The canopy, 

which attains heights of 25m or greater, is dominated by the deciduous mangrove species 

Xylocarpus granatum with Manilkara kauki a co-dominant species. Due to difficult access, the 

community was observed from helicopter only and its shrub and ground cover composition in 

unknown. Investigation of similar Xylocarpus dominated forests, which form a fringe to vine 

forests on the islands southern coast, suggest that it occupies raised ridges of coral rubble above 

the height of average maximum tidal inundation. 

Photograph 12. The deciduous 

crowns of Xylocarpus granatum 

clearly visible in contrast to the 

evergreen nature of surrounding 

mangrove communities. Interior 

areas of Sassie Island. 


49


Description: Excoecaria agallocha ± Aegiceras corniculata closed scrub. Upper tidal reaches 

of rivers. 


Vegetation Communities: 23a 


This RE is extensive on Saibai Island, particularly on the brackish landward attenuations of tidal 

inlets where it forms a fringing community. 

Vegetation Community 23a: The dominant component VC23a is classified as a saline 

transitional community on account of its requirement for brackish conditions. Dominant canopy 

species are Excoecaria agallocha, Avicennia marina subsp. eucalyptoides, Bruguiera sp., 

Hibiscus tiliaceus and Thespesia populneoides. The type merges with VC2c in some locations 

where scattered vine forest species including Terminalia subacroptera may occur in the canopy 

together with Acacia leptocarpa. Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla may also be a prominent 

canopy species in some locations. Typical understorey species include Clerodendron inerme, 

Acanthus ilicifolius, and Cynanchum carnosum with Acrostichum aureum dominating the 

groundcover. 


Photograph 13. VC23a fringing 

brackish sedge swamps on Saibai 

Island. Excoecaria agallocha, 

Hibiscus tiliaceus and Thespesia 

populneoides form the dominant 

canopy species in this narrow fringe. 

Description: Sporobolus virginicus closed tussock grassland. Occurs on coastal plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 26a, 26b(co) 


Sporobolus virginicus dominant grasslands (VC26a) are extensive on the northern islands of 

Boigu and Saibai where they occupy the landward fringe on mangrove forest communities, often 

complexing with salt flats and halophytic forblands where they are mapped as VC26b. 

Associated species include Tecticornia australasica, Cynanchum carnosum, and Sesuvium 

portulacastrum. On margins Acrostichum aureum and Eleocharis dulcis may occur. Emergent 

shrubs to 1m may occur and include Avicennia marina, Bruguiera parviflora, Clerodendron 

inerme, Excoecaria agollocha, Thespesia populneoides and Wollastonia biflora. The community 


50

also forms a component of VC26b, mapped as a complex of sporobulus grassland and chenopod 

forbland. On Boigu Island, Sporobolus grasslands are seasonally burnt as traditional practice. It 

is postulated that burning prevents mangrove invasion, and by doing so, assists in the long-term 

maintenance of habitat diversity, also maintaining access for traditional prawning practices and 

hunting of introduced deer. 

Photograph 14. Recently burnt 

(Oct. 2007) Sporobolus grassland 

with open forest of Avicennia marina 

subsp. eucalyptifolia in background. 

Boigu Island. 


Description: Sparse herbland or bare saltpans. Associated with salt plains and saline flats. 


Vegetation Communities: 25a, 25b, 26b (co) 


RE3.1.6 is the dominant ecosystem in the northern island group with relatively extensive areas 

also occurring on the mid western islands of Moa and inner islands of Muralug and Horn. The 

RE manifests in response to hyper-saline conditions, a result of repetitive tidal wetting and 

subsequent evaporation. 

Vegetation Community 25a & 25b: The dominant floristic components of VC25a & VC25b 

are halophytic forbs including Tecticornia australasica, Halosarcia sp., Sarcocornia 

quinqueflora subsp. quinqueflora and Suaeda australis. Where these species form a prominent 

ground cover, they are mapped as VC25a. Areas of this RE, mapped as VC25b, lack any 

significant ground cover due to persistent salt scalding. Evaporite crusts may form in the lower 

depressions of these areas during dryer periods. The RE provides estuarine wetland habitat 

values. Small areas of VC25a form a componet of the estuarine complex VC26b. 


51

5.2.6 Regional Ecosystem 3.1.7 (New RE) 

Photograph 15. An evaporite crust 

on a saltpan on Saibai Island where 

the formation is mapped as VC25b. 

Photograph 16. Saltpan vegetation 

on Horn Island with clumps of the 

halophytic forbs Tecticornia 

australasica and Halorsarcia sp. in 

the foreground. These areas are 

mapped as VC25a. 

Preliminary Description: Preliminary Description – Schoenoplectus spp. Sedgelands 


Vegetation Communities: 27a, 27b 


This grouping is described as a new RE for the bioregion, restricted to island remnants of the Fly 

Platform. The community has two variants being a low open sedgeland of Schoenoplectus 

littoralis mapped as VC27a, and a taller sedgeland mosaic mapped as VC27b. 

Vegetation Community 27a: The variant 27a is prominent on both Saibai and Boigu Island and 

occupies drainage depressions on tidal flats in which variations in salinity depend on seasonal 

rainfall. During the wet season, these depressions accumulate freshwater, which progressively 

evaporates during drier periods to increase salinity. During the driest periods of the year, the 

wetlands are characterised by desiccated sedges including Schoenoplectus littoralis and 


52

Eleocharis dulcis often with an evaporate accumulation in drainage low points. These systems 

are dynamic and seasonal variations in species composition may lead to confusion with VC25b. 

The system does however appear unique to these northern islands and as such warrants 

recognition as a separate ecosystem. The habitat exhibits high integrity although there may be 

minor impacts associated with grazing of feral deer, although seasonal hunting controls this 

population. The extent of similar ecosystems on the Fly Platform of mainland PNG is unknown 

yet likely to be associated with the Wunji Land System (CSIRO 1971). The RE provides 

important estuarine wetland habitat values with likely habitat for estuarine crocodile, migratory 

waders, Jabiru and Sauras Crane and a cultural resource for traditional fishing and hunting. 

Vegetation Community 27b: The taller variant (VC27b) is restricted to Saibai Island where it 

occurs as a brackish wetland comprising extensive areas of tall sedgeland mosaiced with open 

areas of brackish water. The community forms where freshwater swamplands mix with estuarine 

waters, generally on the landward margins of mangrove forest complexes. Classification within 

Land Zone 1 is based on the regular tidal mixing, and the prominence of mangrove vegetation on 

the community margins. The community was originally mapped within the Map Unit 190 of 

Neldner and Clarkson (1995) and has been incorporated into RE3.3.63. The original description 

recognises that 48% of the community occurs on saline tidal flats. 

Photograph 17. Tall sedgeland/open 

wetland mosaic on the landward 

margins of mangrove forest complex 

(VC27b). Saibai Island. 

Photograph 18. Low sedgeland/ 

wetland communities on seasonal 

drainage depression. VC27a on 

Boigu Island. 


53

5.2.7 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.2a 

Description: Semi-deciduous vine thicket on coastal dunes and beach ridges 


Vegetation Communities: 1c, 2p, 2y, 2z, 16d(co), 16e(co), 16f(co), 16h(co), 16j(co), 16k(co) 

Reference Sites: 2 secondary, 9 Quaternary 

This classification is restricted to true thickets, which according to definition adopted in this study 

have canopy heights less than 9m. These communities are often floristically similar to RE3.2.1x1 

although the much lower stature warrants differentiation. They are also relatively widespread, 

mapped on most of the larger continental islands in the Torres Strait Area. The RE comprises 

VC1c, VC2p, VC2y, a dominant component of VC16j and components of a number of coastal 

foredune complexes. 

Vegetation Community 1c: VC1c is an evergreen thicket of windswept foredunes. Manilkara 

kauki forms the dominant (and often sole) canopy species. Associated species include Celtis 

philippensis, Terminalia muelleri, Diospyros maritima, Thespesia populneiodes, Drypetes 

deplanchei, Mimusops elengi, Smilax australis, Capparis sepiaria and Flagellaria indica. The 

stature is influenced by coastal exposure which limits canopy height. It is prominent on Erub 

with a minor occurrence mapped on Masig Island. 

Photograph 19. Low windswept 

evergreen vine thicket (VC1c) on the 

exposed south-eastern coast of Erub. 

The thicket is dominated by 


Vegetation Community 2p: The major occurrence of VC2p is on Moa Island, where it occupies 

foredune locations on broad coastal dune systems to the south of Saveka Point. In this location 

the community can be best described as a groved thicket with clumped trees reaching average 

canopy heights of 8m interspersed with bare areas of windblown sand. Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum, Premna serratifolia, Acacia crassicarpa and Manilkara kauki are the dominant 

canopy species with emergents of Bombax to 15m height. Subdominant taxa are Drypetes 

deplanchei, Pouteria sericea and Celtis philippensis with the associated species Acacia 

polystachya, Diospyros compacta, Exocarpos latifolius, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Canarium 

australianum, Carallia brachiata, Ficus virens, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Semecarpus 

australiensis, Terminalia meulleri, Sterculia quadrifida, Arenga australasica and 

Cochlospermum gillivraei. Arenga australasica (Vulnerable EPBC, NCA) is a prominent species 

in the sub-canopy layer on Moa Island. It is not likely that this unique feature can be extended to 

any mapped example of this community on other islands. 


54

Photograph 20. The broken canopy 

typical of VC2p, Moa Island. 

Arenga australasica is a prominent 

sub-canopy component of this 

thicket community. 

Vegetation Community 2y: The major occurrences of vine thicket type 2y (VC2y) were not 

sampled during the survey other than an overview of the community provided by a helicopter 

flight over Sassie Island, and some notes of the community provided in the ICC report (Freebody, 

2002) on the central portions of Deliverance Island. From this overview, the community has 

described as a semi-deciduous notophyll vine thicket with canopy heights of 3-6m dominated by 

Premna serratifolia, Manilkara kauki, and Terminalia sp. (Freebody, 2002). Extensive 

occurrences of the type appear restricted to Deliverance and Sassie Islands although minor, 

possibly unrepresentative areas are present on Tudu Island. 

Photograph 21. An example of 

VC2y on the eastern end of Sassie 

Island. The community forms a 

fringe between mangroves and 

coastline. 

Vegetation Community 2z/16j: Vegetation community 2z forms the dominant component of 

the foredune complex type 16j, which is mapped as a complex of notophyll vine thicket and 

foredune grassland/shrubland complex. Vegetation community 2z conforms reasonably with the 

RE type description, being typified by an uneven canopy composed of deciduous notophyll and 

occasional microphyll species. Constituent species are Sterculia quadrifida, Eugenia 

reinwardtiana, Manilkara kauki, Guettardia speciosa, Terminalia subacroptera., 

Cochlospermum gillivraei, Acacia crassicarpa, Premna serratifolia, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, 


55

Drypetes deplanchei, Diospyros maritima, Psydrax banksii, Elaeodendron melanocarpum, 

Capparis sepiaria, Turraea pubescens, Gyrocarpus americanus , Morinda citrifolia, Opilia 

armentacea, Capparis quiniflora, Cyclophyllum maritimum, Micromelum minutum, Pleurostylia 

opposita, Exocarpos latifolius, Tabernaemontana orientalis, Salacia chinensis, Alectryon 

reticulatus, Breynia cernua, Cayratia cardiophylla, Miliusa brahei and Pandanus tectorius. The 

communities uneven appearance is accentuated by the groved nature of the community which has 

scattered clumps of trees and shrubs relatively well-spaced and separated by bare sand or sparse 

tussock grasses and herbs. The community is represented in Photograph 22. 

5.2.8 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.2b 

Photograph 22. The typical 

structure of VC2z as a component of 

complex type 16j. Near Western 

Island Group. 

Preliminary Description: Semi-deciduous vine thicket on coastal dunes and beach ridges 

Preliminary Status: Of Concern 

Vegetation Communities: 2a, 2l, 2u, 9b 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary (Saibai SA1, SA94); 21 Quaternary 

This vegetation group sits uncomfortably in any current RE classifications groupings for Cape 

York Peninsula and has thus been proposed as a new RE type specific to the Torres Strait Islands. 

The proposed RE comprises four vegetation communities broadly described as semi-deciduous 

notophyll vine forests. The constituent communities are described briefly in the following 

section. 

Vegetation Community 2a: VC2a is restricted to the northern island group, with the best 

developed expression of the type on the south-eastern coastal margins of Saibai Island, although 

scattered occurrences are also found on the southern coast of Boigu Island and Gebar Island. The 

community occupies calcareous sand ridges, is deciduous in nature, and has maximum canopy 

heights of 35m in the better-developed examples. Erythrina variegata often dominates the 

uneven canopy with a mix of other deciduous species such as Terminalia subacroptera, Cordia 

subcordata, and Milletia pinnata and with evergreen species such as Manilkara kauki, Mimusops 

elengi and Aglaia elaeagnoidea. Associated canopy species are Acacia auriculiformis, Pandanus 

sp., Excoecaria agollocha, Guettardia speciosa, Premna serratifolia, Drypetes deplanchei, 

Exocarpos latifolius, Diospyros maritima, Diospyros compacta, Ficus virens, Garcinia warrenii, 

Carallia brachiata, Buchanania arborescens, Pouteria obovata, Sterculia quadrifida, Garuga 

floribunda var. floribunda, Hibiscus tiliaceus, and Terminalia catappa. The occasional presence 


56

of Heritiera littoralis, Xylocarpus granatum and Excoecaria agollocha is associated with an often 

sharp transition to mangrove forest. 

On the southern coasts of Saibai and Boigu this RE occupies the most elevated parts of the 

landscape and therefore has been a focus for traditional settlement. Parts of the coast continue to 

provide seasonal living and camping sites for traditional owners being accessed only by boat. 

The vegetation is likely to also provide important ethno-botanical resources. The occurrence of 

*Cocus nucifera and *Bambusa vulgaris may be associated with past and present areas of 

settlement. 

Photograph 23. Deciduous crowns 

of Erythrina variegata in a welldeveloped 

example of VC2a. Southeastern 

margins on Saibai Island. 

Vegetation Community 2l: A single example of VC2l was located on a broad degraded sand 

dune on the north-eastern side of Erub. Although restricted in area, this community was wellpreserved 

with minimum canopy disturbance and an intact ground and shrub layer. The canopy, 

which ranges from 12-25m, is dominated by Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum and Garuga 

floribunda var. floribunda with Gyrocarpus americanus and Diospyros maritima. Associated 

species are Diospyros hebecarpa, Drypetes deplanchei, Celtis philippensis and Manilkara kauki. 

Pre-clearing mapping indicates that this community has always had a highly restricted occurrence 

and is unique to Erub. VC2l supports the Alectryon repandodentatus (E) and the rare listed 

Neololeba atra. 

Photograph 24. The deciduous 

crowns of Garuga floribunda var. 

floribunda, Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum and Gyrocarpus 

americanus clearly visible in the 

canopy of VC2l. Erub Island. 


57

Vegetation community 2u: VC2u is the dominant variant in this proposed RE, being mapped on 

prograding dune sands in a number of locations including Muralug, Moa and Warral Islands, as 

well as having a preserved example in the eastern group of islands on Dauar Islet. The canopy 

ranges from 12 to 30m, with characteristic species Mimusops elengi, Sterculia quadrifida and 

Terminalia sp. although Manilkara kauki is always present. VC2u supports the vulnerable 

species Dendrobium biggibum (Cooktown Orchid) and Psydrax reticulata. 

Photograph 25. Well preserved and 

developed example of VC2u on 

Wongai Beach, Muralug Island. The 

dark green canopy is dominated by 


Vegetation Community 9b: VC9b was sampled to quaternary level on Muralug Island where it 

formed restricted groves on a broad dune amongst a broader area eucalypt dominant woodlands. 

The canopy is composed of species similar to VC2u, although Neofabricia myrtifolia is a 

dominant to co-dominant species. Mapping indicates that this vine forest variation has a limited 

distribution in the Torres Strait Islands. 


Description: Melaleuca dealbata ± Acacia crassicarpa open forest. Occurs in dune swales on 

the west coast. 


Vegetation Communities: 7g, 7e, 6d, 16g (co) 

Reference Sites: 8 Quaternary Sites 

Melaleuca dealbata has relatively restricted distribution in the mapping area, confined mostly to 

the Inner Islands and Near Western islands of Muralug and Moa. Where it occurs on coastal 

dunes, it is generally restricted to narrow linear swales which are relatively difficult to represent 

in a spatial sense due to scale, although where possible, these communities have been 

differentiated. Three vegetation communities and one vegetation complex comprise the 

representation of this RE in the island group and these are described below. 

Vegetation Community 7g: The best development of the RE is represented by VC7g, which is a 

common dune swale community on the south-west side of Muralug (see Photograph 26). To the 

immediate north of North-West Beach (Site PWS42) an extensive occurrence of this community 

occupies a dune swale complex with Melaleuca dealbata open forest occupying the dune swales, 

and lower Melaleuca dealbata woodland inhabiting the dune crests. The dune crests support a 

dense grassy groundcover, whilst swales, being seasonal swamps, are largely devoid of 

vegetation. To the south, this community separates into a dune complex with crests composed of 


58

Acacia crassicarpa woodland (RE3.2.5) with associated Syzygium suborbiculare, Sterculia 

quadrifida, Grevillea parallela, and Parinari nonda. Melaleuca dealbata forest is attenuated 

along the dune swales. This complex of vegetation types has been mapped as VC16g. 

Vegetation Community 7e: Vegetation community 7e (see Photograph 27) is a lower variant 

of the RE, mapped on Moa Island in a back dune swale to the south of Saveka Point. The variant 

is characterised by a mixed canopy of dominant Melaleuca dealbata with Lophostemon 

suaveolens and Melaleuca saligna. Mapped distributions indicate that this type, potentially a new 

RE sub-type, has an extremely limited occurrence. 

Vegetation Community 6d: Vegetation community 6e, located on Possession Island, was 

sampled by helicopter reconnaissance only. Observations indicate that the dominant canopy 

comprises Acacia crassicarpa with a mix of Melaleuca species which may include Melaleuca 

dealbata and Melaleuca cajuputi. The community occupies a dune swale and through brief 

observation appears to occupy a swampier landform than the previously described communities. 

Photograph 26. Vegetation 

community 7g, occupying a dune 

swale at site PWS42. 


Community 7e on Moa Island. 

Melaleuca dealbata forms the 

dominant canopy with Lophostemon 

suaveolens and Melaleuca saligna 

forming sub-dominant canopy 

components. 


59


Description: Melaleuca leucadendra ± M. dealbata open forest. In dune swales and swamps.. 


Vegetation Communities: 7b, 7d, 7f, 3e, 16c (co) 

Reference Sites: 4 Secondary Sites (PWQ4, MO66, MO20, BAS39), 17 Quaternary Sites 

Melaleuca leucadendra dominant communities are a relatively frequent community on dune 

swale systems of the Inner and Near Western Island groups. The extent of this RE is somewhat 

broadened by a range of Melaleuca dominant communities. These communities provide valuable 

wetland (palustrine) habitat and may be inundated for a number of months over the wet season. 

Vegetation Community 7b: Melaleuca saligna forms the dominant canopy in VC7b, which is a 

relatively widespread community in dune swale systems on Moa Island where it is mapped as RE 

sub-type 3.2.4d. Remnants of it are also recognised on Mabuiag Island where it has been 

extensively cleared for residential development. It is ecologically and structurally similar to 

VC7f although canopy heights are often significantly lower, in the range of 15 to 20m. There is 

currently no RE or RE subtype classification that comfortably accommodates this vegetation 

community and it is suggested that an additional RE sub-type be erected to provide a suitable 

classification. Dependant on studies of the broader CYP bio-region, a sufficient extent of this 

community may be recognised to warrant an individual RE classification. A complex of VC7b 

and 14t (RE3.2.5) recognised near Kubin on Moa Island as complex type 16c (sites MOQ118 to 

MOQ120) appears to be similarly unique. 

Vegetation Community 7d: Melaleuca quinquenervia forms the dominant canopy component 

of VC7d (sampled at Site MOQ66), which is restricted to a broad swale south of Saveka Point on 

Moa Island. The community is mapped as RE sub-type 3.2.4b in this exercise, based on 

recommendations from the Queensland Herbarium. Sub-dominant canopy species in this 

community include Lophostemon suaveolens, Melaleuca saligna and Melaleuca cajuputi and 

canopy heights attain 20m. The sub canopy is dominated by Livistona muelleri and includes 

Lophostemon suaveolens, Melaleuca quinquenervia, Acacia crassicarpa and a host of epiphytes 

such as Myrmecodia platytyrea subsp. antoinii, Dendrobium triamellatum, Dischidia major and 

Hydnophytum moseleyanum var. moseleyanum. A sparse understorey comprises Acacia 

leptocarpa, Melaleuca quinquenervia, Acacia crassicarpa, Livistona muelleri and Glochidion 

disparipes. Similar communities are classified as RE sub-type 3.2.4b in current mapping 

databases (REDD, Version 5.2, 2007) and this occurrence has been similarly classified. The 

extent of such communities in the Torres Strait Islands appears however to be extremely 

restricted. 

Photograph 28. Low open forest 

with dominant Melaleuca saligna 

(VC7b) in a dune swale on Moa 

Island (MOQ122). 


60

Photograph 29. Open forest with 

dominant Melaleuca quinquenervia 

(VC7d) in a dune swale on Moa 

Island (MOS66). 

Photograph 30. Extensive swamp 

forest of Melaleuca quinquenervia 

(VC7d) nestled in deflationary 

hollow (LZ2). Near Western Island 

Group. 

Vegetation Community 7f: VC7f forms what would probably be considered the type example 

of RE3.2.4 (classified in this exercise as RE3.2.4a) comprising a tall open forest of Melaleuca 

leucadendra (canopy 30-35m). In its best development sampled behind Long Beach on Muralug 

(Site PWQ4) the sub-canopy is extremely sparse comprising Livistona muelleri, Melaleuca 

saligna, Melaleuca cajuputi and Ficus virens. Well-developed examples also occur on Friday 

Island (Site FQ3) where the understorey of the features Livistona muelleri, Glochidion 

apodogynum, Cyclophyllum maritimum, Alstonia spectabilis, Mimusops elengi, Breynia cernua, 

Acacia polystachya, Pandanus tectorius, Gymnosporia inermis, and Vitex acuminata. 


61

Photograph 31. Tall open forest of 

Melaleuca leucadendra (VC7f) at its 

maximum development behind Long 

Beach on Muralug Island (Site 

PWQ4) 

Vegetation Community 3e: Lophostemon suaveolens dominant forests on coastal dunes are not 

common in the study area although representative communities are present on Badu Island where 

they form swamp forests on broad deflation plains. In these communities, Deplanchea 

tetraphylla, Asteromyrtus brassii, Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra and Acacia 

crassicarpa are prominent canopy associates. These communities are recognised as RE sub-type 

3.2.4c (REDD Version 5.2, 2007) and have been similarly classified here. The community often 

forms broad, poorly defined mosaics and complexes with Melaleuca quinquenervia dominant 

swamp forest (VC7d/RE3.2.4b). The shrub layer supports Macaranga involucrata subsp. 

mallotoides with a groundcover dominated by Blechnum indicum, Scleria sp. and Canavalia 

papuana. 


Lophostemon suaveolens and 

Deplanchea tetraphylla in complex 

with Melaleuca quinquenervia 

dominant open forest on Badu Island 

(VC3e). 


62


Description: Acacia crassicarpa ± Syzygium suborbiculare ± Parinari nonda woodland. On 

beach ridges. 


Vegetation Communities: 6c, 5p, 6g, 14v, 14t, 14q, 16c(co),16d(co), 16b(co), 16g(co) 

Reference Sites: 10 Quaternary Sites. (Includes MO118, NAQ9, NAQ6, FRQ2). 

Acacia crassicarpa dominant communities are common on prograding coastal dune and beach 

ridge systems, particularly on Muralug within the Inner Island Group. Vegetation communities 

comprising RE3.2.5 are structurally and floristically variable, ranging from tall shrublands to low 

open woodlands, often with a mix of associated shrubland and woodland species. Acacia 

crassicarpa may form a sub-dominant component of some of the communities grouped under this 

classification. 

Vegetation Community 6c: The type example of this RE is VC6c, represented as RE3.2.5a in 

the RE mapping, is common on prograding beach ridge complexes typically found on the west 

coast of Muralug. The dominant canopy comprises Acacia crassicarpa which is generally 

associated with a number of vine forest and woodland species such as Sterculia quadrifida, 

Terminalia subacroptera, Syzygium suborbiculare, Parinari nonda, Cochlospermum gillivraei, 

Neofabricia myrtifolia, Grevillea parallela, and Melaleuca viridiflora. The community typically 

forms a low open woodland community with bare sand clearly visible between canopy trees on 

account of the sparse ground cover. Due to the frequent, although repetitive change in edaphic 

conditions across these dune sequences, these communities are commonly mapped as 

components of coastal dune complexes, as has been applied with VC16b, VC16d and VC16g. 

Vegetation Community 5p: Vegetation community 5p has been mapped wherever Corymbia 

species, (generally Corymbia novoguinensis, Corymbia clarksoniana or less commonly C. 

tessellaris), form prominent emergents or canopy components, represented as RE subtype 3.2.5b. 

Typically, Corymbia components are sparse, scattered as sub-dominant or co-dominant 

components of the canopy layer with species such as Parinari nonda, Sterculia quadrifida, 

Acacia crassicarpa, Canarium australianum and Alphitonia excelsa otherwise typical of VC6c. 

A Long-Fruited Bloodwood thought to be Corymbia polycarpa was collected on Muralug and 

Horn Islands 5 . The community is represented in Photograph 34. 

Vegetation Community 6g: The broad system of stabilised transgressive dunes to the southwest 

of the Badu Island township host this relatively well-developed acacia dominant open forest 

type. Canopy heights are may reach 28m in some locations although communities of much lower 

stature (12-15m) are a more typical representation. Acacia crassicarpa dominates the canopy 

with Asteromyrtus brassii forming a prominent co-dominant to sub-dominant canopy species. A 

range of associated species including Melaleuca dealbata and Corymbia novoguinensis may be 

scattered sparsely throughout the canopy structure. In some locations, Asteromyrtus brassii may 

dominate the canopy although such areas are generally restricted. The predominant sub-canopy 

comprises Asteromyrtus brassii, Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra, and Lophostemon 

suaveolens with characteristic species of the shrub layer including Astermomyrtus brassii, 

Dodonaea polyandra, Endiandra glauca, Halfordia kendack, Exocarpos latifolius, Psydrax 

banksii, Litsea glutinosa, Deplanchea tetraphylla, and Breynia oblongifolia. A dense low shrub/ 

groundcover layer of Lomandra banksii is a general feature of this community in association with 

Alyxia spicata, Lithomyrtus obtusa, Shizaea dichotoma and Panicum sp. As with the majority of 

acacia dominant communities, VC6g is indicative of past disturbance and may be a seral stage in 

a successional sequence from shrubland to eucalypt woodland. Alternatively, the forest type may 

be indicative of a severe fire scarring within a former eucalypt dominant community that is in a 

5 (DGF9219+DJS, DGF9221+DJS) 


63

elatively advanced stage of recovery. Community 6g is recognised as sub-type variant RE3.2.5c 

on account of atypical structural features and geomorphic association. Representation is provided 

in Photograph 35. 

Photograph 33. Acacia crassicarpa 

dominant woodland (VC6c) as a 

component of VC16d. Muralug (Site 

PWQ48). 

Photograph 34. Low open 

woodland of Acacia crassicarpa, 

Grevillea parallela and Corymbia 

spp. typical of VC5p. This 

photograph is taken at Site PWQ71 

to the North of Bampfield Head on 

Muralug. 

Photograph 35. Well-developed 

Acacia crassicarpa dominant open 

forest with associated Asteromyrtus 

brassii (VC6g). Stabilised 

transgressive dunes system. Near 

Western Island Group. 


64

Vegetation Community 14t/16c: This VC is represented on Moa Island as a component of dune 

complex type 16c (Site MO118), as well as a number of examples mapped individually on 

Muralug Island (PWO47). The community represents a sparse shrubland with dominant species 

including Cochlospermum gillivraei, Canarium australianum, Eugenia reinwardtiana, 

Terminalia subacroptera with Pandanus sp. dominating in some areas. In the complex type 16c, 

the shrubland component occupies dune crests, separated by Melaleuca saligna/Melaleuca 

acacioides open forest in narrow dune swales. The community is represented in Photograph 36. 

Photograph 36. Shrubland VC14t 

occupying beach ridges on Moa 

Island at site MOQ118. 

Vegetation Community 14v: Shrubland community 14v is confined to Naghir Island where it 

manifests on exposed crests of aeolian dunes. Shrubs are generally low and sparse, dominated by 

Grevillea parallela, Acacia crassicarpa, Acacia polystachya, Terminalia subacroptera, 

Exocarpos latifolius and occasionally Eucalyptus leptophleba over a ground cover of 

Heteropogon triticeus and the exotic Hyptis suaveolens. A similar shrubland forms a component 

of VC16e on the aeolian dune system of Friday Island. The shrubland is represented in 

Photograph 37, taken at Site NAQ9. Due to its considerable departure from the RE3.2.25 type 

description, the inclusion of this community as an RE subtype should be considered. Disjunct 

populations of Eucalyptus leptophleba on Naghir represent the northern limit of the species 

geographical range. 

Photograph 37. Shrubland type 

VC14v on exposed crests of aeolian 

dunes on Naghir Island (NAQ9). The 

dominant shrub in this location is 

Eucalyptus leptophleba. 

. 


65

Vegetation Community 14q: A species of Cycas thought to be a disjunct population of Cycas 

badensis forms a low shrubland on low parallel dunes on the north-west coast of Moa Island 

where it is mapped as VC14q. The community was observed during a helicopter survey and 

although not sampled on the ground, is relatively extensive, continuous, and readily differentiated 

as a discrete vegetation unit. The community is represented in Photograph 38. 


Description: Casuarina equisetifolia woodland. Occurs on foredunes. 


Vegetation Communities: 10a, 16e(co) 16f (co), 16b (co), 10b 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (Masig; YO5, YO6, YO16), 7 Quaternary Sites. 

Photograph 38. Cycas badensis 

forming a shrubland community on 

low parallel dunes. North –west coast 

of Moa Island (VC14q). 

Casuarina equisetifolia forms a prominent woodland community on foredunes throughout many 

of the islands in the study area, both on continental islands and coral cays. It is apparent through 

examination of a considerable number of Casuarina dominant communities throughout the study 

area that structural variations to this community occur, and the current descriptions provide an 

inadequate account of these variations. 

In a similar fashion to VC5p, frequent edaphic change across prograding dune systems has often 

resulted in a complexing of this RE with associated dune shrubland and woodland communities. 

These complexes are classified as VC16b and VC16f, the latter being a particularly welldeveloped 

example on the south coast of Friday Island where Casuarina equisetifolia woodland 

complexes with vine thicket (RE3.2.2). Vegetation community 10b provides what would 

generally be considered a typical representation of RE3.2.6, (represented in the RE attributes as 

RE3.2.6a) where Casuarina equisetifolia forms a woodland community over a ground cover of 

sprawling herbs and grasses typical of foredune communities. Such examples are best 

represented on the west coast of Muralug (on Bampfield and Long Beach) where woodlands 

typically reach 30m height and mix with scattered coastal vine forest species trees, most 

commonly Terminalia catappa. This would represent the maximum development of the type, 

and more typical examples on coastal foredunes would rarely reach an average canopy height of 

greater than 20m. 


66

Photograph 39. Maximum 

development of VC10b on 

Bampfield Beach where Casuarina 

equisetifolia mixes with vine forest 

species. 

Photograph 40. Vegetation complex 

16f on Friday Island where 

Casuarina woodland complexes with 

notophyll vine thicket. The Acacia 

in foreground right is Acacia oraria. 

Casuarina dominant communities which occur on the central group of islands and coral cays in 

particular, are poorly represented in the literature. Open forest of Casuarina equisetifolia forms 

the dominant vegetation type of Masig and Kodel Islands. Canopy heights ranging from 18 to 

25m are typical over a dense sub-canopy of vine forest species (height range of 10 to 15m) 

dominated by Diospyros maritima, Pouteria obovata, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Diospyros compacta, 

Cyclophyllum maritimum and Terminalia subacroptera. Previous classification efforts have 

recognised the vine forest component only; however repeated measurement over three detailed 

sites in this survey clearly indicates that PFC of Casuarina is typically 60 to 80% with basal area 

measurement of 8-10m 2 /ha. This structural variation, represented as VC10a, is resticted to coral 

cays in the central island ground where they have been assigned to RE sub-type 3.2.6b. 


67

Photograph 41. Open forest of 

Casuarina equisetifolia with a vine 

forest sub-canopy on Masig. The 

community is rapidly being 

fragmented to accommodate 

expanding sewerage infrastructure 

requirements. 


Description: Corymbia intermedia or C. clarksoniana woodland in wet coastal areas. 


Vegetation Communities: 5i, 5o, 16e (co) 


Vegetation Community 5i: Vegetation Community 5i, representing a ‘type community’ for 

RE8.3.7 is restricted largely to the Inner Island Group with sampled communities on Muralug, 

Horn, and Wednesday Islands. Corymbia clarksoniana forms an open forest community at sites 

PW3 (Muralug) and H17 (Horn), with a canopy height range of 18 to 23m and a typical sub 

canopy composed of Neofabricia myrtifolia, Acacia crassicarpa and Parinari nonda. 

Communities on Wednesday Island mapped as VC5i (Site WEQ13 and WEQ15) are dominated 

by Corymbia novoguinensis with a sparse sub canopy of Parinari nonda, Acacia crassicarpa and 

Livistona muelleri (see Photograph 42). The shrub layer is well-defined and dominated by 

Jacksonia thesioides, Alyxia spicata, Parinari nonda, Acacia crassicarpa, Psydrax reticulata (V), 

Premna dallachyana, Syzygium suborbiculare, Psychotria poliostemma, Breynia oblongifolia, 

Psydrax banksii, Terminalia subacroptera, Smilax australis and Lithomyrtus retusa. 

Vegetation Community 5o/16e: A sub-type of this RE is represented by woodland an open 

forest communities composed of Corymbia tessellaris. This sub-type was poorly sampled, 

although clearly visible as community on younger dune sequences on the north-west facing 

embayments of Muralug during helicopter and charter boat survey where it is mapped as VC5o. 

The community was also sampled as a component of VC16e, a woodland/shrubland complex on 

younger aeolian dune systems on Friday Island (Photograph 43) where an open shrub layer 

comprised Acacia crassicarpa, Sterculia quadrifida, Alstonia spectabilis, Alstonia actinophylla, 

Croton arnhemicus, Stephania japonica, Premna serratifolia, Mallotus nesophila, Canarium 

australianum, Smilax australis and Atalaya sericopetala. 


68


Photograph 42. VC5i on 

Wednesday Island (WEQ15) with 

dominant canopy composed of 

Corymbia novoguinensis. 

Photograph 43. VC16e forms a 

complex of woodland and shrubland 

communities on Friday Island. The 

woodland community is composed 

of Corymbia tessellaris which are 

visible on the skyline (Site FR2). 

Description: Corymbia nesophila ± C. novoguinensis ± Eucalyptus spp. woodland on old 

stabilised dunes. 


Vegetation Communities: 5k, 5n, 5m, 5q 


Vegetation Community 5k: Corymbia nesophila dominant communities on coastal dunes are 

restricted in the mapping area. The RE would most typically be represented by VC5k (on coastal 

dunes), which is limited to a number of minor areas that have not been adequately ground truthed. 

Vegetation Community 5n: It is mapped as a number of disjunct occurrences on weathered 

(Pleistocene?) dune systems on the west coast of Muralug. In the representative Site PWQ40, 

Eucalyptus platyphylla forms the dominant canopy tree, ranging in height from 21-27m, with 


69

Erythrophleum chlorostachys a sub-dominant component. Corymbia clarksoniana occasionally 

reaches the canopy and is co-dominant with Erythrophleum chlorostachys in the sub canopy. 


Community 5n at Site (PWQ40) on 

Muralug Island. Eucalyptus 

platyphylla forms the dominant 

canopy species. 

Vegetation Community 5m & 5q: Variant VC5m is restricted to the north-coast of Wednesday 

Island on weathered back-dune situations. It forms a low woodland community with dominant 

Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis at heights of 10-12m. Acacia crassicarpa forms a sparse 

sub-canopy layer over a mid dense shrub layer of Cochlospermum gillivraei and Melaleuca 

stenostachya at 3-6m. The degraded dune feature which hosts this community merges landward 

with a sandy alluvial plain with negligible change in community floristics or structure. The open 

forest form of this community. Where Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis forms an open 

forest, generally in absence of the dense shrub layer, the community is mapped as VC5q. 

Photograph 45. Low woodland to 

open forest of Corymbia stockeri 

subsp. peninsularis (VC5q) on a 

weathered backdune situation. 

Wednesday Island at Site WEQ3. 


70

5.2.15 Regional Ecosystem 3.2.10c 

Description: Eucalyptus tetrodonta, Corymbia clarksoniana ± E. brassiana or Erythrophleum 

chlorostachys woodland on stabilised dunes. 


Vegetation Communities: 5j 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary Sites (PWS6, PWS69) 

Vegetation Community 5j: Regional Ecosystem 3.2.10c occurs only on the western coast of 

Muralug Island where older dune systems are well preserved and relatively extensive. The RE is 

typified by VC5j which provides a mix of species relatively representative of the RE type 

description. Eucalyptus tetrodonta dominates the canopy which reaches heights of greater than 

30m in most communities. Corymbia nesophila forms a sub-dominant to co-dominant canopy 

component in some communities with Corymbia novoguinensis and Corymbia clarksoniana 

locally prominent, although more abundant in sub-canopy layers. Erythrophleum chlorostachys 

is nearly always present in varying quantities. Sub-canopy species are relatively variable 

although Erythrophleum chlorostachys, Corymbia clarksoniana and Neofabricia myrtifolia are 

typical and were present in the sub-canopies of most communities sampled. The characteristic 

understorey is composed of Xylomelum scottianum, Acacia leptocarpa, Acacia platycarpa, 

Acacia crassicarpa, Acacia polystachya, Melaleuca viridiflora, Neofabricia myrtifolia, 

Planchonia careya, Grevillea parallela, Jacksonia thesioides, Leucopogon ruscifolius, Alphitonia 

excelsa, Syzygium suborbiculare with associated vine thicket species such as Cupaniopsis 

anacardioides, Sterculia quadrifida, Mallotus nesophila and Drypetes deplanchei. 


Description: Melaleuca arcana low open forest. Associated with dune swamps. 


Vegetation Communities: D13h 

Reference Sites: HI15 


Eucalyptus tetrodonta on degraded 

sand dunes at Site PWS6 (Muralug 

Island). 

Vegetation Community 13h: Regional Ecosystem 3.2.14 is restricted to a single occurrence on 

Horn Island, expressed as a low closed shrubland which forms a semi-circular swamp within a 

broader relict dune system. Melaleuca arcana is the dominant species forming a shrub layer 

rarely exceeding 1.5m. The ground cover is dominated by Restionaceae spp. The occurrence of 

M. arcana in this locality represents an extension of geographical range north from the Jardine 


71

River. The community is therefore unique in the Torres Strait regional context with future 

consideration to fire management requirements important for its long-term preservation. 


Photograph 47. A low swamp 

shrubland of Melaleuca arcana. Site 

HI15 on Horn Island. 

Photograph 48. Melaleuca arcana. 

Site HI15 on Horn Island. 

Description: Melaleuca viridiflora, Neofabricia myrtifolia woodland on beach ridges. 


Vegetation Communities: D8c, D13a, D17i 

Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (BAS20), 1 Quaternary (PWQ5) 

Two VC’s are classified under this ecosystem, of which VC13a is the most prominent. 

Characteristics of these vegetation communities are summarised below. 

Vegetation Community 13a: Melaleuca viridiflora shrubland and low woodland occupies 

extensive areas on the broad degraded sand dunes of Badu Island. The community in this 

location forms a low woodland of 8 to 12m height dominated by Melaleuca viridiflora with 

scattered Asteromyrtus brassii and rare Corymbia novoguinensis. The sparse shrub layer is 

composed of Banksia dentata, Pandanus sp., and scattered Acacia crassicarpa. Ground covers 


72

are similarly sparse, dominated by Dapsilanthus spathaceus and a range of scattered herbs such 

as Drosera spatulata, Eriocaulon sp. and Dianella sp. In the better developed deflationary sand 

sheets on Badu Island, the community forms a sparse shrubland, verging on a sedgeland in areas 

where deflation has scoured the overlying sand sheet to its erosional base level (on the capillary 

fringe of the water table). Several examples of this community are also represented on Horn 

Island in association with a low dune-swale complex, where the structural and floristic affinities 

are similar to the examples on Badu Island. 

In some locations on Badu Island the Melaleuca shrub layer becomes very sparse, and the 

structural formation grades to a Dapsilanthus spathaceus dominant sedgeland generally with 

scattered emergent shrubs. These areas are mapped as VC17i, although are retained within the 

broader group of RE3.2.15. 

Photograph 49. Low woodland of 

Melaleuca viridiflora (VC13a) 

occupying degraded sand dunes on 

Badu Island (BAS20). 

Vegetation Community 8c: A variant of the RE, represented as VC8c was mapped on the 

tapering slope of an old dune system on Muralug Island. The canopy of this community was 

dominated by Lophostemon suaveolens with Corymbia clarksoniana, Asteromyrtus 

symphyocarpa, Melaleuca saligna and Melaleuca viridiflora scattered evenly throughout. 

Melaleuca viridiflora, Pandanus sp., and Banksia dentata formed the dominant sub-canopy 

component. Corymbia latifolia (shown in Photograph 50) was recorded in this community and 

in adjoining woodlands of E. tetrodonta and C. nesophila on old beach ridges. The species is 

known previously from a collection housed at the NSW Herbarium (T. Bean pers. comm. Jan 08). 

Its occurrence on Muralug and on Zuna verifies a considerable extension of the geographical 

extent being otherwise known only from the Northern Territory and West Kimberley Region 

(Brooker et al. 1994) and south west Papua (Conn et al. 2006+). Due to the extremely limited 

size of this community, it has been classified under RE3.2.15, in the absence of a more suitable 



73


Photograph 50. Corymbia latifolia 

(DGF9199+DJS) forms a scattered 

canopy tree in VC8b on Muralug 

(Site PWQ5). 

Description: Leucopogon yorkensis ± Asteromyrtus brassii open heath on old beach ridges. 


Vegetation Communities: 14n, 14e, 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (PO4, HI14, MO148) 

Vegetation communities 14n and 14e provide representation for RE3.2.19. These communities 

have a scattered distribution, with small areas mapped on Horn, Possession, Muralug and Moa 

Islands where they occupy deeply leached sand deposits of relict beach ridges. 

Vegetation Community 14n: This community is classified as RE3.2.19a based on advice 

provided by the Queensland Herbarium. On Horn Island, the community represents a shrubland 

dominated by Acacia crassicarpa, Neofabricia myrtifolia, Leucopogon ruscifolius, L. yorkensis, 

and Cochlospermum gillivraei. These species form a relatively uneven shrubland canopy from 4 

to 8m tall and with a scattered low shrub layer of Pouteria sericea, Psydrax banksii, Exocarpos 

latifolius, Myrsine sp., Alyxia spicata, Breynia oblongifolia, Pandanus sp., Jacksonia thesioides, 

Drypetes deplanchei and Notelaea ovata. The groundcover is sparse of Lomandra banksii, 

Aristida sp., and Dianella bambusifolia. Sterculia quadrifida and Premna serratifolia are 

associated with a number of additional shrubs including Grevillea parallela and Pouteria sericea 

which join the mix of species on Possession Island. Representative examples of this community 


74

are also mapped on Badu Island where the community occupies a broad dune formation. On 

Badu, Leucopogon ruscifolius and Acacia crassicarpa form the dominant sparse shrubby canopy, 

although scattered emergents of Corymbia novoguinensis and Syzygium suborbiculare are 

occasionally present. The representation on Badu Island occupies an unstable transgressive dune 

sequence (as discussed in Section 1.1.3 and shown in Photograph 1) and appears to be a 

transitional to better developed open forest and woodland types on more stable dune formations. 

A representative community on Possession Island is shown in Photograph 51. 

Vegetation Community 14e: A single representative unit of VC14e has been mapped on Moa 

Island where it is represented as RE sub-type 3.2.19b. This community is structurally dissimilar 

to the RE type description, and has been assigned to RE3.2.19 in the absence of a more suitable 

classification. The community is a dwarf open shrubland dominated by Leucopogon ruscifolius 

with co-dominant Melaleuca viridiflora and subdominant Asteromyrtus brassii and Baeckea 

frutescens. Associated species are Banksia dentata, Acacia crassicarpa, Alyxia spicata and 

Exocarpos latifolius. The epiphytes Dischidia major and Myrmecodia platytyrea subsp. antoinii 

are abundant throughout. Ground cover, dominated by Dapsilanthus spathaceus, Schoenus 

sparteus, Lomandra banksii and Dianella bambusifolia is sparse, with areas of bare sand between 

the scattered shrubs. The community occupies a deeply leached sand sheet, which forms a low 

rise above the Tertiary sand plain on which it sits, interpreted to be a relict sand dune based on its 

position in the landscape and broad crescent shape. The VC is illustrated in Photograph 52. 

Photograph 51. A relatively 

extensive occurrence of VC14n 

(RE3.2.19) on Possession Island. 

Photograph 52. Sparse low 

shrubland 14e (RE3.2.19) on relict 

dune. Moa Island (MO148). 


75


Description: Closed herbland of mixed graminoids and forbs. Occurs on exposed foredunes 


Vegetation Communities: 17d, 17j, 16a (co), 16b (co), 16h (co), 16k (co) 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (YOS02, YOS13, YOS16), 1 Quaternary (TU8) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.2.24 forms an almost universal cover on the majority of coastal foredune 

communities sampled, although its best development is often associated with sand cay islands of 

the eastern group, particularly on foredune communities where sand actively accumulates. 

Vegetation Community 17j is the dominant component of this ecosystem forming an open to 

closed grassland and forbland complex composed of species including Spinifex sericeus, Vigna 

marina, Ipomoea pes-capre subsp. brasiliensis, Cassytha filiformis and a range of halophytic 

forbs such as Sesuvium portulacastrum. Grasses including Mnesithea rottboellioides and 

Heteropogon triticeus form a prominent ground cover where the community is mapped as 

VC17d, although such grassland areas are often an indication of prior disturbance. 

The representation of this RE as a homogenous ecosystem is rare due to the fine scale ecotonal 

change across foredune systems evident in the majority of locations. This ecosystem typically 

complexes with RE3.2.25 (VC14y) where it merges on the leaward side of dunes with low 

shrubland. In such locations, the community is mapped as complex 16a. It also mixes with a 

range of other ecosystems including RE3.2.2 and RE3.2.6 represented in the mapping as complex 

types 16b and 16k. The RE provides an important rookery for sea turtles. 


Photograph 53. Typical structure of 

RE3.2.24 (VC17j) on Masig Island 

(YOS2). 

Description: Sparse herbland of mixed herbaceous species on foredunes and beach ridges. 


Vegetation Communities: 16i, 14y, 16a (co), 16j (co) 

Reference Sites: 1 secondary (YOS4), 1 Quaternary (TU8) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.2.25 is composed of VC16i and VC14y, forming low sparse shrublands 

and shrublands respectively. The ecosystem generally occurs on foredune locations in 

association with and immediately landward of RE3.2.24 (VC17j) often complexing with this 


76

community where it is mapped as complex 16a, and with microphyll vine thicket where it is 

mapped as VC16j. The two dominant components, VC16i and VC14y, are discussed briefly 

below. 

Vegetation Community 16i: Vegetation community 16i represents open tussock grassland with 

emergent shrubs, verging on a sparse shrubland in some locations. Ground cover is composed of 

Heteropogon triticeus and Cymbopogon sp. with emergent shrubs, ranging in height from 1-2m, 

typical of adjacent vine thicket communities and including Premna serratifolia, Terminalia 

subacroptera and Cordia subcordata. The community, which has been mapped exclusively on 

Tudu Island, is most likely the result of repetitive burning practice which has pushed back vine 

thicket margins. The community is represented in Photograph 54. 

It is of note that Haddon (1888) described the vegetation of Tudu on account of a visit there in 

1888 where “The interior of the island is flat, and supports a vegetation of bushes and coarse 

grass. In one spot only, about one-third from the northern end, are there a few fairly large trees, 

……. There are only a few young coconut palms” (Haddon 1888). An earlier account by Dumont 

d’Urville in 1840 in Haddon (1888) refers to Tudu as “a bank of sand almost at sea level, on the 

north point is a clump of trees, the rest of this miserable land is saline, marshy, covered with 

grasses and shrubs that afford scarcely any shade”. 

Photograph 54. Open tussock 

grassland with emergent shrubs on 

Tudu Island (VC16i). 

Vegetation Community 14y: Vegetation community 14y typically occupies a narrow fringe 

between foredune grassland and taller open forest communities in backdune localities, in places 

ecotonal to this transition. The community is largely restricted to coral cays where it forms a 

complex with the foredune grassland community VC17j, and is frequently mapped as a 

component of vegetation complex VC16a. Shrubland is the dominant structural formation with a 

height range of 0.5m to 2m and projected canopy cover of 25% to 60%. Typical canopy species 

include Cordia dichotoma, Premna serratifolia and Drypetes deplanchei. These species form 

cover to a sparse ground cover typical of VC17j. Vegetation community 14y is not represented 

as a homogenous polygon in the mapping data. 


77



shrubland community 14y on Masig 

Island (YOS4). The community has 

been mapped as a component of VC 

16a. 

Description: Sparse herbland/shrubland and bare sand areas. Predominantly on sand blows 


Vegetation Communities: 14s 

Survey Locations: 1 Secondary Site (BAS35) 

Vegetation Community 14s: Vegetation community 14s, providing the only representation of 

RE3.2.26, is restricted to Badu Island where it forms a low sparse shrubland. The dominant 

shrub layer forms an uneven upper stratum ranging in height from 0.5m to 1m with a total cover 

rarely exceeding 10%. Leucopogon ruscifolius forms the dominant component of the shrub layer 

with scattered Acacia crassicarpa, Leucopogon yorkensis, Syzygium suborbiculare, Exocarpos 

latifolius, Alyxia spicata, Melaleuca viridiflora and Pandanus conicus. The groundcover forms 

5% combined cover dominated by Dapsilanthus spathaceus, with associated species such as 

Xyris complanata, Lomandra banksii, Evolvulus alsinoides, Tricoryne elatior, Cassytha 

pubescens, Gompholobium sp. (DGF9707+), Tephrosia sp. (DGF9710+), Myrtella obtusa, and 

Drosera spatulata. Emergents of Corymbia novoguinensis to 6m are scattered throughout the 

community. This community occupies a unique geomorphic situation, being restricted to the 

outer gently undulating slopes of a broad deflationary hollow within a stabilising transgressive 

dune system. 

Photograph 56. Low sparse 

shrubland type 14s on Badu Island. 


78


Description: Ephemeral and perennial lakes in coastal dunefields. 


Vegetation Communities: 20b 

Survey Locations: No Representative Sites. 

A number of small perennial swamps are mapped on Badu Island, occupying deflationary 

hollows with a broad dune complex. The example represented in Photograph 57 occupies a 

degraded sand sheet on the landward margins of a transgressional dunefield. An association with 

fringing forests of Melaleuca quinquenervia is typical. Further survey is recommended to 

provide for full characterisation of these communities. 

Photograph 57. Shallow ephemeral 

and occasional seasonal open 

waterbodies are scattered across the 

Badu Island sand dunes and sheets. 


Description: Evergreen notophyll vine forest on beach ridges on coral atolls, shingle cays and 



Vegetation Communities: 2m 

Survey Locations: 3 Secondary Sites (YO1, YO8, YO9) 

Vegetation Community 2m: Vegetation Community 2m, is mapped exclusively on coral cays 

of the central group of islands. Whilst floristically similar to VC2u (RE3.2.1x1), the community 

has been differentiated largely on a geographical basis. Vegetation Community 2u is restricted to 

parallel dune systems of continental islands while 2m dominates the calcareous sand of the coral 

cays. Differentiated from the type are Casuarina equisetifolia dominant open forests with vine 

forest sub-canopies previously mapped under this classification on Masig. The dominant canopy, 

which forms heights of 18 to 25m is composed of a mix of deciduous and evergreen species and 

it is suggested that an amendment to the RE type description from evergreen to semi-deciduous 

should be considered. Dominant species include Milletia pinnata, Terminalia subacroptera, 

Diospyros maritima, Manilkara kauki, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Pouteria obovata, Drypetes 

deplanchei with scattered Erythrina variegata. The latter species forms the dominant canopy on 

Gaboy Island. Highly disturbed examples of the type, sampled on Tudu and Aureed Islands, are 

generally dominated exclusively by Manilkara kauki, the likely result of selective indigenous 

land management practice. Vegetation on these islands are reported to be heavily impacted by 


79

firewood harvesting to service the Trepang industry (see Shnukal 2004). The vegetation 

community is represented in Photograph 58 overleaf. 


Photograph 58. The sub-canopy 

structure of VC2m on Masig Island 

at Site YO1. 

Description: Pemphis acidula ± low closed forest. Restricted to coral atolls, shingle cays and 





Vegetation Community 23b: This shrubland/low closed forest community is mapped on Tudu, 

Sassie, and Iama Island. It is recognised as a saline transitional type, providing indication that 

some overlap between LZ1 and LZ2 exists. On Tudu, it is typified by a closed shrubland with 

canopy heights of 6m - 8m, forming an extensive landward fringe to mangroves and appearing to 

be confined to sand dunes (LZ2) above the average maximum tidal limit. A minor area on the 

north-west side of Iama mixes with the low mangrove shrub Osbornia octodonta on a coral 

platform at upper tidal limits. Land zone classification schemes adhered to in this survey 

consider this community as occurring within LZ1, although the floristic assemblage and landform 

are considered consistent with those provided in the RE type description (REDD Version 5.2, 

2007). For the purposes of this study, the community has been mapped as RE3.2.30 in all 

occurrences, although clarification on the land zone affinities of this community are required. 

Photograph 59. The light green crowns of 

Pemphis acidula (VC23b) forming an 

extensive fringe to mangrove communities 

on Tudu Island. 


80


Description: Evergreen notophyll vine forest. Occurs on alluvium on major watercourses. 


Vegetation Communities: 1i, 1j, 3d (co) 

Reference Sites: 4 Secondary (MO48, MO76, MO107, MO106) 

Regional ecosystem 3.3.5 is composed of VC1i and VC1j, restricted to Moa Island where they 

occur on well-drained sandy alluvium of the larger watercourses and are representative 

communities of the RE sub-type 3.3.5c. The communities, which represent distinctive structural 

variations, are mapped as components of vegetation complex 3d. Maximum development of the 

RE occurs on Tutalia Creek where evergreen mesophyll vine forest (VC1i) and evergreen 

notophyll vine forest (VC1j) form a broad complex on the well-developed sandy flood plain 

alluvials on the lower reaches of Tutalia Creek. Vegetation community 1j is unique to Moa 

Island and is not known to occur on Cape York Peninsula. 

Vegetation Community 1i: This tall evergreen mesophyll gallery forest occupies the welldrained 

and seasonally inundated sandy banks on the lower reaches of Tutalia Creek, with minor 

occurrences also recorded in a number of other riparian situations on Moa Island. Canopy 

heights of 40m were regularly observed in this community with typical species including 

Horsfieldia australiana, Syzygium bamagense and Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra 

although Maranthes corymbosa and Buchanania arborescens are prominent in some localities. 

The sub-canopy assemblage includes Licuala ramsayi, and Pandanus spp. with Arenga 

australasica recorded at site MO83. The community is shown in Photograph 60. Vegetation 

Community 1i is a prominent component of the complex type 3d. 

Vegetation Community 1j: Vegetation community 1j is a tall forest, reaching heights of 35m, 

with dominance shared between Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra and Syzygium 

angophoroides. Associated canopy species include Acacia auriculiformis, Syzygium forte subsp. 

forte, Calophyllum sil and Buchanania arborescens. The sub-canopy is dominated by 

Podocarpus grayae with prominent Pandanus sp., Buchanania arborescens and Calophyllum sil, 

Horsfieldia australiana, Endiandra glauca, Carallia brachiata, and Deplanchea tetraphylla. 

Shrub layers are variable although a typical assemblage in better-developed locations may 

include Halfordia kendack, Atractocarpus sessilis, Podocarpus grayae, Endiandra glauca, 

Salacia disepala, Dysoxylum oppositifolium, Cyclophyllum maritimum, Cryptocarya bamagana, 

Polyscias australiana, Haplosticanthus fruticosus, Psydrax sp. (DGF8955+), Polyalthia 

nitidissima and Cryptocarya cunninghamii. 

The community occupies the sandy flood overflow deposit on the lower reaches of Tutalia Creek, 

peripheral to the main flood channel on which maximum development of riparian rainforest 

occurs. The community is illustrated in Photograph 61. 


Description: Evergreen notophyll vine forest with Melaleuca leucadendra on swamps. 


Vegetation Communities: 3c, 3d (co) 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (MO76, MO107, MO48) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.3.6 is represented by the vine forest/open forest mosaic of VC3c, and as a 

component of forest complex type 3d. These communities occupy swampy depressions and flood 

overflow channels on well-drained granitic alluvium. Characteristics of these communities are 

discussed briefly below. 


81

Vegetation Complex 3c: Vegetation Complex 3c occupies a series of broad swampy drainage 

depressions on Moa Island. Tall mesophyll vine forest and Melaleuca open forest form a mosaic 

with roughly equal contribution to total canopy cover by both components, which have a canopy 

height range of 35m to 40m. The canopy of the tall open forest component is dominated by 

Melaleuca dealbata with Melaleuca leucadendra occurring in some locations (MO48). Subcanopy 

species are typically swamp tolerant and may include Dillenia alata, Gmelina 

dalrympleana, Horsfieldia australiana, Calophyllum sil, Acacia polystachya and Pandanus sp. 

The type is restricted to Moa Island in broad drainage depressions. The community is shown in 

Photograph 62. 

The vine forest component occupies elevated loamy sand rises within the drainage swamp and is 

best described as a tall evergreen mesophyll vine forest. A canopy height range of 30 to 45m is 

typical with a diverse floristic composition dominated by Syzygium angophoroides, Acacia 

auriculiformis, Buchanania arborescens and Syzygium bamagense. Additional species are 

Syzygium forte subsp. forte, Gmelina dalrympleana, Terminalia sericocarpa, Maranthes 

corymbosa, Vitex acuminata, *Mangifera indica, Carallia brachiata, Calophyllum sil, Ficus 

drupacea and Acacia polystachya. The sub-canopy and shrub layers support Arenga 

australasica, Pandanus spp., and Licuala ramsayi. The vine forest component of RE3.3.6 is 

illustrated in Photograph 63. 

Regional ecosystem 3.3.6 also forms a component of complex type VC3d, where it mixes with 

evergreen mesophyll forest type VC1i. 

Photograph 60. Tall evergreen 

mesophyll vine forest (VC3i) 

forming gallery forest on Tutalia 

Creek. 

Vegetation Complex 3d: Complex type 3d (VC3d) is mapped on Tutalia Creek (MO107) and 

tributaries (Moa Island), as well as minor occurrence associated with a perennial drainage feature 

south of Saveka Point. Although riparian forest complexes, the lower reaches of these 

watercourses, which typically host these communities, form broad swampy flood overflow 

channels, and as such, are represented as swampland ecosystems rather than specialist riparian 

forests. The open forest component of this complex, which is dominated by Melaleuca 

leucadendra (and occasionally Lophostemon suaveolens, provides representation for RE3.3.6, 

with the evergreen mesophyll vine forest component represented and previously described as 

VC1i (RE3.3.5c). The structural formation is consistent with the representation provided in 

VC3c with canopy heights of the Melaleuca leucadendra dominant open forest attaining 45m and 

a range of vine forest species forming the sub-canopy and shrub layers. 


82

Photograph 61. Tall notophyll 

forest VC1j on lower reaches on 

Tutalia Creek, Moa Island (MO106). 

Photograph 62. Tall open forest 

(swamp forest) of Melaleuca 

leucadendra on Moa Island. 

Component of VC3c. 


83


Photograph 63. Complex subcanopy 

features of the vine forest 

component of VC3c with prominent 

Arenga australasica. The large 

canopy tree in the foreground is 

Syzygium bamagense. 

Description: Tall semi-deciduous notophyll/microphyll vine thicket. Occurs on colluvial plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 2g, 4a 

Reference Sites: 1 Quaternary (G14) 

This RE is confined to Gebar Island as scattered pockets withint a broader grassland community. 

The community also occurs as a perennial fringe to a deeply incised drainage line. The canopy, 

ranging in height from 15 to 25m, includes Canarium australianum, Terminalia subacroptera, 

Semecarpus australiensis, Buchanania arborescens and Acacia auriculiformis as dominant 

species. Erythrina variegata, Welchiodendron longivalve, Parinari nonda and Chionanthus 

ramiflora form subdominant canopy components. The sub canopy was not sampled intensively 

due to time restrictions. Also included in this category are isolated pockets of Welchiodendron 

longivalve open forest occupying the same landform, which are thought to be fire disturbed 

variants of the better developed VC2g. Where these forests form discrete units, they are mapped 

as VC4a. Traditional burning practice has had a major structural impact on this community, most 

likely leading to a significant reduction in its original extent and floristic complexity. 

Photograph 64. Sub canopy 

structure of VC2g on Gebar Island, 

where it occupies loamy alluvial 

soils. 


84


Description: Lophostemon suaveolens open forest. Occurs on streamlines, swamps and alluvial 

terraces. 


Vegetation Communities: 3a, 3f, 8b 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary (MOA16, BAS1); 5 Quaternary 

The RE classification 3.3.9 incorporates VC3a, VC3f and VC8b. These VC’s are considered 

atypical of the RE type description. These component vegetation communities are described 

briefly below. 

Vegetation Community 3a: Vegetation Community 3a on Moa Island, occupies the swampy 

channels of major drainage features, typically on lower stream reaches. The community is often 

narrow and linear, becoming more extensive on swampy areas where coarse alluvial sand has 

been deposited. Lophostemon suaveolens forms the dominant open forest canopy, attaining 

heights of 25m, although it is accompanied by Melaleuca quinquenervia, Syzygium 

angophoroides and Asteromyrtus brassii. The sub-canopy features Dillenia alata, Gmelina 

dalrympleana, and Acacia crassicarpa with a diverse shrub layer which includes Melastoma 

malabathricum subsp. malabathricum, Polyscias australianum, Chionanthus ramiflora, 

Flagellaria indica, Syzygium angophoroides, Diospyros hebecarpa, Rhodamnia australis, 

Deplanchea tetraphylla, Livistona muelleri, Carallia brachiata, Acmena hemilampra subsp. 

hemilampra, Terminalia sp., Litsea breviumbellata, Maranthes corymbosa, Tabernaemontana 

orientalis, and Macaranga involucrata var. mallotoides. Gahnia sp., Lomandra banksii and 

Lindsaea ensifolia form the dominant ground cover. The community merges downstream with 

VC3d which occupies the thicker deposits of fluvial sand. 

Photograph 65. VC3a at Site 

MO16 (Moa Island). Lophostemon 

suaveolens forms the dominant 

canopy. 

Vegetation Community 3f: The only described representation of VC3f is on Badu Island where 

it occupyies broad swampy drainage lines and and shallow depressions formed on loamy granitic 

alluvium. The community typically forms on the upper reaches of drainage lines in broad gully 

heads where a number of low angle alluvial fans coalesce. Lophostemon suaveolens forms the 

dominant canopy, reaching heights of 30m, with co-dominant to sub-dominant Melaleuca 

leucadendra. Corymbia clarksoniana forms a minor canopy component (5-10%) where the 

community was sampled and Parinari nonda occasionally reaches canopy height. The subcanopy 

is of Acacia leptocarpa, Acacia crassicarpa, Carallia brachiata, Dillenia alata and 

Pandanus sp., with Banksia dentata, Gmelina dalrympleana, Pandanus sp., Rhodamnia australis 


85

and Dillenia alata representing the most prominent shrub species with a height range of 3m to 

8m. The ground cover is typically dense with Ischeamum australe, Ischeamum sp., Imperata 

cylindrica, Heteropogon triticeus, Melastoma malabathricum subsp. malabathricum, and 

Crotalaria calycina. The community is represented in Photograph 66. 

Vegetation Community 8b: Vegetation community 8b is located on a coastal outwash plain to 

the south of Saveka Point. The community forms a low open forest with Lophostemon 

suaveolens forming the dominant canopy. Sub-dominant species are typically Melaleuca saligna, 

Asteromyrtus brassii and Acacia crassicarpa. The sparse to mid-dense sub-canopy layer is 

dominated by Livistona muelleri, Pleomele angustifolia and Dodonaea polyandra over a sparse 

shrub layer of Polyscias australianum, Litsea breviumbellata, Endiandra glauca, Rhodomyrtus 

macrocarpa, Wilkiea rigidifolia, Alyxia spicata, Buchanania arborescens, Psydrax banksii, 

Calophyllum sil, Halfordia kendack, and Smilax australis. Lomandra banksii dominates the 

ground cover. The alluvial substrate comprises coarse sand derived from alluvial outwash across 

a narrow swampy flood plain. Both drainage capacity and fertility can be considered moderate. 

Photograph 66. Open forest type 3f 

at Site BAS1 (Badu Island). 

Lophostemon suaveolens and 

Melaleuca leucadendra form the 

dominant canopy species. 

Photograph 67. Low open forest of 

Lophostemon suaveolens, Melaleuca 

saligna, Asteromyrtus brassii and 

Acacia crassicarpa (VC8b) at Moa 

Site MO72. 


86


Description: Melaleuca argentea and/or M. fluviatilis ± M. leucadendra open forest. Fringes 

streams and creeks. 


Vegetation Communities: 3b, 3g, 5h, 7f, 14o 


Vegetation Community 7f: The dominant component of this RE is VC7f representing an open 

to tall open forest of Melaleuca leucadendra. It occurs commonly as a riparian fringe on major 

drainage features, extending to broader flood overflow plains in some locations. On riparian 

areas and associated overflow channels, Melaleuca leucadendra forms the canopy ranging in 

height from 15m in poorly developed communities on Warral Island, to greater than 30m on welldrained 

flood overflow channels on Muralug. Vegetation Community 7f is also represented by a 

woodland variant extending away from the riparian margins across a silty flood plain (PW81). 

This Melaleuca leucadendra dominant community has a mixed sub-canopy layer of which 

Melaleuca saligna and Corypha utan are components. The occurrence of the latter species is a 

significant extension of range north from the Dulhunty River (Forster 1996) although the most 

northerly vouchered material at BRI is from near Aurukun (P. Forster pers. comm. March 2008). 

It also occurs in the Northern Territory. Similar communities on drainage swamps are 

represented as RE3.3.14b (VC7fs). 

Photograph 68. Open forest of 

Melaleuca leucadendra (VC7f) on 

flood overflow of North-West Ck, 

Muralug Island (PW58). 

Photograph 69. Disjunct population 

of Corypha utan forming a subcanopy 

component of Melaleuca 

leucadendra woodland (VC7f). 

Muralug Island Site PW81. 


87

Vegetation Complex 3b: Vegetation community 3b (RE3.3.10a) forms a tall open forest 

complex on Moa Island where it is restricted to narrow drainage lines incised into coarse sandy 

plains. A canopy height range of 28 to 38m is typical comprising Melaleuca argentea and 

Melaleuca leucadendra, although occasionally accompanied by vine forest species including 

Syzygium forte subsp. forte becoming more prominent in the sub-canopy. Dominant sub-canopy 

species include Dillenia alata, Parinari nonda, Acacia auriculiformis, Buchanania arborescens, 

Euroschinus falcatus var. angustifolius and Pandanus sp. The community is represented in 

Photograph 70. The community provides habitat for the vulnerable Voacanga grandiflora. 

Photograph 70. Riparian open forest 

(RE3.3.10a) at Site MO4, Moa 


Vegetation Community 3g: Broad swampy drainage lines carved into degraded sand dunes on 

Badu Island are habitat for swamp forest type VC3g. The drainage lines that host this community 

originate as swampy depressions nestled within broad sand sheets and become gradually more 

incised as water flux increases downstream. The depth of drainage incision, which may be up to 

3m, and seasonal water flow has resulted in the classification of these forests within LZ3 rather 

than LZ2, as might otherwise be applied if drainage away from the swamp was impeded to any 

degree. Melaleuca dealbata forms the dominant canopy of this community, reaching heights of 

30m, with associated species including Lophostemon sauveolens, Acmena hemilampra subsp. 

hemilampra, Syzygium forte subsp. forte, Syzygium angophoroides, Deplanchea tetraphylla, 

Gmelina dalrympleana and Acacia crassicarpa. Carallia brachiata, Dillenia alata and Gmelina 

dalrympleana are prominent as sub-canopy species. The shrub layer is dominated by the vine 

forest species Polyscias australiana, Wilkiea rigidifolia, Syzygium fibrosum, Chionanthus 

ramiflora, Cryptocarya brassii, Macaranga involucrata var. mallotoides, Rhodamnia australis, 

Dysoxylum oppositifolium, Tabernaemontana orientalis, Litsea breviumbellata, Endiandra 


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glauca, Rhodamnia macrocarpa, Sterculia quadrifida, Haplosticanthus fruticosus and Litsea 

glutinosa. The community often forms in complex with Melaleuca leucadendra dominant 

riparian communities (VC3b) and is mapped in this exercise as sub-type variant 3.3.10d. 

Photograph 71. Tall open 

riparian forest type 3g on Badu 

Island (Site BDQ25). 

Vegetation Community 7b/14o: Regional Ecosystem sub-type 3.3.10b, represented by VC7b, is 

dominated by Melaleuca saligna, which forms a prominent low open forest fringe to major 

drainage lines on Muralug. Melaleuca acacioides may be associated with the sub-canopy of this 

VC on brackish river reaches. Vegetation Community 14o represents a riparian shrubland variant 

of this RE sub-type mapped on the middle reaches of North-West Creek (Muralug Island). 

Classification of this system is based largely on aerial photographic interpretation and brief aerial 

inspection. As such, the specific characteristics of this community are poorly known although 

Melaleuca saligna and Acacia spp. are inferred as the dominant species. 


Community 5h at Site HI57, Horn 

Island with Eucalyptus brassiana in 

the background. 

Vegetation Community 5h: Vegetation Community 5h represents a mixed riparian forest type 

classified under RE sub-type 3.3.10c. The dominant canopy, always in open forest formation, 

ranges in height from 15 to 23m and is composed of Melaleuca saligna, Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis, Corymbia clarksoniana, Eucalyptus brassiana and Eucalyptus platyphylla. 


89

Melaleuca leucadendra is also prominent in location. Melaleuca saligna forms the dominant 

sub-canopy component in association with Dillenia alata and Deplanchea tetraphylla. The 

community occupies swampy flood overflow plains, often associated with relict dune systems, 

and has been mapped only on Horn Island. A representative community is shown in Photograph 

72. The occurrence of Eucalyptus brassiana in this VC on Horn Island is a new record for the 

study area. 


Description: Melaleuca quinquenervia open forest. Associated with scattered coastal swamps. 


Vegetation Communities: 7d 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (MO148a, MO148b) 

Vegetation Community 7d: Regional Ecosystem 3.3.12 is represented by VC7b which is 

restricted to the broad erosional plain on the north-west side of Moa Island occurring as a number 

of sparsely scattered swampland communities amongst a broader residual sand plain (LZ5). 

Melaleuca quinquenervia forms the dominant canopy species in a community which ranges 

structurally from open forest to shrubland, depending largely on fire history. The ground cover is 

dominated by Dapsilanthus spathaceus, Schoenus sp. and Pandanus sp. 


Photograph 73. A Melaleuca 

quinquenervia swampland formed on 

the broader residual sand plain. 

Description: Melaleuca saligna ± Hakea pedunculata open forest. Occurs on edges of salt pans. 


Vegetation Communities: 7bs 


Vegetation Community 7bs: This RE, characterised by VC7bs is restricted largely to Horn 

Island, with occurrences also on Muralug. The community is represented by an open forest, 

generally low in stature with a canopy height range of 10 to 18m. The dominant canopy is 

formed by Melaleuca saligna although it mixes with Livistona muelleri, in some cases with 

Livistona dominating the canopy. The sub-canopy is often sparse, although Livistona muelleri 

and Pandanus sp. are locally prominent. The landform hosting this community is restricted to 

outwash plains on the margins of salt flats true to the type description. Where this community 


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occurs on drainage swamps, it has been classified as RE3.3.14 (VC7b), which is discussed in the 

following section. 


Photograph 74. Livistona muelleri 

forming a prominent sub-canopy 

layer to Melaleuca saligna open 

forest (VC7bs). Horn Island Site 

HI5. 

Description: Melaleuca saligna ± M. viridiflora, Lophostemon suaveolens woodland on 

drainage swamps. 


Vegetation Communities: 7b, 7e, 13g, 7fs 


Regional Ecosystem 3.3.14 represents Melaleuca saligna dominant open forests occurring in 

drainage swamps. There is some degree of overlap with RE3.3.13 which occupies outwash plains 

adjacent to salt flats, most prominently on Horn Island. 

Vegetation Community 7b: Although occurring on the same Land Zone, RE3.3.14 has been 

classified where VC7b occurs in drainage depressions and represents a much more extensive 

expression of Melaleuca saligna dominant open forest, occurring on the majority of islands in the 

Inner Island Group, as well as Mabuiag and Moa Island. Whilst Melaleuca saligna is the 

dominant canopy species, it mixes with Melaleuca leucadendra, Livistona muelleri and Alstonia 

spectabilis on Friday Island. The sub-canopy is generally sparse, although Livistona muelleri and 

Pandanus sp. are generally prominent. 

Vegetation Community 13g & 7e: The RE classification also includes VC13g and VC7e, 

occurring on Zuna and Moa Islands respectively. Vegetation Community 13g represents a low 

closed shrubland of Melaleuca saligna which forms a narrow (although mappable) fringe to an 

Eleocharis dominated swampland community on Zuna Island. Vegetation Community 7e 

represents an open forest community with a canopy composed of Melaleuca dealbata, Melaleuca 

saligna and Livistona muelleri. The community, which occupies a broad drainage depression on 

the south coast of Moa Island, was identified during helicopter survey and was not subject to 

detailed on-ground investigation. 

Vegetation Community 7fs: Minor areas of Melaleuca leucadendra dominant swamp forest 

was observed during helicopter traverse fringing saline flats on Badu Island. This community, 


91

mapped as VC7fs, has not been adequately ground truthed and requires further description. This 

representation has been mapped as RE3.3.14b. 


Photograph 75. Melaleuca saligna 

dominant open forest on a drainage 

swamp on Zuna Island (ZQ9). 

Description: Corymbia clarksoniana, Erythrophleum chlorostachys woodland on alluvial plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 5o, 5g, 5s 

Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (POW82), 1 Quaternary. 

Vegetation Community 5o: Vegetation Community 5o on alluvium provides the dominant 

representation of RE3.3.17b, restricted to the broad alluvial flats near Port Lihou on Muralug 

Island. The community occupies an unusual landform situation, occurring on the alluvial aprons 

of a number of diorite knolls which protrude above the general surface of the surrounding alluvial 

plain. The derived soils are relatively fertile, clay rich, and have mild vertic properties 

manifesting in subdued gilgai morphology. Corymbia tessellaris forms the dominant canopy 

with associated Corymbia clarksoniana attaining canopy heights of 27m. Ground cover is 

composed of dense tussock grasses of which Themeda triandra is most prominent, although it 

also includes Ischaemum australe and Imperata cylindrica. The community has been classified 

with sub-type RE3.3.17b, which provides representation most consistent with the REDD (Version 

5.2, 2007). 

Vegetation Community 5g: Vegetation community 5g on alluvium represents a Corymbia 

tessellaris dominant open forest with small areas mapped on Warral Island and Friday Island. 

The community occurs most commonly on sandy alluvial soils derived from granite where it 

mixes with a range of vine forest species, making it distinct from VC5o which typically 

represents grassy woodland. Limited floristic and structural information was gathered on this 

community. 

Vegetation Community 5s: Vegetation community 5s forms restricted areas of Corymbia 

clarksoniana and Corymbia tessellaris dominant low open woodland on Muralug Island. Species 

associated with the sub-canopy of this community include Livistona muelleri and Acacia 

leptocarpa. This community is separated from VC5o by stature and landform. Vegetation 

community 5s forms a stunted community on silty poorly drained alluvial outwash, whilst 5o 

occupies more fertile soils derived from diorite and has developed considerably greater stature. 


92


Photograph 76. Woodland type 5o 

on alluvial soils. Muralug Island at 

Site PW82. 

Photograph 77. Corymbia 

tessellaris dominant open forest on 

alluvial flat (Friday Island Site 

FR21). 

Description: Corymbia clarksoniana ± Erythrophleum chlorostachys ± Melaleuca viridiflora 





Vegetation Community 5b: Vegetation Community 5b is the dominant woodland an open forest 

community on Moa Island where it occupies silty alluvial outwash plains and piedmont fans, 

typically derived from granite, hornfels and metamorphic lithologies. The community is mapped 

as the newly described RE subtype 3.3.20c which is represented as a woodland to open forest, 

with canopy heights ranging from 18 to 27m. Corymbia clarksoniana tends to dominate the 

canopy, although associated canopy species may include Corymbia nesophila, Corymbia 

tessellaris, Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis and Welchiodendron longivalve. 

Welchiodendron is often well represented in the canopy and shrub layers which may also 


93

comprise Planchonia careya, Melaleuca viridiflora, Acacia leptocarpa and Cycas sp. The Cycas 

is thought to be the endemic C. badensis. 


Photograph 78. Typical structure of 

VC5b which represents the dominant 

woodland and open forest 

community on Moa Island (Site 

MO94). 

Description: Corymbia clarksoniana or C. novoguinensis woodland on alluvial plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 5i, 5c 

Reference Sites: 1 Quaternary (Zuna ZQ6) 

Vegetation Community 5i: The major occurrences of this RE are on degraded sand dunes where 

they have been mapped as RE3.2.7. Small areas of VC5i occupy sandy alluvial wash on the 

margins of a drainage depression on Zuna Island, which represent the only mapped areas of this 

RE in the study area. This occurrence forms an open forest with relatively even canopy heights 

in the 18 to 23m range. Corymbia clarksoniana dominates the canopy, with Lophostemon 

suaveolens, Livistona muelleri and Parinari nonda associated. Livistona muelleri has a tendency 

to form dense groves in some areas which have been incorporated into the broader VC. The subcanopy 

is relatively dense (up to 40% PFC) and composed of Melaleuca viridiflora, Lophostemon 

suaveolens, Livistona muelleri, and Pandanus sp. The shrub layer features Livistona muelleri, 

Acacia leptocarpa, Acacia brassii, Acacia simsii, Acacia crassicarpa, Ficus opposita, Dodonaea 

polyandra and Pandanus sp. Tall graminoids form the dominant ground cover comprising 

Ischaemum australe, Heteropogon triticeus, Mnesithea rottboellioides and Imperata cylindrica. 

The community merges with Melaleuca saligna open forest (RE3.3.17) where the ground 

becomes increasingly swampy. 

Vegetation Community 5c: This classification also includes VC5c where Corymbia 

clarksoniana forms a low woodland community with co-dominant canopy species including 

Parinari nonda, Melaleuca viridiflora, Welchiodendron longivalve and Pandanus sp. The subcanopy 

layers (typically an S1 layer) are typically dominated by Melaleuca viridiflora and 

Pandanus sp. This community is restricted to Moa Island where it occupies alluvial fans, 

although its occurrence is more extensive on the sandy alluvial plains of Land Zone 5. 


94


Photograph 79. A dense grove of 

Livistona muelleri within VC5i. 

Zuna Island Site ZQ6. 


Community 5c recorded at Site 

MO99, Moa Island. 

Description: Corymbia nesophila ± Eucalyptus tetrodonta ± Eucalyptus brassiana woodland on 

alluvial sediments. 


Vegetation Communities: 5k, 5q, 5m 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary, 18 Quaternary 

Three VC’s are represented under this category. 

Vegetation Community 5k: Vegetation Community 5k forms the dominant variant, being 

relatively extensive on the Inner Island Group and particularly well-developed and extensive on 

Horn and Muralug Islands. The community generally forms an open forest community with 

canopy heights ranging from 18 to 27m. Corymbia nesophila forms the dominant canopy species 

in most locations, although it mixes with Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis and Eucalyptus 

tetrodonta in the majority of communities sampled. Erythrophleum chlorostachys forms a codominant 

canopy component in some locations on Muralug Island (Site PW78) and Corymbia 


95

latifolia occasionally reaches the canopy (PQ63). Sub-canopy is variable although a general 

assemblage of species includes Melaleuca stenostachya, Neofabricia myrtifolia, Alphitonia 

excelsa, Xylomelum scottianum, Acacia polystachya, Livistona muelleri and Capparis arborea. 

Shrub layers are typically composed of Melaleuca viridiflora, Melaleuca stenostachya, 

Xylomelum scottianum, Acacia simsii, Persoonia falcata, Jacksonia thesioides, Acacia simsii, 

Acacia platycarpa, Banksia dentata, Melaleuca nervosa, Planchonia careya and Acacia 

leptocarpa. The ground cover generally comprises a range of grasses including Heteropogon 

triticeus, Panicum trichoides, Themeda triandra, Imperata cylindrica, Eriachne pallescens and 

Eragrostis spartinoides. 

Photograph 81. A typical example 

of open forest type 5k on alluvium 

represented at Site PW15. The 

canopy in this community is 

dominated by Corymbia nesophila. 

Vegetation Community 5q: Vegetation community 5q forms a lower open forest variant of this 

RE. The community is restricted to the Inner Island Group with best development occurring on 

Muralug, Wednesday and Horn Islands. The general canopy ranges in height from 15 to 21m and 

is dominated by Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis with Corymbia nesophila and Corymbia 

clarksoniana commonly associated canopy species. The shrub layer is variable although in open 

forest communities on sandier substrates, the shrub layer tends to be dominated by Acacia spp. 

and Jacksonia thesioides. 

Vegetation Community 5m: On siltier soils, the open forest structure is replaced by woodland 

and occasionally open woodland with a sub-canopy layer dominated by a range of myrtaceous 

shrubs including Melaleuca stenostachya, Melaleuca viridiflora and Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa. 

In these locations, the community is mapped as VC5m, being prominent on Wednesday, Friday, 

and Horn Islands. It merges with VC 13d (RE3.3.48) in some areas where Melaleuca saligna 

forms a prominent sub-canopy component, particularly on Horn Island where VC5m and VC13d 

tend to mosaic. As a general rule applied, VC5m was classified where Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis forms a clear canopy layer above sub-canopy strata. Where Corymbia stockeri is a 

component of the canopy that is subdominant to Melaleuca saligna (or associated Melaleuca 

spp.), or forms an emergent layer, the community is classified with VC13d. 


96


Photograph 82. Low woodland 

variant of VC5m at Site PW7 where 

Corymbia nesophila is a codominant 

canopy species with 

Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis. 

Description: Eucalyptus platyphylla ± Corymbia clarksoniana woodland on alluvial and 

colluvial plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 5u, 5n 


Regional Ecosystem 3.3.28 is represented by two VC’s, both restricted to Muralug Island. 

Vegetation Community 5u: Vegetation Community 5u, surveyed by helicopter at Site PW116, 

represents a woodland community with dominant Eucalyptus platyphylla with an estimated 

canopy heights range of 18 to 23m. The sub-canopy is relatively sparse, and is composed of 

Livistona muelleri and scattered Melaleuca viridiflora. Melaleuca spp. forms the dominant shrub 

layer over an open grassy ground cover. The community occupies a broad alluvial outwash plain 

on the landward margins of a coastal dune/estuarine wetland complex. 


Community 5u. Alluvial flat behind 

a coastal dune complex. Muralug 

Site 116. 


97

Vegetation Community 5n: This community is restricted to alluvial terraces on North-West 

Creek where it forms an extensive flood plain type. Eucalyptus platyphylla dominates the canopy 

attaining maximum heights of 27m, with sub-dominant species including Eucalyptus tetrodonta, 

Corymbia nesophila and Erythrophleum chlorostachys. Sub-canopy is generally sparse, although 

Erythrophleum chlorostachys is prominent in association with Eucalyptus spp. and Corymbia 

spp. typical of the canopy. Ground cover is dominated by Heteropogon contortus, Imperata 

cylindrica and Themeda triandra. The community is represented in Photograph 84. 


Description: Melaleuca viridiflora low woodland in drainage areas. 


Vegetation Communities: 13a, 13b, 13c, 14b, 14m, 14r, 11b 



community 5n on an alluvial terrace 

of North-West Creek. The 

community, sampled in this location 

is located at PW061. 

Vegetation communities falling under the classification of RE3.3.42 form one of the most 

extensive and variable vegetation groups in the Torres Strait Islands. Melaleuca viridiflora forms 

the pivotal species in a group whose distribution and ecology is largely controlled by soil 

drainage and to a lesser extent, soil fertility. 

Vegetation Community 13a: Vegetation Community 13a represents the most abundant of the 

variations, common on the Inner Island and Near Western Island groups, with a floristic 

composition and structural form that is largely consistent with the type description of RE sub-unit 

3.3.42a. Melaleuca viridiflora dominantes the shrub layer with heights between 4m to 10m. 

Pandanus sp. is a common sub-dominant species and a range of myrtaceous species may be 

associated, although at no stage are these associated species dominant. The community also 

includes scattered shrublands of Melaleuca acacioides on Moa Island which mix on the margins 

of salt flats and mangrove wetlands. It occupies areas of limited surface drainage, generally on 

silty outwash plains with infertile clay loam soils. 


98

Photograph 85. Shrubland 

dominated by Melaleuca viridiflora 

with scattered emergents of Parinari 

nonda and Corymbia clarksoniana. 

Site MO7 (Moa Island). 

Vegetation Community 13c: Vegetation Community 13c represents a shrubland, canopy 

heights ranging from 3m to 6m, dominated by Melaleuca viridiflora, Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa 

and Banksia dentata. Hakea pedunculata and Melaleuca saligna may be associated although 

they are always sub-dominant shrub components, and Melaleuca acacioides may occur on 

community on saltpan margins. The secondary shrub layer is typically sparse, comprising species 

characteristic of the upper stratum and the ground cover is dominated by sedges, typically not 

forming more than 30% total cover. Melaleuca viridiflora is consistently represented by a 

distinctive variety represented as a low and generally poorly formed shrub with thick leathery 

leaves and distinctive red buds on growing points. The VC is consistent with the description 

provided for sub-type RE3.3.42a (REDD, Version 5.2, 2007) and it has been mapped as such. 

The major distribution of VC13j is on the larger islands of the Inner Island Group (Muralug and 

Horn) and Moa Island, where it occupies poorly drained alluvial flats, typically on the peripheral 

margins of outwash plains where sediments are dominantly silts and clays. A superficial coating 

of fine white residual silica sand is often visible on the soil surface. This VC is also recorded on 

LZ5. 


Community 13c on Muralug Island 

(Site PW057). 


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Vegetation Community 13f: Vegetation Community 13f is recognised where Melaleuca 

viridiflora forms a canopy with sub-dominant to co-dominant Corymbia spp., typically in 

shrubland to low woodlands structural formation. A range of Corymbia species may be present 

include Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis, Corymbia nesophila and Corymbia clarksoniana. 

Parinari nonda is locally abundant as a canopy and sub-canopy species and Banksia dentata and 

Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa often form a prominent sub-canopy layer. Ground cover is variable 

although as a general rule, with Themeda triandra dominant in areas of better soil drainage, 

giving way to sedges as drainage becomes increasingly impeded. The community often merges 

with VC5c which occupies a similar landscape position, although Melaleuca viridiflora 

represents a sub-canopy species in VC5c, only occasionally reaching canopy height. The major 

occurrences of this community are on Moa and Badu Islands. This community is extensively 

mapped in association with LZ5 on Moa Island. 

Vegetation Community 14m: Mixed shrubland on Hammond Island forms VC14m. It is 

structurally a tall shrubland, although it forms occasional woodland, with an uneven upper 

stratum ranging in height from 5m to 12m. The community is consistent with RE3.3.42a and is 

represented within this sub-type in this exercise. Melaleuca viridiflora is a co-dominant canopy 

species mixing with Acacia crassicarpa, Grevillea parallela, Parinari nonda and Pandanus sp. 

Corymbia tessellaris forms an emergent species reaching heights of 15m. Ground cover is 

dominated by grasses which include Imperata cylindrica and Heteropogon triticeus. The 

community occupies silty alluvial soils (alluvial fan) forming a corridor between granite 

footslopes with vine forest, and salt pan. It is likely that the structure and floristic composition of 

this community is heavily influenced by fire, and the community had been recently burnt at the 

time of survey. The community is represented in Photograph 87. 


Community 14m on Hammond 

Island (Site HA12). 

Vegetation Community 14r: Vegetation Community 14r has a restricted distribution, confined 

to Moa Island, on coastal plains to the south of Saveka Point (St Paul’s) where it is represented 

under the broad sub-unit of RE3.3.42a. Canopy height ranges from 6m to 9m, represented 

structurally as a shrubland to low woodland. The upper stratum is mixed, comprising a relatively 

even proportion of Acacia crassicarpa, Melaleuca viridiflora and Pandanus sp. Associated 

species include Parinari nonda, Banksia dentata and Lophostemon suaveolens which form subdominant 

canopy components and are always present. Banksia dentata is the dominant species in 

the secondary shrub layer. Ground cover is relatively dense with well-developed tussock grasses 

dominated by Ischaemum australe. The community, an example of which is represented in 

Photograph 88, is developed on silty alluvial outwash plains on the landward fringe of a broad 

coastal dune system. 


100

Photograph 88. Low 

woodland/shrubland community 14r 

on Moa Island. The photograph is 

taken at Site MO65. 

Vegetation Community 11b: Pandanus dominant shrublands and low woodlands are prominent 

on drainage swamps and seepage zones is a range of localities, although they are most prominent 

on Dauan and Mabuiag Island. These communities generally form tall shrublands, mixing with 

Melaleuca viridiflora in some locations on Mabuiag Island, and have been classified as VC11b. 

These communities present some classification difficulties, having frequently developed in 

response to disturbance which may include intense fire or removal of previous canopy layers by 

mechanical disturbance. In the broader landscape of the Torres Strait Islands, this community 

appears relatively stable being maintained by regular fire and remnant status is warranted. It 

should be noted that this community has been distinguished from the broad expanse of Pandanus 

dominant woodland occupying alluvial systems on Saibai Island. This VC has been classified 

under the broad RE sub-type 3.3.42a 

Photograph 89. A Pandanus 

dominant low woodland occupying a 

freshwater seepage zone on Dauan 


Vegetation Community 13b: North of Mabuiag Island, Melaleuca viridiflora is replaced by 

Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla as the dominant Melaleuca species. Melaleuca cajuputi 

forms extensive shrublands and low open forests on Saibai Island, and Boigu Island to a lesser 

extent. The shrubland VC13b is restricted to Saibai Island where it forms a vegetation unit that is 

structurally similar to VC13a, although based on floristic affinities to vegetation communities 

associated with the northern Torres Strait Islands (Saibai in particular), has been assigned to the 


101

new RE sub-type 3.3.42c. Vegetation Community 13b is represented with a general canopy 

height range from 3m to 6m, occasionally reaching 10m where ground becomes swampy. 

Melaleuca cajuputi forms the dominant shrubland species although it mixes with Pandanus sp. 

and Acacia leptocarpa. Acacia auriculiformis may represent a prominent canopy component 

where the shrubland community fringes brackish wetlands, merging with mixed shrubland type 

14b. The ground cover is frequently dominated by Acrostichum aureum in these locations. The 

community occupies soil types which range from moist brackish clays to hardened silty clay 

loams with mound and hummock micro-topography as at Site SAS066. 



Community 13b (RE3.3.42c) at Site 

SAS066 (Saibai Island). 

Description: Melaleuca saligna ± M. viridiflora low open woodland in drainage depressions. 




Vegetation Community 13d: Vegetation Community 13d has an extensive distribution on 

coastal outwash plains of the Inner and Near Western Island groups where it frequently mosaics 

with woodlands (VC5m) and other shrubland communities (13a, 13c). Melaleuca saligna is the 

characteristic and generally dominant species in the upper stratum, forming a shrubland to low 

woodland community with a height range from 5 to 9m. Associated canopy species include 

Melaleuca viridiflora (long drooping leaf variety), Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa, Asteromyrtus 

brassii and Banksia dentata. Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis and Corymbia nesophila are 

occasional canopy components, forming an emergent layer in some locations, and merging with 

woodland type 5m with increasing dominance of Corymbia spp. The shrub layer is frequently 

dominated by Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa and Banksia dentata with Pandanus sp. locally 

prominent. Ground cover layers are typically sparse, dominated by a range of sedges and grasses, 

typically forming a cover of less than 30%. VC13d occupies poorly drained alluvial outwash 

plains, often with a superficial film of white residual sand at surface, rather than drainage 

swamps. The community is classified as the new RE sub-unit of 3.3.48b, distinctive from the 

more typical occurrences of RE3.3.48 which are described as being associated with drainage 

depressions. It is represented in Photograph 91 overleaf. 


102


Photograph 91. A relatively welldeveloped 

example of VC13d at Site 

H1011 (Horn Island). The shrub 

layer is poorly developed in this 

location. 

Description: Melaleuca acacioides ± Hakea pedunculata tall shrubland on marine plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 13e, 13j 


Regional Ecosystem 3.3.51, represented as VC13e and VC13j frequently forms a narrow fringe to 

mangrove communities on many of the larger islands including islands of both the Inner and Near 

Western Groups. 

Vegetation Community 13e: Vegetation Community 13e is the dominant representation of this 

ecosystem, forming a tall closed shrubland (scrub) with Melaleuca acacioides on Horn Island, 

Muralug Island, and Moa Island. These are relatively simple communities, generally lacking a 

distinctive sub-canopy layer, with a ground cover dominated by salt tolerant sedges and grasses 

including Fimbristylis dichotoma and occasionally Sporobolus virginicus. 

Vegetation Community 13j: Vegetation Community 13j represents an open shrubland variant 

restricted to a single mappable occurrence on Muralug Island behind Port Lihou. Canopy heights 

range from 3m to 6m with PFC generally less than 20%. Melaleuca acacioides forms the 

dominant shrub layer with associated species including Hakea pedunculata and Leucopogon 

ruscifolius. The Vulnerable listed orchid Dendrobium bigibbum was recorded in this community. 


Description: Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea rottboellioides closed tussock grassland on 

coastal plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 17d, 17g 


Grasslands mapped under the classification of RE3.3.57 fall in a generic group, and were difficult 

to differentiate on a floristic level due to lack of fertile specimens at the time of survey (late dry 

season). 


103

Photograph 92. Tall closed 

shrubland of Melaleuca acacioides 

(VC13e) on the margins of a salt flat 

(Site HI01, Horn Island). 

Photograph 93. Open shrubland 

with dominant Melaleuca 

acacioides. Vegetation community 

13j on Muralug Island (Site PW83). 

Vegetation Community 17d: Vegetation Community 17d provides reference to a floristically 

undifferentiated grassland classification with a range of species including Imperata cylindrica, 

Themeda triandra, Heteropogon triticeus and Mnesithea rottboellioides. The community has 

scattered occurrences throughout the study area with the best developed examples being located 

on Moa Island and Gebar Island, generally on relatively well-drained, sandy loam soils. These 

grasslands have developed in response to repetitive anthropogenic burning and the fire disclimax 

vegetation types are often evident scattered throughout the community as discontinuous and 

isolated remnants. The community is represented in Photograph 94 overleaf. 

Vegetation Community 17g: Vegetation Community 17g has been mapped in a single location 

on Muralug where the dominant Themeda triandra and Imperata cylindrica grassland community 

mosaics with Melaleuca nervosa shrubland. The shrubland component represents shrubby 

thickening in the absence of regular fire. 


104


Photograph 94. Grasslands on a 

broad alluvial plain on Gebar Island. 

The community in this location 

represents a fire climax community 

with vine forest (the original 

vegetation type) clearly visible in the 

background. 

Description: Grassland/sedgeland with Pandanus spp. Confined to Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 17a, 17e, 11a 

Reference Sites: 3secondary (SA15, SA21, BO16), 33 Quaternary 

This RE comprises a mosaic of grassland, shrubland and low woodland types, confined mostly to 

Northern Islands group with extensive areas on Saibai Island. More restricted and scattered areas 

occur on Boigu, and isolated examples are also represented on Hammond and Moa Islands (Inner 

and Near Western Island Groups respectively). The RE is endemic to the Torres Strait. 

Vegetation Community 17a: The dominant component of this ecosystem is VC17a, generally 

developed as a closed tussock grassland dominated by Ischaemum australe with associated 

species Imperata cylindrica, Themeda triandra, Mnesithea rottboellioides, Vandasia retusa, and 

Derris trifoliata. Species associated with brackish margins include Fimbristylis ferruginea, 

Acrostichum aureum, and Cynanchum carnosum. Characteristic emergent shrubs are Acacia 

leptocarpa, Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla, Pandanus sp. Livistona muelleri, Antidesma 

parviflorum, Acacia auriculiformis and less commonly Dillenia alata on the Northern Island 

Group. This VC is represented in Photograph 95. 

Vegetation Community 17e: Vegetation Community 17e represents anthropogenically 

disturbed areas on Saibai Island which have re-established native grass cover. These 

communities are clearly identifiable on aerial photography due to their intricate and precisely 

constructed furrow and ridge morphology, indicative of prior cultivation. Barham (1999) 

identifies this feature as former prehistoric tropical field systems with characteristic physical 

traces of relict agricultural mounds and ditches. Barham and Harris (1985), in Barham (1999) 

report that the field systems on Saibai were partly in use as late as 1945 with detailed mapping 

carried out as part of archeological investigations indicating previous use of some 650 ha of land 

area. High cultural values are therefore assciated with this vegetation. This community is 

composed of grass species typical of VC17a, although they lack the prominent emergent shrub 

layer. A representative community is illustrated in Photograph 96. 


105

Photograph 95. Remnants of the 

grassland community 17a (VC17a) 

are scattered amongst the broader 

mosaic of salt flat and mangrove 

communities on Boigu Island. 

Photograph 96. The intricate 

pattern of irrigation channels carved 

into the alluvial landscape are 

diagnostic of VC17e. These are 

visible in the photo foreground. 

Vegetation Community 11a: Pandanus sp. forms the dominant component of VC11a, a tall 

shrubland/low woodland community that is most extensive on Saibai Island, with minor 

occurrences also on Hammond and Moa Islands. Pandanus sp. forms the dominant component of 

the upper stratum which has a height range of 4m to 10m, and PFC generally between 10% and 

40%. Associated canopy species include Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla, Dillenia alata 

and Livistona muelleri, the latter often manifest as a canopy emergent. The secondary shrub layer 

is frequently dominated by Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla, Acacia leptocarpa and low 

Pandanus shrubs. Melaleuca acacioides forms a component of the secondary shrub layer on 

Hammond Island. In the majority of communities sampled, the ground cover is dominated by 

Ischaemum australe although Sarga sp. is locally prominent on Hammond Island. The 

development of this unique ecosystem is undoubtedly linked to soil type, as well as an ongoing 

fire practice. Whilst the RE is largely confined to the Northern Islands of the Torres Strait 

associated with isolated Pleistocene alluvial remnants of the Papuan Fly Platform, scattered 

occurrences of the type on the Inner and Near Western Island Groups provides some indication 

that similar land use practice was being applied across the broader Torres Strait Island area. 

Detailed examination of soil profiles was not undertaken during the study, although some 

considerable differences in soil physical properties is expected between island groups where this 


106

RE is supported, which provides some evidence that this community is shaped largely by land 

management practice. The community is widespread on the Morehead-Kiunga area of the PNG 

lowlands and is identified in the Bula and Mibini Land Systems (CSIRO 1971). 


Photograph 97. Typical 

representation of Pandanus sp. 

shrubland/woodland (VC11a) on 

Saibai Island (Site SA021). 

Description: Closed sedgeland dominated by Eleocharis dulcis. Occurs on seasonally flooded 

marine plains. 



Reference Sites: 12 Quaternary (Saibai, Zuna) 

Vegetation Community 20a: VC20a is extensive only on Saibai Island, with minor areas 

mapped on the Inner Island Group (Zuna and Muralug Islands). The Saibai communities form an 

extensive system of broad shallow swamps attenuated well into the islands alluvial interior. 

These swamps possess a dense cover of Eleocharis sp. which was dry at the time of survey. A 

dramatic response to seasonal rainfall would be expected however, prompting vigorous new 

growth. These are generally brackish wetland communities, merging with mangrove swamps and 

salt pans on estuarine margins. In this regard, seasonal desiccation of these communities would 

be facilitated in part by salinity which increases dramatically as the soil dries, to be flushed 

during seasonal rainfall events. The community further manifests within a constructed wetland 

on Boigu Island and has a very restricted occurrence on Zuna. The latter is a circular swamp 

dominated by Eleocharis surrounded by shrubland of Melaleuca saligna (VC13g). 

Representation is provide in Photograph 98. 


107


Photograph 98. An extensive sedge 

swamp with dominant Eleocharis sp. 

on Saibai Island. The wooded 

fringes are dominated by mangrove 

spp. and Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. 

platyphylla. 

Description: Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest and thicket on alluvial plains. Northern 

islands of the Torres Strait.* 

Vegetation Communities: 2c, 14b 

Reference Sites: 4 Secondary (Saibai SA40, SA43, SA80, BO8) 

A new RE, under the classification of RE3.3.68, has been erected to accommodate two VC’s 

which are restricted to the Northern Island Group. These communities, represented by vine forest 

classification 2c on Saibai Island and closed shrubland type 14b an Boigu Island, occupy a unique 

landform situation with no similar representation in either the broader island group or bio-region. 

Vegetation Community 2c: Vegetation community 2c is confined to Saibai Island where it 

occupies hard clayey alluvium on the margins of brackish swamps, generally as discontinuous 

pockets in the structural range of semi-deciduous vine thicket to semi-deciduous vine forest. 

Representative areas are also located on sinuous slivers on alluvium in the eastern portion of the 

island, which form low rises above tidal salt pans. The canopy is typically broken and uneven, 

ranging in height from 5 to 18m. Dominant species are Mimusops elengi, Terminalia 

subacroptera, Diospyros calycantha, Acacia auriculiformis, Manilkara kauki, Heritiera littoralis, 

Hibiscus tiliaceus, Excoecaria agollocha and Thespesia populneoides. Livistona benthamii and 

Ptychosperma elegans are rare emergents and Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla may also be 

locally prominent often on margins. Sub-canopy species are Mimusops elengi, Drypetes 

deplanchei and Cupaniopsis anacardioides with vines such as Flagellaria indica and Opilia 

armentacea common at Site SA80. It merges with transitional forest type VC23a, on brackish 

swamp margins, differentiated by the general prominence of mangrove species including 

Excoecaria agallocha and Avicennia marina in the transitional types. A representative 

photograph is provided in Photograph 99. 


108

Photograph 99. Maximum 

development of VC2c on Saibai 

Island (Site SA80) with Livistona 

benthamii prominent in the subcanopy. 

Ptychosperma elegans in 

background left. 

Vegetation Community 14b: VC14b is restricted to Boigu Island where remnants are scattered 

across a large portion of the islands landscape. The community is represented as a tall open scrub 

to low open forest with an upper stratum dominated by Acacia auriculiformis, Melaleuca cajuputi 

subsp. platyphylla and Terminalia subacroptera. A range of vine thicket species including 

Hibiscus tiliaceus, Mimusops elengi, Thespesia populneoides, Drypetes deplanchei and 

Excoecaria agallocha generally form a sub-dominant component of the canopy. Prominent shrub 

species include Capparis lucida, Gymnosporia inermis, Chionanthus ramiflora, Drypetes 

deplanchei, Ximenia americanus and Diospyros littoralis. Thin wiry lianes such as Flagellaria 

indica, Opilia armentacea, Derris trifoliata and Cynanchum carnosum are abundant and may 

form part of the groundcover with Acrostichum aureum. The community occupies silty alluvial 

deposits that form low rises above a landscape otherwise dominated by salt pans and estuarine 

wetlands. These rises are rarely more that 0.5m above the maximum tidal levels, and from field 

observation, the community margins are rapidly retreating with succession by mangrove 

shrublands. A representative example is shown in Photograph 100. The rare species 

Tristiropsis acutangula (Sapindaceae) which occurs in the understorey as a sapling shrub is not 

previously known north of Cape York Peninsula (Lockerbie) (Herbrecs 2007) however occurs in 

Papua New Guinea (Conn et al. 2006). 


109



type 14b on a low alluvial rise 

amongst broader estuarine wetland 

vegetation. 

Preliminary Description: Melaleuca dealbata +/- Corymbia clarksoniana open forest on 

alluvial plains. 

Status: Not of Concern (VMS status requires review) 

Vegetation Communities: 7c, 4d 

Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (MO49), 1 Quaternary 

Vegetation Community 7c: Vegetation Community 7c is restricted to coastal areas north of St 

Paul’s, Moa Island. The community is described as a tall open forest, with canopy heights 

ranging from 27 to 35m, composed of Melaleuca dealbata and Corymbia clarksoniana in 

relatively equal proportions. Sub-canopy comprises scattered trees to 18m including Corymbia 

clarksoniana, Livistona muelleri and Acacia crassicarpa. The community had been recently 

burnt at the time of survey and shrub layers and ground cover were sparse. Imperata cylindrica 

formed the dominant regenerating grass species. This community occupies a well-drained, thick 

sequence of alluvial outwash which has been heavily dissected by erosion gullies in some 

locations. The floristic composition of this community appears unique in a bio-regional context 

and a new RE code of RE 3.3.69 has been assigned following discussion with the Queensland 

Herbarium. This community has been heavily fragmented and a dominant proportion of the 

landform that it occupies has been cleared. 

Vegetation Community 4d: Vegetation community 4d represents a minor component of the 

landscape adjacent to VC7c, differing structurally as a low open forest community dominated by 

Welchiodendron longivalve and Melaleuca dealbata. Limited floristic information was gathered 

in relation to this community. Although similar to VC7d, it has been highly fragmented by 

clearing and infrastructure development. Due to its restricted size and similar landform 

association, this VC has been included as a subtype of the proposed new RE3.3.69. 


110



Corymbia clarksoniana and 

Melaleuca dealbata (VC7c) on Moa 

Island (Site MO48). 

Description: Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Pandanus 

sp. +/- Livistona muelleri woodland and open forest. Alluvial plains of northern Torres Strait 

Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 8a, 7a 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary (Saibai SA20, SA61); 10 Quaternary 

The RE classification 3.3.70 incorporates two distinctive vegetation communities most 

commonly associated with the alluvial remnants of the Fly Platform on Saibai Island, although 

with minor occurrences extending southwards onto Moa Island. These communities are 

composed of VC8a and VC7b. 

Vegetation Community 8a/7b: Vegetation Community 8a is confined to Saibai Island where 

Lophostemon suaveolens forms an open forest community. It forms scattered groves throughout 

the more extensive Ischaemum spp. grasslands (see RE3.3.62) which occupy the broad gently 

domed alluvial plains in the islands interior. Canopy heights range from 10-18m and associated 

canopy species may include Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla, Livistona muelleri and 

Pandanus sp. although all three of these species are more prominent in the sub-canopy and shrub 

layers together with Acacia leptocarpa. Ground cover is generally dominated by Ischaemum 

australe, Imperata cylindrica and Vandasia retusa. Upper trunks and branches support the 

epiphytes Myrmecodia platytyrea subsp. antoinii, Hydnophytum mosleyanum var. moseleyanum, 

Dischidia nummularia and D. major. Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla occasionally 

separates from this community to form a discrete low open forest unit, particularly on swampier 

alluvial plain margins, unit classified as VC7a. In recognition of the association with the broader 

Lophostemon suaveolens open forest communities, VC7a has been classified as a component of 

RE3.3.70. 


111



of Lophostemon suaveolens. 

Alluvial plains of Saibai Island. 

Description: Corymbia novoguinensis or C. nesophila ± C. tessellaris woodland on northern 

Cape York Peninsula. 



Reference Sites: 4 Quaternary (MO5, MO15, MO23, MO153). 

Vegetation Community 5a: Regional Ecosystem 3.5.5, represented as VC5a in this mapping 

exercise, is restricted to Moa Island. Where surveyed, the community presents as an open forest 

with a canopy height range of 18m to 25m dominated by Corymbia novoguinensis. Associated 

canopy species typically include Parinari nonda, Lophostemon suaveolens, Acacia crassicarpa 

and Melaleuca viridiflora although these species are never dominant. The sub-canopy, which 

ranges from 10 to 15m is typified by Parinari nonda, Lophostemon suaveolens, Livistona 

muelleri, Acacia crassicarpa, Welchiodendron longivalve, Melaleuca viridiflora and Syzygium 

suborbiculare. Ground cover is typically grassy although species were not identified due to lack 

of fertile material. The open forest community occupies the sandy remnants of a former 

depositional surface. These remnants form low, flat or gently undulating rises above a 

surrounding erosional plain, although scattered examples are found in a number of locations on 

the island. The community is represented in Photograph 103 overleaf. 


Description: Eucalyptus tetrodonta ± Corymbia hylandii subsp. peninsularis ± C. stockeri 

woodland on erosional plains and sandtone plateaus. 


Vegetation Communities: 5q 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (FRQ9, WEQ9) 

Minor areas of RE3.5.8c are represented on Wednesday and Friday Islands where the community 

is characteristed as a low woodland or low open woodland of Corymbia stockerii subsp. 

peninsularis (VC5q). Melaleuca stenostachya is the typical sub-canopy dominant, although 

occasionally forms the canopy in areas of low soil moisture and fertility where it is differentiated 

as VC13i (RE3.5.7). A number of intermediate structural phases between woodland and 

shrubland may exist, passing through open woodland community 5m, although this community is 


112

not differentiated from the broader woodland/shrubland complex. This RE is associated with 

deeply weathered terraces and remnant alluvial features, typically in lower mid-slope locations. 

More detailed analysis of these associated landforms is provided in Section 5.1.4. 



Community 5a at Site MO23. 

Photograph 104. Typical 

representation of VC5q occurring on 

a deeply weathered alluvial feature 

(FRQ9). 

Description: Melaleuca viridiflora ± Acacia spp. ± Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa low woodland 

on scattered coastal sand plains. 


Vegetation Communities: 13d, 13c, 13a, 13f, 17i 

Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (MO19), 12 Quaternary (Moa & Muralug) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.5.15 exists as a mosaic of Melaleuca viridiflora dominant shrubland and 

low woodland VC’s, largely restricted to Moa Island with small areas also mapped on Muralug. 

These VC’s occupy residual sandy plains, formed on deeply weathered granite on Moa, and clays 

on Muralug, and their formation is largely a response to infertile soils and poor drainage. 


113

Vegetation Community 13d: Vegetation Community 13d, represented as a newly erected subtype 

RE3.5.15a, forms a somewhat better developed community with canopy heights to 8m and 

canopy cover typically ranging from 40% to 60%. Melaleuca saligna is the characterising upper 

stratum species, which is typically co-dominant with Melaleuca viridiflora and Asteromyrtus 

symphyocarpa. Banksia dentata forms an occasional shrub layer, in association with species 

otherwise typical of the canopy. An emergent layer dominated by Corymbia spp. (typically 

Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis or Corymbia nesophila) is commonly formed. The type 

occupies sandy plain areas, with soils better drained than VC13c. Numerous granite corestones 

area apparent scattered across the surface where the community was sampled at MO21. 

Illustration of VC13d is provided in Photograph 105. 

Vegetation Community 13c: The dominant community on Moa Island is VC13c, which forms a 

low sparse shrubland, with shrub cover with a general range from 10% to 20%, and heights of the 

upper stratum ranging from 3m to 6m. Melaleuca viridiflora and Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa 

form the dominant shrub species, with associated and occasionally co-dominant shrubs including 

Asteromyrtus brassii and Banksia dentata. Melaleuca saligna and Leucopogon ruscifolius are 

occasional shrub species. Ground cover is typically sparse and dominated by Dapsilanthus 

spathaceus. In comparison to VC13a on alluvium, where this community occurs on remnant 

surfaces, the Melaleuca viridiflora variety is typically a longer (pendulous) leaf variety. A 

representative photograph is provided in Photograph 106. The community is described under 

RE sub-type 3.3.15b 

Vegetation Community 13f/13a: Vegetation Community 13f is recognised where Melaleuca 

viridiflora forms a canopy with sub-dominant to co-dominant Corymbia spp. This community 

forms a mosaic with Melaleuca viridiflora dominant woodland (VC13a) on remnant alluvial 

plains on Moa Island. Vegetation Community 13f is typically a tall shrubland to low woodland, 

with an upper stratum height ranging from 7 to 10m. Canopy cover varies although cover of > 

40% is typical. The suite of Corymbia spp. that may be present include Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis, Corymbia nesophila and Corymbia clarksoniana. Parinari nonda is locally 

abundant as a canopy and sub-canopy species and Banksia dentata and Asteromyrtus 

symphyocarpa often form a prominent sub-canopy layer. Ground cover is variable although as a 

general rule, with Themeda triandra dominant in areas of better soil drainage, giving way to 

sedges as drainage becomes increasingly impeded. The community often merges with VC5c 

which occupies a similar landscape position, although Melaleuca viridiflora represents a subcanopy 

species in VC5c, only occasionally reaching canopy height (refer to Photograph 107). 


Community 13d on residual plain with 

outcropping granite corestone. 


114


Community 13c on residual sand 

plain. Moa Island Site M019. 

Photograph 107. Low woodland of 

Melaleuca viridiflora and Corymbia 

clarksoniana (VC13f) on remnant 

sand plain at site MO112. 

Vegetation Community 17i: Vegetation Community 17i is a relatively extensive formation 

associated with residual sand plains on north-west side of Moa Island where it is represented as 

RE sub-type 3.3.15b, in recognition of its association with VC13c. The community was not 

sampled on the ground, being observed from helicopter, although some indication of its 

constituent species can be ascertained from Site MO149 where a swampland within the broader 

VC17i community was sampled and where Dapsilanthus spathaceus formed the dominant ground 

cover, typical of other open shrubland communities on the broader residual plain. Low emergent 

shrubs including Melaleuca viridiflora, Pandanus sp. and Asteromyrtus brassii to 1m are 

associated with the community. This community has been assigned to the new RE sub-unit of 

RE3.5.15b (based on Herbarium recommendations) in recognition of its distinctive floristic and 

structural characteristics, and its association with the broader mosaic of shrubland and low 

woodland communities comprising RE3.5.15. 


115


Description: Melaleuca stenostachya +/_ Melaleuca viridiflora on flat plains. 


Vegetation Communities: VC13i 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (MO025, MO028) 

Photograph 108. Mosaic of 

sedgeland and low open forest 

(VC17i, VC9a) communities on 

residual sand sheets in the north west 

of Moa Island. 

Vegetation Community 13i: Mapped areas of VC 13i on Land Zone 5 are restricted to Friday 

and Wednesday Islands where it is represented as a shrubland, or rarely as low woodland, with a 

canopy dominated by Melaleuca stenostachya. Associated canopy species include Asteromyrtus 

symphyocarpa, Melaleuca viridiflora with Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis frequently 

forming an emergent tree layer, becoming dominant where it merges with VC5m. This 

community occupies deeply weathered alluvial deposits, generally on gully heads where older 

alluvial landforms are preserved as incised terraces. Derivation of these landform features is 

described briefly in Section 5.1.5. 

Photograph 109. Tall shrubland of 

Melaleuca stenostachya with 

emergent Corymbia spp. on deeply 

weathered alluvial remnants. 


116


Description: Asteromyrtus lysicephala, Choriceras tricorne open heath on sand sheets. 


Vegetation Communities: 14i 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (MO025, MO028) 

Vegetation Community 14i: Vegetation Community 14i is the only component of RE3.5.19, 

represented as sub-type 3.5.19a. The community is floristically atypical and has been placed in 

this category for convenience in the absence of more suitable category. Residual sand rises on 

Moa Island host the only representation of VC14i identified in the study area. The community 

manifests as a shrubland and occasional low open forest with a general canopy height from 4m to 

8m, and emergents to 10m. Asteromyrtus brassii is the dominant species in the upper stratum, 

accompanied by Melaleuca saligna, Lophostemon suaveolens, and Acacia crassicarpa. 

Lophostemon suaveolens forms the dominant emergent species. The lower shrub layer achieves 

up to 50% cover featuring Leucopogon ruscifolius, Baeckea frutescens, Exocarpos latifolius, 

Melaleuca viridiflora, Alyxia spicata, Banksia dentata and Lomandra banksii features in the 

groundcover. The floristic similarities to VC8b must be recognised, although VC14i represents a 

generally lower, shrubbier version on residual sand rather than recent fluvial deposits as in VC8b. 

The associated landform is severely leached humic sand which forms low rises above an 

erosional plain. As discussed in Section 5.1.5, the provenance of these low sand rises is 

uncertain, possibly representing old dunes or remnant fluvial deposits. 

5.2.53 Regional Ecosystem 3.5.23x1 


Community 14i on residual sand 

rise. Site MO25. 

Description: Eucalyptus tetrodonta ± Corymbia nesophila ± C. clarksoniana woodland on 

undulating rises. 


Vegetation Communities: 5k, 5j 

Reference Sites: 4 Quaternary (Muralug) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.5.23x1 is represented by two VC’s, with occurrences restricted to Muralug 



117

Vegetation Community 5j: Vegetation Community 5j represents a tall open forest, with a 

canopy height range of 23 to 35m, dominated by Eucalyptus tetrodonta and Corymbia nesophila. 

The sub-canopy, which attains a height of 18m is dominated by Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis. Typical species of the upper shrub layer include Xylomelum scottianum, Acacia 

platycarpa, Persoonia falcata, Pandanus spiralis, Grevillea parallela while the sparse lower 

shrub layer comprises Alyxia spicata, Jacksonia thesioides, Parinari nonda, Acacia leptocarpa 

and Syzygium suborbiculare. This community occupies low residual sand rises which are 

scattered across the coastal plain on Muralug Island with the community description coming from 

SitePWQ25. The community is illustrated in Photograph 111. 

Vegetation Community 5k: Vegetation Community 5k occupies remnant alluvial terraces in 

scattered locations on Muralug. It is similar to VC5j, although the canopy is typically lower, and 

Eucalyptus tetrodonta is sparsely scattered or absent. The dominant canopy is composed of 

Corymbia nesophila and Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis which generally form an open 

forest, and occasionally woodland in some locations and Erythrophleum chlorostachys, Corymbia 

novoguinensis and Corymbia tessellaris in some locations. Parinari nonda often forms a subcanopy 

dominant with typical shrubs in a sparse understorey being layer Neofabricia myrtifolia, 

Melaleuca viridiflora, Banksia dentata, Acacia simsii and Jacksonia thesioides. Representation 

is provided in Photograph 112. 

Photograph 111. Woodland VC5j 

on remnant alluvial terrace. 

Photograph 112. Low sand rise on 

Muralug supporting Eucalyptus 

tetrodonta and Corymbia nesophila 

open forest, Site PWQ25. 


118


Description: Sorghum plumosum var. plumosum ± Themeda arguens closed tussock grassland 

on erosional plains. 



Reference Sites: 1 Quaternary (MO86) 

Vegetation Community 17d: Grassland community 17d represents the generic grassland type 

on a range of Land Zone associations. On LZ5, Moa Island provides for the only representation. 

The community (at MO86) is dominated by Themeda triandra and Heteropogon triticeus with a 

range of emergent shrubs, the most prominent being Planchonia careya, Cycas badensis, 

Parinari nonda and Cochlospermum gillivraei. The grassland is a fire climax community, with 

scattered vine forest remnants clumped on low granite mounds which protrude above the 

undulating sand plain, offering some protection from fire. It should be noted that this grassland 

community has been stable for long periods and its extent has changed little in the past 35 years, 

based on the 1974 photographs which were used to assist the mapping exercise. 


Photograph 113. Grassland 

community 17d on undulating sandy 

plain, Site MO86, Moa Island. 

Preliminary Description: Asteromyrtus brassii + Syzygium angophoroides + Acmena 

hemilampra subsp. hemilampra open forest. Residual sand rises and sheets. 



Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (MO29), 2 Quaternary. 

Vegetation Community 9a: This community is expressed on Moa Island where it presents a 

number of discontinuous, broadly linear occurrences across a broad erosional plain. 

Asteromyrtus brassii, Syzygium angophoroides, Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra, Acacia 

crassicarpa and Melaleuca quinquenervia form the dominant canopy constituents of an open 

forest community with a canopy height range of 15m to 20m. The sub-canopy and shrub layers 

tend to merge ranging in height from 2m to 10m comprising Leucopogon ruscifolius, Exocarpos 

latifolius, Lithomyrtus obtusa, Livistona muelleri, Acacia crassicarpa, Polyscias australiana, 

Breynia oblongifolia, Baeckea frutescens, Alyxia spicata, Lophostemon suaveolens, Dillenia 

alata, Banksia dentata, Pandanus sp., Endiandra glauca, and Myrsine urceolata. The ground 

cover is dominated by Lomandra banksii. 


119

This community presents some difficulty for classification in a landform sense. The low sandy 

rises that it occupies are scattered across a broader erosional surface and their provenance is not 

clear. It is considered that these features may represent relict beach ridges, although their 

morphology has been degraded to a degree that confirmation of this is not possible. The low rises 

also support forest communities that are atypical of degraded dune systems examined in other 

locations, more typically occupied by stunted shrublands. That the vegetation community 

comprises species typically associated with swamplands is also puzzling when it is considered 

that the ridges are elevated above the surrounding erosional plain and provide reasonable 

drainage. Given that the surrounding landform is erosional presents the possibility that these 

features are the result of a topographic reversal and the forest communities represent former 

swamplands on a previous depositional surface. The species composition of the forest gives 

some support to this possibility. Without the ability to positively identify these features, they 

have been classified with the broader erosional plain as LZ5 features. A new RE is proposed to 

accommodate this community under the preliminary classification of RE3.5.4x6. 

5.2.56 Regional Ecosystem 3.7.1x1b 

Photograph 114. Open forest 

dominated by Asteromyrtus brassii 

and Syzygium angophoroides (VC9a) 

at Site MO108. 

Description: Closed semi-deciduous mesophyll vine forest. Mainly occurs on loamy alluvia. 


Vegetation Communities: 2e 


Vegetation Community 2e: The lateritic profile that provides an elevated base for the Saibai 

Island township presents a significant puzzle in respect to pre-clearing vegetation association. 

With out any similar examples of lateritic profiles in the study area, let alone a fully vegetated 

one, the pre-clearing landscape can only be re-constructed from remnants associated with this 

landform. It should also be considered that with the considerable history of traditional occupation, 

the vegetated landscape has most likely undergone a number of transformations in an area that 

was central to pre-european occupation. The only remnant of native vegetation on the laterite 

plateau exists in the form of a scrubby vine thicket community, mapped as L2e, which has been 

reduced to two marginal slivers along the access road to the Saibai cemetery. These slivers 

comprise a low semi-deciduous vine thicket with canopy species represented by Thespesia 

populneoides, Terminalia subacroptera, Cathormion umbellatum subsp. monoliforme, 

Dendrolobium umbellatum, Intsia bijuga, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Manilkara kauki, Milletia pinnata, 

Cordia subcordata and Lysiphyllum bipinnata. 


120

That this community is marginal to estuarine wetland communities is manifest in the prominence 

of a deciduous mangrove species (Excoecaria agallocha) in the canopy. The central areas of this 

landform were likely to have formed a much better developed thicket community than is 

represented in contemporary remnants, with a prominence of species including Terminalia 

subacroptera and Acacia auriculiformis. It is possible that clues to the original floristic 

composition of this landform may be present on the mainland PNG coastline, although no such 

communities are documented in available literature. Although highly degraded and extremely 

limited in size, the continuity with adjacent remnant estuarine landscapes affords this community 

remnant status. This community has been assigned to a preliminary RE classification based on 

Herbarium recommendations. Further review into the bio-regional occurrence of this RE is 

required. 


Photograph 115. Remnants of vine 

thicket community 2e reduced to 

narrow slivers on roadside margins. 

Description: Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea rottboellioides closed tussock grassland on basalt 

vents & cones. 


Vegetation Communities: 17b, 17b(e) 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (ER006, ER021, MU030), 13 Quaternary 

Native grasslands form a considerable portion of the major basaltic islands, and these are 

represented as RE3.8.4b, in recognition of their geographic seperation from basaltic grasslands in 

the south of the bioregion. Some floristic variation from the type description is present in the 

surveyed communities. 

Grasslands on Erub Island extend from the upper slopes to the coastal margins and form a broad 

complex with vine forest communities which are generally restricted to gully lines and sheltered 

locations. Two secondary sites were surveyed on Erub (ER06 and ER021), both of these located 

on basaltic coastal headlands and both were dominated by Themeda triandra achieving between 

70-80% cover. Additional groundcover species are *Passiflora foetida, Anisomeles malabarica, 

Cissus maritima, Ipomoea pes-capre subsp. brasiliensis, and Jacquemontia paniculata. Scattered 

low stunted shrubs of Wrightia pubescens subsp. penicillata, Litsea glutinosa, Morinda citrifolia 

and Flueggea virosa subsp. melanthesoides may occur with occasional emergents of 

Barringtonia calyptrata to 10m. Lantana is usually abundant on margins often within emerging 

shrublands dominated by Macaranga tanarius. 


121

Away from the coastal headlands Imperata cylindrica was often the dominant species and the 

tendency for it to mosaic with Themeda triandra meant that differentiation based on species 

composition could not be completed with any degree of confidence. As such, VC17b describes a 

mosaic of grassland species which may include Themeda triandra, Imperata cylindrica and 

Mnesithea rottboellioides, restricted to basic volcanic rock types. 


Community 17b with dominant 

Themeda triandra (Site ER021, Erub 


Secondary level survey was completed at sites considered from on ground examination to be in 

good condition, however data from a number of additional Quaternary sites indicate the general 

condition of the grassland on Erub to be extremely variable. Large areas, generally on the 

margins of vine forest communities are dominated by Lantana camara where they are mapped as 

VC17b(e), or have been invaded by a range of colonising native shrubs where they have been 

represented as VC17b(r). Typical regenerating species include Micromelum minutum, Litsea 

glutinosa, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Wrightia pubescens subsp. penicillata, Melicope 

peninsularis, Flagellaria indica, Jacquemontia paniculata, Annonaceae (DGF8739+), Abutilon 

sp., Rubiaceae (DGF8741+), Thespesia populneoides, Ficus opposita, Barringtonia racemosa, 

Atalaya sericopetala, Tabernaemontana orientalis, Morinda citrifolia, Clerodendron sp. and 

Garuga floribunda var. floribunda. Exotics such as *Senna alata, *Calopogonium mucunoides, 

*Sida retusa, *Sida rhombifolia, *Macroptilium atropurpurea, *Clitoria ternata and *Bambusa 

spp. are frequent. 

Considerable areas have also been subject to severe topsoil erosion which has thinned the ground 

cover and these areas are represented as VC17b(s). In all cases, these communities have been 

represented with remnant status. In the case of VC17b(e) and VC17b(s) remnant status has been 

recognised given that an applied land management practice (i.e. appropriate fire regimes) is 

capable of quickly re-establishing natural condition. 

Native grassland communities on Mer Island were similar to those on Erub although they 

generally demonstrated considerably more species diversity. At Site MU030, groundcover 

composition was as follows; Mnesithea rottboellioides (40%), Themeda triandra (21%), 

Imperata cylindrica (19%), Ipomoea pes-capre subsp. brasiliensis (13%), Premna dallachyana 

(4%), Anisomeles malabrica (2%), Desmodium sp. (DGF8812+) (1%), Wedelia biflora (


community V17b on Mer Island with 

emergent shrubs prominent 

(MU030). 

The literature suggests considerable conjecture about the provenance of grasslands on these 

islands. Draffan et al. (1983) in Freebody (2002), and Stocker (1978), refer to the use of fire in 

vine forest areas (with a closed canopy) on Erub and Mer Islands causing habitat alteration and a 

reduction of the total area of closed forest to fire climax grasslands. The results of this study 

however indicate that the grassland community on Mer occupies a cinder cone, which imposes 

unique edaphic conditions on vegetation communities in the form of extreme drainage. The 

considerable number of volcanic vents and basalt regolith on Australia’s north-eastern region that 

naturally support grasslands in much wetter or similar climates (e.g. Seven Sisters near 

Yungaburra, Mount Fox and Clump Point in Queensland’s wettest coastal location), offer 

evidence to suggest that the grasslands on these islands were not necessarily preceded by vine 

forest. The extremely fresh nature of many of the volcanic structures apparent on the Dauar 

Cone, and to lesser extent the Mer Cone, largely disproves any theory of rainforest succession to 

grassland. Historical annotations by Haddon (1901) provide clear evidence that the landscape 

dynamic has changed little in the period of European influence. An extract from Haddon quotes 

“the cresentic valley, crater, or “big valley” Aupaut, being formed in a porous volcanic ash, is 

somewhat arid; the vegetation consists of coarse grass, low scrub and scattered coconut palms 

and presents a marked contrast to the remainder of the island; the steep slopes are unusually 

bare” (Haddon 1901 Part 1, Chapter 3, pp30). 

Similarly, the argument that Erub (and Mer) once supported a blanketing vine forest community 

that was cleared and burnt to produce the grassland mosaic that is apparent in today’s landscape 

is questionable. Whilst there is no doubt that fire controls vine forest distribution to a 

considerable extent, ecotonal changes upslope along gully lines from tall vine forest (VC2k) to 

vine thicket (VC2w), to grassland (VC17b) observed during the study indicates the considerable 

role the natural environment plays in vine forest distribution. It is unlikely that the upper slopes 

of Erub ever supported luxuriant vine forest due to the relative dryness of the climate and the 

extreme soil drainage on these upper slope areas. It should thus be stated that whilst removal of 

fire as a land management tool may not have any marked effect long term effect on vine forest 

distribution, it will certainly result in considerable degredation of these restricted grassland 

communities through lantana invasion. Very hot late dry season fires burnt upslope are likely to 

cause a retreat of vine forest margins with subsequent invasion by lantana. 


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Description: Preliminary Description; Semi deciduous and Deciduous Notophyll Vine Forest. 

Basaltic Islands of the Torres Strait. 


Vegetation Communities: 2i, 2j, 2k, 2w, 15a, 21a, 22a 

Reference Sites: 10 Secondary (ER02, MU11, MU01, ER44, ER20, ER12, ER11, ER34, MU09, 

ER45), 74 Quaternary. 

RE 3.8.5 describes vine forests formed on basalt, typical of the Torres Strait Eastern Island Group 

including Mer, Erub, and Ugar Islands. A new RE classification (RE3.8.5) is provided in 

recognition of their unique structural and floristic characterics, distinct from basaltic vine forests 

typical of mainland areas. This is a variable grouping and the degree of floristic and structural 

variation warrants a range of RE sub-types to be described. Six sub-types are described under the 

classifications of VC2i, VC2j, VC2k, VC2w and VC15a. The Endangered shrub and small tree 

Alectryon repandodentatus is previously known from four Queensland Herbarium collections on 

Mer and also from semi deciduous mesophyll vine forest at Lockerbie, Cape York (Landsberg 

and Clarkson 2004). Survey records indicate that it is a very common species that is pervasive in 

both canopy and sub-canopy layers throughout this regional ecosystem, on both Mer and Erub. It 

also occurs in VC1a on Dauan Island. A highly disjunct population of Chrysophyllum roxburgii 

previously noted on the island by Freebody (2002) was vouchered during the survey. The species 

was not recorded elsewhere on the island. A disjunct population of Canarium vitiense was also 

recorded on Erub from this RE. 

Vegetation Community 2i: The initial sub-type is represented by VC2i, classified as RE3.8.5a 

(based on Herbarium advice), which occurs on the steep basaltic escarpments on Erub Island. 

This community is a thicket, with canopy heights ranging from 6 to 10m, and emergents to 15m. 

The dominant canopy comprises (in order of decreasing dominance) Berrya javanica, 

Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Diospyros hebecarpa, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Melicope peninsularis, 

Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Drypetes deplanchei, Mimusops elengi and Manilkara kauki. The 

sole emergent species is typically Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum. This is a restricted community 

limited to a number of steep sheltered gully lines and coastal escarpments where some protection 

from fire is afforded. 

Photograph 118. Notophyll vine 

thicket type 2i on a steep basaltic 

escarpment at Site ER013. 


124

Vegetation Community 2j: Vegetation Community 2j is the dominant vine forest type on both 

Mer and Erub Islands, and is also represented under the sub-unit of RE3.8.5a. The best 

representation is formed on gentle basalt slopes to the north east of the airport on Erub where the 

community mixes with VC2k. Well-preserved remnants of this community were difficult to find 

on Mer, although the best type example was located adjacent to the workers accommodation at 

Site MU01 where the canopy and internal forest structure was surprisingly well-preserved. In 

this location, a general canopy height range of 15m to 18m was typical with emergents reaching 

28m. The canopy species comprised Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Diospyros hebecarpa, 

Alectryon repandodentatus (E), Adenanthera pavonina, Wrightia pubescens subsp. penicillata, 

and Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla. Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum always forms the 

emergent layer. On Erub Island, Cupaniopsis anacardioides forms a dominant to co-dominant 

canopy species with Diospyros hebecarpa (refer to Site ER12). It is therefore considered unusual 

that this species is not recorded as either a canopy or sub-canopy species on Mer. The typical 

canopy structure of this VC is highly broken, often with significant canopy gaps extending to 

near ground level. The uneven nature of this canopy can only be attributed to disturbance in 

some form, possible with extreme wind as a major contributing factor. 

Vegetation Community 2k: Vegetation community 2k, represented by RE sub-unit 3.8.5b, was 

sampled to secondary level at Site ER011 and represents the maximum development of vine 

forest observed on the basaltic islands. This tall deciduous forest formation is restricted to Erub 

Island where it occupies sheltered pockets, generally within broader areas of VC2j. The canopy, 

which typically ranges from 25m to 38m, has an open feel due to the deciduous canopy although 

measured crown cover is typically > 80%. The dominant canopy species (in order of decreasing 

dominance) are Gyrocarpus americanus, Cathormion umbellatum subsp. monoliforme, Garuga 

floribunda var. floribunda, Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla, Mimusops elengi, Wrightia 

laevis, Diospyros hebecarpa and Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum. The sub-canopy is relatively 

open (30 – 50%) with dominant species including Diospyros hebecarpa, Celtis philippensis, 

Alectryon repandodentatus (E) and Manilkara kauki. 

Photograph 119. The best 

development of VC2j on Murray 

Island at Site MU01. 


125

Photograph 120. Tall deciduous 

vine forest community 2k at site 

ER011 on Erub Island. The 

prominent tree is Gyrocarpus 

americanus. 

Vegetation Community 2w: Deciduous vine thicket on basalt is characterised by VC2w, 

occurring on both Erub and Mer Islands. A separate sub-typing of RE3.8.5c is used to describe 

this distinctive community which is associated with exposed basaltic escarpments on Erub and 

Maer Islands. The community forms a canopy with a height range of 6m to 8m that is typified by 

species similar to VC2k described above. Besides an obvious difference in canopy height, the 

distinction between VC2k and VC2w is also an ecological one, with VC2w typically on drier 

sites such as steep exposed escarpments or as narrow attenuations upslope along gully lines 

within broader grassland communities. Canopy species include Antiaris toxicaria var. 

macrophylla, Garuga floribunda var. floribunda, Gyrocarpus americanus, Terminalia 

subacroptera and scattered Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum. The sparse sub-canopy comprises 

Cleistanthus peninsularis, Drypetes deplanchei, Eugenia reinwardtiana, and Alectryon 

repandodentatus (E). Ground cover comprises abundant slender vines and low shrubs which 

form a sparse cover over a substrate typically composed of basalt talus. 

Photograph 121. Vine thicket type 

2w at site ER34 with the deciduous 

nature of the canopy clearly evident. 

Vegetation Community 15a: Vegetation community 15a represents a complex of vine thicket 

and low open forest mapped on the steep south-eastern basaltic escarpment of Mer. The 

components, which comprise vine thicket type 2w and an undescribed low open forest of 


126

Pandanus sp, contribute roughly equal portions to the complex which was left undifferentiated 

due to limitations with photographic scale and the steep slopes which made remote interpretation 

and accurate representation extremely difficult. The vine thicket component VC2w has been 

previously described although in this situation, Pandanus sp. may form a minor component of the 

canopy and the sub-canopy is typically dominated by evergreen species with Manilkara kauki 

particularly prominent. Pandanus sp. forms the canopy of the low open forest component, 

accompanied by occasional trees which include Hibiscus tiliaceus, and Barringtonia calyptrata. 

The relatively even canopy is occasionally interrupted by emergent trees such as Bombax ceiba 

var. leiocarpum. This is a community that has been shaped by extreme environmental conditions, 

clearly evident in the strongly windswept crowns of the vine thicket complex component, which 

occupies the more exposed positions on the escarpment. The vegetation complex is represented 

under the sub-type classification of RE 3.8.5e. 

Photograph 122. Vine thicket 

component (VC2w) of the coastal 

headland complex type VC15a. 


of Pandanus sp. which forms 

component of VC15a on Mer. 

Vegetation Community 21a: Successional forests are recognised in sheltered positions on the 

western portion of Mer Island, occupying gully lines incised into the main cinder cone. This 

community forms a dense thicket to low closed forest, generally with canopy heights in the 6m to 

12m range, with dominant upper stratum species including Cerbera manghas, Macaranga 


127

tanarius, Hibiscus tiliaceus, Mangifera indica, Barringtonia calyptrata, Myristica insipida, 

Pouteria obovata, Alstonia spectabilis, Premna dallachyana with vines such as Mucuna gigantea 

and Entada phaseoloides. Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum may be present as a sparse emergent in 

the more advanced successional stages. The development of these communities is controlled by 

both fire and edaphic conditions. It should also be noted that whilst the climax stage of this VC is 

possibly VC2j, the extreme drainage conditions imposed by the porous cinder substrate is likely 

to limit successional forest development and it is expected that even advanced successional stages 

are likely to be extremely depauperate both in stature and floristics. Cessation of regular burning 

will possibly facilitate the expansion of depauperate thickets at the expense of grasslands. The 

contemporary fire regimes of the island were not discussed in detail with the local community. 

Evidence from historical photographs (1988) indicates that these communities are in a state of 

relative stability. The timing and intensity of fires is an important land management issue 

requiring additional investigation in relevance to the management of invase weeds particularly 

Lantana. This community is represented as RE sub-type 3.8.5d. 


Photograph 124. Early stage 

successional forest on Mer Island 

forming a low closed thicket with 

dominant Macaranga tanarius. 

Description: Notophyll vine forest of Welchiodendron longivalve on Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 4a, 4b, 4c, 1d, 17h (co) 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (MO003, MA030, MA043) 

Regional Ecosystem 3.12.4 is an endemic yet extensive community in the study area occurring on 

granite and rhyolite hillslopes and footslopes, reaching its northern limits on Gebar Island in the 

Central Island Group. 

Vegetation Community 4a: Regional Ecosystem 3.12.4 is formed dominantly by VC4a, which 

is represented in the coverage as sub-type RE3.12.4a. This VC is an amalgam of two forest types 

that, due to frequency of variation and similarity in photographic signature, could not be 

differentiated with confidence on either aerial photography or satellite imagery. The canopy 

height of VC4a is highly variable, although generally ranging from 8 to 20m. The dominant 

floristic component is Welchiodendron longivalve although this species mixes to varying degrees 

with a range of vine forest species. On Moa and Muralug Islands, Welchiodendron longivalve 

closed forest and semi-deciduous vine forest communities form mosaics that separate into 


128

distinctive structural components. On Mabuiag and Hammond Islands, Welchiodendron forms a 

canopy with evergreen species and this grouping has also been included in VC4a. A 

representative assemblage of canopy species in this VC includes Welchiodendron longivalve as a 

dominant to sub-dominant species with Acacia polystachya, Endiandra glauca, Canarium 

australianum, Psydrax sp. (DGF8884+), Syzygium bungadinnia, Dysoxylum oppositifolium, 

Alphitonia excelsa, Sterculia quadrifida, Parinari nonda, Canarium australianum, Pouteria 

sericea, Gyrocarpus americanus, Drypetes deplanchei and Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum. 

Vegetation Community 4b: Vegetation Community 4b forms a low woodland variant of this 

RE with typical examples on Gebar and Mabuiag with a well-developed grassy ground cover. 

Small areas on Moa Island where Welchiodendron mixes with Melaleuca dealbata on loamy 

granite slopes are represented as VC4c. The RE also forms a component of vegetation grassland 

complex 17h. Vegetation Community 17h represents a grassland complex behind St Paul’s 

Village (Moa Island) where, through the process of repetitive burning, Welchiodendron dominant 

open forest has retreated into sheltered pockets along gully lines within a broader grassland 

community. 

Photograph 125. Welchiodendron 

longivalve dominant closed forest on 

Mabuiag Island (MA003). 

Photograph 126. Low 

Welchiodendron longivalve 

dominant woodland on acid volcanic 

footslopes (VC4b-Gebar Island). 


129

Vegetation Community 1d: Vegetation Community 1d, represented in the mapping as sub-type 

RE13.12.4b, is a variation restricted to the Torres Strait Islands. The community occupies 

sheltered gully lines, most abundantly on Mabuiag Island, although scattered occurrences have 

been mapped on Gebar and Warral Islands. Only the Mabuiag Island forests have been 

adequately ground truthed and classification of this community on other islands is based largely 

on landscape position and photographic signatures. The canopy is relatively even, ranging from 

18 to 25m, and canopy cover is greater than 80%. 

Evergreen species dominate the canopy with a minor deciduous component present in some 

locations. Typical canopy species in order of decreasing dominance include Endiandra glauca, 

Syzygium bungadinnia, Buchanania arborescens, Acacia polystachya, Dysoxylum oppositifolium, 

Canarium australianum, Pouteria sericea, Sterculia quadrifida, Schefflera actinophylla, 

Myristica insipida, Carallia brachiata, Clerodendron sp., Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, 

Cryptocarya exfoliata, *Mangifera indica, Calophyllum sil, Elaeodendron melanocarpum, 

Terminalia subacroptera and Maranthes corymbosa. The sub-canopy ranges in height from 10 to 

15m and includes species otherwise typical of the canopy, plus several additional species 

including Chionanthus ramiflora, Arytera bifoliolata, Cryptocarya exfoliata and Pouteria 

obovata. Ground cover is typically sparse, with abundant rock talus and scattered epiphytes 

dominated by Drynaria quercifolia. The community merges upslope from gully walls into 

Welchiodendron and Acacia polystachya dominant open forest. 


Photograph 127. The distinctive 

bark of Syzygium bungadinnia which 

is a prominent canopy component of 

VC1d. 

Description: Corymbia clarksoniana ± C. tessellaris open forest on coastal ranges and lowlands. 


Vegetation Communities: 5b, 5s, 5e 


Regional Ecosystem 3.12.8 is represented by VC5b, VC5s and VC5e. Vegetation Community 5b 

forms the dominant woodland and open forest type on footslopes and colluvial slopes of Moa 

Island. Vegetation Community 5s on granitic landforms is relatively more restricted, occurring 

most abundantly on Hammond Island of the Inner Island Group. 

Vegetation Community 5b: The typical structure of VC5b is woodland and occasional open 

forest with canopy heights ranging from 23 to 27m. Corymbia clarksoniana forms the dominant 


130

canopy species in most locations, accompanied by a mixed range of Corymbia spp. including 

Corymbia dallachyana, C. tessellaris, C. novoguinensis and C. nesophila. Welchiodendron is 

locally abundant, although it is more commonly a sub-canopy tree, and Melaleuca dealbata 

reaches the canopy in some locations. Dense groves of Cycas badensis form a prominent shrub 

layer in some locations, particularly on colluvial slopes and ground cover is typically grassy with 

Heteropogon triticeus and Themeda triandra the dominant species. 

Vegetation Community 5s: Vegetation Community 5s on granitic footslopes presents a more 

typical expression of RE3.12.8 than VC5b. The community forms woodland to open forest with 

canopy heights ranging from 23 to 27m. Corymbia clarksoniana dominates the canopy with 

Corymbia tessellaris forming a sub-dominant canopy component. Sub-canopy and shrub layers 

are typically sparse and ground cover is grassy with dominant Themeda triandra. Similar to its 

occurrence on alluvial soils, VC5s is associated with more fertile edaphic conditions, and 

occupies diorite footslopes where it occurs on Hammond Island. 

Photograph 128. A typical 

expression of VC5b on granitic 

footslopes of Moa Island. 

Photograph 129. Woodland 

community 5s on diorite footslope. 

Hammond Island Site HA18. 


131

Vegetation Community 5e: Windswept south-east facing slopes of Thursday Island provide the 

only representation of VC5e in the study area. The community forms a low open forest, typically 

with a windswept even canopy structure with an average height of 15m. Corymbia clarksoniana 

forms the dominant canopy species, with Corymbia nesophila and Eucalyptus leptophleba subdominant. 

Welchiodendron longivalve occasionally reaches the canopy although it is more 

common as a sub-canopy tree. Livistona muelleri, Acacia leptocarpa and Deplanchea tetraphylla 

are associated canopy species although are they generally more common in the sub-canopy. The 

shrub layer is typically sparse comprising Acacia simsii and Pogonolobus reticulatus with ground 

cover dominated by sedges and tussock grasses 



community 5e at Site TI08, 

Thursday Island. 

Description: Corymbia tessellaris, C. clarksoniana open forest. Occurs on coastal ranges. 


Vegetation Communities: 5g, 5o 


Limited floristic or structural sampling was undertaken in this RE, which is represented by VC’s 

5g and 5o. The communities occur most commonly on the inner group with mapped examples on 

Hammond, Warral and Muralug Islands. 

Vegetation Community 5g: Vegetation Community 5g (on granite lithologies) represents an 

open forest community with dominant Corymbia tessellaris often associated with 

Welchiodendron longivalve over a sparse sub-canopy of vine forest species. Vine forest species 

are generally dominated by Acacia polystachya, Syzygium suborbiculare, Parinari nonda, 

Carallia brachiata and deciduous vine forest species including Canarium australianum. Welldeveloped 

examples were observed on Warral Island where they dominated the footslope 

communities, merging upslope with Acacia polystachya and Welchiodendron longivalve 

dominant shrublands. Some good examples also occur on sheltered gully lines in the central 

portion of Muralug Island. Eucalyptus cullenii was associated with this community in a number 

of Muralug localities. 


132

Photograph 131. Lighter coloured 

crowns of Corymbia tessellaris in 

VC5g forming a mosaic with vine 

forest community 2q on central 

portions of Muralug Island. 

Vegetation Community 5o: Vegetation community 5o (on granitoid lithologies) represents a 

much simpler community, typically a grassy open woodland with a range of associated shrubland 

species including Grevillea parallela, Pandanus sp. and Livistona muelleri. This community has 

most likely been heavily influenced by a frequent burning regime. Vegetation community 5o was 

sampled to quaternary level at Hammond Island Site HA009. 


Photograph 132. Grassy woodland 

community VC5o on Hammond 

Island with dominant Corymbia 

tessellaris. 

Description: Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis ± Welchiodendron longivalve woodland on 

Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 5l, 5v, 14w(co), 14u(co) 


Regional Ecosystem 13.12.11 is the dominant ecosystem on acid volcanic and granitic ranges of 

the Inner Island Group. The RE is formed by VC5l, which also forms components of the 

vegetation complex 14g. 


133

Vegetation Community 5l: Vegetation Community 5l is typically a woodland and occasionally 

open forest community with canopy heights generally ranging from 12m to 23m. The canopy is 

dominated by Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis in the majority of occurrences although 

mixes with Eucalyptus cullenii, Eucalyptus tetrodonta and Corymbia nesophila occur on Muralug 

Island. Welchiodendron longivalve is a prominent sub-canopy and occasional canopy species. 

Shrub layers are typically sparse although Acacia brassii, Acacia leptocarpa, Welchiodendron 

longivalve, Cochlospermum gillivraei and Grevillea parallela are scattered throughout. Ground 

cover is formed by a mosaic of grasses and exposed acid volcanic rock with Imperata cylindrica 

and Heteropogon triticeus the dominant species. In complex type 14w, VC5l mosaics with 

shrublands of Acacia brassii and Welchiodendron longivalve although it has not been 

differentiated due to scale of complex variation. Minor areas of this RE are represented as VC5m 

on Horn Island where Melaleuca stenostachya forms a dense sub-canopy to Corymbia stockeri 

subsp. peninsularis. 

Photograph 133. Woodland 

structure of VC5l on Muralug Island. 

Vegetation Community 5v: This community is a relatively extensive VC restricted to granite 

hills and footslopes on Badu Island. Corymbia stockerii subsp. peninsularis forms the dominant 

canopy species with a height range of 20m to 28m. Welchiodendron longivalve is a co-dominant 

species, often separating into copses in sheltered location. Associated canopy species include 

Acacia polystachya and scattered Corymbia tessellaris. Welchiodendron longivalve forms the 

dominant sub-canopy species, mixing with Acacia polystachya, Terminalia subacroptera and 

Psydrax banksii. Cycas badensis is a dominant shrub species on the footslopes. The natural 

variability in both the structure and floristic composition of the community is imposed by the 

irregularity of the granite boulder slopes on which the community has developed. The 

community remains poorly sampled due to access restrictions imposed during the field survey. 

More comprehensive vegetation survey on Badu would greatly benefit the description of this VC. 


134



community 5v on Badu Island. 

Description: Corymbia nesophila ± C. hylandii subsp. peninsularis woodland on acid volcanic 

hills. 


Vegetation Communities: 5r 


Vegetation Community 5r: Vegetation Community 5r, which provides representation for 

RE3.12.13 occurs in a number of scattered occurrences on the Inner Island Group. Small areas 

are mapped on sheltered upper slope positions on Zuna, Thursday and Muralug Islands. Site 

location TI14 on Thursday Island presents a typical community with canopy heights of 21m to 

27m in a woodland and occasional open forest form. The canopy is dominated by Corymbia 

nesophila and C. stockeri subsp. peninsularis with an open sub-canopy and a sparse shrub layer 

comprising Grevillea parallela, Acacia leptocarpa and Pogonolobus reticulatus and a grassy 

ground cover dominated by Themeda triandra. On Zuna the canopy is lower with a diverse shrub 

layer dominated by Jacksonia thesioides, associated Acacia brassii, Livistona muelleri, 

Xylomelum scottianum, Melaleuca stenostachya, and Acacia simsii. 

Photograph 135. Woodland of 

Corymbia nesophila on upper slope 

on diorite. Thursday Island Site 

TQ14. 


135


Description: Melaleuca viridiflora, Asteromyrtus brassii woodland. Associated with granitic 

hills. 


Vegetation Communities: 14k, 13i, 14x, 14w (co) 

Reference Sites: 2 Secondary (ZS14, PWS11), 2 Quaternary (PWQ10, HAQ17a) 

Small areas of this RE are scattered throughout the inner island group, with minor areas also 

mapped on Moa Island and some extensive areas also represented on Muralug. The low 

shrubland (VC14k) blankets a broad topographic depression in the central portion of Zuna Island 

with VC13i much less extensive. The RE is typically manifest as a shrubland and rarely low 

woodland with Melaleuca stenostachya forming a prominent component of the canopy species. 

Structurally and floristic similarities are shared with coastal headland shrublands (refer to 

RE3.12.31x1a) although differentiation is based largely on ecological controls. Whilst extreme 

exposure is the limiting factor in development of shrublands on exposed coastal headlands, the 

development of RE3.12.16 is limited largely by soil infertility and moisture. Both VC14k and 

VC13i are assigned to RE sub-type 3.12.16c whilst VC14x, represents the RE sub-type 3.12.16d. 

Vegetation community 14x occupies an extensive portion the rocky central interior of Muralug 

Island as component of the complex VC14w. 

Vegetation Community 14k: Vegetation community 14k is resticted to a broad topographic 

depression in the central portion of Zuna Island, occupying an area of skeletal soil formed on hard 

white acid volcanic rocks (rhyolite). The infertility of this substrate is the dominant control on 

shrubland development. Melalueca stenostachya forms the dominant component of the 

shrubland which has a general canopy height of 1.5 to 2m with sub-dominant to co-dominant 

species including Melaleuca viridiflora, Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa, Asteromyrtus brassii and 

Jacksonia thesioides. The canopy is relatively even although is frequently broken with areas of 

unvegetated acid volcanic rubble. 

Photograph 136. Shrubland type 

14k in a broad topographic 

depression on Zuna Island. 

Vegetation Community 13i: Vegetation community 13i represents near pure stands of 

Melaleuca stenostachya, growing in shrubland or low woodland formation on acid volcanic 

rocks. The type is represented in only a few locations on Moa, Muralug and Hammond Islands 

with small areas forming on low rises in the acid volcanic basement, or on colluvial slopes where 

a thin thin blanket of poorly drained silty soils is retained. Typical of the occurrence of M. 

stenostachya in other communities, the species indicates extremely infertile edaphic condition. 


136

Photograph 137. Low rise in acid 

volcanic basement at PWQ10 

supporting Melaleuca stenostachya 

low woodland (VC13i). 

Vegetation Community 14x: Vegetation community 14x (RE 3.12.16d) forms the dominant 

component of VC14w, the latter being an extensive shrubland, low woodland and pavement 

complex on Muralug Island. The community, which is not represented individually in the 

mapping exercise, forms a low open shrubland with shrub heights ranging from 1.5 to 3m, and 

scattered emergents to 8m. The shrub layer is dominated by Melaleuca stenostachya, Corymbia 

stockeri subsp. peninsularis, Eucalyptus cullenii, Eucalyptus tetrodonta, Welchiodendron 

longivalve, Acacia sp. (DGF9191+), and Cochlospermum gillivraei. Eucalyptus cullenii and 

Corymbia stockeri form the dominant emergent species. The ground cover is generally sparse 

interspersed with abundant bare rocky areas. Typical species are Heteropogon triticeus, Carissa 

ovata, Melaleuca stenostachya, Heamodorum coccineum, Cheilanthes sp., Themeda triandra, 

Evolvulus alsinoides, Schoenus sparteus, Eriachne pallescens, and Alloteropsis semialata. 


shrubland VC14x (RE3.12.26a). 


137


Description: Eucalyptus leptophleba, Corymbia clarksoniana woodland to open woodland on 

coastal hills. 


Vegetation Communities: 5f 

Reference Sites: 4 Quaternary. 

Vegetation Community 5f: Vegetation Community 5f is restricted to Naghir Island, and 

provides the only representation of the RE in the study area. The community occupies welldrained 

granitic soils of the footslope and colluvial apron on the islands western side. Eucalyptus 

leptophleba forms the dominant canopy component of this open forest community which 

possesses a relatively even canopy at 20 to 25m height with Acacia polystachya an occasional 

associated species. The sub-canopy is relatively sparse featuring Dodonaea polyandra and 

Pleomele angustifolia, although the community hosts a well-developed shrub layer at 3m to 8m 

and 50% cover composed of Dodonaea polyandra, Polyscias elegans, Micromelum minutum, 

Canarium australianum, Grewia oxyphylla, Psychotria poliostemma, Diospyros compacta and 

Dalbergia densa var. australis. This community is highly disjunct, forming Australia’s most 

northerly occurrence of Eucalyptus leptophleba. The only other recognised occurrence of the 

species in the Torres Strait Islands is confined to scattered populations located on Thursday 

Island. Macgillivray (1852, 11, p. 39) (in Haddon 1888) in his account of a visit to Torres Strait 

and Naghir makes reference to E. leptophleba as follows…. “the small Eucalypti growing 

between the hill and the brushes is the most northern limit of that Australian genus known to me”. 


Photograph 139. Eucalyptus 

leptophleba open forest on a granite 

colluvial Apron. Naghir Island Site 

NA05. 

Description: Evergreen notophyll vine forest dominated by Welchiodendron longivalve on 

headlands. 


Vegetation Communities: 14c, 14d, 14h, 18c(co) 


Regional Ecosystem 3.12.20 representing Welchiodendron longivalve dominant shrubland is 

formed by VC14c and VC14f. These shrubland communities occupy coastal escarpments 


138

exposed to prevailing trade winds and this element of exposure, combined with skeletal soils, 

limitsd the development of these community to shrublands. Strong wind shearing of the canopy 

is generally apparent. 

Vegetation Community 14c/14d: Vegetation Community 14c is the dominant expression of this 

community, with extensive occurrences on exposed hillslopes of most of the larger continental 

islands. The community is particularly abundant on the Inner Island Group where it extends from 

coastal escarpments well upslope to exposed ridge crests and peaks, mixing with Acacia brassii 

shrublands (VC14j) on Muralug Island. The general canopy height for this community is less 

than 8m in accordance with classification as a shrubland although communities with an upper 

stratum of less than 1m have also been included. Welchiodendron longivalve is the dominant 

species with associated Acacia polystachya, Cochlospermum gillivraei, Melaleuca stenostachya, 

Alyxia spicata, Terminalia subacroptera, Psydrax reticulata (V), Diospyros reticulata, Drypetes 

deplanchei and Premna dallachyana. Where deciduous thicket species, typically 

Cochlospermum gillivraei and Terminalia spp., dominate the canopy, the community is 

represented as VC14d. Psydrax reticulata is particularly prominent as a canopy or sub-canopy 

species. 

Photograph 140. Windsheared 

shrublands of Welchiodendron 

longivalve forming a mosaic with 

rock pavement on exposed coastal 

escarpment of Naghir Island. 

Vegetation Community 14h: This is an Acacia polystachya dominant variant of RE3.12.20, 

mapped largely on Warral Island although possibly more extensive than mapping currently 

indicates. The canopy comprises generally >50% cover of Acacia polystachya with co-dominant 

to sub-dominant Welchiodendron longivalve in a closed shrubland to low open forest formation. 

The sub-canopy features of this community were not sampled intensively during the survey. The 

community is a prominent component of the complex type VC18c. 


139


Photograph 141. The brilliant 

green canopy features of Acacia 

polystachya in VC14f. Warral 


Description: Deciduous vine thicket. Occurs on granite slopes mainly on the Great Dividing 

Range and offshore islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 2b, 2f, 2n, 2s, 2v, 2x 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (DA01, DA32, DA47), 18 Quaternary 

Regional Ecosystem 3.12.21 represents a diverse array of floristic and structural variations of 

semi-deciduous and deciduous vine thicket mapped individually in the Vegetation Community 

Classifications 2b, 2f, 2x, 2n, 2v and 2s. This RE also comprises components of the 

vegetacomplexes 18c and 14d. The features of the major VC’s are discussed briefly below. All 

component VC’s are described under the sub-unit RE 3.12.21a. Vegetation 2v, being an Acacia 

polystachya dominant variation, is poorly sampled and as such, is not included in the vegetation 

descriptions. 

Vegetation Community 2b: This is a floristically uniform community on the granite boulder 

footslopes of Dauan Island. The community, which was nearly fully deciduous at the time of 

survey, forms a semi-deciduous notophyll vine thicket and occasional low closed forest. 

Dominant canopy species include Canarium australianum, Cochlospermum gillivraei, Bombax 

ceiba var. leiocarpum, Cleistanthus peninsularis, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Pouteria sericea, 

Ficus virens var. sublanceolata, Terminalia subacroptera, Elaeocarpus arnhemicus and 

Manilkara kauki. The understorey is diverse comprising Glycosmis trifoliata, Dimorphocalyx 

australiensis, Salacia disepala, Psydrax reticulata, Cyclophyllum maritimum, Cupaniopsis 

anacardioides, Memecylon pauciflorum, Cliestanthus peninsularis, Micromelum minutum, 

Ganophyllum falcatum, Cryptocarya exfoliata, Litsea glutinosa, Tabernaemontana orientalis, 

Eugenia reinwardtiana, Drypetes deplanchei, Diospyros reticulatus, Aidia racemosa, Capparis 

sepiaria, Ixora timorensis, Exocarpos latifolius, Cathormion umbellatum subsp. monoliforme, 

Celtis philippensis, Murraya ovatifoliolata, Cryptocarya exfoliata, Litsea glutinosa, Diospyros 

reticulatus, Chionanthus ramiflora, Pleomele angustifolia, Macaranga tanarius, Pouteria 

sericea, and Ficus obliqua var. obliqua. Thin wiry vines are numerous such as Gymnosporia 

inermis, Trophis scandens, Cissus sp., Flagellaria indica, Cansjera leptostachya, Hoya australe 

subsp. sanae and Jasminum elongata. 


140

Photograph 142. Vine Thicket 

Community 2b at Site DA01 (Dauan 


Vegetation Community 2f: Small areas of low deciduous vine thicket, typically with canopy 

heights ranging from 3m to 6m, are found on the steep exposed rocky headlands of Horn and 

Adolphus Island. The communities form a patchwork with sclerophyll shrubland communities, 

and are attenuated attenuated upslope along gully lines where some shelter from the elements is 

afforded. The dominant canopy is occupied by a range of species which include, in order of 

decreasing dominance; Buchanania arborescens, Millettia pinnata, Sterculia sp. (Annan River), 

Terminalia subacroptera, Cochlospermum gilivraei and Pouteria sericea. Sub-canopy and 

ground covers are poorly developed on account of the low stature and rocky substrate. 

Additional site survey would benefit the characterisation of this community. 

Photograph 143. Low semideciduous 

notophyll vine thicket 

(VC2f) on exposed slopes of Horn 

Island (Site HI26). 

Vegetation Community 2n: Vegetation Community 2n is the dominant structural variation on 

Iama Island where it occupies wind-exposed footslopes on granite. The community is typically 

lower than VC2b and has a much more even and wind sheared canopy structure. The community 

was sampled at Sites YA014, YA017, YA019, YA20, YA23 and YA25 where typical canopy 

species included in order of decreasing dominance Canarium australianum, Antiaris toxicaria 

var. macrophylla, Gyrocarpus americanus, Terminalia subacroptera, Manilkara kauki, Acacia 

auriculiformis, Diospyros reticulata, Sterculia sp. (Annan River) and Premna dallachyana. 


141

The understorey is diverse featuring Memecylon pauciflorum, Dimorphocalyx australiensis, 

Drypetes deplanchei, Eugenia reinwardtiana, Exocarpos latifolius, Micromelum minutum, 

Murraya ovatifoliolata, Glycosmis trifoliata, Turraea pubescens, Manilkara kauki, Litsea 

glutinosa, Cryptocarya exfoliata, Wrightia pubescens subsp penicillata, Diospyros hebecarpa, 

Chionanthus ramiflora, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Ixora timorensis, Streblus brunonianus, 

Luvunga monophylla, Miliusa traceyi, Diospyros compacta, Alyxia spicata, Aidia racemosa, 

Micromelum minutum, Arytera bifoliolata, and Intsia bijuga. Typical vines are Capparis 

quiniflora, Derris trifoliata, Trophis scandens, Opilia armentacea, Flagellaria indica, Secamone 

elliptica, and Salacia disepala. 

Vegetation Community 2s: This vine thicket variant occupies windsheared upper slope 

positions on Dauan Island. Limited floristic information was gathered for this community due to 

its occurrence on a precipitous slope, which greatly limited the ability to sample safely. Thus the 

community description pertains largely to canopy features which were recorded though 

observation. The canopy is relatively even with strong wind shearing and typical height 

estimated at 8m. Dominant canopy species comprised Ficus virens var. sublanceolata, Pouteria 

sericea, Shefflera actinophylla, Pouteria obovata, Garcinia warrenii, Syzygium puberulum, Ficus 

microcarpa, Acmenosperma claviflorum, Ficus destruens, Terminalia subacroptera, Myristica 

insipida, Canarium australianum, Arytera divaricata, Aglaia elaeagnoidea and Drypetes 

deplanchei. 


Community 2n on footslopes at Site 

YA019, Iama Island. 


Community 2s demonstrating 

typically wind sheared canopy 

structure on steep south-east facing 

upper slopes of Dauan Island. 


142

Vegetation Community 2x: A representation of a fully deciduous vine thicket community, with 

occurrence restricted to upper slopes on Mabuiag Island where it occupies acid volcanic talus, 

complexing with rock pavement shrubland (VC18c) and bare rock pavement. Where sampled on 

Mabuiag Island at Site MO047, the canopy comprised Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Terminalia 

subacroptera, Cochlospermum gillivraei, Sterculia quadrifida, Cleistanthus peninsularis, 

Drypetes deplanchei and Melicope peninsularis at a height of 8m. Sub-canopy species although 

sparse may include Pouteria sericea, Garcinia warrenii, Syzygium puberulum, Acmenosperma 

claviflorum, Myristica insipida, Arytera divaricata, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, and Drypetes 

deplanchei. Photographic illustration is provided in Photograph 146. 


Photograph 146. Typical structure 

of VC2x at Site MO45, Mabuiag 


Description: Acacia brassii low open forest on acid volcanics on northern ranges and islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 14j, 14w (co), 18b (co), 6f 


Acacia brassii dominant shrublands are prominent on the continental islands being particularly 

extensive on the rocky interior of Muralug Island and on Mabuiag Island. These communities are 

represented individually or as components of broader shrubland and rock pavement mosaics. The 

RE comprises a number of VC’s which are discussed briefly below. 

Vegetation Community 14j and Complex 14w: Vegetation Community 14j forms the 

dominant expression of this RE and is mapped on rocky acid volcanic ridgelines and hillslopes of 

the Inner Island Group, being particularly prominent on Muralug Island. Extensive areas are also 

represented on Mabuiag Island. The community represents a shrubland of typically 1.5 to 5m tall 

dominated by Acacia brassii. Associated species include a range of shrubs such as 

Cochlospermum gillivraei, Melaleuca stenostachya and Welchiodendron longivalve although in 

no circumstance do these shrubs dominate the upper stratum. Melaleuca viridiflora may be 

locally prominent on Mabuiag where the type merges with VC14a. This community forms 

extensive complexes with Eucalypt shrublands, Welchiodendron shrublands and deciduous 

shrublands on Muralug Island where it is mapped as a component of the shrubland complex type 

VC14w. The coomunity is also major component of the pavement complex type VC18b. 


143

Vegetation Community 6f: The steep wind exposed peak of Mt. Adolphus hosts a windswept 

closed shrubland of Acacia sp. Due to difficulties with land access permission, this community 

could only be observed remotely from helicopter. As such, confirmation of the acacia to species 

level was not achievable. This community is placed into RE3.12.23 as a preliminary measure 

subject to on-ground floristic assessment. The shrubland forms a narrow fringe between rock 

pavement on the eastern facing escarpment of Mt. Adolphus and well-developed evergreen vine 

forest on the mountains leeward side. 

Photograph 147. Acacia brassii 

dominant community 14j as a 

component of the shrubland complex 

14w on Muralug Island (Site PoW 

45). 

Photograph 148. Acacia brassii 

dominant shrubland as type 14j on 

Mabuiag Island. The type separates 

into VC18b where the ratio of 

rock/shrubland is greater than 1:1 


144


Photograph 149. Acacia sp. 

shrubland type 6f. Well-developed 

evergreen vine forest (VC1a) is 

clearly visible on the sheltered 

margins of this shrubland. 

Description: Heteropogon triticeus ± Sarga plumosum closed tussock grassland on continental 

islands 


Vegetation Communities: 17c, 12a 


Regional Ecosystem 3.12.29 is relatively extensive throughout the Torres Strait continental 

islands where it typically occupies exposed coastal headlands and footslopes on granite and acid 

volcanic rocks. The RE is represented by VC17c and VC12a, the latter being an atypical 

expression of the type. 

Vegetation Community 17c: This classification provides a generic representation of grassland 

communities on acid volcanic and acid plutonic lithologies. The constituent grass species are 

variable dependant on soil type, exposure and derivation. Communities on Dauan are composed 

dominantly of Cymbopogon refractus and Heteropogon triticeus with a range of shrub species 

forming an emergent layer including Pandanus sp., Psydrax sp., Cochlospermum gillivraei, 

Syzygium suborbiculare and Parinari nonda. These communities are fire controlled, derived 

from repetitive burning of colluvial footslopes which has caused an upslope retreat of the vine 

forest margins. Associated soils are generally well-drained sand and gravel loams mixed with 

granite detritus. 

In wind-exposed locations on skeletal soils, grasslands represent a climax community with 

species composition and structure influenced by prevailing climatic and edaphic conditions rather 

than human induced landscape changes. Themeda triandra forms the dominant species in such 

locations often interspersed with scattered shrubs and bare rock pavement. It should be noted that 

a range of RE sub-types are represented under this classification although no attempt has been 

made to separate these on a floristic or landscape process basis. Considerable field survey will be 

required to confidently differentiate and typify these variations. 


145

Photograph 150. A typical 

expression of VC17c on Dauan 

Island where it occupies a regularly 

burnt granite boulder footslope. 

Vegetation Community 12a: This community represents an atypical expression of RE3.12.29 

forming grassy woodland of Livistona muelleri on the colluvial footslopes of Dauan Island. 

Similar to VC17c, repetitive burning of the footslopes has resulted in an upslope retreat of the 

vine forest margins, although in this community, the fire tolerance of Livistona muelleri has 

resulted in the retention of this species as vine forest margins have retreated. It should be noted 

that the palm forms a scattered emergent in a limited number of vine thicket communities 

examined on the island. This community has been classified under RE13.12.29 due to its 

extremely limited extent and similarity in community derivation to the more extensive VC17c. 


Photograph 151. Livistona muelleri 

grassy woodland (VC12b) on granite 

colluvial footslopes of Dauan Island. 

Description: Imperata cylindrica ± Mnesithea rottboellioides closed tussock grassland on steep 

slopes. 


Vegetation Communities: 17f, 17h (co) 

Reference Sites: No reference sites 


146

The extensive mosaic of grassland and low closed forest on steep granite hillslopes on Moa Island 

provides the only mapped representation of this RE in the exercise. More intensive field survey 

is likely to result in additional representation. Several areas mapped as RE13.12.29 may be more 

appropriately represented under this RE. 

Vegetation Community 17f: The Moa Island example forms an extensive grassland complex 

dominated by Imperata cylindrica. Closed forest communities of Welchiodendron are restricted 

to fire protected gullies and boulder piles where they are represented as RE3.12.4, although due 

to scale limitations, these could not be adequately differentiated from the broader grassland 

system. The grassland/Welchiodendron open forest complex is represented as VC17h. The 

current representation of this RE is clearly influenced by repetitive firing of the slopes which has 

caused retreat of the once dominant closed forest communities in favour of Imperata dominant 

grassland. This community is in a state of relative stability with little change in areal extent 

indicated between 1974 aerial photography and recent satellite imagery. 

5.2.71 Regional Ecosystem 3.12.31x1a (New RE) 


community 17h with a stark fire 

controlled boundary between 

grassland and open forest. The 

similarity to grassland communities 

on Dauan are notable, however Moa 

Island examples are dominated by 

Imperata cylindrica. 

Preliminary Description: Shrubland on exposed coastal headlands of the Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 14a, 14f, 14l, 14g 

Reference Sites: 1 Secondary (MA02), 22 Quaternary Sites. 

A new Regional Ecosystem is erected to represent shrubland communities formed on coastal 

headlands, whose development has been shaped by elements of extreme wind exposure and 

skeletal soil development. These communities are generally located on south-east facing 

headlands which are exposed to the prevailing south east trade winds. Scattered communities 

may also occur on exposed ridgelines away from the immediate coast. 

Vegetation Community 14a: The dominant representation for this group is provided by VC14a 

which occurs on the majority of continental island groups including the Central group, the Near 

Western Group, and Muralug Island on the Inner Island Group. The community is represented as 

a shrubland to dwarf open shrubland with canopy heights ranging from 0.5m to 1.5m. Several 

examples with prostrate shrubs were also included in this classification. The dominant canopy 

comprises Melaleuca viridiflora and Welchiodendron longivalve, generally in equal proportion. 

Asteromyrtus brassii is present in some locations but is rarely prominent. Lithomyrtus retusa is 


147

prominent as a secondary shrub layer, occasionally reaching the upper strata. Additional 

characteristic species are Psydrax reticulata, Alyxia spicata, Acacia brassii, Jacksonia thesioides, 

Acacia leptocarpa, Acacia simsii, Cochlospermum gillivraei, Parinari nonda, Pogonolobus 

reticulatus, Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa, Exocarpos latifolius, and Melaleuca stenostachya. 

Groundcover is dominated by stunted shrubs with a minor contribution to cover from Dianella 

sp., Themeda triandra, Cassytha filiformis, Aristida sp., Schoenus sp., Thaumastochloa sp., 

Phyllanthus sp., Alloteropsis semialata and the Gompholobium pinnatum. The community is 

restricted to rhyolite headlands on infertile skeletal soils. 


Community 14a on Mabuiag Island 

Site MA2. 

Photograph 154. Dwarf 

shrubland/grassland complexes with 

prostrate Melaleuca viridiflora 

shrubs have also been included in 

VC14a. Site MO69 on Moa Island. 

Vegetation Community 14f: Vegetation Community 14f is represented only on the southern 

footslopes of Thursday Island. This is a slightly more developed community, forming a 

shrubland at 1.5 to 3m tall composed of a mixed range of species including Melaleuca viridiflora, 

Welchiodendron longivalve, Cochlospermum gillivraei, Grevillea parallela and Melaleuca 

stenostachya. Corymbia spp. may be present as emergents. The community grades upslope into 

woodland community 5e. 


148

Photograph 155. Shrubland 

community 14f on Thursday Island. 

Vegetation Community 14l: The inner islands of Zuna, Horn and Hammond host VC14l, which 

similar to VC14a, occupies steep coastal headlands directly exposed to prevailing south-easterly 

trade winds. The community is manifest as a low shrubland to shrubland, typically 1m to 1.5m 

tall with an upper shrub layer composed of, in order of decreasing dominance, Melaleuca 

viridiflora, Acacia brassii, Lithomyrtus retusa, Welchiodendron longivalve, Jacksonia thesioides, 

Corymbia nesophila, Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa, Melaleuca stenostachya, Alyxia spicata, 

Acacia simsii, Halfordia kendack, and Psydrax reticulata. This community is structurally similar 

to VC14a although a more diverse upper stratum warrants recognition as an individual 

community. 

Photograph 156. Low windswept 

shrubland community 14l on 

exposed coastal escarpments of Zuna 


Vegetation Community 14g: The shrubland complex 14g is most prominent on exposed granite 

boulder footslopes on Dauan Island although a minor area has also been differentiated on Iama 

Island. The upper stratum of this community forms a dense shrubby thicket that is generally 

impenetrable, with a typical height of not greater than 1.5m. Species representative of the 

dominant upper stratum (S1 layer) include Buchanania arborescens, Manilkara kauki, Alyxia 

spicata and Pouteria sericea. On Iama, the unit includes coastal vine thicket species such as 


149

Manilkara kauki, Terminalia subacroptera, Canarium australianum, Eugenia reinwardtiana, 

Sarcostemma viminale subsp. brunonianus, Alyxia spicata, and Drypetes deplanchei. 

Emergents of Pandanus sp. to 8m are scattered throughout the complex. Similar to other 

communities within this grouping, the community has formed in response to extreme wind 

exposure and skeletal soils. This community is not florisitically typical of this proposed new RE, 

lacking Melaleuca spp. as a dominant component. It does however occupy a similar ecological 

niche to VC’s 14a, 14f and 14l and, due to its extremely limited areal extent, has been placed 

within this grouping in the absence of a more suitable one. 


Photograph 157. Windswept 

shrubland community 14g on 

exposed granite footslopes of Dauan 

Island. Site DA041. 

Description: Granite boulders covered with blue-green algae. Occurs on Black Mountain and 

Cape Melville. 


Vegetation Communities: 19a, 11a 


Vegetation Community 19a: The most extensive occurrence of RE3.12.33 is mapped on Dauan 

Island where it occupies extensive areas of hillslope, generally in a mid-slope position. Smaller 

areas are mapped on Hammond and Muralug Islands. The community is best described as an 

open granite boulder field with scattered vine forest shrubs, low trees and occasional vine thicket. 

Woody cover is typically less than 5% comprising Canarium australianum, Ficus microcarpa, 

Cochlospermum gillivraei and Tetrameles nudiflora. Sprawling mats and low towers of the vine 

Aristolochia acuminata are locally prominent and ground cover of Drynaria quercifolia, 

Asplenium sp. and Sarcostemma viminale subsp. brunonianus are occasionally present in 

sheltered pockets. This community represents a significant geographical departure from 

mainland Cape York Peninsula examples at Black Mountain and Cape Melville. Small areas of 

Pandanus woodland are also recognised within this RE and are discussed below. 

Vegetation Community 11a: Pandanus dominant woodland on granite headlands are scattered 

throughout a large number of the larger continental islands. In the majority of examples, these 

communities have been too small to represent individually and thus consumed within a broader 

vegetation complex. The communities on Dauan, represented as VC11a (on granite) are 

sufficiently developed to allow classification as an individual VC. The extremely limited spatial 


150

extent of this community greatly restricts the ability to classify it appropriately within the RE 

framework as as such, it has been place within the broader RE3.12.33b grouping in recognition of 

its similarity in landform and edaphic condition. 


Photograph 158. A typical granite 

boulder field on Dauan Island 

providing representation of 

RE13.12.33b. 

Photograph 159. Pandanus 

woodlands (Type 11a) on granite 

headlands of Dauan Island. 

Preliminary Description: Rock pavements associated with hillslopes and footslopes of the 

Torres Strait Islands.* 


Vegetation Communities: 18a, 18b (co), 18c (co), 18d, 14w (co), RR, RG 


This RE classification provides for representation of a range of rock pavements and rock 

pavement shrublands that have a considerable extent on a number of continental islands. Whilst 

RE3.12.34 presents a suitable classification in a structural sense, the type description is 

geographically confined to the Melville Range and Black Mountain cannot be applied to the 


151

Torres Strait situation without modification of the original type description, or description as an 

RE sub-type. As such, this community has been described under RE sub-type 3.12.34c as 

advised by the Queensland Herbarium. Vegetation community 18a forms a homogenous polygon 

of RE3.12.4c, whilst VC18b, VC18c and 14w are mapped as complexes of a number of different 

RE’s. Small areas of rock, devoid of vegetation and mapped under units RR and RG, are also 

included in this classification. 

Vegetation Community 18a: Vegetation community 18a is widespread on the rockier 

continental islands, being particularly prominent on Mabuiag, Hawkesbury and Muralug where it 

occurs on areas of skeletal soil. The community comprises a complex of bare rock interspersed 

with shrubland, the latter typically occupying cracks and crevices where sufficient moisture and 

nutrient (from skeletal soil formation) is provided to allow shrubland development. The 

shrubland component typical comprises deciduous vine thicket species ranging in height from 1.5 

to 6m, with an average cover (including bare pavement areas) typically less than 5%. Dominant 

species include Cochlospermum gillivraei, Canarium australianum, Terminalia sp., Psydrax 

banksii, Psydrax reticulata, Dalbergia densa var. australis, Secamone elliptica, Acacia 

polystachya, Carissa ovata, Acacia polystachya, Ziziphus oenopolia, Capparis arborea and 

occasional Welchiodendron longivalve. Bare pavements are scattered throughout the broader 

shrubland mosaic. 

Vegetation community 18a is a prominent component of a number of vegetation complexes 

including VC18b where it mosaics with VC14j (RE3,12,23); VC18c where it mosaics with 

VC14h (RE3.12.20), and; VC14w where it complexes with a range of woodland and shrubland 

types including VC5l (RE3.12.11), VC14c (RE3.12.20) and VC14w (3.12.16d). 

Photograph 160. A mosaic of 

deciduous shrubland and granite 

boulders forming a represention of 

VC18a on Warral Island. 

Vegetation Complex 18b/18c: Shrubland /rock pavement complex type 18b is particularly 

prominent on the rocky acid volcanic slopes of Mabuiag Island. This complex comprises a 

mosaic of Acacia brassii low shrubland (VC14j/RE3.12.23) and deciduous shrubland/ bare rock 

pavement complex (VC18a/RE3.12.34c). The Acacia brassii shrubland component of this 

complex, forms a low windswept closed shrubland typically 0.5 to 1.5 m tall with prostrate 

examples in the most exposed locations. The type has been more thoroughly described in relation 

to RE3.12.23 (see Section 5.2.68) whilst the deciduous shrubland component is typical of 

VC18a described above. Vegetation community 18c is largely confined to Warral Island in the 

Near Western Island group where VC18a mosaics with low open forest and shrubland dominated 

by Acacia polystachya and Welchiodendron longivalve (VC14h/RE3.12.20). 


152

Photograph 161. Bare pavements 

with scattered Cochlospermum 

gillivraei forming a mosaic with 

Acacia brassii shrubland in VC18b 

(Mabuiag Island) providing 

representation for RE13.12.34c. 

Vegetation Community 18d: Shrubland /rock pavement complex type 18d is mapped on the 

rocky granite knolls of Badu Island, forming extensive pavements and rock piles on the islands 

interior. Due to access constraints, this community was sparsely sampled and as such, the 

description provided here may not represent the communities full range of floristic and structural 

variations. Further sampling of this pavement type is warranted should future access to the island 

for the purpose of vegetation survey be granted. The community characteristically occupies 

rocky knolls with scattered shrubs utilising fractures, crevices and overhangs for nutrient and 

shelter. Corymbia stockerii subsp. peninsularis is the dominant shrub species reaching heights of 

6m. Associated shrub species include Acacia polystachya, Psydrax banksii, and Welchiodendron 

longivalve. A secondary shrub layer forms at a height of 0.5m to 1.5m, dominated by Alyxia 

spicata, Ficus sp. and Dodonoea polyandra. The total combined canopy cover of the two shrub 

layers is typically < 5%, with bare rock exposure forming >90% of the total ground cover. 

Photograph 162. Rock pavement 

type 18d. 


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Preliminary Description: Semi-deciduous mesophyll/notophyll vine forest on granite slopes of 

the Torres Strait Sub-region. 


Vegetation Communities: 2d, 2h, 2o, 2q, 2r, 2t, 6a, 6e 

Reference Sites: 8 Secondary (YAO4, YA05, MO003, PW085, PW093, HA05, YA18, YA21) 

To provide an adequate ecological grouping for the deciduous and semi deciduous vine forest 

communities in the Torres Strait, it is necessary to erect an additional RE to accommodate a 

diverse array of vine forest types that characterise the steep granitic and acid volcanic slopes of 

many of the continental islands. These forests extend from the Northern Island Group, being 

particularly abundant on Dauan, through the central group on Iama and Gebar, the Near Western 

Group and the Inner Island Group. Vine forest communities often vary subtly between islands 

and as such, minor floristic or structural variations can be represented with relative confidence 

due to the ecological isolation imposed by island boundaries. The constituent vegetation 

communities of newly described RE3.12.35 are described below. 

Vegetation Community 2d: VC 2d is mapped on the steep, boulder strewn mid to upper slopes 

of Dauan Island, demonstrating a marked structural contrast to the thickets of the lower slopes. 

Canopy heights in this community range from 18 to 25m and constituent species are both 

deciduous and semi-deciduous consistent with its structural classification as a semi-deciduous 

vine forest. Dominant canopy species include Tetrameles nudiflora, Alstonia spectabilis, 

Ganophyllum falcatum, Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Canarium australianum, Ficus virens 

var. sublanceolata, Ficus microcarpa and *Mangifera indica. Sub-canopy species were not 

sampled in detail although Gossia floribunda was abundant in some locations, and hemiepiphytes 

including Asplenium nidus, Drynaria quercifolia and Microsorum punctatum are 

prominent. The community is notable for the diversity of epiphytic plants including Dendrobium 

litorale, Bulbophyllum spp., and Dischidia littoralis, listed as Vulnerable (NCA, 1992), which 

was particularly abundant. With reference to Herbrecs data and Stanton and Fell (2005), the 

occurrence of Tetrameles nudiflora represents a considerable extension of geographical range 

north from Schram Creek, although Hyland et al. (2003) record it from northern Torres Strait. Its 

presence on Dauan on steep granitic boulder slopes is considered unusual, as it is more 

commonly associated with seasonally flooded lowland alluvial terraces e.g. Claudie River 

(RE3.3.1). This species also occurs throughout lowland PNG (Conn et al. 2006+). 

Photograph 163. In foreground, the 

deciduous crowns of Tetrameles 

nudiflora in flower are clearly visible 

in the canopy of VC2d. 


154

Vegetation Community 2h: This community is mapped on rocky granite and rhyolite footslopes 

of Iama Island where it presents as a deciduous vine forest. The typical canopy is irregular, 

ranging in height from 12 to 25m, with a cover generally greater than 80%. The majority of 

crowns were fully deciduous at the time of survey resulting in a forest with an ‘open’ feel and a 

number of sub-canopy species were also deciduous. Dominant canopy species include Erythrina 

insularis, Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla, Terminalia subacroptera, Canarium australianum, 

Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Acacia auriculiformis, and Manilkara kauki. The sub-canopy 

which ranges in height from 8 to 15m is relatively open comprising Diospyros reticulatus, 

Manilkara kauki, Exocarpos latifolius, Capparis quiniflora, Diospyros compacta and Celtis 

philippensis. The shrub layer is typically sparse and comprises species including Murraya 

ovatifoliolata, Glycosmis trifoliata, Jasminum elongata, Trophis scandens, Eugenia 

reinwardtiana, Grewia oxyphylla, Diospyros reticulata, Manilkara kauki, Flagellaria indica, 

Drypetes deplanchei, Exocarpos latifolius, Pleomele angustifolia, Opilia armentacea, 

Jacquemontia paniculata, Memecylon pauciflorum, Cupaniopsis flagelliformis var. flagelliformis, 

Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Salacia disepala, Diospyros compacta, Triflorensia australis, Litsea 

glutinosa, Archidendron grandiflorum, Stephania japonica, Cissus maritima, Macaranga 

tanarius, Micromelum minutum and *Passiflora foetida. The community has been assigned the 

sub-type grouping of RE3.12.35a following Herbarium recommendations. 

Photograph 164. Deciduous vine 

thicket type 2h at Site YA05, Iama 


Vegetation Community 2o: Rocky granitic knolls on Moa Island present habitat for VC2o, 

which in context of the Torres Strait Islands, is a well-developed semi-deciduous to semievergreen 

vine forest type. The community is represented unde the sub-type classification of 

RE3.12.35c, based on herbarium recommendations. This is a tall community with a canopy 

height range of 23 to 35m and a typically diverse floristic assemblage which includes (in order of 

decreasing dominance) Maranthes corymbosa, Buchanania arborescens, Cryptocarya sp. 

(DGF8917+), Acacia auriculiformis, Syzygium forte subsp. forte, Barringtonia calyptrata, 

Gmelina dalrympleana, Polyscias elegans, Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Sterculia quadrifida, 

Endiandra glauca, Carallia brachiata, Commersonia bartramia, Mimusops elengi, Canarium 

australianum, Myristica insipida, Beilschmiedia obtusifolia, and *Mangifera indica on the 

community margins. 

The sub-canopy comprises species typical of the canopy with additional species including 

Endiandra glauca, Polyscias elegans, Cleistanthus peninsularis, Garcinia warrenii, Cryptocarya 

hypospodia, Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, Polyalthia australis, Ptychosperma elegans and 

Myristica insipida. Shrub layers are evergreen and relatively well-developed with species 

including Pleomele angustifolia, Drypetes deplanchei, Cliestanthus peninsularis, Flagellaria 


155

indica, Salacia disepala., Morinda citrifolia, Smilax calophylla, Ganophyllum falcatum, 

Cryptocarya hypospodia, Alstonia actinophylla, Chionanthus ramiflora, Diospyros sp. (Mt White 

P.I. Forster PIF 14415), Melicope peninsularis, Micromelum minutum, Cryptocarya exfoliata, 

Opilia armentacea, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Macaranga tanarius, Premna dallachyana, 

Dischidia ovata, Litsea breviumbellata and Cyclophyllum brevipes. The Rare listed species 

Archidendron hirsutum was a prominent component of the shrub layer. 

Photograph 165. Sub-canopy 

structure of VC2o on Moa Island 

(Site MO003). 

Vegetation Community 2q: The best development of the RE3.12.35 is provided by VC2q, 

restricted to Muralug Island with notable communities found in the Port Lihou area on the 

southern coastal flats. In this location, the community occupies a number of rocky diorite knolls 

which protrude above a broad alluvial plain. The canopy is dominated by deciduous species with 

a height range of 25 to 40m. Typical canopy species include Berrya javanica, Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum, Albizia lebbeck, Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla, Canarium australianum, 

Maranthes corymbosa, Terminalia complanata, Garuga floribunda var. floribunda, Cordia myxa, 

Buchanania arborescens, Beilschmiedia obtusifolia, Ficus virens var. sublanceolata, Aidia 

racemosa, Indigator fordii, Myristica insipida, Aidia racemosa and Lagerstroemia archeriana. 

The shrub layer is relatively open which highlights the impressive stature of this forest. The 

luxuriant development of this community in this location is undoubtedly assisted by the inherent 

fertility of the diorite, which has weathered to feed a black soil plain that forms a broad apron 

around the rocky landforms. The record of Indigator fordii represents a highly disjunct 

occurrence of an extremely rare species known previously from only four to six trees on the 

southern slopes of the McIlwraith Range (see Halford 2002). Cheek (2007) recommends a 

conservation status of Critically Endangered under IUCN criteria by virtue of its vulnerability to 

stochastic change because it occurs at a single location with a population of fewer than 50 

individuals. The community is represented under the sub-type of RE3.12.35d based on 

Herbarium recommendations. 

Vegetation community 2r: The community is restricted to Hammond Island where it occupies 

boulder slopes formed on diorite, and is classified under the sub-type of RE3.12.35e. The canopy 

is typically broken, ranging in height from 10m to 28m, with ridgeline and some disturbed lower 

slope communities verging on vine thickets. The floristic feature which distinguishes VC2r from 

other communities in this group is the prominence of Alstonia actinophylla as a canopy species, 

although the full range of species may include Paraserianthes toona, Vitex acuminata, Canarium 

australianum, Buchanania arborescens, Sterculia quadrifida, Acacia polystachya, Maniltoa 

lenticellata var. lenticellata, Cleistanthus peninsularis, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Maranthes 

corymbosa, Calophyllum sil, Endiandra impressicosta, Zanthoxylum rhetsa and Endiandra 

glauca. Where the community has been subject to disturbance, such as on wind exposed 


156

idgelines, Acacia polystachya may form a low closed canopy, and these variations have mapped 

as VC6e, although incorporated into the broader RE classification. Vegetation community 6e is 

represented under the sub-type of RE3.12.35f with VC6a, which is discussed below. The 

community is illustrated in Photograph 167. 

Photograph 166. A well-developed 

example of VC2q on Muralug 

Island. Diorite talus is clearly visible 

on the ground surface. 

Photograph 167. The footslope 

margins of VC2r on Hammond 

Island with emergent Alstonia 

actinophylla visible in the 

background. 

Vegetation Community 2t: Vegetation community 2t is a rather poorly constrained type due to 

limited floristic sampling across its mapped range which is extensive throughout the Inner Island 

Group including portions of the Inner Western Group and Mt. Adolphus Island. It is likely that 

further floristic sampling within this VC would result in a number of additional types being 

recognised. At present, VC2t represents the default vine forest community for the Inner Island 

Group, comprising vine forest communities classified largely through informal observation that 

cannot be classified adequately through lack of floristic data. The community has been assigned 

the sub-type grouping of RE3.12.35a following Herbarium recommendations. The description of 

this VC is based largely on descriptions from Naghir Island (NAQ02), although in the majority of 

mapped areas, it is expected that the dominant species which include Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum, Canarium australianum and Terminalia subacroptera remain relatively constant. 

The community on Naghir forms a closed forest community with canopy range of 20m to 25m 

tall comprising in order of decreasing abundance Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Terminalia 


157

subacroptera., Acacia polystachya, Erythrina variegata., Buchanania arborescens, Canarium 

australianum, Sterculia quadrifida, Manilkara kauki, Gyrocarpus americanus, Antiaris toxicaria 

var. macrophylla, Ficus virens and Ganophyllum falcatum. The sub-canopy forms a height of 12 

to 18m. composed of Buchanania arborescens, Chionanthus ramiflora, Drypetes deplanchei, 

Atalaya sericopetala, Diospyros maritima, Celtis philippensis with a typical shrub layer formed 

by Chionanthus ramiflora, Drypetes deplanchei, Memecylon pauciflorum, Cupaniopsis 

anacardioides, Atalaya sericopetala, Capparis sepiaria, Diospyros sp. (DGF9121+), Diospyros 

maritima, Micromelum minutum, Celtis philippensis, Cryptocarya exfoliata, Diospyros compacta, 

Exocarpos latifolius, Salacia disepala, Elaeodendron melanocarpum, Pleomele angustifolia, 

Murraya ovatifoliolata, Ganophyllum falcatum, Cliestanthus peninsularis, Phyllanthus novaehollandiae, 

Wrightia pubescens subsp. penicillata and Miliusa brahei. 

Photograph 168. Typical subcanopy 

structure of VC2t on Naghir 

Island (Site NAQ02). 

Vegetation Community 6a: Vegetation Community 6a, represented in Photograph 169, is 

restricted largely to Iama Island, with a minor occurrence also mapped on Gebar to the immediate 

north-west. In conjunction with the previously mentioned VC6e, the community is classified 

under the sub-type of RE3.12.35f. The canopy of this community presents a height range from 

12 to 23m, typically broken and dominated by Acacia auriculiformis with scattered deciduous 

vine forest species including Canarium australianum, Terminalia subacroptera, Bombax ceiba 

var. leiocarpum, and Diospyros hebecarpa. The sub-canopy is relatively open, comprising vine 

forest species including Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Terminalia subacroptera, Diospyros 

hebecarpa, Micromelum minutum, and Wrightia pubescens subsp penicillata. Sub dominant and 

associated species include Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, Canarium australianum, Cryptocarya 

exfoliata, Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla, Acacia auriculiformis, Aidia racemosa, Opilia 

armentacea, *Mangifera indica, Psydrax sp. and Manilkara kauki. 

The understorey is diverse with Salacia chinensis, Micromelum minutum, Wrightia pubescens 

subsp. penicillata, Pleomele angustifolia, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Diospyros compacta, 

Cryptocarya exfoliata, Litsea glutinosa, Memecylon pauciflorum, Exocarpos latifolius, Secamone 

elliptica, Terminalia subacroptera, Diospyros maritima, Tabernaemontana orientalis, Litsea 

glutinosa, Opilia armentacea, Psydrax sp., Breynia cernua, Ixora timorensis, Trophis scandens, 

Luvunga monophylla, Arytera bifoliolata, Jasminum sp., Turraea pubescens, Flagellaria indica, 

Streblus brunonianus, Drypetes deplanchei, Garcinia warrenii, Diospyros hebecarpa, Diospyros 

reticulata, Chionanthus ramiflora, Archidendron grandiflorum, Murraya ovatifoliolata, 

Macaranga tanarius, Drypetes deplanchei, Phaleria octandra, Capparis quiniflora, Antidesma 

parvifolium, Eugenia reinwardtiana, and Dalbergia densa var. australis. 


158

It is envisaged, as is the general case with most Acacia dominant forests, that this community has 

developed in response to disturbance. The nature of this disturbance is unknown, although the 

forest community would be expected to burn in hot conditions, with evidence from old charred 

stumps that it is occasionally burnt, largely in a wildfire regime. It is understood that gardens 

occurred on hillsides of the interior and that people would cut down the trees in a garden area, 

then burn them and move on the following year (Kepa/Hitchcock pers. com 2008). Further 

evidence is offered by Haddon (1901, pp 25) who recounts the observations by Jukes (1847 pp. 

155-7) where: “On Turtle-backed Island we found a few small groves of cocoa-nut trees near a 

group of huts, with a little thicket of bamboo; and near the centre of the island, following a little 

path through a matted wood, rendered impervious by creepers, we came [on]. . .a little circular 

plot of ground, not more than four or five yards in diameter; but it had evidently been dug, 

though in a crude manner, and in it were set several young plantain-trees, one or two other 

plants, and two trailing plants…which we afterwards found were a kind of yam”. 

It is therefore likely that a combination of both human disturbance, wind and fire played a role in 

the development of this forest type. That this community is found only on Iama Island presents 

another puzzle. The nearby continental islands of Mabuiag and Gebar are dominated by 

Welchiodendron forests, although not a single individual of this plant was found on Iama. It is 

clear that despite a close proximity, forests on Iama has developed independently from forest 

types on neighbouring islands. 

The high biodiversity values that this ecosystem attracts on the basis of its uniqueness in the subregional, 

regional and national contexts, is further strengthened by its provision of habitat for 

Luvunga monophylla (Rutaceae). The occurrence on Iama Island is a new record for Queensland 

extending geographical range eastwards from the eastern Arnhem coast of the Northern Territory. 

This multi-stemmed shrub of the understorey occurs in coastal vine thickets of the East 

Kimberley, Northern Territory and also from the Philippines with records from Timor (Hyland et 

al. 1995). Luvunga is of tribe Citreae (Rutaceae: subfam. Aurantioideae) and the the sole 

Australian representative of the Citrus subtribe ‘Triphasiinae’ (Mabberley 1998). It was first 

collected in the Sir Edward Pellew Group, Gulf of Carpentaria, in December 1802 by Robert 

Brown during Flinders Investigator circumnavigation of Australia with additional collections 

gathered a few months later in Timor by J.B.L.C.T. Leschenault de la Tour on Baudin’s voyage 

(Mabberley 1998). Luvunga is relatively common in its habitat on Iama among rocky boulder 

slopes and hillcrests. The species is of ‘least concern’ according to NT legislation. 

Photograph 169. The internal forest 

structure of VC6a (RE3.12.35f) on 

Iama Island (YA18). 


159


Preliminary Description: Evergreen to complex evergreen mesophyll to notophyll vine forest 

and thicket on mountain ranges of Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 1a, 1e, 1f, 1b, 1g, 1h 

Reference Sites: 3 Secondary (DA20, MO82, MO150) 

A new RE has been erected to accommodate evergreen vine forest and thicket communities of the 

Torres Strait Islands. Representation of vine forests is provided by VC1a, VC1e and VC1f, being 

thes most luxuriant development of vine forest in the island group and are assigned to the subtype 

RE3.12.36a. A number of evergreen vine thicket communities are also described under this 

classification, recognised under the sub-type RE3.12.6b. On Cape York Peninsula, evergreen 

forest on granitic upper slopes is recognised on Mt Cook and south into the ranges of the northern 

Wet Tropics Bioregion, on upland areas of the Melville Range, and on the granitic uplands of the 

McIlwraith Range. The communities recognised in the study area display significant floristic 

differences to the previously described Cape York RE’s and warrant individual recognition. 

These communities are mapped on a number of the more mountainous islands including Moa, 

Dauan, and Mt. Adolphus. 

Vegetation Community 1a: Vegetation Community 1a is mapped on the steep upper boulder 

slopes of Mt Cornwallis on Dauan Island where it forms an evergreen notophyll vine forest. The 

canopy is relatively low at 15 to 25m height and is windswept in exposed locations. Dominant 

canopy species include Ganophyllum falcatum, Arytera divaricata, Mangifera indica, Ficus 

microcarpa, Alstonia spectabilis, Celtis paniculata, Syzygium puberulum, Calophyllum sil, 

Buchanania arborescens, Dysoxylum oppositifolium, Acmenospermum claviflorum, Schefflera 

actinophylla, Endiandra impressicosta, Cryptocarya cunninghamii and Ficus destruens. Amongst 

the sub-canopy species, Garcinia warrenii, Endiandra impressicosta, Garcinia dulcis, 

Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Aglaia elaeagnoidea and Ficus virens var. sublanceolata were 

frequent. The shrub layer and ground cover was relatively complex with associated species 

including Pleomele angustifolia, Capparis lucida, Haplosticanthus fruticosus, Zanthoxylum 

rhetsa, Macaranga tanarius, Litsea glutinosa, Leea indica, Memecylon pauciflorum, 

Archidendron grandiflorum, Ptychosperma macarthurii, Trophis scandens, Chionanthus 

ramiflora, Glycosmis trifoliata, Alectryon repandodentatus (E), and Smilax australis. Epiphytes, 

climbing epiphytes and ferns are particularly abundant in response to the permanently moist 

upland environment with ferns such as Nephrolepis biserrata, Drynaria qeurcifolia, Drynaria 

sparsisora and Pyrrosia longifolia. Epiphyic orchids are a feature together with abundant Hoya 

and Dischidia species. 

The RE provides the only known ‘Australian’ habitat of Dischidia littoralis (Vulnerable NCA) 

(Forster and Liddle 1993) which was recollected on the survey (and also from Mabuiag Island). 

The record of Alectryon repandodentatus (Endangered NCA, Vulnerable IUCN) in the shrub 

layer is significant, being an extension of range and habitat for a species otherwise previously 

known in Australian territory only from the basaltic eastern islands and Lockerbie (Cape York) 

although it is widespread in PNG (see Conn et al. 2006+). The prominence of Mangifera indica 

(Mango) in the upper stratum of this forest also requires mention, as the species appears to be 

long established and naturalised. Information from traditional owners on Dauan Island suggests 

that the species was established as a potential food source for when under attack, the population 

retreated to the mountain tops. 


160

Photograph 170. Evergreen 

notophyll vine forest near the 

summit of Mt Cornwallis. The 

boulder covered in epiphytes is 

typical. 

Vegetation Community 1e: Vegetation Community 1e which was sampled at Site MO82 occurs 

on the footslopes of Banks Peak (Moa Island), occupying often steep sheltered slopes with 

southern aspect and formed on coarse biotite granite. Weathering of the granite has produced a 

well-drained and relatively fertile sandy loam soil which has favoured development of a welldeveloped 

mesophyll vine forest. The canopy has a height range of 23 to 35m with the dominant 

species being Myristica insipida, Dysoxylum latifolium, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Sterculia 

shillinglawii subsp. shillinglawii and Calophyllum sil. Canopy sub dominants include Maranthes 

corymbosa, Semecarpus australiensis, Aglaia tomentosa, Mimusops elengi, Buchanania 

arborescens, Aidia racemosa and Endiandra glauca. Sub-canopy species are typified by 

Endiandra glauca, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Sterculia shillinglawii subsp. shillinglawii, 

Carallia brachiata, Cryptocarya hypospodia, Arenga australasica (V), Calophyllum sil, Psydrax 

sp. (DGF8955+), Epipremum pinnatum, and Entada rheedii. 

Photograph 171. Arenga 

australasica is prominent in the sub 

canopy and shrub layers in VC1e 

(Site MO083). 

Shrub layers are relatively well-developed and diverse with a complex array of species which 

include Arenga australasica (V), Ptychosperma macarthurii, Hydriastele wendlandiana, 

Flagellaria indica, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Psydrax sp. (DGF8955+), Sterculia shillinglawii 

subsp. shillinglawii (R), Aglaia tomentosa, Calophyllum sil, Endiandra glauca, Cryptocarya 

hypospodia, Arytera divaricata, Dysoxylum latifolium, Smilax calophylla, Archidendron hirsutum 


161

(R), Wilkiea rigidifolia, Archidendron grandiflorum, Mallotus philippensis, Glycosmis trifoliata, 

Barringtonia calyptrata, Macaranga involucrata var. mallotoides, Polyscias macgillivraei, 

Atractocarpus sessilis, Salacia disepala, Chionanthus ramiflora, Micromelum minutum, 

Cryptocarya hypospodia, Arytera divaricata, Arytera bifoliolata, Phaleria octandra, 

Mischocarpus lachnocarpus, Polyalthia australis, and Pleomele angustifolia. 

The prominence of Arenga australasica, listed as Vulnerable under both EPBC (1999) and the 

NCA (1992) is a noteworthy feature of this forest, along with additional rare and threatened 

species listed in the type description and a number of species at the limit of geographical range in 

Australian territory. 

Vegetation Community 1f: The upper slopes of Banks Peak on Moa Island, at an elevation of 

399m, host a tall well-developed notophyll vine forest which presents a complex array of 

structural features. This community, represented as VC1f, presents the best-developed example 

of vine forest in the study area and is described as a complex notophyll vine forest. Canopy 

heights in this community vary depending on exposure although canopies observed on sheltered 

leeward slopes attain heights of greater than 30m. The sub-dominant stratum form a number of 

poorly differentiated layers which tend to merge in places, and it is these layers that present the 

greatest life form complexity. Typical canopy species include Calophyllum sil, Argyrodendron 

polyandrum, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Syzygium branderhorstii, Syzygium buettnerianum, 

Archidendron hirsutum (Rare), Anthocarapa nitidula, Pouteria obovata, Acmenospermum 

claviflorum, Canarium vitiense, Gomphandra australiana, Pouteria sp. (DGF9168+), Syzygium 

forte subsp. forte, Maranthes corymbosa, Palaquium galatoxylon, Ficus microcarpa, Horsfieldia 

australiana, Licuala ramsayi and Maniltoa lenticellata var. lenticellata. 

The sub-canopy layer which ranges in height from 12 to 18m is dominated by Licuala ramsayi 

with associated species including Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Psydrax sp. (DGF8955+), 

Ptychosperma elegans, Pandanus zea, Pouteria obovata, Canarium vitiense, Buchanania 

arborescens, Aglaia sapindina, Epipremnum pinnatum, Pouteria sp. (DGF9168+), Maranthes 

corymbosa, Podocarpus grayae, Meiogyne sp. (DGF9718+), Pimeleodendron amboinicum (R) 

and Maniltoa lenticellata var. lenticellata. Shrub layers, typically 1.5 to 10m are typified by 

Meiogyne sp. (9718+), Pimeleodendron amboinicum, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Licuala 

ramsayi, Codiaeum variegatum var. moluccanum, Atractocarpus sessilis, Acmenosperma 

claviflorum, Pandanus zea, Piper caninum, Polyscias australiana, Psydrax sp. (DGF9154+), 

Flagellaria indica, Pouteria obovata, Diospyros sp. (DGF9160+), Aglaia sapindina, 

Gomphandra australiana, Myristica insipida, Polyscias macgillivraei, Chionanthus ramiflora, 

Salacia chinensis and Maniltoa lenticellata var. lenticellata. 

Photograph 172. Aerial view of 

VC1f on Banks Peak showing. 

Licuala ramsayi visible in canopy. 


162

This habitat is unique in the national and regional context. The micro-climatic and edaphic 

conditions provide a permanently moist ‘upland’ habitat exhibiting important floristic evidence of 

biological connectivity with mesothermal uplands of the south and neighbouring PNG. Although 

further research and analysis is warranted utilising the survey data set, preliminary evidence 

reveals populations of a number of mesic taxa known previously north to the Lockerbie forests 

and/or Muralug. These include but are not limited to Acmenosperma claviflorum, Aglaia 

sapindina, Aglaia tomentosa, Argyrodendron polyandrum, Atractocarpus sessilis, 

Pimeleodendron amboinicum, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Licuala ramsayi, Canarium vitiense, 

Codiaeum variegatum var. moluccana, Endiandra impressicosta, Epipremum amplissimum, 

Gomphandra australiana, Maniltoa lenticellata var. lenticellata, Neolitsea brassii, Palaquium 

galactoxylon, Pandanus zea, Podocarpus grayae, Polyscias australiana, Sterculia shillinglawii 

subsp. shillinglawii, Syzygium bamagense, Syzygium puberulum, and Terminalia complanata. 

Colections of Pouteria sp. (DGF9168+DJS) one of the dominant canopy rainforest trees on 

Banks Peak, and Meiogyne sp. (Moa Is. DGF9718+DJS), are currently unplaced in the 

Queensland Flora and await Herbarium determination. The occurrence of Podocarpus represents 

the occurrence of a relictual Godwanan taxon and its northern extent of distribution. 

Photograph 173. The complex subcanopy 

structure of VC1f on Banks 

Peak (MO150) showing Licuala 

ramsayi and the stilt roots of a 

Pandanus species thought to be 

Pandanus zea. 


163

Vegetation Community 1b: This community is represented as a windsheared evergreen vine 

thicket and occasional forest formed on exposed granite boulder footslopes of Dauan Island. The 

canopy height is variable depending on position in relation to rock boulders. Taller communities 

typically form in sheltered crevasses where the canopy may reach 12m. In exposed locations, the 

canopy may be significantly lower. Dominant canopy species include Manilkara kauki, Intsia 

bijuga, Pouteria sericea, Garcinia warrenii, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Chionanthus ramiflora, 

Diospyros reticulatus, Drypetes deplanchei, Ptychosperma macarthurii, Buchanania 

arborescens, Pandanus sp., Ficus microcarpa, and Pouteria obovoidea. A shrub layer ranging in 

height from 0.5m to 3m is the dominant sub-canopy stratum. Typical species of this shrub layer 

include Trophis scandens, Alyxia spicata, Cleistanthus peninsularis, Tabernaemontana 

orientalis, Glycosmis trifoliata, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Aglaia elaeagnoidea, Flagellaria 

indica and Smilax australis. 

Photograph 174. The typical 

internal structure of VC1b on Dauan 

Island (DA04). 

Vegetation Community 1g: Vegetation Community 1b represents a windsheared evergreen 

notophyll vine thicket that is restricted to exposed, elevated and steep escarpments on Moa 

Island. The type description is obtained from Site MA151 on Banks Peak where sheltered 

leeward slopes host the much better developed VC1f. The typical canopy is even at 6m to 8m 

height with representative species comprising Podocarpus grayae, Anthocarapa nitidula, 

Diospyros hebecarpa, Syzygium bungadinnia, Dillenia alata, Licuala ramsayi, Ptychosperma 

elegans, Calophyllum sil, Pandanus zea, Cryptocarya cunninghamii, Buchanania arborescens, 

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, Psydrax sp. (DGF9154+), Pouteria obovata, Antiaris toxicaria var. 

macrophylla, Schefflera actinophylla, Canarium vitiense, Acacia auricauliformis and Polyscias 

elegans. As with the majority of the windsheared thicket types, the sub-canopy is sparse although 

a range of species including Atractocarpus sessilis, Codiaeum variegatum, Aglaia sapindina, 

Wilkiea rigidifolia, Neolitsea brassii, Sterculia quadrifida, Mischocarpus lachnocarpus, Litsea 

breviumbellata, Hydnophytum mosleyanum var. moselyanum, Helicia australasica, Syzygium 

buettnerianum (R), and Sterculia sp. (Annan River) were recorded in the sub-canopy and shrub 

layers. 

Vegetation Community 1h: An extremely restricted notophyll thicket community that is 

confined to the steep upper slopes of Mabuiag Island. The community is structurally similar to 

VC1g although floristic composition varies significantly. The dominant canopy, which ranges 

from 6m to 8m comprises Buchanania arborescens, Drypetes deplanchei, Elaeodendron 

melanocarpum, Endiandra glauca, Elaeocarpus arnhemicus, Chionanthus ramiflora, Dysoxylum 

oppositifolium, Cliestanthus peninsularis, Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, Canarium australianum, 

Ganophyllum falcatum, Calophyllum sil, *Mangifera indica and Arytera divaricata. The sub- 


164

canopy forms a poorly defined stratum ranging in height from 1.5m to 6m and is composed of 

Haplosticanthus fruticosus, Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa, Pleomele angustifolia, Diospyros 

hebecarpa, Streblus brunonianus, Arytera bifoliolata, Cyclophyllum maritimum, Flagellaria 

indica, Psychotria sp., Diospyros sp. (Bamaga B.P.Hyland 2517), Ganophyllum falcatum, 

Phaleria octandra, Arytera divaricata, Salacia disepala, Cryptocarya exfoliata, Elaeodendron 

melanocarpum, Dendrobium discolor and Secamone elliptica. Drynaria quercifolia forms the 

dominant ground cover. 

Vegetation Community 1h represents a much drier thicket type that VC1g and this is reflected in 

the species composition. The limited height development of this community, and possibly its 

species composition is also influenced by the mobile acid volcanic talus slope, which it occupies. 

Photograph 175. The internal 

structure of windsheared notophyll 

vine thicket type 1g. Site MA151. 

Photograph 176. The steep 

windward slope of Banks Peak 

demonstrating the evergreen and 

windsheared structure of VC1g. 


165


Photograph 177. Evergreen 

notophyll thicket VC1h on Mabuiag 

Island. Site MA48. 

Preliminary Description: Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia stockerii +/- Corymbia 

clarksoniana woodland to open woodland on coastal hills. 

Status (Preliminary): Not of Concern 

Vegetation Communities: 5t, 5u 

Reference Sites: 8 Quaternary. 

A new RE has been erected to incorporate Eucalyptus platyphylla dominant communities that are 

manifest on coastal headlands and footslopes of the Inner Island Group. The RE comprises VC5t 

and VC5u, restricted to Horn and Muralug Islands respectively. 

Vegetation Community 5t: This community is mapped exclusively on Horn Island, where it 

represents a relatively extensive woodland and open forest community on the islands eastern side. 

The canopy of this community ranges from 18 to 27m and comprises (in order of decreasing 

abundance) Eucalyptus platyphylla, Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis, Corymbia nesophila 

and Welchiodendron longivalve. The community often demonstrates a relatively well-developed 

shrub layer composed of Welchiodendron longivalve and Acacia spp. Limited floristic sampling 

was undertaken in this community and further structural survey would aid its description. 


Community 5t on the eastern side of 

Horn Island. 


166

Vegetation Community 5u: Similar to VC5t, community 5u was subject to limited structural 

sampling, with community description ascertained largely from quaternary observation. The 

structural characteristics were however relatively distinctive, forming localised areas of open to 

sparse woodland, mostly restricted to acid volcanic coastal headlands on Muralug Island. Canopy 

heights are estimated at 18m to 25m with canopy cover generally less than 25%. The dominant 

canopy species is Eucalyptus platyphylla with scattered Corymbia tessellaris and associated but 

uncommon Eucalytpus cullenii. The shrub layer is sparse, generally comprising Cochlospermum 

gillivraei and Acacia spp. with ground cover formed by Themeda triandra interspersed with rock 

pavement and talus. A broad area of this community was identified on the south-western portion 

of Badu Island (see Garnett and Jackes 1983). Due to the paucity of the field survey effort on 

Badu Island, coupled with the broad scale of the aerial photography used for the interpretation, 

the location and extent of this community could not be verified. 


Community 5u on acid volcanic 

headland. Muralug Site PW038. 


Description: Corymbia clarksoniana + Corymbia stockerii + Corymbia nesophila low mixed 

woodland of Torres Strait Islands. 


Vegetation Communities: 5d, 14p, 13a 


Regional Ecosystem 3.12.38 is new RE classification restricted entirely to Moa Island where it 

occupies skeletal soils formed on hard white acid volcanic rock. The constituent VC’s comprise 

shrubland and low woodland expressions as described below in VC’s 5d and 14p. Small areas of 

Melaleuca viridiflora woodland separate from this community and are also included under this 


Vegation Community 5d: This community represents low woodland comprising a mix of 

species from a range of genera. The canopy forms with a height range between 6m and 10m with 

cover typically 25% to 40%. Constituent species include Corymbia clarksoniana, Corymbia 

nesophila, Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis, Asteromyrtus brassii, Melaleuca viridiflora, 

Melaleuca stenostachya, Petalostigma pubescens, Acacia leptocarpa and Welchiodendron 

longivalve. The relative contribution that these species make to total canopy cover varies 

although Corymbia spp. is always a canopy component. Secondary shrub layers are variable 

although Melaleuca viridiflora, Melaleuca stenostachya and Petalostigma pubescens are 

generally abundant. Grasses form a sparse cover over a typically skeletal substrate. Where 


167

Corymbia spp. contribute less than 10% to the total canopy cover or are present as an emergent 

layer only, the community is represented as VC14p. The VC is represented in Photograph 180. 


community 5d on acid volcanic soils. 

Corymbia spp. make a significant 

contribution to total canopy cover at 

this site (MO046). 

Vegetation Community 14p: Vegetation Community 14p (Photograph 181) mosaics with 

VC5d, and separation of these communities is based largely on the relative contribution 

Corymbia species make to the total canopy cover. The upper shrub layer typically forms at 3m to 

6m and is composed of Melaleuca viridiflora as a dominant with Corymbia clarksoniana, Acacia 

leptocarpa, Petalostigma pubescens and Asteromyrtus brassii as sub-dominant species. Acacia 

crassicarpa, Parinari nonda and Petalostigma pubescens are occasional canopy associates. 

Shrub layers are typically sparse comprising species typical of the canopy. Grasses form a sparse 

cover over a typically skeletal substrate. Emergents of Corymbia clarksoniana, Corymbia 

nesophila and Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis may be present although by definition 

contribute less than 5% to the total canopy cover. In some locations, areas of pure Melaleuca 

viridiflora may separate out from the mixed shrubland, where it is mapped as VC13a. In these 

locations, the community is captured within RE3.12.26x1, recognising the continuum of floristic 

variations occurring within the VC. 


Community 14p at Moa Island Site 

MO124. 


168

5.3 Retrospective Classifications 

Landforms suitable for human occupation have largely been cleared on the majority of inhabited 

islands and as such, the vegetation communities that once occupied these areas have been heavily 

impacted. Alluvial landforms have been used almost exclusively for inhabitation and agricultural 

purpose and small alluvial pockets on the majority of the larger inhabited islands have been 

totally cleared with limited evidence of the floristic composition or structure of pre-disturbance 

vegetation types. Similarly, the elevated Tertiary remnant on the northern coast of Saibai Island 

presents the most suitable area for human occupation on the island and has been heavily impacted 

by human activities. In these areas, evidence of the pre-disturbance vegetation communities can 

only be gathered from floristic evidence manifest in the contemporary landscape. Two VC’s and 

associated RE’s in the study area are presumed to be regionally extinct and these are described 

briefly below. 

5.3.1 Regional Ecosystem 3.3.1c (Cleared) 

Description: Closed semi-deciduous mesophyll vine forest. Mainly occurs on loamy alluvia 

Status: Presumed Extinct 

Vegetation Communities: 2xx(e), 2xx(c), 2xx(b) 

Reference Sites: 2 Quaternary (Dauan - DA15, 43) 

Vegetation Community 2xx: Vegetation community 2xx provides an example of retrospective 

vegetation classification with type, which is classified as mesophyll vine forest on alluvia, 

mapped as an RE only in pre-clearing status. All well-developed alluvial flats on islands such as 

Erub, Dauan, and Iama have been cleared and probably have been under human occupation for 

long periods prior to European settlement. Indications of the pre-clearing status of these flats can 

only be gained from examination of scattered non-remnant communities retained (although most 

likely highly modified) on gully lines and as scattered remnant trees. For this reason, the 

description of this community should be considered indicative. Isolated strips of VC2xx(e) on 

Dauan are currently occupied on swampy alluvium by Acacia auriculiformis, Terminalia cattapa, 

Myristica insipida and a range of exotic species including Mangifera indica and Cocos nucifera. 

The pre-clearing representation of this community is proposed to comprise a similar native 

species assemblage, although it is conceded that the original species assemblage is likely to be 

considerably more diverse. A new RE sub-type (RE3.3.1c) has been used to accommodate and 

describe this pre-clearing community. In in the Torres Strait Islands, any natural occurrence is 

apparently extinct. 

Photograph 182. Semi-deciduous 

mesophyll vine forest dominated by 

Terminalia cattapa, Mangifera 

indica and Cocos nucifera (2xx(e)) 

on Dauan Island (Site DA43). 


169

5.4 Non-Remnant Classifications 

The following provides a brief explanation for, and characterisation of the non-remnant 

vegatation communities mapped in the Torres Strait Islands. 

Bamboo: Bamboo groves and thickets are prominent on a number of islands although 

particulary abundant on the Eastern Island Group of Mer, Erub and Ugar. On these islands, 

bamboo groves mosaic with adjacent vine forest communities, either spreading from former 

traditional garden areas on margins or as discrete groves within the forest communities. These 

communities are also prominent on the continental islands of Moa and Mabuiag, although no 

such examples were recognised on the Kaurareg Islands (Inner Island Group). The communities 

are represented as the pre-disturbance vegetation type with an appended (b). 

The historical record as reviewed by McNiven (2008) reveals the existence of bamboo groves 

throughout the Torres Strait, more specifically in the eastern islands in 1793, the western islands 

in 1845, and on Kirriri (Hammond) in 1867, with indications that groves continued to be 

established in the late nineteenth century and that the material was utilized extensively for 

material items (Shnukal, 2004a in McNiven 2008). Contemporary use of this important resource 

was observed during the field survey on Erub where large canes of the introduced Bambusa 

vulgaris cut for structural building purposes were lashed and soaked in the sea before use. This 

robust species is the most likely bamboo to form the communities mapped in this exercise 

although a number of species are recorded for the region (see McNiven 2008). The native 

Neololeba atra (listed as Rare under the Nature Conservation Act), occurs in the Wet Tropcs, 

Iron Range-McIlwraith and Lockerbie areas of north-eastern Queensland and also in Papua New 

Guinea and New Britain (Hyland et al. 2003). It is known from the Torres Strait from Mer, 

Naghir, Ugar and Iama (EPA 2007), and from Badu and Moa Islands (Fell pers. obs.) however is 

generally restricted to the understorey and rainforest margins and does not form mappable 

communities. 

EX: Communities Dominated by Exotic Species (other than bamboo): Communities 

dominated by exotic species other than bamboo, are represented with an appended (e). This 

classification extends to a range of communities and species including extensive areas of tall 

closed forest of *Mangifera indica (Mango) or *Delonix regia (Poinciana) on a number of 

islands, most prominently Mer and Erub, where such communities have been designated as nonremnant 

vegetation. Former grassland areas on Mer and Erub Islands dominated by *Lantana 

camara are similarly designated with an appended (e) although in such cases, remnant status has 

been designated given that natural condition of these areas can be restored relatively easily 

through appropriate fire regime. 

Photograph 183. Bamboo groves 

on a basalt headland within broader 

vine forest communities. Erub 



170

RE: Native Regrowth Communities: Native regrowth communities are recognised on the 

majority of island groups that have been subject to human occupation where they have been noted 

with an appended (R). These communities result from the clearing, or partial clearing of natural 

vegetation that is in varying stages of recovery to a natural condition. On Erub, such 

communities are often represented by groves of Barringtonia calyptrata on the margins of 

remnant vine forest vegetation, and on Boigu or Iama as mangrove shrubland. 

Non-Remnant Communities of Local Cultural Significance: Anthropogenically altered 

forests with development influenced by intensive cultural land use covered extensive areas of 

Mer, Erub and Masig. The broad structural characteristics of the communities, being VC22a and 

VC22b are described below, followed by brief discussion on their likely derivation. 

Vegetation Community 22a: Vegetation community 22a, found on Murray and Erub Islands, 

are typically represented by tall groves of Cocos nucifera below which a closed forest has 

formed. This closed forest component has a general canopy height range of 15 to 23m, 

comprising predominantly native species (Mango being an exception), although the species 

assemblage is heavily skewed in favour of traditional food trees such as Syzygium branderhorstii 

and Syzygium bungadinnia (on Mer Island). A typical canopy assemblage (or sub canopy below 

the dominant stratum of Cocos nucifera) on Erub (Site ER30) comprised Syzygium 

branderhorstii, Myristica insipida, Cocos nucifera, Alectryon repandodentatus (E), Diospyros 

hebecarpa, Cupaniopsis anacardioides, Mangifera indica, Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum, 

Pandanus sp., Canarium vitiense and Mimusops elengi. Other prominent species may include 

Alstonia spectabilis, Cerbera manghas, and Semecarpus australiensis. An unusual feature noted 

in this community on both Mer and Erub is the prominence of Lepidopetalum fructoglabrum in 

the sub-canopy and shrub layers of a large number of these forest types. This species is not 

recorded in any other vine forest community examined. Where mapped, the majority of these 

areas are on level topography with a sparse understorey and free of the surface rock that is 

otherwise abundant on hillslope situations. 

Photograph 184. A tall specimen of 

Syzygium bungadinnia mixing with Cocos 

nucifera in the canopy of VC22a (Site 

MU028, Mer Island). 


171

Field evidence suggests that areas mapped as VC22a on Murray and Erub Islands, were once 

utilised as traditional garden sites where cultivation of food trees such as Syzygium branderhorstii 

and Mangifera indica occurred under coconut groves. In some instances old rotting Coconut 

stumps were observed in the understorey. Detailed knowledge of land use histories throughout 

Mer is undoubtedly held within the traditional owner clan groups and this is an essential 

foundation toward further ecological understanding of these systems. The role Torres Strait 

islander people have had in shaping the vegetation communities of the Torres Strait (see Parr and 

Carter 2003, Carter 2004, McNiven 2007, Rowe 2007, Barham 1999) is evident through the 

length of continuous occupation +2,500 years BP which relied on land and marine resource 

exploitation inclusive of extensive garden cultivations. 

In respect to Mer Island, Haddon (1935) states ‘ the great lava stream extends with an undulating 

surface from the central cone to the north-western end of the island, and forms a fertile tableland 

which is bounded by a steep slope. The disintegrated lava forms a reddish brown soil in which 

coconut palms grow in profusion, and the natives have their gardens of bananas, yams and sweet 

potatoes. There are also wild mangoes and other wild fruit and other trees’. Carter (2004) 

makes reference to the observations of Yonge (1930) where large areas of the more fertile parts of 

the island supported extensive tropical horticulture, and further comments that “the eastern 

interior tableland currently supports dense vine thicket, groves of bamboo, wild mango trees and 

secondary woodland regrowth interspersed with garden plots” (Carter 2004, pp 165). It is 

apparent that a period of stability (or change in land usage) has allowed for the development of 

VC22a on both Mer and Erub. 

Vegetation Community 22b: Vegetation Community 22b on Masig is represented as a low 

notophyll/microphyll vine thicket dominated by species which include Buchanania arborescens, 

Drypetes deplanchei, and Terminalia subacroptera. This community is reported by local people 

to represent former traditional garden areas that have long since regenerated to a relatively stable 

vine thicket dominated by native species. Whilst a number of similar communities, controlled 

and maintained by natural process, are present in other island locations, the communities on 

Masig lack sufficent cover of the original canopy for classification as remnant vegetation. 

In summary, the modification of the natural environment by the indigenous cultures of the Torres 

Strait over centuries is recognised in both VC22a and VC22b and although classified as nonremnant 

vegetation, such areas retain significant cultural values with land ownership boundaries 

well defined within the local community. 

Photograph 185. Anthropogenically 

altered vine thicket 

VC22b on Masig (Site YOS7). 


172

5.5 Other Classifications 

Areas Represented as R: Areas labelled R represent bare rock pavement formed on volcanic, 

granitoid or basaltic lithologies. Such areas lack soil development in any form and are generally 

found in exposed and precipitous locations, often at the base of coastal escarpments immediately 

above the intertidal zone. These areas are typically devoid of vegetation due to extreme exposure 

to both wind and salt spray, although stunted shrubs, herbs and grasses may occupy rock fractures 

where some shelter is provided. Due to extremely steep terrain, these communities are likely to 

be under-represented in the mapping with many areas obscured by steep slopes. 

6.0 Spatial Extent of Regional Ecosystems 

The spatial analysis of regional ecosystems presented in Table 11 below, which compares preclearing 

extent with contemporary representation, enables the area of current vegetation cover to 

be compared to the pre-clearing extent. Results indicate that 98.9% of remnant vegetation cover 

remains. The most extensive loss of remnant vegetation cover is attributable to the following 

RE’s. 

• RE 3.7.1x1, a vine thicket type which is now restricted to narrow fragments adjacent to 

roadsides on ironstone exposures on the northern shores of Saibai Island (0.4% remains 

in remnant condition; 

• RE 3.2.28, Evergreen notophyll vine forest on beach ridges on coral atolls, shingle cays 

and sand cays (45.4% remaining). Heavily impacted on Aureed, Warraber, and Masig; 

• RE 3.3.69, Melaleuca dealbata and Corymbia clarksoniana open forest on alluvial plains 

restricted to Moa (47% remaining); 

• RE 3.8.5, Semi deciduous and deciduous vine thicket restricted to Erub and Mer (58.8% 

remaining). Heavily fragmented through past native gardening with significant areas 

have been replaced by bamboo; 

• RE 3.12.13, Corymbia nesophila ± C. hylandii subsp. peninsularis woodland on acid 

volcanic hills, restricted to Thursday, Zuna and Muralug (66.7% remaining); 

• RE 3.2.6, Casuarina equisetifolia woodland of coastal foredunes (67.5% remaining). 

Heavily impacted community on foreshores in a number of island groups; 

• RE 3.2.15, Melaleuca viridiflora, Neofabricia myrtifolia woodland on beach ridges 

occurring on Badu, Horn and Muralug (77.1% remaining). Nearly all of the clearing of 

this RE is associated with increased urbanization on Badu including clearing for airstrips 

(old and new); and 

• RE 3.3.57, Tussock grassland on coastal plains of Moa, Gebar and Muralug (77.5% 

remaining). A fire disclimaz community that has been impacted by clearing on Moa 

Island (St Pauls). 

Table 11. Analysis of pre-clearing regional ecosystems in the Torres Strait Island region. 


Ecosystem 

Pre-clearing Area 

(ha) 

Area (2007 Coverage-ha) % Remaining 

Land Zone 1- Estuarine muds and alluvium subject to saltwater incursion 

3.1.1 17908.8 17886.3 99.8 

3.1.2 4327.01 4326.62 99.8 

3.1.4 20.02 20.02 100 

3.1.5 346.11 341.74 98.7 

3.1.6 3325.38 3319.27 99.8 

3.1.7 954.12 953.13 99.9 


173


Ecosystem 


(ha) 


Land Zone 2 - Coastal Dunes, Cheniers and Sand Sheets and associated Dune Swales. 

3.2.2 368.12 264.4 71.8 

3.2.3 111.962 109.18 97.5 

3.2.4 320.32 313.43 97.8 

3.2.5 646.21 561.16 86.8 

3.2.6 285.81 193.148 67.5 

3.2.7 605.45 599.41 99.0 

3.2.8 60.44 60.44 100.0 

3.2.10 128.89 128.99 100.0 

3.2.14 0.46 0.46 100.0 

3.2.15 967.02 745.1 77.1 

3.2.19 167.83 160.08 95.4 

3.2.24 359.16 296.23 82.5 

3.2.25 39.84 35.76 89.8 

3.2.26 80.1 80.1 100.0 

3.2.27 4.27 4.27 100.0 

3.2.28 188.80 85.72 45.4 

3.2.30 3.14 3.14 100.0 

Land Zone 3 - Alluvial plains, alluvial fans, terraces and fluvial sediments 

3.3.1c 8.03 0 0.0 

3.3.5c 103.83 103.83 100.0 

3.3.6 46.97 46.97 100.0 

3.3.7 18.09 10.95 100.0 

3.3.9 179.77 179.77 100.0 

3.3.10 476.21 467.00 98.0 

3.3.12 33.75 33.75 100.0 

3.3.13 55.47 55.47 100.0 

3.3.14 208.75 204.32 97.8 

3.3.17b 185.33 182.05 98.23 

3.3.20c 1143..37 1120.68 98.0 

3.3.22 553.72 537.6 97.08 

3.3.27 2277.73 2201.02 96.6 

3.3.28 253.21 227.39 89.8 

3.3.42 2999.52 2931.18 97.7 

3.3.48 1124.00 1112.13 98.9 

3.3.51 111.72 111.72 100.0 

3.3.57 273.07 211.61 77.5 

3.3.62 1331.87 1290.36 96.9 

3.3.63 105.7 105.7 100.0 

3.3.68 90.02 90.02 100.0 

3.3.69 139.82 65.60 46.9 

3.3.70 148.41 144.254 97.1 

Land Zone 5 – Sandy plains and rises/ Lateritic profiles and remnant alluvial/colluvial surfaces. 

3.5.5 2110.88 2110.88 100.0 

3.5.8 73.37 73.37 100.0 

3.5.15 3273.32 3273.32 100.0 

3.5.17a 10.44 10.44 100.0 

3.5.19 229.93 229.93 100.0 

3.5.23x1 115.54 115.54 100.0 

3.5.29 59.26 59.26 100.0 

3.5.32 228.21 228.21 100.0 

Land Zone 7 – Exposed or shallowly covered duricrust 


174


Ecosystem 


(ha) 


3.7.1x1b 19.19 0.77 0.4 

Land Zone 8 - Basalt escarpments and terraces/Volcanic cones formed on ash and scoria 

3.8.4 530.45 519.3 97.9 

3.8.5 484.00 284.67 58.8 

Land Zone 12 – Acid volcanic and plutonic rocks including hornfelsed granite parent rocks 

3.12.4 6049.01 5896.87 97.5 

3.12.8 1664.26 1628.43 97.8 

3.12.9 785.84 779.46 99.2 

3.12.11 7998.49 7798.93 97.5 

3.12.13 360.49 240.37 66.7 

3.12.16 1795.76 1786.14 99.46 

3.12.18 96.83 96.83 100.0 

3.12.20 5660.53 5660.53 100.0 

3.12.21a 365.18 328.58 89.9 

3.12.23 2252.69 2252.69 100.0 

3.12.29 927.73 909.03 97.9 

3.12.30 489.68 488.15 99.7 

13.12.31x1a 1408.50 1408.39 100.0 

3.12.33 29.36 29.36 100.0 

3.12.34 1833.99 1833.99 100.0 

3.12.35 1156.18 1092.06 94.45 

3.12.36 494.78 491.68 99.9 

3.12.37 503.42 474.70 94.3 

3.12.38 1661.64 1661.5 100.0 

Total 84613.2 83684.85 98.9 

7.0 Significant Vegetation and Flora 

7.1 Summary of Significant Vegetation 

The following section identifies vegetation types which have a restricted occurrence in the study 

area, recognising a number of vegetation communities potentially unique to the Torres Strait 

Islands. Vegetation which provides habitat to significant flora species including EVR’s, disjunct 

populations and species at the limits of geographical range are also recognized. 

1. Regional Ecosystem 3.1.1 (Closed forest of Rhizophora stylosa ± Bruguiera gymnorhiza) 

is described as a highly complex and variable RE occupying intertidal areas, generally on 

the seaward fringe of mangroves where tidal exchange is greatest. This RE includes 

small areas of Nypa forest on North-West Creek (Muralug) mapped as VC12a. The 

occurrence of Nypa forest on Muralag represents an extension of geographical range of 

the species north from the Jardine River mouth, being the only known occurrence 

between Cape York and PNG. 

2. Regional Ecosystem 3.1.7 is a previously unrecognised unit describing Schoenoplectus 

spp. sedgelands in brackish estuarine environments. This ecosystem unit incorporates 

low open sedgeland (VC 27a) and tall sedgeland/estuarine wetland mosaics (VC 27b), the 

latter forming where freshwater drainage mixes with estuarine waters, generally on the 


175

landward margins of mangrove forest complexes. The RE is confined to Saibai and 

Boigu Islands and is not currently recognised on mainland areas of Cape York. 

3. The complexity of vine forest types on sand dunes within the island group is remarkable, 

warranting recognition as a single broad RE unit distinct from those identified in the 

existing RE schema. The new RE is formed by the VC’s 2a, 2l, 2u, and 9b, occurring on 

nearly all island groups with best developed type examples represented on Saibai, Boigu, 

Erub, Muralug, Moa, Warral and Sassie Islands. These communities are semi-deciduous 

in nature with structural variation between vine thicket and vine forest, and occupy 

calcareous beach ridges, as distinct from the coralline sand deposits of the atolls which 

provide habitat for RE3.2.28. A unique expression (VC23c) occurs on inacessible parts 

of Sassie Island where coral rubble ridges provides habitat for tall transitional vine forest 

types. On Saibai Island, parts of the coast supporting this habitat continue to provide 

seasonal living and camping sites for traditional owners and are likely to also provide 

important ethnobotanical resources. The occurrence of *Cocus nucifera and *Bambusa 

spp. may be associated with settlement areas. The Erub occurrence of the RE provides 

habitat for the listed Alectryon repandodentatus (Endangered, NCA 1992) and Neololeba 

atra (Rare, NCA 1992). On Muralug Island, VC2u provides habitat for the vulnerable 

Cooktown Orchid (Dendrobium biggibum) and the Vulnerable listed (yet widespread) 

Psydrax reticulata. Populations of the Endangered vine Muelleragia timorensis are 

likely. 

4. The occurrence of RE 3.2.2b (Semi-deciduous vine thicket on coastal dunes and beach 

ridges) on Moa Island, mapped as VC2p, provides the only known sand dune habitat for 

the Vulnerble palm Arenga australasica in the Torres Strait. This is also known habitat 

for the Endangered vine Muelleragia timorensis, and disjunct populations of Aristolochia 

chalmersii. 

5. Regional Ecosystem 3.2.10c (Eucalyptus tetrodonta, Corymbia clarksoniana ± E. 

brassiana or Erythrophleum chlorostachys woodland on stabilised dunes - VC5j) is 

resticted to the western coast of Muralug Island where older dune systems are wellpreserved 

and relatively extensive. This Eucalyptus tetrodonta dominant habitat 

represents the most northerly geographical limit of E. tetrodonta in Queensland. 

Additionally the ecosystem provides habitat for highly disjunct occurrences of Corymbia 

latifolia. 

6. The newly described RE3.3.2x1 accommodates a unique variety of Semi-deciduous 

mesophyll/notophyll vine forest on alluvium, restricted to flood prone alluvial plains of 

the Northern Island Group. It incorporates VC2c on Saibai Island and closed 

shrubland/vine thicket type 14b an Boigu Island. These communities occupy a unique 

landform situation with no similar representation in either the broader island group or the 

Cape York Peninsula Bioregion. The representative communities are under imminent 

threat of extinction through sea level rise. 

7. The tall evergreen notophyll vine forest type VC1j is represented only on the sandy 

alluvial soils of Tutalia Creek on Moa Island. The unique floristic assemblage which is 

dominated by Acmena hemilampa subsp. hemilampra, Syzygium angophoroides and 

associated Acacia auriculiformis, Syzygium forte subsp. forte, Calophyllum sil and 

Buchanania arborescens has no known comparable communities on Cape York 

Peninsula. The adjoining evergreen mesophyll vine forest (VC1i) on stream alluvia is 

similarly unique in the Torres Strait region. The community has floristic affinities (on 

account of abundant Horsfieldia in the canopy) to riparian vine forests on swampy 

alluvium associated with the lower catchment of the Lockhart River and tributaries. 

Provision of habitiat for Pandanus zea, listed as ‘Rare’ under provisions of the NCA is an 

additional significant habitat feature. 

8. The mixed riparian forest type mapped as VC5h is restricted to Horn Island where it 

occupies swampy flood overflow plains carved into relict dune systems. The dominant 

canopy, always in open forest formation, ranges in height from 15 to 23m and is 

composed of Melaleuca saligna, Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis, Corymbia 


176

clarksoniana, Eucalyptus brassiana and Eucalptus platyphylla. This presents an unusual 

floristic assemblage and the record of Eucalyptus brassiana provides an extension of 

geographic limit of the species north from Cape York. The community provides for the 

only record of the species within the study area. 

9. The Melaleuca quinquinervia dominant RE 3.3.12 (VC7d) is restricted in the Torres 

Strait to Moa and Badu Islands forming the most northerly known occurrence of the 

species on Badu. On Moa it occurs on the broad erosional plain of the north-west, and on 

Badu in deflation hollows and broad swales of old dune surfaces. On both islands, M. 

quinquinervia occurs in sparsely scattered swamplands. 

10. Regional Ecosystem 3.2.14 (VC13h) is restricted to a single occurrence on Horn Island, 

where it is expressed as a low closed shrubland dominated by Melaleuca arcana. The 

community forms a semi-circular swamp within a broader relict dune system and 

represents an extension of geographical range of the species north from the Jardine River. 

The community is therefore unique in the Torres Strait regional context. 

11. Regional ecosystem 3.3.18x1, incorporating VC7c and VC4d is restricted to coastal areas 

north of St. Pauls, Moa Island where it is represented as a tall open forest of Melaleuca 

dealbata and Corymbia clarksoniana in relatively equal proportions. The floristic 

composition of this community appears unique in a bio-regional context, and its spatial 

extent is extremely limited. This community has been heavily fragmented by past 

landuse practice and a dominant proportion of the landform that it once occupied has 

been cleared, highlighting the urgency to recognise the unique nature of this community. 

12. Regional ecosystem 3.3.62a* (VC11a) comprises a mosaic of grassland, shrubland and 

low woodland types, confined mostly to Northern Islands group. The most extensive 

representation is provided on Saibai Island, although scattered areas also occur on Boigu, 

and southern representation is provided on Hammond and Moa Islands (Inner and Near 

Western Island Groups respectively). The community is confined to Torres Strait Region 

although extensive areas occur on the coastal plains of neighbouring PNG. Large areas 

of the unit are former prehistoric tropical field systems with characteristic physical traces 

of relict agricultural mounds and ditches indicating high cultural values (see Barham 

1999). 

13. The proposed creation of a new RE3.5.32 (VC9a) recognises the unique combination of 

Asteromyrtus brassii, Syzygium angophoroides and Acmena hemilampra subsp. 

hemilampra open forest on residual sand rises and sheets. The unusual landform 

association of these more typically swamp dwelling species is unique to Moa Island, and 

provides an unusual floristic variation of vegetation on a Land Zone 5 feature. 

14. Native gasslands classified within RE3.8.4 (VC17b) on basalt vents & cones are 

restricted to the major basaltic islands of Erub and Mer, forming a considerable portion of 

the islands terrestrial habitat. Special significance is assigned to these communities, 

considering both the uniqueness of the volcanic landscape, and the rarity of basaltic 

grassland types in the broader bioregional area. Similar communities are represented 

near Hopevale in the south of the CYP bioregion. These ecosytems have long histories 

of anthropogenic management, although edaphic condition provides a fundamental 

control on their development. Understanding the impact of incremental land use change, 

evidenced today by shrub and lantana invasion and erosion, is vital for determining 

appropriate management strategies. 

15. The proposed new Regional Ecosystem 3.12.1x1 (Semi-deciduous mesophyll/notophyll 

vine forest on granite slopes of the Torres Strait Sub-region) comprises a floristically 

diverse group of vegetation mapping units (2d, 2h, 2o, 2q, 2r, 6e) occurring on steep 

granitic and acid volcanic slopes of the larger continental islands. The most extensive 

occurrences are are recognised on Dauan, Iama and Gebar Islands, and on the Near 

Western and Inner Island Group. Vegetation community 2d, which is found on the steep 

boulder strewn mid to upper slopes of Dauan Island, supports disjunct populations of 

Tetrameles nudiflora and Nothocnide repanda, and is notable for its diversity of 

epiphytic plants including the ‘Vulnerable’ Dischidia littoralis. Vegetation community 


177

2o on the sheltered slopes of Moa provides habitat for Archidendron hirsutum (Rare) and 

disjunct populations of Polyalthia australis. The best development of the ecosystem is 

provided on Muralug Island as VC2q where it occupies a series of rocky diorite knolls 

protruding above a broad alluvial plain. The type supports restricted occurrences of 

Terminalia complanata, Albizia lebbeck, Cordia myxa, Lagerstroemia archeriana and 

Indigator fordii. The latter represents the highly disjunct occurrence of an extremely rare 

species, previously known from only four to six trees on the southern slopes of the 

McIlwraith Range. 

16. Regional Ecosystem 3.12.3x1 (VC6a) is a proposed new RE, accounting for Acacia 

auriculiformis open forest with vine forest understorey. This unique community is 

restricted to Iama Island (VC6a) with a minor occurrence also mapped on Gebar. High 

biodiversity values are given to this community given its uniqueness in the national, 

regional and local contexts, and through provision of habitat for a highly disjunct 

population of Luvunga monophylla (Rutaceae), being a new record for Queensland. 

17. Regional Ecosystem 3.12.5x1 is proposed as a new RE recognising a unique expression 

of evergreen to complex evergreen mesophyll to notophyll vine forest and thicket on 

mountain ranges of Torres Strait Islands. The proposed new ecosystem represents a 

diverse range of floristic and structural variations that have been previously 

unrecognised. This ecosystem is extremely undersampled in regard to its botanical and 

faunal diversity and warrants more detailed investigation of these components in future 

studies. The likelihood of finding significant new botanical and faunal records within 

this community can be regarded as extremely high. 

18. Vegetation Community 5f (proposed as a component of RE3.12.18) is restricted to 

Naghir Island, occupying the well-drained granitic soils of the footslope and colluvial 

apron on the islands western side. This community provides Australia’s most northerly 

occurrence of Eucalyptus leptophleba, and is highly significant for this reason. The 

occurrence of this community is well-removed from examples on northern Cape York 

Peninsula, with the only other recognised occurrence of the species in the Torres Strait 

Group confined to scattered trees on Thursday Island. The taxon also occurs on the 

windswept coastal dunes of Naghir (RE3.2.25) as a component of VC14t. 

Whilst the signifigance of regional ecosystems can be assessed on an individual basis, the values 

of the broader mosaic of vegetation across the Torres Strait Sub-region, including its complexity, 

diversity and connectivity should also be considered highly significant. The study revealed 77 

regional regional ecosystems in the Torres Strait study area, accounting for approximately one 

third of the currently documented ecosystem diversity in the broader bioregion within a 

recognised sub-region contributing less than 0.01% to the bioregions total land area 

(12,050,307.0576 ha – IBRA Version 5). Of the islands represented, the diversity of the 

vegetation on Moa Island which ranges from upland complex rainforests, well-developed gallery 

rain forests, expansive plains with a variety of woodland, heathland, shrubland and swampland 

forms, provides biodiversity values that are unlikely to be matched on any mainland conservation 

area. At present, much of this landscape is free from degradation associated with invasive species 

and other impacts such as development. 

7.2 Summary of Flora 

7.2.1 Regional Flora 

An analysis of the field survey data in combination with EPA Corveg and Herbrecs data and 

previous studies for the study area identifies a vascular flora of 1,330 species (Appendix B) 6 . 

6 

Analysis includes Herbrecs data from Albany Island which was not part of mapping area. Includes subspecies and 

varieties. 


178

This includes 196 (15%) naturalised species. A breakdown of the flora into major groups 

together with a broad comparison to regional floras is provided in Table 12 below. 

Table 12. Summary of the native vascular flora of the Torres Strait Islands in comparison Cape York 

Peninsula (from Neldner and Clarkson 1995 in Neldner 1998) and Great Barrier Reef Continental Islands 

(from Batianoff and Dilleward 1997) and Queensland Flora (Bostock and Holland 2007). 

Families 

Taxa 

Cape York 

Peninsula 

Families 7 

Taxa 

Great Barrier 

Reef Continental 

Islands 8 

15 

39 

30 

157 


1 

1 

158 

1,289 

174 

1,329 


5 

6 

183 

3,173 

218 

3,338 


Families 

25 

5 

165 

195 

Taxa 

97 

7 

2,091 

2,195 

Qld Flora 9 Pteridophytes Gymnosperms Angiosperms Total 

Taxa 396 70 9,424 9,890 

In comparison to the Cape York Peninsula bioregion, the Torres Strait Islands support a high 

floristic diversity as evidenced by the presence of approximately 40% of the diversity of the vascular 

flora in 0.01% of the land area. On a statewide basis, the Torres Strait supports some 13% of the 

Queensland vascular flora. Taxa such as Cycas scratchelyana, Dendrobium litorale, Dischidia 

littoralis, Globba marantina, Grastidium insigne, Ischaemum polystachyum, and Vrydagzynea 

elongata reach their southern limit of distribution in the study area whilst Croton waterhousea, 

Cycas badensis, and Secamone auriculata are Torres Strait endemics. Floristic diversity reflects on 

the remarkable ecosystem diversity within the study area. Further analysis of the survey data in 

combination with available datasets is outside the scope of the current project however is 

necessary to allow comparisons of individual islands, and to assess the spatial distribution of 

taxonomic groups across the Straits. 

7.2.2 Introduced and Naturalised Flora 

The account of the introduced flora remains an underestimation despite the significant 

contributions by Waterhouse as part of ongoing AQIS work throughout the region and other 

collectors. The figure of 15%, which consitutes the proportion of the naturalised flora within the 

total flora, contrasts with; the National flora (13-15%) (Bean 1996); the Queensland Flora 

(15.6%) (Bostock and Holland 2007); the Northern Territory flora (5.2%) (Bowman et al. 1988); 

Cape York Peninsula flora (7.4%) (Neldner 1998); and the Great Barrier Reef Contiental Islands 

flora (9.8%) (Batianoff and Dillewaard 1997). Eight species are listed as Declared on the Land 

Protection (Pest and Stock Route Management) Act 2002 (see Table 13). A summary of invasive 

species with the potential to invade native ecosystems provided in Table 14 below is informed by 

personal communication with Barbara Waterhouse. 

7 Cape York flora utilises Henderson (2002). 

8 Batianoff and Dilleward (1997) identify 552 continental islands along the east coast of Queensland within the Great 

Barrier Reef Marine Park (GBRMP), a total land area of about 1,627 km2. 

9 Bostock and Holland (2007). 


179

Table 13. Summary of declared species listed on the Land Protection Act 2002. 

Class Declared Species Comments 

2 Bellyache Bush (Jatropha gosypifolia) Badu Island. Notes in Herbrecs (2007) from 

Waterhouse collections indicate that it occurs as an 

ornamental in gardens and as wild plants in small 

populations of 5-10 plants that have grown from 

discarded garden water adjacent to beach and mangrove 

at northeast end of settlement and around council dump. 

2 Pond Apple (Annona glabra) 

Weed of National Significance. 

Boigu Island. Small populations in township. 

Horn Island. Two collections from from sand and 

gravel storage area adjacent to Eilkam Holiday Park in 

disturbed site adjacent to Melaleuca woodland and 

mangroves. 

Thursday Is. Record from approx. 100m north of 

Torres Shire Water Supply sign on track between Sadie's 

Beach and Waiben. 

Muralug. Isolated occurrences reported. 

2 Prickly Pear (Opuntia stricta) Horn Is. Isolated occurrences 

Hammond Is. Isolated occurrences 

Moa Is (St Pauls). Isolated occurrences 

2 Americans Rats Tail Grass (Sporobolus 

jacquemontia) 

Lantana (Lantana camara) 

Weed of National Significance. 

3 

3 

2 

Singapore Daisy (Sphagneticola 

trilobata) 

Thursday Is. Single record from town area. 

Erub. Widespread 

Mer. Widespread 

Masig. Naturalised and originating from garden plants. 

Warraber. Isolated occurrence 

Albany. Isolated occucrence 

Dauan. Infestation of several hundred square metres 

occupying lower slope of hillside behind church. 

Erub. Spreading from garden plants. 

Moa (Kubin). Spreading from garden plants on edge of 

town area. 

Badu. Occurs in a number of situations such as on track 

verges to water treatment plant and behing quarry. Also 

in swamp forest and stream banks near town. 

Sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia, S. tora) Ugar. Isolated occurrence. 

Thursday. Isolated occurrence. 

Table 14. Summary of highly invasive species. 

Species Island 

Gloriosa Lilly (Gloriosa superba) Masig, Erub, Mer, Poruma 

Grader Grass (Themeda quadrivalvis) Dauan, Erub, Gebar, Masig, Saibai, Thursday 

Barleria prionitis Boigu 

Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala) Boigu, Hammond, Horn, Naghir, Mer, Moa, Muralug, Saibai, 

Thursday, Ugar, Warraber 

Japanese Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) Ugar 

Praxelis (Praxelis clematidea) Mabuiag, Masig, Moa, Thursday, Badu, Mer, Horn 

Siratro (Macroptlium atropurpurea) Badu, Erub, Thursday 

Desmodium tortuosum Iama, Masig, Mer, Muralug, Saibai, ugar, Thursday 

Poinciana (Delonix regia) Erub, Mer 

Sensitive Weed (Mimosa pudica) Badu, Mabuiag, Saibai 

Althernanthera brasiliana Widespread 

Khaki Weed (Alternanthera pungens) Mer, Erub, Saibai, Thursday 

Mission Grass (Pennisetum penicellata) Horn, Masig, Poruma 

Tecoma stans Mabuiag 

Snake Weed (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis) Badu, Erub, Mer, Poruma, Masig, Mabuiag, Thursday, Goods, 

Moa, Hammond 

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale) Badu, Horn 


180

Species Island 

Ipomoea hederifolia Iama, Poruma, Erub, Mer, Moa, Mabuiag, Naghir, Ugar, 

Thursday 

Agave sisalana Dauan, Iama, Masig, Moa 

Castor Oil Bush (Ricinus communis) Poruma, Mer 

Angelonia salicariifolia Badu, Boigu, Erub, Hammond, Horn, Moa, Muralug, Saibai 

7.2.3 Significant Flora 

The field survey recorded a number of significant flora species. Thirteen of the 31 EVR species 

known for the study area were recorded with one new record for Queensland and some 50 new 

records for the Torres Strait. The latter includes disjunct occurrences, and numerous range 

extensions within the Torres Strait sub-region. 

A summary of all EVR species records for the Torres Strait provided in Table 15 is derived from 

an analysis of Herbrecs (2007 extract) data, previous relevant studies and is supplemented by 

survey data. Survey records of EVR’s including brief notes on habitat and distribution are 

summarised in Table 16 below. Table 17 lists some significant (non-EVR) flora records. 

Photo 186. Disjunct occurrence of 

Chrysophyllum roxburghii in nonremnant 

vegetation on Mer. 


181

Table 15. Summary of EVR flora records for Torres Strait Islands (Source: Herbrecs data Oct. 2007 

extract). Bold denotes taxa also recorded on 3D field survey, X denotes new records based on 3D survey 

results. 

NCA 

EPBC 

Botanical_Name 

Albany 

Badu 

Booby 

Dauan 

Erub 


G.Woody 

Iama 

E - Alectryon 

repandodentatus 

X X 4 

E - Costus potierae 2 2 

E - Muellerargia 

timorensis 

2 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 1 

V V Arenga 

australasica 

1 X X 

V - Cissus aristata 1 

V V Dendrobium 

bigibbum 

1 2 1 


johannis 

1 1 


superbiens 

x 

1 

V V Dischidia littoralis 1 X 

V V Germainia capitata 2 3 

V V Hydriastele costata 1 

V - Psydrax reticulata X X X X 3 X X 2 X 

R - Apluda mutica 1 2 1 

R - Archidendron 

hirsutum 

X 1 

R - Cadetia wariana 3 

R Chrysophyllum 

roxburghii 

X 

R - Diospyros 

(Bamaga 

sp. X X X 

R - 

B.P.Hyland 2517) 

Eremochloa ciliaris 4 1 

R - Fatoua villosa 1 5 1 

R - Globba marantina 1 3 

R - Hoya revoluta 3 

R - Lepturus geminatus 1 

R - Lobelia 

douglasiana 

1 

R - Neololeba atra X X 1 1 2 X 1 1 

R - Operculina brownii 1 1 2 1 2 

R - Pandanus zea X 

R - Pimeliodendron 

amboinicum 

X 

R - Secamone 

auriculata 

1 

R - Sterculia 

shillinglawii subsp 

shillinglawii 

X 

R - Syzygium aqueum 1 

R - Syzygium 

buettnerianum 

1 

Kirriri 

Masig 

Mer 

Moa 

Naghir 

Horn 

Pumpkin 

Saibai 

Tudu 

Ugar 

182 

Waiben 

Warraber 

Warral

Table 16. Summary of survey records for EVR flora 

Previously Survey Records / 

EVR Taxa Records in Torres Vegetation 

Straits 


Alectryon repandodentatus 4 collections from Erub – 2i, 2j, 22a 

- Endangered 

Mer 

Mer – 2j, 2j(e), 21a, 

22a, 2j/15a, 2j (x) 

Dauan -1a 

Muelleragia timorensis - 

Endangered 

Dischidia littoralis - 

Vulnerable 

Arenga australasica – 

Vulnerable 

(NB. Confirmation of 

specimens required with 

possibility of A. 

microcarpa) 

Psydrax reticulata - 

Vulnerable 

Dendrobium biggibum - 

Vulnerable 

Archidendron hirsutum - 

Rare 

Chysophyllum roxburghii - 

Rare 

Diospyros sp. (Bamaga 

B.P.Hyland 2517) -Rare 

Dauan, Iama, Mer, 

Moa, Pumpkin, 

Tuda, Waiben 

Notes 

Widespread and common 

species in all forms of vine 

forest and vine thicket and 

regrowth on Mer and Erub. 

Survey record from Mt 

Cornwallis on Dauan 

extends range eastwards. 

- Not recorded on survey 

however known from 

coastal vine thickets. 

Requires wet or post wet 

season surveys. 

Dauan Dauan - 1a Common on upper slopes 

of Mt Cornwallis with a 

tentative record from 

Moa, Dauan, 

Naghir 

Neololeba atra - Rare Moa 

Erub 

Naghir 

Waiben, Warral, 

Muralug, Iama, 

Badu, Moa, 

Naghir, Horn, 

Zuna 

Erub, Hammond, 

Horn 

Moa – 1e, 2p, 3c, 3d 

Naghir – 2a, 2v 

Dauan – 1a 

Muralug – 2u, 16d 

Mabuiag – 2x, 4a, 18a 

Friday – 4g, 7b 

Moa – 4b, 14a, 14d 

Wednesday – 5i, 5q, 

14c 

Hammond – 6e 

Mt Adolphus – 14c 

Zuna – 14g, 14l 

Warral – 18a, 18d 

Mabuiag. 

New record for Naghir. 

Recorded from Moa in 

beach scrub, foothill vine 

forest and mountain vine 

forest on Moa. Previously 

known from Mt Cornwallis 

on Dauan (Herbrecs). 

Common shrub/small tree 

on acid volcanics and 

granites recorded 

throughout continental 

islands. 

Muralug – 13j, 13k Coastal vine thicket and 

Melaleuca woodlands 

Muralug, Horn, Zuna, Moa, 

Moa, Badu Moa – 1e, 1f, 2o, 3d, 4a 

Badu - 4a 

Mer Mer – Non remnant 

Previosly reported 

on Moa by 

Wannan. 

Mabuiag – 4a 

Moa – 1a 

Badu – 4a 

Moa – 1i, 2o, 3d 

Badu – 4a 

Dauan – 7a 

Mer – 2j 

Iama, Erub, Naghir 

Wednesday, Hammond. 

Occasional in footslope and 

upland vine forest. 

Understorey of 

Welchiodendron dominated 

closed forests, footslope 

and upland rainforest. 

Pandanus zea - Rare Moa Moa – 1g, 1f, 3c, 3d In best development of 

ENVF on swampy and 

riverine alluvium and 

upland granite. 

Pimeliodendron Moa Moa – 1e In best development of 


183

EVR Taxa 

Previously 

Records in Torres 

Straits 

Survey Records / 



Notes 

amboinicum - Rare ENVF on upland granite. 

Sterculia shillinglawii 

subsp shillinglawii - Rare 

Moa Moa – 1e, 3c SDNVF granite footslopes 

& swampy alluvium. 

Table 17. Summary of significant (non-EVR) Flora Records 

Species Known Distribution Survey Records 

Pending New Records for 

Qld and Cook 

Luvunga monophylla Kimberley, NT, Timor Iama – 2n, 6a 

Corymbia latifolia Single record from Muralug (NSW 

Herbarium), NT, WA, SW Papua 

(Conn et al. 2008). 

Muralug – 5k, 5n, 8c 

Zuna – 5l 

Peltophorum pterocarpum NT Erub (New record for Cook) 

Some New Records for 

Torres Strait 

Known Northern Distribution Survey Records 

Aglaia sapindina Lockerbie, PNG Moa - 1f 

Anthocarapa nitidula Lockerbie, Manduban (PNG) Moa - 1g,1f, 3c 

Aristolochia chalmersii Laura Basin Masig - 2m 

Mabuiag - 2u 

Iama - 6a 

Arytera divaricata Lockerbie, PNG Dauan - 1a, 2s 

Moa - 1e 

Mabuiag -1i 

Hammond - 4b 

Carissa ovata Hyland et al. (2003) record northern Muralug - 4a, 14g 

limit at Bathurst Bay. No Herbrecs 

record for study area. Corveg record 

from Inner group. 

Friday – 5l 

Clausena brevistyla Jardine, Lockerbie Moa - 2v 

Cordia myxa Mer Muralug – 2q 

Corypha utan Aurukun Muralug – 5n 

Cupaniopsis flagelliformis Lockerbie Hammond – 2r, 4b, 6e 

var. flagelliformis 

Iama – 2h 

Muralug - 2q, 4b 

Badu – 4a 

Dysoxylum latifolium Lockerbie Moa – 1e, 4a 

Hammond – 4b 

Eucalyptus brassiana CYP Horn – 5h 

Eucalyptus tetrodonta CYP. No Herbrecs collections but Muralug – 5j, 5k, 5l, 5n, 14j 

community type previously mapped on 

Muralug by Neldner & Clarkson 

(1995). 

Zuna – 5l, 14g 

Endiandra impressicosta Iron Range, Lockerbie, PNG Dauan – 1a 

Muralug - 2q 

Hammond - 2r 

Erythroxylum sp. (Mosquito North east coast - Cape York Friday - 6a, 

Creek J.R.Clarkson 9991+) 

Hammond - 4a 

Garcinia sp. (Claudie River Iron Range 

Moa – 1f 

L.J.Brass 19658) 

Moa 

Gomphandra australiana Lockerbie, PNG Moa – 1e, 1f, 3c 

Harpullia arborea Lockerbie, PNG Erub - 22a 

Dauan – 1a, 

Muralug – 2q 

Moa – 1e, 1f 

Helicretes semiglabra Pascoe River (also PNG) Saibai – 13b 


184

Species Known Distribution Survey Records 

Horsfieldia australiana Lockerbie, Badu (Garnett & Jackes), Moa – 1i, 3c, 3d 

PNG 

Badu – 3e, 3g 

Indigator fordii Highly disjunct. Known from 6 plants 

in southern Mcilwraith. 

Muralug – 2q 

Lagerstroemia archeriana Lockerbie Muralug – 2q 

Livistona benthamii Lockerbie, PNG Saibai – 2c; 

Badu - 

Melaleuca arcana Jardine Horn – 13a, 13h 

Miliusa horsfieldii Lockerbie Muralug – 2q 

Neolitsea brassii Lockerbie, PNG Moa – 1g, 3d 

Notelaea longifolia Lockerbie Friday- 4a 

Mabuiag – 2x, 4a 

Muralug – 4a, 4b 

Horn – 5i, 14n 

Wednesday – 14c 

Nypa fruticans Jardine mouth, PNG Muralug – 24c 

Palaquium galatoxylon Lockerbie, PNG Moa – 1f 

Pandanus zea Lockerbie Moa – 1g, 1f, 3c, 3d 

Pimeliodendron amboinicum Lockerbie, PNG Moa – 1f 

Polyalthia australis Lockerbie Moa – 1f 

Sterculia shillinglawii subsp. 

shillinglawii 

Lockerbie, PNG Moa – 1e 

Tetrameles nudiflora Schram Creek (Herbrecs). Also PNG 

(Conn et al. 2008). 

Range Extensions within TSI 

Dauan – 2b 

10 

Acmena hemilampra subsp. Badu (Garnett & Jackes 1983) Moa – 1i, 1j, 3a, 9a 

hemilampra 

Badu – 3e, 3g, 6g 

Adenanthera pavonina Mer Erub, Dauan, Muralug 

Aglaia tomentosa (material Moa Muralug – 2q 

currently being assessed for 

Moa – 1e, 2o, 3c 

A. ferruginea by Pannel) 

Dauan – 1a 

Hammond – 2r, 4a 

Albizia lebbeck Waiben, Mer Muralug – 2q 

Antidesma parvifolium Albany, Friday, Moa, Gebar Saibai – 2c 

Atalaya sericopetala Single collection from Gebar Naghir – 2t, 2u 

Erub – 2k, 17b 

Moa – 2o, 4a 

Muralug – 16d 

Friday – 16e 

Diospyros sp. (Bamaga Previously reported on Moa by Moa – 1e 

B.P.Hyland 2517) 

Wannan. 

Badu - 4a 

Mabuiag – 1d, 1h, 4a 

Glycosmis trifoliata Dauan, Moa, Ugar Badu – 4a 

Erub – 2k 

Iama – 2h, 2u, 2n, 6a 

Saibai – 2c 

Mabuiag – 2x 

Mer – 2j 

Rhodamnia australis Lockerbie, Moa Mabuiag – 1d, 2x 

Moa – 3a 

Triflorensia australis Dauan, Moa Saibai – 2c 

Toechima daemellianum Albany Is. Moa – 3c 

Voacanga grandiflora Moa Moa – 2v, 3d 

Badu – 4a 

10 Preliminary-further analysis required. 


185

8.0 Ecosystem Condition 

The notion of the ‘naturalness’ or ‘integrity’ of the Torres Strait Island region can be attributed to 

factors such its isolation in combination with underlying climatic conditions, geomorphic history 

and edaphic controls, but must also acknowledge the influences on the landscape associated with 

long-term human occupation. The concept of ‘constructed landscapes’ whereby Indigenous 

Australian’s intentionally manipulated their environment through a number of processes is 

explored in the Torres Strait Islands by McNiven (2008), on Saibai Island by Barham (1999), on 

Moa and Badu Islands by Rowe (2006), and on coastal north-east Cape York Peninsula by Hynes 

and Chase (1982). It is not the intention to elaborate on these findings other than to identify the 

occurrence of the more readily recognisable aspects of disturbance as they affect or appear to 

affect ecosystem condition and distribution as observed during this study, and to offer brief 

descriptive comment. Additional work, which combines the ecological, geomorphological, 

archaeological and anthropological disciplines, is required to compliment the existing body of 

knowledge in this field, and the preliminary discussions provided here. 

The more obvious anthropogenically altered landscapes have been identified in Section 5.4 and 

include bamboo groves, which are prominent on the eastern basaltic islands of Mer, Erub and 

Ugar where they commonly form mosaic with vine forest and vine thicket communities, and have 

been identified in the mapping as such. Bamboo groves also occur on the continental islands of 

Moa, Iama, Mabiaug and Gebar. The mapping also identifies the extent of vegetation which is 

dominated by exotic or naturalised species other than bamboo, and recognises extensive areas of 

tall closed forest of Mangifera indica (Mango) or Delonix regia (Poinciana), and former 

grassland areas more recently invaded by Lantana camara (Lantana). Again, the occurrence of 

these types is most prominent on Mer and Erub where distinctive regrowth formations under tall 

and senescing Cocos nucifera (Coconut) groves, thought to be old garden sites, were also 

observed and are discussed in Section 5.2.57. 

McNiven (2008) identifies species such as yams (Dioscorea spp.), taro (Colocasia esculenta), 

bananas (Musa spp.), sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) and sweet potatoes (Ipomoea spp.) as ‘plant 

inclusions’ defined as “the strategic addition or translocation of certain ‘exotic’ plants and 

animals to areas”. In contrast to these species, which are often associated with gardens and 

margins of heavily disturbed areas, are species such as Poinciana, Mango and Coconut which, by 

way of their dispersal and adaptive qualities, occur in sufficient quantities to form distinct and 

mappable vegetation communities. Low shrubland and vine thicket on Masig Island mapped in 

VC22b, is recognised from analysis of aerial photography in combination with field survey and 

local input as advanced regeneration of former traditional gardens. 

Regrowth vegetation, the result of past clearing or partial clearing of natural vegetation, in 

varying stages of recovery, is recognised on the majority of island groups that have been subject 

to human occupation and are represented in the mapping as the Unit ‘Re’. The derivation of 

regrowth examples observed on Erub, where Barringtonia calyptrata groves occur on the 

margins of remnant vine forest vegetation, are unclear, however regenerating mangrove 

shrublands on Boigu and Iama are the result of recent mechanical actions. On Boigu Island, 

mangrove shrublands shown in Photographs 187 and 188 are a result of land reclamation 

initiatives. Contemporary evidence of vegetation clearance (vine forest/thicket on beach ridges) 

for traditional gardens is noted Boigu Island in RE 3.2.2b (see photograph 189). Examples of 

larger scale remnant vegetation clearing on Masig Island (in RE 3.2.6) are associated with recent 

major infrastructure developments. Prehistoric gardens on Saibai described by Barham (1999) 

are recognised within a discrete mapping unit (VC1e) as distinct from the extensive and 

widespread Pandanus associated grassland communities (VC11a). 


186

Photograph 187. Regrowth 

mangrove shrublands on Boigu 


Photograph 188. Bunding on Boigu Island for 

the purpose of land reclamation. 

Photograph 189. Recent clearing of 

semi-deciduous vine forest on a dune 

flanked by mangroves on Boigu 



187

Note should also be made to the impact of the bech-de-mer industry on fragile island 

environments. The demands of the industry for a constant supply of wood to fuel trepang boilers 

and smokehouses and to service beacon fires used to guide passage to working boats throughout 

the late 1880’s resulted in island ecosystems being heavily denuded (Shnukal 2004). On Masig, 

incidents such as the cutting of wongai (Manilkara kauki) stands for trepang drying, to fuel 

mission steamers, and for slipway and boat building are reported severely depleted important 

seasonal food recources (Shnukal 2004), while the deforestation of Uthu, Yarpar and Auridh 

contributed to relocation of inhabitants (Teske, 1991 in Shnukal 2004). 

The use of fire is evident on the majority of islands surveyed and there is no doubt that its 

ongoing use has been fundamental in shaping and modifying vegetation cover and influencing 

habitat diversity across the islands. McNiven (2008) notes the ethnographic record of Haddon 

(1935) where fire use forms an integral part of garden preparation and land cleaning in the late 

1800’s and evidence of fire is also in the pollen and phytolith record (Rowe 2006, Parr and Carter 

2003). 

Observations made during the field survey of late season burning of isolated patches of 

Sporobolus grasslands surrounded by mangroves on Boigu Island (see Photograph 13, RE3.1.5) 

are evidence of targeted actions to manage grassland ecosystems, possibly to maintain access for 

fishing and hunting through halting the invasion of mangrove shrubs. Similarly, widespread 

annual burning on Saibai Island appears to maintain open Pandanus grasslands and facilitates 

hunting of introduced deer. Field observations from the more remote eastern areas of Saibai 

however reveals that succession of grassland to dense shrublands of Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. 

platyphylla and Acacia leptocarpa may be occurring in the absence of fire. The phenomenon of 

rapid landscape change from grassland to melaleuca dominant shrublands and woodlands is 

reported in similar landscapes of southwest Papua where the primary disturbance agent is 

believed to be Rusa Deer (Cervus timorensis) (Bartolo et al. 2002, Stronach, 2000). Rusa Deer 

are known to occur on Saibai, Boigu and on Muralug. Aerial surveys conducted by AQIS in 

November 2007 estimate 60 deer on Boigu, and 100 on Saibai (Tim Kerlin, pers. comm. June 

2008). 

Eden (1974) investigated environmental and human factors affecting widespread areas of savanna 

and grassland in southern Papua New Guinea and indicated that these ecosystems, over part of 

their extent, result from the combined effects of shifting cultivation and burning. The influence 

of past climatic fluctuations on the origins of these formations are unclear, however, their 

maintenance appears to be attributable to human activities, in particular burning (Eden 1974). 

Evidence from a number of islands, particularly Moa and Dauan, indicates fire has been a 

significant control on the distribution of native grassland, particularly on footslope positions 

where the vine forest margins have retreated upslope through repetitive burning. Analysis of the 

aerial photo record shows that extensive grassland complexes dominated by Imperata cylindrica 

(VC17a) on Moa Island, an inferred result of repetitive burning, are relatively stable with little 

change in areal extent between 1971 and the present. 

While the influence of fire in the present landscape is considered similar to that of aboriginal 

burning practices on mainland Cape York Peninsula, it is evident that the fundamental conditions 

of climate, soil fertility, drainage and topography also exhibit substantial control on the 

vegetation complexity and ecology of the islands. This observation is particularly so for Moa and 

can be extended to the majority of the larger continental islands including Badu and Muralug, 

which support outstanding biodiversity values. 

In comparison to Cape York Peninsula, where coastal and sub-coastal grasslands are under 

pressure from exotic weeds and from woodland and rainforest encroachment associated with 

reduced burning frequency and intensity (Neldner et al. 1997, Russell-Smith et al. 2002), the 


188

Saibai Island grasslands and other examples identified on Torres Strait Islands are in very good 

condition. Weed infestations generally associated with grazing pressure, high populations of feral 

pigs, and agricultural development on Cape York Peninsula are absent from the island 

environments. The exceptions are the grassland formations on the basaltic islands, where a 

discussion on the role of fire is provided in previous sections (Sections 5.2.58 and 5.2.59). On 

Erub and to a lesser extent on Mer, the implications of large-scale Lantana infestations in terms of 

its influence on fire behavior on rainforest margins are significant. Lantana’s ability to suppress 

cool fires yet burn fiercely under severe conditions, promotes serious damage to rainforest 

margins, and leads to a permanent loss of habitat by its ability to then invade damaged areas 

(Stanton and Fell 2005). 

9.0 Recommendations 

9.1 Additional Survey Requirements 

The recommendations offered below refer to future survey and analysis that will significant 

benefit the understanding of the vegetation on the islands. Due to constraints placed on field 

verification, the vegetation on Badu Island remains as significant knowledge gap and relatively 

low confidence is applicable to vegetation mapping over the majority of the island. Completion 

of field survey on the island is likely to reveal a number of undescribed and unique vegetation 

communities. A number of vegetation communities, remain poorly characterised as a result of 

time and budget restrictions and are listed below for future consideration. 

• Badu Island; 

• Gebar Island and Naghir Island where steep gully vine forests remain poorly 

characterised; 

• Floristic assessment of vine forests and thickets of Waier and Dauar (Mer Group) would 

benefit characterisation on vine forests in the region; 

• Ugar Island was not visited in the survey due to time/budgetary constraints and would 

benefit from further structural and floristic assesment; 

• Deliverance Island, the most westerly island in the Torres Strait, was not visited during 

the field survey due to time/budgetary constraints. Further assessment would increase the 

understanding of ecology on this remote and potentially unique isle; 

• A large number of small, vegetated island atolls and cays have limited field survey 

coverage and remain poorly described. Vegetation on the coral cay islands is poorly 

sampled in relation to the larger continental islands; and 

• Mt Adolphus Island remains enigmatic, with a number of potentially unique forest types 

requiring description. Negotiation with traditonal landowners will be required prior to 

future access. 

9.2 Future Opportunities 

In addition to the above, a number of the possible initiatives identified in Section 4 of the Land 

and Sea Management Strategy for Torres Strait are supported. The majority relate to landscapes, 

biodiversity and species management and build on the extensive data set developed as part of the 

RE mapping project. 

1. Undertake surveys involving local island parataxonomists and botanists/ecologists, 

etnotaxonomists/anthropologists to document traditional and contemporary ecological 

knowledge including plant names, plant use and land management practises. Using the 


189

vegetation community data set as a base, spatially identify culturally significant 

environmental landscapes; 

2. Identify and determine the status of culturally important species and instigate appropriate 

management actions as required; 

3. Undertake further analysis of vegetation data set to map out wetland types, riparian and 

other sensitive vegetation types; 

4. Using the flora and vegetation data set undertake additional targeted surveys of 

threatened and significant flora species and develop habitat maps to spatially identify 

known and potential populations. Use this information to inform and determine the 

regional status of national and state species listed under legislation. Prioritise flora 

species for management and protection within Torres Strait and to develop recovery and 

monitoring programs for selected species and habitats; 

5. Using the flora and vegetation data set undertake additional analysis on weed distribution 

as a resource to develop pest management plans toward management of highly invasive 

weeds; 

6. Commission research into fire ecology of grasslands on Mer, Erub and Saibai and 

develop fire management plans for priorty islands; 

7. Develop culturally appropriate individual island land management guides incorporating 

vegetation maps and flora assessments suitable for use as a resource for island councils, 

land and sea rangers and schools; 

8. Support publication of the findings of the current project. 

Photo 190. Authors David Stanton (left) and David Fell. 


190

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11. Appendices 

Appendix A1. Map Legend - Vegetation Communties 


196

Client 

Scale 

Legend 

Evergreen vine forest and vine thicket 

1a, Evergreen notophyll vine forest + Acmenospermum claviflorum + Syzigium puberulum + Ganophyllum falcatum + Arytera divaricata + 

Ficus microcarpa + *Mangifera indica.Granite ranges. 

1b, Evergreen notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Manilkara kauki + Intsia bijuga + Pouteria sericea + Aglaia eleagnoidea + Garcinia 

warrenii + Pandanus sp. Granite footslopes. 

1c, Evergreen notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Manilkara kauki + Celtis philippensis + Terminalia muelleri + Diospyros maritima + 

Thespesia populniodes + Drypetes deplanchei.Coastal dunes. 

1d, Mesophyll/notophyll vine forest + Endiandra glauca + Acacia polystachya + Syzygium bungadinia + Canarium australianum + Dysoxylum 

oppositifolium. Granite and rhyolite slopes 

1e, Mesophyll/notophyll vine forest + Myristica insipida + Maranthes corymbosa + Cryptocarya cunninghamii + Dysoxylum latifolium + 

Calophyllum sil +/- Arenga australasica. Granite footslopes. 

1f, Complex notophyll vine forest + Pouteria sp. + Calophyllum sil sp. + Argyrodendron polyandrum + Palaquim galactoxylon 

+ Acmenospermum claviflorum + Licuala ramsayii. Upper slopes on granite. 

1g, Evergreen notophyll vine thicket + Calophyllum sil + Syzygium branderhorstii + Diospyros hebecarpa + Schefflera actinophylla + 

Podocarpus grayae +Licuala ramsayi. Upper slopes on granite. 

1h, Evergreen notophyll vine thicket with Buchanania arborescens + Drypetes deplanchei + Eleaodendron melanocarpum + Endiandra 

glauca + Elaeocarpus arnhemicus + Chionanthus ramiflora. Talus slopes on rhyolite. 

1i. Evergreen mesophyll vine forest + Horsfieldia australiana, Syzygium bamagense + Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra + 

Buchanania arborescens 

1j, Tall evergreen notophyll vine forest + Syzygium angophoroides+Acmena hemilampra + Acacia aulacocarpa +Syzygium 

forte subsp. forte + Podocarpus greyae 

Deciduous/Semi deciduous vine forest and vine thicket 

2a, Deciduous/Semi-deciduous vine forest + Erythrina variegata + Manilkara kauki + Terminalia subacroptera + Mimusops elengii + Cordia 

subcordata.Calcareous beach ridges. 

2b, Semi deciduous vine forest/thicket + Canarium australianum + Terminalia subacroptera + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + 

Cochlospermum gillivreai + Cleistanthus peninsularis + Ficus virens var. sublanceolata. Footslopes on granite and rhyolite. 

2c, Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Mimusops elengii + Acacia auricauliformis + Terminalia subactroptera + Diospyros spp. +/- Manilkara kauki 

+/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla. Alluvial plains 

2d, Semi deciduous vine forest + Tetrameles nudiflora + Canarium australianum + Ficus spp. + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum +/- Alstonia 

spectabilis. Granite slopes. 

2e, Semi deciduous vine thicket + Terminalia subacroptera + Intsia bijuga + Hibiscus tiliaceus + Excoecaria agallocha + Thespesia populneoides 

+ Cathormion umbellatum subsp. moniliforme. 

2f, Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Canarium australianum + Manilkara kauki + Dalbergia densa var. australis + Buchanania arborescens + 

Sterculia sp. (Annan River L.J. Brass 20319) + Cochlospermum gillivraei. Coastal escarpments on rhyolite. 

2g, Semi deciduous notophyll vine forest + Canarium australianum + Terminalia subacroptera + Semecarpus australiensis + Buchanania 

arborescens + Acacia auricauliformis +/- Erythrina variegata +/- Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Parinari nonda +/- Chionanthus ramiflora 

2h, Deciduous notophyll vine forest + Erythrina insularis +/- Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla+/- Terminalia subacroptera +/- Bombax ceiba 

var. leiocarpum +/- Canarium australianum + Acacia auricauliformis. Granite and rhyolite footslopes. 

2i, Semi deciduous notophyll vine thicket + Berrya javanica + Cupaniopsis anacardioides + Bombax ceiba var. leicocarpum + Diospyros 

hebecarpa + Mimusops elengii + Melicope peninsularis. Basalt escarpments. 

2j, Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest +Bombax ceiba var. leicocarpum + Diospyros hebecarpa +/- Alectryon repandodentatus + 

Cupaniopsis anacardiodes + Alstonia spectabilis +/- Melicope peninsularis. Basalt hills. 

2k, Deciduous vine forest + Gyrocarpus americanus + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Antiaris toxicarya var. macrophylla + Canarium 

australianum + Cathormion umbellatum subsp. monoliforme + Garuga floribunda var. floribunda +/- Adenanthera pavonina +/- Maranthes 

corymbosa .Basalt footslopes. 

2l, Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Gyrocarpus americanus + Garuga floribunda var. floribunda 

+ Manilkara kauki + Diospyros maritima + Celtis philippensis. Coastal dune. 

2m, Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest + Milletia pinnata + Terminalia spp. + Diospyros maritima + Manilkara kauki + Aglaia eleagnoidea 

+ Pouteria obovata + Drypetes deplanchei +/- Erythrina spp. Coral cays. 

2n, Semi deciduous notophyll vine thicket + Canarium australianum + Antiaris toxicarya var. macrophylla + Acacia auricauliformis + Terminalia 

subacroptera + Manilkara kauki + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum. Granite headlands. 

2o, Semi deciduous notophyll vine forest + Acacia sp. (DGF8919+) + Barringtonia calyptrata + Maranthes corymbosa + Syzygium forte subsp. 

forte + Bombax ceiba var. leicarpum + Canarium australianum. Footslopes on metagranite. 

2p, Semi deciduous vine thicket (windsheared) + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Premna serratifolia + Acacia crassicarpa + Manikara kauki 

+ Drypetes deplanchei + Terminalia subacroptera +/- Arenga australasica. Coastal dunes. 

2q, Tall semi deciduous vine forest + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Berrya javanica + Antiaris toxicarya var. macrophylla + Garuga 

floribunda var. floribunda + Canarium australianum +/- Albizia lebbeck +/- Syzygium bamagense +/- Maranthes corymbosa. 

Diorite knolls and footslopes. 

2r, Semi deciduous vine forest + Sterculia quadrifida + Canarium australianum + Cleistanthus peninsularis + Terminalia subacroptera + 

Antiaris toxicarya var. macrophylla +/- Paraserianthes toona + Alstonia actinophylla +/- Xanthoxylon rhetsa +/- Maniltoa lenticellata var. 

lenticellata. Diorite footslopes. 

2s, Semi-deciduous notophyll vine thicket (windsheared) + Pouteria sericea + Ficus virens var. sublanceolata + Schefflera actinophylla + 

Garcinea warrenii + Syzygium puberulum. Granite hillslopes. 

2t, Semi-deciduous notophyll vine forest and occasional thicket with Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Canarium australianum + Terminalia spp. 

+ Acacia polystachya. 

2u, Semi-deciduous vine forest + Manilkara kauki + Terminalia spp. + Sterculia quadrifida + Premna serratifolia + Acacia crassicarpa 

+ Drypetes deplanchei + Millettia pi¤ata. Coastal dunes. 

2v, Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Acacia polystachya and Terminalia subacroptera. Coastal headlands on rhyolite and granite. 

2w, Deciduous vine thicket + Garuga floribunda var. floribunda+ Gyrocarpus americana + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum +/- Antiaris 

toxicarya var. macrophylla. Escarpments on basalt and scoria cones. 

2x, Deciduous vine thicket + Cochlospermum gillivraei + Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum + Terminalia subacroptera +Sterculia quadrifida 

+ Psydrax reticulata + Drypetes deplanchei. Acid volcanic pavements. 

2y, Semi-deciduous vine thicket + Manilkara kauki + Terminalia subacroptera + Cordia subcordata + Premna serratifolia + Indeterminate 

species. Coral cays. 

2z, Low groved notophyll vine thicket + Sterculia quadrifida + Manilkara kauki + Eugenia reinwardtiana + Pandanus sp. Beach ridges. 

Legend- Vegetation Communities and Broad 

Vegetation Groups of the Torres Strait Islands 





P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 



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Swamp and riparian forest complexes 

Acacia dominant open forests and woodlands 



Client 

Scale 

Legend 

3a, Lophostemon suaveolens + Melaleuca quinquenervia + Syzygium angophoroides + Asteromyrtus brassii + Dillenia alata swamp forest 

complex. Alluvial depressions, drainage lines and dune swales. 

3b, Medium to tall Melaleuca leucandendra +/- Melaleuca argentea + Syzygium forte subsp. forte + Dillenia alata open forest. 

Fluvial sands and silts. 

3c, Tall Melaleuca dealbata / Melaleuca leucadendra open forest/Acacia sp. open forest / Mesophyll vine forest complex. Seasonal swamps. 

3d, Evergreen mesophyll vine forest / Sclerophyll vine forest complex + Syzygium forte subsp. forte + Syzygium bamagense + Horsfieldia 

Australiana +/- Melaleuca leucadendra +/- Lophostemon suaveolens. (1i/3b- 50/50) 

3e, Melaleuca quinquenervia + Pandanus sp. +/- Deplanchea tetraphylla swamp forest/ Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Asteromyrtus brassii 

+/- Acacia crassicarpa +/- Deplanchea tetraphylla open swamp forest complex (7d/8b -50/50). 

3f, Lophostemon suaveolens + Melaleuca leucadendra + Corymbia clarksoniana open forest. 

3g, Tall Melaleuca dealbata + Acacia crassicarpa + Acmena hemilampra + Deplanchea tetraphylla + Syzygium forte subsp. forte swamp 

forest complex. 

Welchidendron dominant closed to open forests and wo 

4a, Welchiodendron longivalve + Acacia polystachya +/- Terminalia subacroptera +/- Canarium australianum +/- Bombax ceiba var. 

leiocarpum open to closed forest. 

4b, Welchiodendron longivalve low woodland, low open woodland and tall open shrubland 

4c, Low Welchiodendron longivalve + Melaleuca dealbata open forest. Granite footslopes and peidmont fans. 

Eucalypt dominant open forests and woodlands 

5a, Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Eucalyptus stockeri subsp. peninsularis woodland and open forest. Remnant sandy plains. 

5b, Corymbia clarksoniana + Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia tessellaris +/- Corymbia stockerii subsp. Peninsularis +/- Welchidendron 

longivalve woodland and open forest. Alluvial, remnant sandy plains and granite footslopes. 

5c, Corymbia clarksoniana + Melaleuca stenostachya + Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Asteromyrtus symphiocarpa +/- Parinari nonda +/- 

Asteromyrtus brassii woodland. Alluvial plains and sandy rises. 

5d, Low Corymbia clarksoniana + Melaleuca viridiflora + Welchiodendron longivalve + Asteromyrtus brassii + Acacia leptocarpa woodland 

and shrubland complex. Acid volcanic hills. 

5e, Low to medium Corymbia nesophila +/- Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Eucalyptus leptophleba open forest and woodland. 

Acid volcanic hillslopes. 

5f, Eucalyptus leptophleba +/- Acacia polystachya woodland and open forest. Granite footslopes. 

5g, Corymbia tessellaris + Acacia polystachya +/- Welchiodendron longivalve woodland and open forest. Granite hillslopes and sandy alluvium. 

5h, Corymbia spp. + Melaleuca saligna + Acacia crassicarpa +/- Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Eucalyptus brassiana open forest. 

Swampy drainage lines. 

5i, Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Livistona muelleri woodland and open forest. Coastal dunes and 

sandy alluvial outwash. 

5j, Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. 

peninsularis open forest. Coastal dunes and remnant sandy plains. 

5k, Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis +/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta woodland and open forest. Alluvial plains, 

sandy rises and stabilised dunes. 

5l, Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis +/- Corymbia nesophila +/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta +/- Eucalyptus cullenii woodland. 

Hillslopes on rhyolite and granite. 

5m, Low Corymbia spp. (C. stockeri, C. nesophila, C. clarksoniana) + Melaleuca stenostachya +/- Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Asteromyrtus 

symphiocarpa woodland. Alluvial outwash and degraded dunes. 

5n, Eucalyptus platyphylla + Erythrophloeum chlorostachys +/- Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia novoguinensis +/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta 

+/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis woodland and open forest. Alluvial terraces and degraded dunes. 

5o, Corymbia tessellaris +/- Corymbia clarksoniana woodland and open woodland. Coastal dunes, alluvial plains and acid volcanic hillslopes. 

5p, Low Corymbia polycarpa/Corymbia novoguinensis + Acacia crassicarpa + Teminalia subacroptera +/- Sterculia quadrifida +/- Syzygium 

suborbiculare woodland and open woodland. Coastal dunes 

5q, Low Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis open forest. Alluvial plains and degraded dunes 

5r, Corymbia nesophila woodland and open forest. Acid volcanic hills, alluvial plains and residual sands. 

5s, Corymbia clarksoniana +/- Corymbia tessellaris woodland. Acid volcanic hillslopes and coastal alluvial plains. 

5t, Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis +/- Corymbia nesophila +/- Corymbia clarksoniana woodland. 

Alluvial plains and acid volcanic hillslopes (and minor coastal dunes). 

5u, Eucalyptus platyphylla +/- Corymbia tessellaris woodland and open woodland. Coastal dunes, alluvial plains and acid 

volcanic/plutonic headland and hillslopes. 

5v, Eucalytpus stockerii sub.sp peninsularis + Welchidendron longivalve + Acacia polystachya +/- Corymbia tessellaris woodland/ 

open forest complex. Granite hills. 

6a, Low to medium Acacia auricauliformis +/- Terminalia subacroptera +/- Antiaris toxicarya var. macrophylla +/- Bombax 

ceiba var. leiocarpum open forest/woodland/ (and occasional shrubland).Granite hillslopes 

6b, Low to medium Acacia auricauliformis +/- Parinari nonda +/- Pandanus sp. +/- Semecarpus australiensis open forest/woodland 

(and occasional shrubland). Coastal alluvial plains 

6c, Low Acacia crassicarpa + Terminalia subacroptera + Sterculia quadrifida + Manilkara kauki + Syzygium suborbiculare open forest 

and woodland. Beach ridges. 

6d, Low Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca spp. open forest. Dune swales. 

6e, Low Acacia polystachya + Alstonia actinophylla + Buchanania arborescens + Manilkara kauki + Pouteria sericea + Sterculea quadrifida 

open to closed forest. Exposed slopes on diorite. 

6f, Acacia sp. closed shrubland. Acid volcanic escarpments. 

6g, Acacia crassicarpa +Asteromyrtus brassii open forest and low open forest. Coastal dunes. 





P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 




28/08/08 

A3

Melaleuca dominant open forests 

Client 

Scale 

Legend 

7a, Low Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla open forest. Alluvial plains and drainage depressions. 

7b, Melaleuca saligna open forest. Alluvial plains, drainage depressions and dune swales. 

7br, Melaleuca saligna open forest. Riparian fringes on alluvium. 

7bs, Melaleuca saligna open forest. Alluvial margins of salt pans 

7c, Tall Melaleuca dealbata + Corymbia clarksoniana open forest. Alluvial plains 

7d, Melaleuca quinquenervia +/- Melaleuca saligna +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Lophostemon suaveolens open forest. 

Coastal dunes and alluvial swamps. 

7e, Low Melaleuca dealbata +/- Melaleuca saligna +/- Lophostemon suaveolens open forest. Dune swales. 

7f/7fs, Melaleuca leucadendra open forest. Seasonal swamps and riparian margins. 

7g, Melaleuca dealbata woodland and open forest. Coastal dune complexes 

Lophostemon dominant woodland and open forest 

8a, Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Pandanus sp. +/- Livistona muelleri woodland and open forest. 

Alluvial remnants of the Fly Platform. 

8b, Low Lophostemon suaveolens +/- Melaleuca saligna + Asteromyrtus brassii + Acacia crassicarpa open forest. Sandy alluvial soils. 

8c, Low Lophostemon suaveolens + Corymbia clarksoniana + Asteromyrtus symphiocarpa + Melaleuca saligna + Melaleuca viridiflora 

+/- Corymbia latifolia open woodland. Degraded dune margins. 

Asteromyrtus/Neofabricia dominant open forests 

9a, Asteromyrtus brassii + Syzygium angophoroides + Acmena hemilampra subsp. hemilampra +/- Acacia crassicarpa +/- Melaleuca 

quinquenervia open forest. Sandy rises erosional plain. 

9b, Neofabricia myrtifolia + Parinari nonda + Sterculia quadrifida + Terminalia muelleri +Milletia pinnata closed to open forest. Coastal dunes 

Casuarina dominant woodland and open forest 

10a, Casuarina equisetifolia open forest + Diospyros maritima + Premna serratifolia + Milletia pinnata. Coral cays 

10b, Casuarina equisetifolia woodland and open forest +/- Terminalia catappa woodland and open forest. Coastal foredune 

Pandanus dominant woodland and shrubland 

11a, Pandanus sp. +/- Melaleuca catjaputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Acacia leptocarpa +/- Melaleuca acacioides shrubland and low 

woodland. Alluvial plains (Quaternary and Pleistocene). 

11b, Pandanus sp. +/- Melaleuca viridiflora open forest, woodland and shrubland. Seepage zones on alluvium, dune swales 

and granite headlands. 

Palm dominant forest and woodlands 

12a, Livistona meulleri woodland. Granite footslopes. 

12b, Low Nypa fruiticans closed forest. Brackish tidal areas 

Melaleuca dominant shrublands and woodlands 

13a, Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Pandanus sp. shrubland and low woodland. Alluvial plains, residual sands, acid volcanic slopes 

and coastal dunes. 

13b, Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla +/- Pandanus sp. shrubland. Alluvial plains. 

13c, Melaleuca viridiflora + Asteromyrtus symphiocarpa +/-Asteromyrtus brassii + /- Banksia dentata +/- Melaleuca saligna 

+/- Leucopogon ruscifolius shrubland. Alluvial soils and residual sand plains. 

13d, Melaleuca saligna + Melaleuca viridiflora + Asteromyrtus symphiocarpa +/- Asteromyrtus brassii +/- Corymbia spp. 

+/- Banksia dentata low woodland. Alluvial outwash plains, residual sands and coastal dunes. 

13e, Melaleuca acacioides shrubland. Alluvial outwash on saline margins. 

13f, Low Melaleuca viridiflora + Corymbia clarksoniana woodland. Alluvial plains and residual sands. 

13g, Low Melaleuca saligna shrubland. Seasonal swamps. 

13h, Low Melaleuca arcana closed shrubland. Dune swamps. 

13i, Melaleuca stenostachya shrubland +/- Melaleuca viridiflora low woodland. Alluvial plains and granite headlands. 

13j, Melaleuca acacioides +/- Melaleuca viridiflora open shrubland. Alluvial outwash on saline margins. 

Shrublands and shrubland complexes 

14a, Dwarf Welchiodendron longivalve + Alyxia spicata +/- Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Acacia spp. +/- Asteromyrtus brassii shrubland. 

Coastal headlands and ridgelines. 

14b, Melaleuca catjaputi subsp. platyphylla + Acacia auricauliformis +/- Terminalia subacroptera open scrub and low open forest. 

Alluvial remnants of the Fly Platform. 

14c, Welchiodendron longivalve shrubland. Escarpments and hillslopes on rhyolite and granite 

14d, Cochlospermum gillivraei +/- Canarium australianum +/- Welchiodendron longivalve deciduous shrubland. Coastal headlands on 

acid volcanic rocks 

14e, Low open shrubland with Baeckea frutescens, Melaleuca viridiflora and Asteromyrtus brassii. Residual sand dunes. 

14f, Melaleuca viridiflora + Melaleuca stenostachya + Welchiodendron longivalve + Acacia leptocarpa +/- Cochlospermum gillivraei 

shrubland. Coastal headlands on rhyolite and granite. 

14g, Low Alyxia spicata + Manilkara kauki +/- Buchanania arborescens +/- Canarium australianum +/- Diospyros spp. +/- 

Pandanus sp. low closed shrubland/ rock pavement complex. 

14h, Acacia polystachya +/- Welchiodendron longivalve closed shrubland. Granite hillslopes 

14i, Asteromrytus brassii + Melaleuca saligna + Baeckea frutescens + Leucopogon yorkensis + Leucopogon ruscifolius +/- Lophostemon 

suaveolens shrubland and low shrubland. Residual sand plains. 

14j, Acacia brassii +/- Welchiodendron longivalve closed shrubland. Acid volcanic pavements. 







P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 




28/08/08 

A3

Shrublands and shrubland complexes (Continued) 

Client 

Scale 

Legend 

14k, Low Melaleuca stenostachya + Asteromyrtus symphiocarpa + Jacksonia thesioides + Melaleuca viridiflora shrubland. 

Acid volcanic pavements. 

14l, Low Melaleuca sp. (Zuna DGF9257+) + Welchiodendron longivalve + Corymbia spp. + Acacia brassii + Melaleuca stenostachya 

+ Jacksonia thesioides shrubland. Coastal headlands on acid volcanic and igneous rocks. 

14m, Grevillea striata + Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca viridiflora + Parinari nonda + Pandanus sp. + Corymbia tessellaris 

shrubland. Alluvial plains. 

14n, Acacia crassicarpa + Leucopogon ruscifolius +/- Neofabricia myrtifolia +/- Pouteria sericea +/- Psydrax banksii +/- Halfordia 

kendack shrubland and open shrubland. 

14o, Melaleuca saligna dominant riparian shrubland complex. Riparian alluvial fringes and gravel beds. 

14p, Asteromyrtus brassii + Petalostigma pubescens + Melaleuca viridiflora + Asteromyrtus brassii + Acacia crassicarpa + 

Corymbia clarksoniana shrubland. Acid volcanic hills. 

14q, Low Cycas sp. open shrubland. Relict beach ridges. 

14r, Acacia crassicarpa + Pandanus sp. + Melaleuca viridiflora +/- Parinari nonda +/- Banksia dentata +/- Lophostemon suaveolens 

shrubland. Coastal outwash plains. 

14s, Low sparse Leucopogon ruscifolius + Acacia crassicarpa + Syzygium sub-orbiculare shrubland with Corymbia 

novoguinensis emergents. 

14t, Low sparse shrubland of Cochlospermum gillivraei, Canarium australianum, Eugenia reinwardtiana, Terminalia sp. with 

Pandanus sp. Coastal dunes. 

14u, Low Corymbia stockerii subsp. stockerii + Welchiodendron longivalve open forest/ Welchidendron longivalve closed scrub/ 

deciduous shrubland/rock pavement complex (5v/4a/18a/18d – 30/40/20/10) 

14v, Eucalyptus leptophleba + Grevillea parallela + Exocarpos latifolius + Terminalia sp. + Acacia crassicarpa shrubland. Aeolian dunes. 

14w, Eucalyptus cullenii + Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis woodland +/- Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Welchiodendron longivalve 

+ Melaleuca stenostachya shrubland / Low Acacia brassii shrubland/ Deciduous shrubland complex (5l/14x/14j/18a – 20/40/30/10). 

14x, Eucalyptus tetrodonta + Welchiodendron longivalve + Melaleuca stenostachya open to sparse shrubland. Acid volcanic pavements. 

14y, Low Premna serratifolia + Cordia subcordata +/-Pemphis acidula +/-Drypetes deplanchei shrubland. 

Coastal headland forest complexes 

15a, Semi deciduous vine thicket / Pandanus sp. open forest complex. Basalt escarpment. 

Coastal dune complexes 

16a, Coastal foredune grassland, herbland and shrubland complex. (17j/14y – 70/30). 

16b, Coastal foredune grassland/ Casuarina equisetifolia +/- Pandanus sp. +/- Acacia crassicarpa shrubland complex. 

(17j/ 10b/6c – 30/20/50). 

16c, Coastal dune swale shrubland/Low open forest complex + Cochlospermum gillivraei + Canarium australianum + Terminalia 

subacroptera + Acacia crassicarpa + Melaleuca saligna + Melaleuca acacioides. (14t/7b – 70/30) 

16d, Coastal dune shrubland and vine forest complex (14t/2z – 70/30). 

16e, Corymbia tessellaris woodland and open forest/ shrubland/ vine thicket complex (5o/14t/2z– 40/40/20) 

16f, Casuarina equisetifolia woodland and open forest/vine thicket complex (10b/2z – 60/40). 

16g, Low Acacia crassicarpa/ Melaleuca dealbata open forest dune swale complex (6c/7g - 80/20). 

16h, Low groved notophyll vine thicket + Terminalia muelleri + Diospyros maritima + Premna serratifolia + Thespesia populneoides 

+ Manilkara kauki (2y/17j – 80/20). 

16j, Low groved notophyll vine thicket/ grassland and herbland complex.(2z/17j - 80/20) 

16k, Coastal foredune grassland, herbland, woodland and vine thicket complex. (17j/17d/10b/1c – 50/20/20/10). 

Grasslands and grassland complexes 

17a, Tall Ischeamum australe +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Themeda triandra +/- Mnesithea rottboellioides +/- Heteropogon triticeus 

grassland. Alluvial remnants of the Fly Platform. 

17b, Themeda sp. +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Mnesithea rottboellioides grassland. Basalt hillslopes 

17be, Themeda sp. +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Mnesithea rottboellioides grassland (Lantana degraded). Basalt hillslopes 

17bs, Themeda sp. +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Mnesithea rottboellioides grassland (severe erosion). Basalt hillslopes 

17c, Open to closed tussock grassland with emergent shrubs. Coastal headlands 

17d, Medium to tall Mnesithea rottboellioides + Heteropogon triticeus + Cymbopogon spp. +/- Imperata cylindrica +/- Themeda 

triandra grassland. Alluvial and residual plains, coastal dunes and granite footslopes. 

17e, Relict cultivated alluvial plains with anastomosing channel morphology. Alluvial remnants of the Fly Platform. 

17f, Imperata cylindrica dominant grassland. Coastal dunes. 

17g, Imperata/Themeda grassland complex with emergent shrubs. Alluvial plains. 

17h, Imperata cylindrica + Themeda triandra grassland/Welchiodendron longivalve open forest and woodland complex. 

Fire degraded granite slopes. 

17i, Low sedgeland with emergent shrubs and trees. Residual sand plains and degraded dunes. 

17j, Low Spinifex sericeus+ Vigna marina+Ipomoea pes-caprae + Sesuvium portulacastrum grassland and forbland complex 

Rock pavement complexes 

18a, Deciduous shrubland/Rock pavement complex. Rocky slopes on acid volcanic and plutonic rocks. 

18b, Low Acacia brassii +/- Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Cochlospermum gillivraei shrubland/ rock pavement complex (18a/14j -50/50). 

18c, Welchiodendron longivalve +/- Acacia polystachya closed shrubland / Low deciduous shrubland/rock pavement complex 

(18a/14c – 50/50) 

18d, Corymbia stockerii subsp. peninsularis + Welchidendron longivalve + Psydrax banksi + Dodonoea sp. + Ficus platypoda 

rock pavement complex. 

Boulder slope vineland/shrubland complexes 

19a, Open vineland/deciduous shrubland/boulder slope complex. Granite talus and boulder slopes. 

Wetland complexes and mosaics 

20a, Eleaocharis dulcis closed sedgeland.Seasonal swamps. 

20b, Open wetland complex. Perennial swamps. 







P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 




28/08/08 

A3

Legend 

Successional vine forest communities 

21a, Low vine forest and vine thicket with Barringtonia calyptrata + Macaranga involucrata + Hibiscus tiliaceus + Semecarpus 

australiensis successional vine forest and thicket. Basaltic cones. 

Anthropogenically altered (secondary) vine forest an 

22a, Tall palm (Cocos nucifera) woodland and open forest with mesophyll/notophyll vine forest sub-canopy of Myristica insipida and 

Lepidopetalum fructoglabrum. Basalt terraces 

22b, Semi deciduous vine thicket + Buchanania arborescens + Manilkara kauki + Scolopia braunii + Drypetes deplanchei + 

Terminalia muelleri. Relict gardens of coral cays. 

Saline transitional communities 

23a, Low Excoecaria agallocha + Hibiscus tiliaceus + Thespesia populneoides + Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla open forest. 

Saline margins of alluvial plains. 

23b, Pemphis acidula +/- Terminalia subacroptera +/- Premna serratifolia closed shrubland. Calcareous sands. 

23c, Semi deciduous transitional vine forest + Xylocarpus granatum + Manilkara kauki. Calcareous beach ridges. 

Mangrove forest, woodland and shrubland complexes 

24a, Mangrove closed and open forest, woodland and shrubland complexes (24d/24c – 80/20). 

24b, Pemphis acidula + Osbornia octodonta closed shrubland. 

24c, Avicennia marina subsp. eucalyptifolia open to closed forest. Saline alluvial soils. 

24d, Open to closed forest of Bruguiera gymnorhiza +/- Rhizophora stylosa. Intertidal coral platforms. 

Samphire herblands and shrublands and salt pans. 

25a, Dwarf halophytic shrubland and saltpan. Hypersaline muds. 

25b, Salt pan. Hypersaline muds. 

Samphire grasslands 

26a, Closed Sporobulus sp. grassland. 

26b, Sporobulus sp. grassland/Chenopod forbland and herbland complex 

Estuarine wetland complexes and mosaics 

27a, Schoenoplectus sp. sedgeland. 

27b, Tall Schoenoplectus sp. sedgeland/ wetland complex 

Tidal Lagoon 

Tidal Lagoon 

Rock 

R, Rock 

Artificial wetland 

Artificial wetland 

Exotic species 

Ex, Communities dominated by exotic species 

Bamboo, Bamboo thicket 

Reclaimed land 

RL, Reclaimed land 

Regrowth 

Re, Regrowth 

Cleared 

Cl, Cleared 



Client 

Scale 





P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 




28/08/08 

A3

Appendix A2. Map Legend – Land Zones 


202

Legend - Land Zones of the Torres Strait Islands 

Land Zone 

Land Zone 1 

E. Estuarine muds including saline and brackish alluvium. 


D. Coastal dunes, cheniers, calcareous beach sands (including atolls), beach ridges and associated swales. 


A. Alluvial plains, alluvial fans, terraces and fluvial sediments. 


AS. Residual sandy plains and sandy terraces 

L. Exposed duricrust 

T. Remnant colluvial surfaces. 


B. Basalt escarpments and terraces 

V. Volcanic cones formed on ash and scoria 


G. Granite hillslopes and footslopes including boulder talus and colluvium. 

GD. Diorite hills and knolls 

MG. Metamorphosed granitoid rocks including hornfels 

R. Acid volcanic hillslopes and footslopes including rhyolites and dacites. 

Client 

Scale 

Legend- Land Zones of the 






P. O. Box 959 


Phone: (07) 3411 9072; (07) 3878 4344 

Mobile: 0404 577 285; 0409 426 916 




28/08/08 

A3

Appendix B. Torres Strait Islands Flora Species List 11 

Family_Name Botanical_Name BRI C’veg 3DE 

Pteridiophytes 

Adiantaceae Adiantum atroviride Bostock X 

Adiantum philippense L. X X 

Cheilanthes caudata R.Br. X 

Cheilanthes contigua Baker X 

Cheilanthes nitida (R.Br.) P.S.Green X X 

Cheilanthes nudiuscula (R.Br.) T.Moore X X 

Cheilanthes prenticei Luerss. X 

Cheilanthes pumilio (R.Br.) F.Muell. X 

Cheilanthes tenuifolia (Burm.f.) Sw. X X 

Doryopteris concolor (Langsd. & Fisch.) Kuhn X X 

Aspleniaceae Asplenium nidus L. X X 

Blechnaceae Blechnum indicum X 

Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.f.) Bedd. X X 

Davalliaceae Davallia denticulata (Burm.f.) Mett. var. denticulata X X 

Humata pectinata (Sm.) Desv. X 

Gleicheniaceae Dicranopteris linearis (Burm.f.) Underw. var. linearis X 

Lindsaeaceae Lindsaea brachypoda (Baker) Salomon X 

Lindsaea ensifolia Sw. subsp. ensifolia X X 

Lindsaea media R.Br. X X 

Nephrolepidaceae Nephrolepis obliterata (R.Br.) J.Sm. X X 

Ophioglossaceae Helminthostachys zeylanica (L.) Kaulf. X X 

Ophioglossum sp. X 

Parkeriaceae Ceratopteris thalictroides (L.) Brongn. X X 

Polypodiaceae Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J.Sm. X X 

Drynaria sparsisora (Desv.) T.Moore X X 

Lecanopteris sinuosa (Wall. ex Hook.) Copel. X 

Microsorum grossum (Langsd. & Fisch.) S.B.Andrews X 

Microsorum punctatum (L.) Copel. X X 

Pyrrosia lanceolata (L.) Farw. X X 

Pyrrosia longifolia (Burm.f.) C.V.Morton X X 

Pteridaceae Acrostichum speciosum Willd. X X 

Schizaeaceae Lygodium flexuosum (L.) Sw. X X 

Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R.Br. X X 

Schizaea dichotoma (L.) Sm. X X 

Selaginellaceae Selaginella ciliaris (Retz.) Spring X 

Selaginella longiciliata Hieron. X 

Thelypteridaceae Cyclosorus interruptus (Willd.) H.Ito X X 

Vittariaceae Vittaria elongata Sw. X 

Vittaria ensiformis Sw. X X 

11 Preliminary pending identification of all survey records; Nomenclature follows Bostock and Holland (2007); * 

denotes naturalized species; BRI denotes Qld Herbarium Aug 2007 Herbrecs extract; Cveg denotes EPA Corveg 

records; 3DE denotes 3d Environmental 2007/2008 survey records. 


204


Gymnosperms 

Podocarpaceae Podocarpus grayae de Laub. X X 

Angiosperms 

Acanthaceae Acanthus ilicifolius L. X X 

Asystasia australasica F.M.Bailey X X 

Asystasia gangetica (L.) T.Anderson subsp. gangetica* X 

Barleria cristata L.* X 

Barleria prionitis L.* X 

Brunonialis acaulis X 

Brunoniella australis (Cav.) Bremek. X X 

Dicliptera ciliata Decne. X 

Dicliptera glabra Decne. X 

Dipteracanthus bracteatus (R.Br.) Nees X X 

Dipteracanthus prostratus (Poir.) Nees* X 

Graptophyllum pictum (L.) Griff. X 

Hygrophila angustifolia R.Br. X 

Hypoestes floribunda R.Br. X X 

Nelsonia campestris R.Br. X 

Pseuderanthemum variabile (R.Br.) Radlk. X X 

Ruellia tuberosa L.* X 

Ruellia tweediana Griseb.* X 

Staurogyne leptocaulis subsp. decumbens R.M.Barker X 

Thunbergia arnhemica F.Muell. X 

Agavaceae Agave sisalana Perrine* X X 

Agave vivipara L. var. vivipara* X 

Cordyline cannifolia X 

Aizoaceae Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.) L. X X 

Trianthema portulacastrum L.* X X 

Amaranthaceae Achyranthes aspera L. X X 

Alternanthera angustifolia R.Br. X 

Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze cv. Rubiginosa* X 

Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze* X 

Alternanthera denticulata R.Br. X 

Alternanthera ficoidea (L.) P.Beauv.* X X 

Alternanthera micrantha (Benth.) Domin X 

Alternanthera nana R.Br. X X 

Alternanthera pungens Kunth* X X 

Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R.Br. ex DC.* X 

Alternanthera sp. X 

Amaranthus blitum L.* X 

Amaranthus hybridus L.* X 

Amaranthus interruptus R.Br. X 

Amaranthus sp. X 

Amaranthus undulatus R.Br. X 

Amaranthus viridis L.* X 

Celosia argentea L.* X 


205


Cyathula prostrata (L.) Blume X 

Deeringia amaranthoides (Lam.) Merr. X X 

Gomphrena breviflora F.Muell. X 

Gomphrena celosioides Mart.* X X 

Gomphrena conferta Benth. X 

Gomphrena flaccida R.Br. X 

Ptilotus distans subsp. capensis Benl X 

Amaryllidaceae Crinum angustifolium R.Br. X X 

Crinum uniflorum F.Muell. X X 

Proiphys amboinensis (L.) Herb. X X 

Anacardiaceae Anacardium occidentale L.* X X 

Buchanania arborescens (Blume) Blume X X X 

Mangifera indica L.* X X 

Semecarpus australiensis Engl. X X 

Annonaceae Annona glabra L.* (Class 2) X 

Annonaceae sp. 12 X 

Meiogyne sp. (Moa Island DGFell 9718 + DJ Stanton) X X 

Desmos wardianus (F.M.Bailey) Jessup X X 

Haplostichanthus fruticosus Jessup X X 

Meiogyne cylindrocarpa subsp. trichocarpa Jessup X X 

Melodorum leichhardtii X 

Melodorum scabridulum Jessup X 

Miliusa brahei X 

Miliusa horsefieldii X 

Miliusa traceyi Jessup X X 

Polyalthia australis X 

Uvaria concava Teijsm. & Binn. X 

Uvaria rufa Blume X X 

Apiaceae Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. X X 

Apocynaceae Alstonia actinophylla (A.Cunn.) K.Schum. X X X 

Alstonia spectabilis R.Br. subsp. spectabilis X X 

Alyxia spicata R.Br. X X X 

Brachystelma glabriflorum (F.Muell.) Schltr. X 

Calotropis gigantea (L.) W.T.Aiton* X 

Carissa laxiflora Benth. X X 

Carissa ovata X X 

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G.Don* X X 

Cerbera manghas L. X X 

Cynanchum brachystelmoides P.I.Forst. X 

Cynanchum carnosum (R.Br.) Schltr. X X 

Cynanchum leptolepis (Benth.) Domin X 

Dischidia littoralis Schltr. (Vulnerable) X X 

Dischidia major (Vahl) Merr. X X 

Dischidia nummularia R.Br. X X X 

12 M.Lawrie 122, Mer. Noted as an edible fruit tree. Possibly naturalized. 


206


Dischidia ovata Benth. X X X 

Hoya australis R.Br. ex Traill subsp. australis X X 

Hoya australis subsp. sanae (F.M.Bailey) K.D.Hill X X 

Hoya revoluta Wight ex Hook.f. (Rare) X X 

Ichnocarpus frutescens (L.) W.T.Aiton X 

Marsdenia connivens P.I.Forst. X 

Marsdenia tricholepis (Schltr.) P.I.Forst. X 

Marsdenia velutina R.Br. X 

Marsdenia viridiflora subsp. tropica P.I.Forst. X 

Parsonsia velutina R.Br. X X 

Sarcostemma viminale subsp. brunonianum (Wight & X X X 

Arn.) P.I.Forst. 

Secamone auriculata Blume (Rare) X X 

Secamone elliptica R.Br. X X 

Secamone lineata Blume X 

Tabernaemontana orientalis R.Br. X X 

Tabernaemontana pandacaqui Lam. X X X 

Tylophora benthamii Tsiang X X 

Tylophora erecta F.Muell. ex Benth. X 

Voacanga grandifolia (Miq.) Rolfe X X 

Wrightia pubescens subsp. penicillata (F.M.Bailey) X X 

Ngan 

Wrightia saligna (R.Br.) F.Muell. ex Benth. X X 

Wrightia versicolor S.T.Blake X X 

Aquifoliaceae Ilex arnhemensis subsp. ferdinandi (Harms) Pedley X X 

Araceae Alocasia macrorrhizos (L.) G.Don X 

Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson X X 

Epipremnum pinnatum (L.) Engl. X X 

Epipremnum amplissimum X 

Typhonium brownii Schott X 

Typhonium flagelliforme (Lodd.) Blume X 

Typhonium weipanum A.Hay X 

Araliaceae Polyscias australiana (F.Muell.) Philipson X X 

Polyscias elegans (C.Moore & F.Muell.) Harms X X 

Polyscias macgillivrayi (Seem.) Harms X X 

Polyscias scutellaria (Burm.f.) Fosberg X 

Schefflera actinophylla (Endl.) Harms X X 

Trachymene tenuifolia (Domin) B.L.Burtt X X 

Arecaceae Arenga australasica (H.Wendl. & Drude) S.T.Blake X X 

(Vulnerable) 

Cocos nucifera* X 

Corypha utan X 

Hydriastele costata F.M.Bailey (Vulnerable) X 

Hydriastele wendlandiana X 

Licuala ramsayi X 

Livistona benthamii X 

Livistona muelleri F.M.Bailey X X X 


207


Metroxylon sagu X 

Normanbya sp. (DGFell 9751 + DJStanton) X 

Nypa fruticans X 

Ptychosperma elegans (R.Br.) Blume X X 

Ptychosperma macarthurii X 

Aristolochiaceae Aristolochia acuminata Lam. X X 

Aristolochia chalmersii (Endangered) X 

Pararistolochia sp. X 

Paristolochia sp. (DGF9651+DJS) 13 X 

Asteraceae Acanthospermum hispidum DC.* X X 

Acmella grandiflora var. brachyglossa (Benth.) X 

13 Requires confirmation 

R.K.Jansen 

Ageratum conyzoides L. subsp. conyzoides* X X 

Allopterigeron filifolius (F.Muell.) Dunlop X X 

Bidens bipinnata L.* X X 

Bidens pilosa L.* X X 

Bidens sp. X 

Blainvillea dubia Specht X 

Blumea diffusa R.Br. ex Benth. X 

Blumea lacera (Burm.f.) DC. X 

Blumea saxatilis Zoll. & Moritzi X X X 

Cosmos caudatus Kunth* X 

Cyanthillium cinereum (L.) H.Rob. X X X 

Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. X X 

Eleutheranthera ruderalis (Sw.) Sch.Bip.* X 

Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC. var. sonchifolia* X X 

Epaltes australis Less. X X 

Glossocardia bidens (Retz.) Veldkamp X X 

Peripleura diffusa (N.T.Burb.) G.L.Nesom X X 

Phacellothrix cladochaeta (F.Muell.) F.Muell. X X 

Pluchea indica (L.) Less. X X 

Praxelis clematidea R.M.King & H.Rob.* X X 

Pseudelephantopus spicatus (B.Juss. ex Aubl.) X 

C.F.Baker* 

Pterocaulon redolens (Willd.) Fern.-Vill. X X 

Pterocaulon sphacelatum (Labill.) F.Muell. X X 

Sphaeranthus africanus L. X 

Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski* (Class 3) X X 

Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn.* X X 

Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A.Gray* X 

Tridax procumbens L.* X X 

Vernonia junghuhniana J.Kost.* X 

Wedelia biflora X 

Wedelia longipes Klatt X 

Wedelia spilanthoides F.Muell. X X 


208


Wollastonia biflora (L.) DC. X X 

Xanthium occidentale Bertol.* X 

Zinnia violacea Cav.* X 

Avicenniaceae Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. X X 

Avicennia marina subsp. australasica (Walp.) J.Everett X X 

Avicennia marina subsp. eucalyptifolia (Valeton) X X X 

J.Everett 

Bataceae Batis argillicola P.Royen X 

Bignoniaceae Deplanchea tetraphylla (R.Br.) F.Muell. X X 

Dolichandrone alternifolia (R.Br.) Seem. X 

Dolichandrone heterophylla X 

Pandorea pandorana (Andrews) Steenis X X 

Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. ex Kunth var. stans* X X 

Bombacaceae Bombax ceiba var. leiocarpum A.Robyns X X X 

Camptostemon schultzii Mast. X X 

Boraginaceae Argusia argentea (L.f.) Heine X X 

Carmona retusa (Vulnerable) X 

Cordia dichotoma G.Forst. X X 

Cordia myxa X 

Cordia subcordata Lam. X X 

Heliotropium vagum Craven X 

Brassicaceae Rorippa eustylis (F.Muell.) L.A.S.Johnson X X 

Brownlowiaceae Berrya javanica X 

Indigator fordii X 

Burmanniaceae Burmannia juncea Sol. ex R.Br. X 

Burseraceae Canarium australianum F.Muell. var. australianum X X X 

Garuga floribunda Decne. var. floribunda X X 

Canarium vitiense X 

Byblidaceae Byblis liniflora Salisb. X 

Byttneriaceae Abroma molle DC. X 

Commersonia bartramia 14 X 

Melochia corchorifolia L. X 

Waltheria indica L. X X 

Cactaceae Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw.* (Class 2) X 

Caesalpiniaceae Bauhinia monandra Kurz* X 

Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. X X 

Cassia fistula L.* X X 

Chamaecrista absus (L.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby var. X 

absus 

Chamaecrista mimosoides (L.) Greene X 

Chamaecrista nomame (Siebold) H.Ohashi var. nomame X 

Chamaecrista rotundifolia (Pers.) Greene var. X 

rotundifolia* 

Delonix regia (Bojer ex Hook.) Raf.* X X 

Erythrophleum chlorostachys (F.Muell.) Baill. X X X 

14 Requires confirmation against Moa Is. Collection, Commersonia sp. (DGF8919a+) 


209


Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze X X 

Lysiphyllum binatum (Blanco) de Wit X X 

Maniltoa lenticellata C.T.White var. lenticellata X X 

Peltophorum pterocarpum X 

Senna alata (L.) Roxb.* X X 

Senna gaudichaudii (Hook. & Arn.) H.S.Irwin & X 

Barneby 

Senna obtusifolia (L.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby* (Class 2) X 

Senna occidentalis (L.) Link* X X 

Senna surattensis (Burm.f.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby X 

Senna tora (L.) Roxb.* (Class 2) X 

Campanulaceae Isotoma gulliveri F.Muell. X 

Lobelia dioica R.Br. X 

Lobelia douglasiana F.M.Bailey (Rare) X 

Lobelia stenophylla Benth. X 

Wahlenbergia caryophylloides P.J.Sm. X X 

Wahlenbergia gracilis (G.Forst.) A.DC. X X 

Cannaceae Canna indica L.* X X 

Capparaceae Capparis canescens Banks ex DC. X X X 

Capparis lucida (DC.) R.Br. ex Benth. X X 

Capparis quiniflora DC. X X 

Capparis sepiaria L. X X 

Capparis sp. X 

Caricaceae Carica papaya* X 

Caryophyllaceae Polycarpaea corymbosa var. torrensis Pedley X 

Casuarinaceae Allocasuarina littoralis (Salisb.) L.A.S.Johnson X X 

Casuarina equisetifolia L. subsp. equisetifolia X 

Casuarina equisetifolia subsp. incana (Benth.) X X 

L.A.S.Johnson 

Celastraceae Elaeodendron melanocarpum F.Muell. X X 

Gymnosporia inermis Merr. & L.M.Perry X X 

Pleurostylia opposita (Wall.) Alston X X 

Salacia chinensis L. X X 

Salacia disepala (C.T.White) Ding Hou X X 

Siphonodon pendulus F.M.Bailey X X X 

Ceratophyllaceae Ceratophyllum demersum L. X 

Chenopodiaceae Salsola kali L. X X 

Tecticornia australasica (Moq.) Paul G.Wilson X X 

Chrysobalanaceae Maranthes corymbosa Blume X X 

Parinari nonda F.Muell. ex Benth. X X X 

Cleomaceae Cleome aculeata L.* X 

Cleome gynandra L.* X 

Cleome tetrandra var. pentata Hewson X 

Cleome viscosa L. X X 

Clusiaceae Calophyllum australianum F.Muell. ex Vesque X X 

Calophyllum inophyllum L. X X 

Calophyllum sil Lauterb. X X 


210


Garcinia sp. (DGF9722+DJS) 15 X 

Garcinia sp. (Claudie River L.J.Brass 19658) X X 

Garcinia warrenii F.Muell. X X 

Colchicaceae Schelhammera multiflora X 

Cocholospermaceae Cochlospermum gillivraei Benth. X X X 

Colchicaceae Gloriosa superba L.* X X 

Combretaceae Lumnitzera sp. X X 

Lumnitzera littorea (Jack) F.Voigt X X 

Lumnitzera racemosa Willd. X X X 

Quisqualis indica L.* X 

Terminalia arenicola Byrnes X X 

Terminalia catappa L. X X 

Terminalia complanata X 

Terminalia muelleri Benth. X X X 

Terminalia sericocarpa F.Muell. X X 

Terminalia subacroptera Domin X X 

Commelinaceae Aneilema siliculosum R.Br. X 

Cartonema baileyi F.M.Bailey X 

Cartonema parviflorum Hassk. X 

Cartonema spicatum R.Br. X 

Cartonema spicatum var. humile Hassk. X 

Commelina benghalensis L.* X X 

Commelina diffusa Burm.f. X X 

Commelina ensifolia R.Br. X X 

Commelina sp. X 

Cyanotis axillaris (L.) D.Don X 

Murdannia gigantea (Vahl) G.Brueckn. X 

Murdannia graminea (R.Br.) G.Brueckn. X X 

Murdannia vaginata (L.) G.Brueckn.* X 

Tradescantia spathacea Sw.* X 

Convolvulaceae Erycibe coccinea (F.M.Bailey) Hoogland X X 

Evolvulus alsinoides (L.) L. X X X 

Evolvulus alsinoides var. decumbens (R.Br.) Ooststr. X X 

Ipomoea abrupta R.Br. X 

Ipomoea aquatica Forssk. X 

Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa (Mart. ex Choisy) X 

15 Requires determination 

D.F.Austin* 

Ipomoea eriocarpa R.Br. X 

Ipomoea graminea R.Br. X 

Ipomoea hederifolia L.* X 

Ipomoea macrantha Roem. & Schult. X X 

Ipomoea mauritiana Jacq. X X 

Ipomoea nil (L.) Roth* X 

Ipomoea pes-caprae subsp. brasiliensis (L.) Ooststr. X X 


211


Ipomoea plebeia R.Br. X X 

Ipomoea polymorpha Roem. & Schult. X 

Ipomoea quamoclit L.* X 

Ipomoea tiliacea (Willd.) Choisy X 

Ipomoea triloba L.* X 

Jacquemontia paniculata (Burm.f.) Hallier f. var. X X 

paniculata 

Merremia dissecta (Jacq.) Hallier f.* X 

Merremia hirta (L.) Merr. X 

Merremia quinata (R.Br.) Ooststr. X X 

Merremia umbellata (L.) Hallier f. X 

Merremia umbellata (L.) Hallier f. subsp. umbellata X 

Operculina brownii Ooststr. (Rare) X 

Operculina riedeliana (Oliv.) Ooststr. X 

Operculina turpethum (L.) Silva Manso X 

Polymeria sp. (Aurukun J.R.Clarkson 4320) X 

Polymeria subhirsuta Domin X 

Xenostegia tridentata (L.) D.F.Austin & Staples X X X 

Costaceae Costus potierae F.Muell. (Endangered) X 

Cucurbitaceae Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai var. X X 

lanatus* 

Cucumis sp. X 

Cucumis melo L. X X 

Diplocyclos palmatus (L.) C.Jeffrey X X 

Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.* X 

Luffa aegyptiaca Mill. X 

Muellerargia timorensis Cogn. (Endangered) X 

Mukia maderaspatana (L.) M.Roem. X X 

Neoalsomitra capricornica (F.Muell.) Hutch. X X 

Zehneria mucronata (Blume) Miq. X 

Cycadaceae Cycas badensis K.D.Hill X X 

Cycas scratchleyana F.Muell. X X 

Cymodoceaceae Halodule uninervis (Forssk.) Asch. X 

Thalassodendron ciliatum (Forssk.) Hartog X 

Cyperaceae Abildgaardia ovata (Burm.f.) Kral X 

Bulbostylis barbata (Rottb.) C.B.Clarke X X 

Cyperus angustatus R.Br. X 

Cyperus aquatilis R.Br. X X 

Cyperus castaneus Willd. X 

Cyperus compressus L.* X 

Cyperus cuspidatus Kunth X 

Cyperus decompositus (R.Br.) F.Muell. X X 

Cyperus dietrichiae Boeck. var. dietrichiae X 

Cyperus haspan L. subsp. haspan X X 

Cyperus iria L. X X 

Cyperus javanicus Houtt. X X 

Cyperus metzii (Hochst. ex Steud.) Mattf. & Kuek.* X 


212


Cyperus pedunculatus (R.Br.) J.Kern X 

Cyperus polystachyos Rottb. var. polystachyos X X 

Cyperus pumilus L. X 

Cyperus rotundus L.* X 

Cyperus scaber (R.Br.) Boeck. X 

Cyperus scariosus R.Br. X 

Cyperus sp. (Cape York J.R.Clarkson+ 8126) X 

Cyperus sp. (Mission Beach N.Byrnes MB14) X 

Cyperus sphacelatus Rottb.* X 

Cyperus squarrosus L. X 

Cyperus stoloniferus Retz. X 

Cyperus tetracarpus Boeck. X 

Cyperus zollingeri Steud. X 

Eleocharis dulcis (Burm.f.) Trin. ex Hensch. X X 

Eleocharis geniculata (L.) Roem. & Schult. X 

Eleocharis spiralis (Rottb.) Roem. & Schult. X X 

Fimbristylis acicularis R.Br. X X 

Fimbristylis aestivalis (Retz.) Vahl var. aestivalis X 

Fimbristylis bisumbellata (Forssk.) Bubani X 

Fimbristylis cinnamometorum (Vahl) Kunth X 

Fimbristylis cymosa R.Br. X 

Fimbristylis dichotoma (L.) Vahl X X 

Fimbristylis ferruginea (L.) Vahl X X 

Fimbristylis furva R.Br. X 

Fimbristylis insignis Thwaites X 

Fimbristylis lanceolata C.B.Clarke X 

Fimbristylis littoralis Gaudich. X 

Fimbristylis modesta S.T.Blake X 

Fimbristylis polytrichoides (Retz.) R.Br. X 

Fimbristylis rara R.Br. X 

Fimbristylis recta F.M.Bailey X X 

Fimbristylis signata S.T.Blake X 

Fimbristylis simplex S.T.Blake X 

Fimbristylis tristachya R.Br. X 

Fuirena ciliaris (L.) Roxb. X X 

Gahnia aspera (R.Br.) Spreng. X X 

Hypolytrum compactum Nees & Meyen X X 

Lipocarpha microcephala (R.Br.) Kunth X 

Rhynchospora exserta C.B.Clarke X 

Rhynchospora heterochaeta S.T.Blake X X 

Rhynchospora leae C.B.Clarke X 

Rhynchospora longisetis R.Br. X 

Rhynchospora pterochaeta F.Muell. X 

Schoenoplectus litoralis (Schrad.) Palla X X 

Schoenoplectus validus (Vahl) A.Love & D.Love X X 

Schoenus calostachyus (R.Br.) Roem. & Schult. X X 


213


Schoenus falcatus R.Br. X 

Schoenus punctatus R.Br. X 

Schoenus sparteus R.Br. X X X 

Scleria brownii Kunth X X 

Scleria laxa R.Br. X X 

Scleria levis Retz. X 

Scleria lithosperma var. linearis Benth. X 

Scleria mackaviensis Boeck. X X 

Scleria pergracilis (Nees) Kunth X 

Scleria polycarpa Boeck. X X 

Scleria pygmaea R.Br. X 

Scleria rugosa R.Br. X 

Scleria sumatrensis (DGFell 9702+DJStanton) 16 X 

Scleria tricuspidata S.T.Blake X 

Tricostularia undulata (Thwaites) J.Kern X 

Datiscaceae Tetrameles nudiflora X 

Dilleniaceae Dillenia alata (R.Br. ex DC.) Martelli X X 

Tetracera daemeliana F.Muell. X X 

Dioscoreaceae Dioscorea bulbifera L. var. bulbifera X X 

Dioscorea esculenta (Lour.) Burkill* X 

Dioscorea pentaphylla var. papuana Burkill X X 

Dioscorea transversa R.Br. X X X 

Dracaenaceae Pleomele angustifolia (Medik.) N.E.Br. X X X 

Sansevieria trifasciata Prain* X 

Droseraceae Drosera burmanni Vahl X X 

Drosera indica L. X X 

Drosera lanata K.Kondo X 

Drosera spatulata X 

Ebenaceae Diospyros calycantha O.Schwarz X X 

Diospyros compacta (R.Br.) Kosterm. X X X 

Diospyros hebecarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X 

Diospyros humils X 

Diospyros littoralis X 

Diospyros maritima Blume X X 

Diospyros sp. X X 

Diospyros sp. (Kuranda L.J.Webb+ 7265A) X 

Diospyros sp. (Mt White P.I.Forster PIF14415) X X 

Elaeocarpaceae Elaeocarpus arnhemicus F.Muell. X X 

Elatinaceae Bergia ammannioides Roxb. X 

Ericaceae Leucopogon ruscifolius R.Br. X X 

Leucopogon yorkensis Pedley X X X 

Eriocaulaceae Eriocaulon clarksonii G.J.Leach X 

Eriocaulon depressum R.Br. ex Sm. X X 

Eriocaulon fistulosum R.Br. ex Sm. X 

16 Requires confirmation 


214


Eriocaulon nanum R.Br. X 

Erythroxylaceae Erythroxylum sp. (Mosquito Creek J.R.Clarkson 9991+) X 

Euphorbiaceae Acalypha lanceolata Willd. X X 

Acalypha wilkesiana Muell.Arg.* X X 

Chamaesyce atoto (G.Forst.) Croizat X X 

Chamaesyce hirta (L.) Millsp.* X X 

Chamaesyce macgillivrayi (Boiss.) D.C.Hassall X 

Chamaesyce micradenia (Boiss.) D.C.Hassall X 

Chamaesyce mitchelliana (Boiss.) D.C.Hassall X X 

Chamaesyce prostrata (Aiton) Small* X 

Chamaesyce vachellii (Hook. & Arn.) Hara X X 

Claoxylon hillii Benth. X X 

Codiaeum variegatum (L.) A.Juss. var. variegatum* X X 

Codiaeum variegatum var. moluccanum (Decne.) X X 

Muell.Arg. 

Croton arnhemicus Muell.Arg. X X X 

Croton multicaulis P.I.Forst. subsp. multicaulis X 

Croton waterhouseae P.I.Forst. X 

Dimorphocalyx australiensis C.T.White X X 

Euphorbia cyathophora Murr* X X 

Euphorbia heterophylla L.* X X 

Euphorbia plumerioides Teijsm. & Binn. X 

Euphorbia tannensis Spreng. subsp. tannensis X X 

Euphorbiaceae sp. X 

Excoecaria agallocha L. X X X 

Jatropha gossypiifolia L.* (Class 2) X 

Macaranga involucrata var. mallotoides (F.Muell.) X X 

L.M.Perry 

Macaranga tanarius (L.) Muell.Arg. X X 

Mallotus dispersus P.I.Forst. X 

Mallotus ficifolius (Baill.) Pax & K.Hoffm. X X 

Mallotus mollissimus (Geiseler) Airy Shaw X 

Mallotus nesophilus X 

Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell.Arg. X X X 

Mallotus polyadenos F.Muell. X 

Mallotus repandus (Willd.) Muell.Arg. X 

Mallotus resinosus (Blanco) Merr. X 

Manihot esculenta Crantz* X X 

Microstachys chamaelea (L.) A.Juss. ex Hook.f. X 

Pimeleodendron amboinicum (Rare) X 

Ricinus communis L.* X 

Tragia finalis P.I.Forst. X X 

Fabaceae Abrus precatorius L. subsp. precatorius X X X 

Aeschynomene americana L. var. americana* X 

Aeschynomene indica L. X 

Alysicarpus ovalifolius (Schumach.) J.Leonard* X 

Alysicarpus schomburgkii Schindl. X 


215


Alysicarpus vaginalis (L.) DC.* X 

Aphyllodium schindleri Pedley X 

Calopogonium mucunoides Desv.* X X 

Canavalia cathartica Thouars X 

Canavalia papuana Merr. & L.M.Perry X X 

Canavalia rosea (Sw.) DC. X X X 

Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.* X 

Clitoria ternatea L.* X X 

Crotalaria brevis Domin X 

Crotalaria calycina Schrank X X X 

Crotalaria goreensis Guill. & Perr.* X X X 

Crotalaria humifusa Graham ex Benth. X 

Crotalaria medicaginea Lam. var. medicaginea X X 

Crotalaria 

Niyomdham 

montana var. angustifolia (Gagnep.) X X 

Crotalaria pallida var. obovata (G.Don) Polhill* X X 

Crotalaria retusa L. var. retusa* X 

Crotalaria sessiliflora var. anthylloides (Lam.) X 


A.A.Ansari & Thoth. 

Crotalaria sp. (Torres Strait J.R.Clarkson 2044) X 

Cullen badocanum (Blanco) Verdc. X 

Dalbergia densa var. australis Prain X X X 

Dendrolobium arbuscula (Domin) H.Ohashi X 

Dendrolobium umbellatum (L.) Benth. var. umbellatum X X 

Derris rubrocalyx Verdc. subsp. rubrocalyx X X 

Derris sp. (Claudie River L.J.Webb+ 8348) X X 

Derris trifoliata Lour. X X 

Desmodium gangeticum (L.) DC. X 

Desmodium heterocarpon (L.) DC. var. heterocarpon X 

Desmodium heterocarpon var. strigosum Meeuwen X 

Desmodium pullenii Pedley X 

Desmodium scorpiurus (Sw.) Desv.* X 

Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC.* X X 

Desmodium trichostachyum Benth. X 

Desmodium triflorum (L.) DC.* X 

Erythrina insularis F.M.Bailey X X 

Erythrina variegata L. X X 

Erythrina vespertilio Benth. X X 

Flemingia parviflora X X 

Galactia muelleri Benth. X X 

Galactia sp. (Andoom A.Morton 1149) X 

Galactia tenuiflora (Spreng.) Willd. ex Wight & Arn. X X 

Glycine tomentella Hayata X X 

Gompholobium sp. (Tozers Gap C.H.Gittins 1030) X 

Gompholobium sp. (DGFell 9709+DJStanton) 17 X 


216


Indigofera colutea (Burm.f.) Merr. X 

Indigofera glandulosa Willd. X 

Indigofera linifolia (L.f.) Retz. X X 

Indigofera polygaloides M.B.Scott X 

Indigofera praatensis X 

Indigofera tinctoria L.* X 

Indigofera trifoliata L. X 

Jacksonia thesioides A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X X 

Macroptilium atropurpureum (DC.) Urb.* X X 

Macroptilium lathyroides (L.) Urb.* X X 

Macroptilium lathyroides var. semierectum (L.) Urb.* X 

Millettia pinnata (L.) Panigrahi X X X 

Mimosa pudica var. unijuga (Walp. & Duchass.) 

Griseb.* 

X X 

Mucuna gigantea (Willd.) DC. X X 

Mucuna pruriens var. utilis (Wall. ex Wight) Baker ex X 

Burck* 

Ormocarpum orientale (Spreng.) Merr. X 

Pachyrhizus erosus (L.) Urb.* X 

Pterocarpus indicus Willd. X 

Pueraria montana var. lobata (Willd.) Maesen & X 

S.M.Almeida* 

Pycnospora lutescens (Poir.) Schindl. X 

Rhynchosia acuminatissima Miq. X X 

Rhynchosia minima (L.) DC. X X 

Rhynchosia minima var. australis (Benth.) C.Moore X 

Sesbania cannabina (Retz.) Poir. var. cannabina X X 

Smithia conferta Sm. X 

Sophora tomentosa subsp. australis Yakovlev X X 

Stylosanthes hamata (L.) Taub.* X X 

Stylosanthes humilis Kunth* X X 

Stylosanthes scabra Vogel* X X 

Tephrosia sp. X 

Tephrosia filipes Benth. subsp. filipes X X 

Tephrosia juncea Benth. X X 

Tephrosia laxa Domin X 

Tephrosia maculata Merr. & L.M.Perry X 

Tephrosia sp. (Muddy Bay P.I.Forster+ PIF15313) X 

Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng.* X 

Uraria picta (Jacq.) Desv. X 

Vandasina retusa (Benth.) Rauschert X X 

Vigna sp. X 

Vigna adenantha (G.Mey.) Marechal, Mascherpa & X 

Stainier* 

Vigna marina (Burm.) Merr. X X 

Vigna radiate var. sublobata (Roxb.) Verdc. X 

Vigna vexillata var. angustifolia (Schumach. & Thonn.) X 


217


Baker 

Vigna vexillata var. youngiana F.M.Bailey X 

Zornia areolata Mohlenbr. X 

Zornia dyctiocarpa var. filifolia (Domin) S.T.Reynolds X 

& A.E.Holland 

Zornia muelleriana Mohlenbr. subsp. muelleriana X 

Zornia muriculata Mohlenbr. subsp. muriculata X 

Zornia ramosa S.T.Reynolds & A.E.Holland X 

Flacourtiaceae Flacourtia jangomas (Lour.) Raeusch.* X 

Flacourtia sp. (Shiptons Flat L.W.Jessup+ GJD3200) X X 

Scolopia braunii (Klotzsch) Sleumer X X 

Flagellariaceae Flagellaria indica L. X X X 

Goodeniaceae Goodenia debilis A.E.Holland & T.P.Boyle X 

Goodenia pilosa (R.Br.) Carolin X 

Lechenaultia filiformis R.Br. X 

Scaevola taccada (Gaertn.) Roxb. X X 

Velleia sp. X 

Haemodoraceae Haemodorum coccineum R.Br. X X X 

Haloragaceae Gonocarpus acanthocarpus (Brongn.) Orchard X 

Myriophyllum sp. X 

Helicteraceae Helicteres isora L. X 

Helicretes semiglabra (F. muell.) F.M. Bailey X 

Caesia parviflora R.Br. var. parviflora X 

Hemerocallidaceae Dianella caerulea Sims X X 

Dianella caerulea var. aquilonia R.J.F.Hend. X 

Dianella caerulea var. vannata R.J.F.Hend. X X 

Dianella longifolia R.Br. X X 

Dianella odorata Blume X 

Dianella pavopennacea var. major R.J.F.Hend. X X X 

Hernandiaceae Gyrocarpus americanus Jacq. subsp. americanus X X 

Hernandia nymphaeifolia (C.Presl) Kubitzki X 

Hugoniaceae Hugonia jenkinsii X 

Hydrocharitaceae Enhalus sp. X 

Enhalus acoroides (L.f.) Royle X 

Halophila minor (Zoll.) Hartog X 

Hypoxidaceae Curculigo ensifolia R.Br. var. ensifolia X 

Johnsoniaceae Caesia setifera Baker X 

Tricoryne anceps subsp. pterocaulon (Baker) Thongp. X X X 

Juncaginaceae Triglochin dubium R.Br. X 

Lamiaceae Anisomeles malabarica (L.) R.Br. ex Sims X X 

Baslicum polystachyon X 

Callicarpa brevistyla Munir X 

Callicarpa candicans (Burm.f.) Hochr. X X 

Clerodendrum sp. X 

Clerodendrum costatum R.Br. X 

Clerodendrum floribundum R.Br. X X 

Clerodendrum inerme (L.) Gaertn. X X 


218


Clerodendrum longiflorum var. glabrum Munir X X 

Faradaya splendida F.Muell. X 

Glossocarya hemiderma (F.Muell. ex Benth.) Benth. & X X 

Hook.f. ex B.D.Jacks. 

Gmelina dalrympleana (F.Muell.) H.J.Lam X X X 

Gmelina philippensis Cham.* X 

Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit.* X X X 

Leucas decemdentata (Willd.) Sm. X 

Ocimum basilicum L.* X 

Ocimum tenuiflorum L. X 

Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. X 

Platostoma longicorne (F.Muell.) A.J.Paton X 

Plectranthus amboinicus (Lour.) Spreng.* X 

Plectranthus parviflorus Willd. X X 

Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br. X X 

Premna acuminata R.Br. X X X 

Premna dallachyana Benth. X X 

Premna serratifolia L. X X 

Salvia misella Kunth* X 

Vitex helogiton K.Schum. X X 

Vitex rotundifolia L.f. X X 

Vitex trifolia L. var. trifolia X X 

Lauraceae Beilschmiedia obtusifolia X 

Cassytha filiformis L. X X X 

Cryptocarya bamagana X 

Cryptocarya brassii C.K.Allen X X 

Cryptocarya cunninghamii Meisn. X X 

Cryptocarya exfoliata C.K.Allen X X 

Cryptocarya hypospodia F.Muell. X X 

Cryptocarya triplinervis R.Br. X X 

Endiandra glauca R.Br. X X X 

Endiandra impressicosta X 

Litsea breviumbellata C.K.Allen X X 

Litsea glutinosa (Lour.) C.B.Rob. X X 

Neolitsea brassii X 

Laxmanniaceae Eustrephus latifolius R.Br. ex Ker Gawl. X X X 

Lomandra banksii (R.Br.) Lauterb. X X X 

Lomandra multiflora (R.Br.) Britten subsp. multiflora X X 

Thysanotus banksii R.Br. X 

Thysanotus tuberosus R.Br. subsp. tuberosus X 

Lecythidaceae Barringtonia acutangula (L.) Gaertn. subsp. acutangula X X 

Barringtonia calyptrata (R.Br. ex Miers) R.Br. ex X X 

F.M.Bailey 

Barringtonia racemosa X 

Planchonia careya (F.Muell.) R.Knuth X X X 

Lentibulariaceae Utricularia sp. X X 

Utricularia bifida L. X 


219


Utricularia caerulea L. X 

Utricularia chrysantha R.Br. X 

Loganiaceae Mitrasacme connata R.Br. X 

Mitrasacme pygmaea R.Br. X 

Mitreola petiolata (J.F.Gmel.) Torr. & Gray X 

Strychnos lucida R.Br. X X 

Loranthaceae Amyema villiflora (Domin) Barlow subsp. villiflora X 

Amyema congener X 

Amylotheca dictyophleba (F.Muell.) Tiegh. X 

Decaisnina angustata (Barlow) Barlow X 

Dendrophthoe curvata (Blume) Miq. X 

Dendrophthoe glabrescens (Blakely) Barlow X X 

Diplatia tomentosa Barlow X 

Lythraceae Ammannia multiflora Roxb. X 

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers.* X 

Pemphis acidula J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. X X 

Sonneratia alba Sm. X X 

Malpighiaceae Ryssopterys timorensis (Blume) A.Juss. X X 

Malvaceae Abelmoschus manihot subsp. tetraphyllus (Roxb. ex X 

Hornem.) Borss.Waalk.* 

X 

Abelmoschus moschatus subsp. tuberosus (Span.) X X 

Borss.Waalk. 

Abutilon albescens Miq. X X 

Abutilon auritum X 

Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet X X 

Abutilon sp. X X 

Gossypium barbadense L.* X 

Hibiscus meraukensis Hochr. X X X 

Hibiscus normanii F.Muell. X 

Hibiscus rosasinensis L.* X X 

Hibiscus sabdariffa L.* X 

Hibiscus tiliaceus L. X X 

Hibiscus vitifolius L. X 

Malvastrum coromandelianum (L.) Garcke subsp. X 

coromandelianum* 

Sida acuta Burm.f.* X X 

Sida cordifolia L.* X 

Sida pusilla Cav. X 

Sida rhombifolia L.* X X 

Thespesia populnea (L.) Sol. ex Correa X X 

Thespesia populneoides (Roxb.) Kostel. X X 

Urena lobata L.* X X 

Melastomataceae Melastoma malabathricum L. subsp. malabathricum X X 

Osbeckia chinensis L. X X 

Pternandra coerulescens Jack X 

Meliaceae Aglaia brownii Pannell X X 

Aglaia elaeagnoidea (A.Juss.) Benth. X X 


220


Aglaia sapindina X 

Aglaia tomentosa Teijsm. & Binn. X X 

Anthocarapa nitidula X 

Dysoxylum acutangulum subsp. foveolatum (Radlk.) X X 

Mabb. 

Dysoxylum oppositifolium F.Muell. X X 

Dysoxylum latifolium X 

Sandoricum koetjape (Burm.f.) Merr.* X 

Turraea pubescens Hellen. X X 

Vavaea amicorum Benth. X X 

Xylocarpus granatum K.D.Koenig X X 

Xylocarpus moluccensis (Lam.) M.Roem. X X 

Xylocarpus rumphii (Kostel.) Mabb. X X 

Memecylaceae Memecylon pauciflorum Blume var. pauciflorum X X 

Menispermaceae Hypserpa decumbens (Benth.) Diels X X 

Pachygone ovata (Poir.) Hook.f. & Thomson X X 

Stephania japonica (Thunb.) Miers X X 

Stephania japonica (Thunb.) Miers var. japonica X X 

Stephania japonica var. timoriensis (DC.) Forman X X 

Tinospora smilacina Benth. X X X 

Menyanthaceae Nymphoides sp. X 

Nymphoides aurantiaca (Dalzell) Kuntze X 

Nymphoides exiliflora (F.Muell.) Kuntze X 

Nymphoides triangularis Aston X 

Villarsia sp. (Laura C.Dalliston CC18) X 

Mimosaceae Acacia aulacocarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth. X 

Acacia auriculiformis A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X 

Acacia brassii Pedley X X X 

Acacia crassicarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X X 

Acacia holosericea X 

Acacia humifusa A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X 

Acacia leptocarpa A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X X 

Acacia oraria F.Muell. X X 

Acacia platycarpa F.Muell. X X 

Acacia polystachya A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X X 

Acacia simsii A.Cunn. ex Benth. X X X 

Adenanthera pavonina L. X X 

Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. X X 

Archidendron grandiflorum (Sol. ex Benth.) I.C.Nielsen X X 

Archidendron hirsutum I.C.Nielsen (Rare) X X 

Cathormion umbellatum subsp. moniliforme (DC.) 

Brummitt 

X X 

Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr. X X 

Entada rheedii Spreng. X X 

Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit subsp. X X 

leucocephala* 

Mimosa pudica var. unijuga (Walp. & Duchass.) X X 


221


Griseb.* 

Paraserianthes toona (F.M.Bailey) I.C.Nielsen X X X 

Molluginaceae Glinus oppositifolius (L.) A.DC. X X 

Mollugo pentaphylla L.* X X 

Monimiaceae Wilkiea rigidifolia (A.C.Sm.) Whiffin & Foreman X X 

Moraceae Antiaris toxicaria var. macrophylla (R.Br.) Corner X X 

Fatoua villosa (Thunb.) Nakai (Rare) X 

Ficus sp. X 

Ficus drupacea Thunb. var. drupacea X X 

Ficus fraseri Miq. X 

Ficus microcarpa L.f. X X 

Ficus microcarpa var. hillii (F.M.Bailey) Corner X X 

Ficus obliqua G.Forst. X X 

Ficus opposita Miq. X X 

Ficus opposita var. aculeata (Miq.) R.J.F.Hend. X 

Ficus racemosa X 

Ficus superba var. henneana (Miq.) Corner X X 

Ficus virens Aiton X 

Ficus virens var. sublanceolata (Miq.) Corner X X 

Streblus brunonianus X 

Trophis scandens (Lour.) Hook. & Arn. subsp. scandens X X 

Moringaceae Moringa oleifera Lam.* X 

Myristicaceae Horsfieldia australiana X 

Myristica insipida R.Br. var. insipida X X 

Myrsinaceae Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco X X X 

Myrsine urceolata R.Br. X X X 

Myrtaceae Acmena hemilampra (F.Muell. ex F.M.Bailey) Merr. & X X 

L.M.Perry subsp. hemilampra 

Acmenosperma claviflorum X 

Asteromyrtus brassii (Byrnes) Craven X X 

Asteromyrtus symphyocarpa (F.Muell.) Craven X X X 

Baeckea frutescens L. X X 

Corymbia clarksoniana X X 

Corymbia latifolia X 

Corymbia nesophila (Blakely) K.D.Hill & X X X 

L.A.S.Johnson 

Corymbia novoguinensis (D.J.Carr & S.G.M.Carr) 

K.D.Hill & L.A.S.Johnson 

X X X 

Corymbia polycarpa (F.Muell.) K.D.Hill & X X 

L.A.S.Johnson 

Corymbia stockeri (D.J.Carr & S.G.M.Carr) K.D.Hill & 

L.A.S.Johnson subsp. stockeri 

X 

Corymbia stockeri subsp. peninsularis (K.D.Hill & X 

L.A.S.Johnson) A.R.Bean 

X X 

Corymbia tessellaris (F.Muell.) K.D.Hill & X X X 

L.A.S.Johnson 

Eucalyptus brassiana X 

Eucalyptus cullenii Cambage X X X 


222


Eucalyptus leptophleba F.Muell. X X 

Eucalyptus platyphylla F.Muell. X X X 

Eucalyptus tetrodonta X 

Eugenia reinwardtiana (Blume) DC. X X 

Gossia floribunda (A.J.Scott) N.Snow & Guymer X X 

Lithomyrtus obtusa (Endl.) N.Snow & Guymer X X X 

Lithomyrtus retusa X X 

Lophostemon suaveolens (Sol. ex Gaertn.) Peter X X 

G.Wilson & J.T.Waterh. 

Melaleuca acacioides F.Muell. X X X 

Melaleuca arcana X 

Melaleuca argentea X 

Melaleuca cajuputi subsp. platyphylla Barlow X X 

Melaleuca dealbata S.T.Blake X X 

Melaleuca leucadendra (L.) L. X X 

Melaleuca nervosa X 

Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T.Blake X X 

Melaleuca saligna Schauer X X X 

Melaleuca sp. (Zuna DGF9257+) 18 X 

Melaleuca stenostachya S.T.Blake X X X 

Melaleuca viridiflora Sol. ex Gaertn. var. viridiflora X X X 

Neofabricia myrtifolia (Gaertn.) Joy Thomps. X X X 

Osbornia octodonta F.Muell. X X 

Rhodamnia australis A.J.Scott X X 

Rhodomyrtus macrocarpa Benth. X X 

Syzygium angophoroides (F.Muell.) B.Hyland X X 

Syzygium aqueum (Burm.f.) Alston (Rare) X X 

Syzygium bamagense B.Hyland X X 

Syzygium branderhorstii Lauterb. X X 

Syzygium buettnerianum (K.Schum.) Nied. (Rare) X X 

Syzygium bungadinnia (F.M.Bailey) B.Hyland X X 

Syzygium 

L.M.Perry 

fibrosum (F.M.Bailey) T.G.Hartley & X X 

Syzygium forte (F.Muell.) B.Hyland subsp. forte X X 

Syzygium puberulum Merr. & L.M.Perry X X 

Syzygium 

L.M.Perry 

suborbiculare (Benth.) T.G.Hartley & X X X 

Welchiodendron longivalve (F.Muell.) Peter G.Wilson X X X 

& J.T.Waterh. 

Nyctaginaceae Boerhavia sp. X 

Boerhavia albiflora Fosberg var. albiflora X 

Boerhavia dominii Meikle & Hewson X 

Boerhavia mutabilis R.Br. X X 

Pisonia aculeata L. X X 

Pisonia grandis R.Br. X 



223


Nymphaeaceae Nymphaea violacea Lehm. X 

Olacaceae Ximenia americana L. X X 

Oleaceae Chionanthus ramiflora Roxb. X X 

Jasminum didymum G.Forst. subsp. didymum X X 

Jasminum elongatum (Bergius) Willd. X X 

Notelaea longifolia X 

Onagraceae Ludwigia hyssopifolia (G.Don) Exell* X X 

Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H.Raven X X 

Ludwigia perennis L. X 

Opiliaceae Cansjera leptostachya Benth. X X 

Opilia amentacea Roxb. X X X 

Orchidaceae Arthrochilus irritabilis F.Muell. X 

Arthrochilus sabulosus D.L.Jones X 

Bulbophyllum sp. X X 

Cadetia maideniana (Schltr.) Schltr. X 

Cadetia wariana Schltr. (Rare) X X 

Chiloschista phyllorhiza (F.Muell.) Schltr. X 

Crepidium marsupichilum (Upton) Szlach. X 

Dendrobium canaliculatum X X 

Dendrobium bigibbum Lindl. (Vulnerable) X X X 

Dendrobium discolor X 

Dendrobium johannis Rchb.f. (Vulnerable) X X 

Dendrobium litorale Schltr. X X 

Dendrobium smillieae F.Muell. X 

Dendrobium trilamellatum J.J.Sm. X X X 

Dendrobium x lavarackianum M.A.Clem. X 

Dendrobium x superbiens Rchb.f. (Vulnerable) X 

Diplocaulobium glabrum (J.J.Sm.) Kraenzl. X 

Dockrillia calamiformis (Lodd.) M.A.Clem. & X 

D.L.Jones 

Empusa habenarina (F.Muell.) M.A.Clem. & D.L.Jones X 

Eria fitzalanii F.Muell. X 

Grastidium insigne (Blume) M.A.Clem. & D.L.Jones X 

Grastidium luteocilium (Rupp) Rauschert X 

Habenaria elongata R.Br. X 

Habenaria propinquior Rchb.f. X 

Luisia teretifolia Gaudich. X 

Nervilia sp. X 

Nervilia holochila (F.Muell.) Schltr. X 

Nervilia peltata B.Gray & D.L.Jones X 

Nervilia plicata (Andrews) Schltr. X 

Pholidota imbricata Hook. X 

Taeniophyllum sp. (DGF9319+) 19 X 

Vrydagzynea elongata Blume X 

Oxalidaceae Biophytum petersianum Klotzsch X 



224


Pandanaceae Pandanus sp. X X 

Pandanus conicus X 

Pandanus tectorius Parkinson X X 

Pandanus zea (Rare) X 

Passifloraceae Adenia heterophylla (Blume) Koord. X X 

Adenia heterophylla subsp. australis (R.Br. ex DC.) X X 

W.J.de Wilde 

Passiflora aurantia G.Forst. var. aurantia X X 

Passiflora foetida L.* X X X 

Passiflora suberosa L.* X X 

Pedaliaceae Josephinia imperatricis Vent. X X 

Pentaphylacaceea Ternstroemia cherryi X 

Petiveriaceae Rivina humilis L.* X X 

Phyllanthaceae Actephila venusta P.I.Forst. X X 

Antidesma bunius (L.) Spreng. X X 

Antidesma ghaesembilla Gaertn. X X 

Antidesma parvifolium Thwaites & F.Muell. X X 

Breynia cernua (Poir.) Muell.Arg. X X X 

Breynia oblongifolia (Muell.Arg.) Muell.Arg. X X 

Bridelia finalis P.I.Forst. X X 

Bridelia tomentosa Blume X X 

Cleistanthus apodus Benth. X X 

Cleistanthus peninsularis Airy Shaw & B.Hyland X X 

Cleistanthus xerophilus Domin X X 

Flueggea virosa subsp. melanthesoides (F.Muell.) X X X 

G.L.Webster 

Glochidion apodogynum X 

Glochidion disparipes Airy Shaw X X 

Phyllanthus amarus Schumach.* X 

Phyllanthus novae-hollandiae Muell.Arg. X X 

Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. X X 

Phyllanthus sp. X 

Phyllanthus virgatus G.Forst. X X X 

Sauropus androgynus (L.) Merr.* X 

Picrodendraceae Petalostigma pubescens X 

Piperaceae Piper caninum Blume X X 

Piper sarmentosum Roxb.* X 

Pittosporaceae Bursaria incana Lindl. X X 

Pittosporum ferrugineum subsp. linifolium (A.Cunn.) X X 

L.W.Cayzer, Crisp & I.Telford 

Pittosporum ferrugineum W.T.Aiton subsp. ferrugineum X X 

Pittosporum venulosum F.Muell. X X 

Plumbaginaceae Aegialitis annulata R.Br. X X 

Plumbago zeylanica L. X 

Poaceae Alloteropsis cimicina (L.) Stapf X X 

Alloteropsis semialata (R.Br.) Hitchc. X X X 

Apluda mutica L. (Rare) X 


225


Aristida dominii B.K.Simon X 

Aristida holathera Domin var. holathera X X 

Aristida perniciosa Domin X 

Aristida utilis F.M.Bailey var. utilis X 

Arthraxon castratus (Griff.) V.Naray. ex Bor X 

Arundinella nepalensis Trin. X X X 

Arundinella setosa Trin. X X 

Arundo donax L.* X 

Axonopus compressus (Sw.) P.Beauv.* X X 

Bambusa sp. X X 

Bambusa vulgaris Schrad.* X X 

Bothriochloa bladhii (Retz.) S.T.Blake X X 

Bothriochloa bladhii (Retz.) S.T.Blake subsp. bladhii X 

Bothriochloa pertusa (L.) A.Camus* X X 

Capillipedium parviflorum (R.Br.) Stapf X X 

Cenchrus brownii Roem. & Schult.* X 

Cenchrus echinatus L.* X X 

Cenchrus elymoides var. brevisetosus B.K.Simon X 

Chionachne cyathopoda (F.Muell.) F.Muell. ex Benth. X 

Chloris gayana Kunth* X X 

Chloris inflata Link* X X 

Chrysopogon aciculatus (Retz.) Trin.* X 

Chrysopogon elongatus (R.Br.) Benth. X 

Chrysopogon setifolius Stapf X 

Cleistochloa subjuncea C.E.Hubb. X 

Coix lacryma-jobi L.* X 

Cymbopogon ambiguus A.Camus X X X 

Cymbopogon bombycinus (R.Br.) Domin X X 

Cymbopogon globosus Henrard X 

Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. var. dactylon* X X 

Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.) Willd.* X 

Dactyloctenium radulans (R.Br.) P.Beauv. X X 

Dichanthium aristatum (Poir.) C.E.Hubb.* X 

Dichanthium fecundum S.T.Blake X 

Digitaria sp. X X 

Digitaria bicornis (Lam.) Roem. & Schult. X 

Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler* X X 

Digitaria ctenantha (F.Muell.) Hughes X 

Digitaria gibbosa (R.Br.) P.Beauv. X 

Digitaria ramularis (Trin.) Henrard X X 

Digitaria setigera Roth ex Roem. & Schult. X 

Echinochloa colona (L.) Link* X X 

Ectrosia agrostoides Benth. X 

Ectrosia lasioclada (Merr.) S.T.Blake X 

Ectrosia leporina R.Br. X X 

Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn.* X X 


226


Elionurus citreus (R.Br.) Munro ex Benth. X 

Eragrostis amabilis (L.) Wight & Arn. ex Nees* X 

Eragrostis brownii (Kunth) Nees ex Wight X X 

Eragrostis cumingii Steud. X 

Eragrostis pubescens (R.Br.) Steud. X 

Eragrostis spartinoides Steud. X X 

Eragrostis unioloides (Retz.) Nees ex Steud. X 

Eremochloa bimaculata X 

Eremochloa ciliaris (L.) Merr. (Rare) X X 

Eriachne armitii F.Muell. ex Benth. X 

Eriachne burkittii Jansen X 

Eriachne ciliata R.Br. X 

Eriachne humilis W.Hartley X 

Eriachne obtusa R.Br. X 

Eriachne pallescens R.Br. X X 

Eriachne pallescens R.Br. var. pallescens X X 

Eriachne squarrosa R.Br. X 

Eriachne triseta Nees ex Steud. X X 

Eriochloa fatmensis (Hochst. & Steud.) Clayton X 

Eriochloa procera (Retz.) C.E.Hubb. X X 

Eriochloa pseudoacrotricha (Stapf ex Thell.) J.M.Black X 

Eulalia sp. (Sabai Island J.R.Clarkson 7801) X 

Eulalia mackinlayi X 

Germainia capitata Balansa & Poitr. (Vulnerable) X 

Heterachne gulliveri X 

Heteropogon contortus (L.) P.Beauv. ex Roem. & X X X 

Schult. 

Heteropogon triticeus (R.Br.) Stapf X X X 

Imperata cylindrica (L.) Raeusch. X X X 

Ischaemum australe R.Br. var. australe X X 

Ischaemum australe var. villosum (R.Br.) Benth. X X 

Ischaemum fragile R.Br. X X 

Ischaemum muticum L. X 

Ischaemum polystachyum J.Presl X 

Ischaemum rugosum Salisb. var. rugosum X 

Ischaemum rugosum var. segetum (Trin.) Hack. X 

Ischaemum triticeum R.Br. X 

Ischaemum tropicum B.K.Simon X 

Leptaspis banksii R.Br. X 

Leptochloa fusca (L.) Kunth subsp. fusca X X 

Leptochloa simoniana N.Snow X 

Lepturus geminatus C.E.Hubb. (Rare) X 

Lepturus repens (G.Forst.) R.Br. X 

Megathyrsus maximus (Jacq.) B.K.Simon & X X 

S.W.L.Jacobs var. maximus* 

Melinis minutiflora P.Beauv.* X 

Melinis repens (Willd.) Zizka* X X 


227


Mnesithea formosa (R.Br.) de Koning & Sosef X X 

Mnesithea granularis (L.) de Koning & Sosef X 

Mnesithea rottboellioides (R.Br.) de Koning & Sosef X X X 

Neololeba atra (Lindl.) (Rare) X X 

Ophiuros exaltatus (L.) Kuntze X 

Oplismenus aemulus (R.Br.) Roem. & Schult. X X 

Oplismenus burmannii (Retz.) P.Beauv. X X 

Oplismenus compositus (L.) P.Beauv. X 

Panicum laevinode Lindl. X 

Panicum mindanaense Merr. X 

Panicum seminudum Domin var. seminudum X 

Panicum seminudum var. cairnsianum Domin X 

Panicum trichoides Sw. X X 

Paspalidium distans (Trin.) Hughes X X 

Paspalum distichum L. X 

Paspalum scrobiculatum L. X X 

Paspalum vaginatum Sw. X X 

Pennisetum ciliare (L.) Link* X 

Pennisetum pedicellatum subsp. unispiculum Brunken* X 

Pennisetum pedicellatum Trin. subsp. pedicellatum* X 

Pennisetum setigerum (Vahl) Wipff* X 

Perotis rara R.Br. X 

Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. X X 

Phragmites karka (Retz.) Trin. ex Steud. X X 

Pseudopogonatherum contortum (Brongn.) A.Camus X X 

Pseudopogonatherum irritans (R.Br.) A.Camus X 

Pseudoraphis spinescens (R.Br.) Vickery X 

Rottboellia cochinchinensis (Lour.) Clayton* X X 

Saccharum officinarum L.* X X 

Sacciolepis indica (L.) Chase X 

Sarga angustum (S.T.Blake) Spangler X 

Sarga plumosum (R.Br.) Spangler X X X 

Schizachyrium fragile (R.Br.) A.Camus X X X 

Schizachyrium pachyarthron C.A.Gardner X 

Sehima nervosum (Rottler) Stapf X 

Setaria apiculata (Scribn. & Merr.) K.Schum. X 

Setaria australiensis (Scribn. & Merr.) Vickery X 

Setaria pumila subsp. pallidefusca (Schumach.) X 

B.K.Simon* 

Setaria surgens Stapf X X 

Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers.* X 

Sorghum nitidum (Vahl) Pers. forma nitidum X X 

Sorghum nitidum forma aristatum C.E.Hubb. X 

Spinifex longifolius R.Br. X X 

Sporobolus jacquemontii Kunth* (Class 2) X 

Sporobolus lenticularis S.T.Blake X 

Sporobolus pulchellus R.Br. X 


228


Sporobolus virginicus (L.) Kunth X X X 

Thaumastochloa heteromorpha X 

Thaumastochloa major S.T.Blake X X 

Thaumastochloa monolifera X 

Thaumastochloa pubescens (Benth.) C.E.Hubb. X 

Themeda arguens (L.) Hack. X X 

Themeda intermedia (Hack.) Bor* X 

Themeda quadrivalvis (L.) Kuntze* X 

Themeda triandra Forssk. X X 

Thuarea involuta (G.Forst.) R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult. X X 

Urochloa distachya (L.) Nguyen* X 

Urochloa holosericea (R.Br.) R.D.Webster X 

Urochloa holosericea (R.Br.) R.D.Webster subsp. X 

holosericea 

Urochloa mosambicensis (Hack.) Dandy* X 

Urochloa mutica (Forssk.) Nguyen* X 

Urochloa panicoides var. pubescens (Kunth) Bor* X 

Urochloa piligera (F.Muell. ex Benth.) R.D.Webster X 

Urochloa pubigera (Roem. & Schult.) R.D.Webster X 

Urochloa ramosa (L.) R.D.Webster* X 

Urochloa subquadripara (Trin.) R.D.Webster* X 

Vacoparis laxiflorum (F.M.Bailey) Spangler X 

Whiteochloa airoides (R.Br.) Lazarides X 

Polygalaceae Polygala exsquarrosa Adema X 

Polygala longifolia Poir. X 

Polygala rhinanthoides Sol. ex Benth. X 

Polygala sp. (Portland Roads L.Pedley 2757) X 

Salomonia ciliata (L.) DC. X 

Polygonaceae Antigonon leptopus Hook. & Arn.* X 

Muehlenbeckia zippelii (Meisn.) Danser X 

Portulacaceae Calandrinia gracilis Benth. X 

Portulaca australis Endl. X 

Portulaca oleracea L.* X 

Portulaca pilosa L.* X 

Portulaca tuberosa Roxb. X 

Talinum triangulare (Jacq.) Willd.* X 

Proteaceae Banksia dentata L.f. X X X 

Grevillea coriacea McGill. X X 

Grevillea parallela Knight X X X 

Hakea pedunculata X X 

Helicia australasica F.Muell. X X 

Persoonia falcata X 

Xylomelum scottianum (F.Muell.) F.Muell. X X X 

Ptaeroxylaceae Harrisonia brownii A.Juss. X X 

Putranjivaceae Drypetes deplanchei (Brongn. & Gris) Merr. X X X 

Restionaceae Dapsilanthus 

L.A.S.Johnson 

elatior (R.Br.) B.G.Briggs & X X 


229


Dapsilanthus 

L.A.S.Johnson 

spathaceus (R.Br.) B.G.Briggs & X X 

Leptocarpus sp. X X 

Rhamnaceae Alphitonia excelsa (A.Cunn. ex Fenzl) Reissek ex X 

Benth. 

X 

Alphitonia obtusifolia X 

Colubrina asiatica Brongn. X X 

Ziziphus oenopolia (L.) Mill. X X X 

Rhizophoraceae Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume X X 

Bruguiera exaristata Ding Hou X X 

Bruguiera gymnorhiza (L.) Savigny X X 

Bruguiera parviflora (Roxb.) Wight & Arn. ex Griff. X X 

Carallia brachiata (Lour.) Merr. X X 

Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.B.Rob. X X X 

Rhizophora apiculata Blume X X 

Rhizophora stylosa Griff. X X 

Rubiaceae Aidia racemosa (Cav.) Tirveng. X X 

Antirhea ovatifolia (M.E.Jansen) Chaw X X 

Atractocarpus sessilis (F.Muell.) Puttock X X 

Cyclophyllum brevipes (Merr. & L.M.Perry) X X 

S.T.Reynolds & R.J.F.Hend. 

Cyclophyllum maritimum S.T.Reynolds & R.J.F.Hend. X X X 

Dentella repens (L.) J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. X 

Everistia vacciniifolia S.T.Reynolds & R.J.F.Hend. X X 

Guettarda speciosa L. X X 

Hydnophytum moseleyanum Becc. var. moseleyanum X X 

Ixora timorensis Decne. X X X 

Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC.* X 

Morinda citrifolia L. X X 

Morinda reticulata Benth. X X X 

Myrmecodia platytyrea subsp. antoinii (Becc.) X X 

C.R.Huxley & Jebb 

Oldenlandia biflora L. X 

Oldenlandia corymbosa L. var. corymbosa* X 

Oldenlandia galioides (F.Muell.) F.Muell. X X 

Pavetta australiensis Bremek. var. australiensis X X 

Pavetta brownii Bremek. var. brownii X 

Pavetta brownii var. glabrata S.T.Reynolds X X 

Pogonolobus reticulatus F.Muell. X X X 

Psilanthus brassii (J.-F.Leroy) A.P.Davis X 

Psychotria coelospermum X 

Psychotria loniceroides Sieber ex DC. X X 

Psychotria nesophila F.Muell. X X 

Psychotria poliostemma Benth. X X 

Psydrax banksii S.T.Reynolds & R.J.F.Hend. X X 

Psydrax graciliflora (Merr. & L.M.Perry) S.T.Reynolds 

& R.J.F.Hend. 

X X 


230


Psydrax lamprophylla forma latissima S.T.Reynolds & 

R.J.F.Hend. 

X X 

Psydrax odorata (G.Forst.) A.C.Sm. & S.P.Darwin X X 

Psydrax reticulata (C.T.White) S.T.Reynolds & X X 

R.J.F.Hend. (Vulnerable) 

Richardia scabra L.* X 

Scyphiphora hydrophylacea Gaertn. X X 

Spermacoce brachystema R.Br. ex Benth. X X 

Spermacoce papuana F.Muell. X 

Spermacoce remota Lam.* X 

Spermacoce sp. X 

Spermacoce sp. (Lorim Point A.Morton AM1237) X 

Timonius timon (Spreng.) Merr. var. timon X X 

Triflorensia australis (Benth.) S.T.Reynolds X X 

Ruppiaceae Ruppia sp X 

Rutaceae Acronychia imperforata X 

Acronychia sp. (Batavia Downs J.R.Clarkson+ 8511) X 

Clauesena brevistyla X 

Glycosmis trifoliata (Blume) Spreng. X X 

Halfordia kendack (Montrouz.) Guillaumin X X X 

Luvunga monophylla X 

Melicope peninsularis T.G.Hartley X X 

Melicope rubra (Lauterb. & K.Schum.) T.G.Hartley X 

Micromelum minutum (G.Forst.) Wight & Arn. X X X 

Murraya ovatifoliolata X 

Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack X X 

Zanthoxylum parviflorum Benth. X 

Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC. X X 

Santalaceae Exocarpos latifolius R.Br. X X X 

Sapindaceae Alectryon reticulatus X 

Alectryon repandodentatus Radlk. (Endangered) X X 

Alectryon tomentosus (F.Muell.) Radlk. X X 

Allophylus cobbe (L.) Blume X X 

Arytera bifoliolata S.T.Reynolds X X 

Arytera divaricata X 

Arytera pseudofoveolata H.Turner X 

Atalaya australiana Leenh. X 

Atalaya sericopetala S.T.Reynolds X X 

Cupaniopsis anacardioides (A.Rich.) Radlk. X X 

Cupaniopsis flagelliformis subsp. flagelliformis X 

Dictyoneura obtusa Blume X X 

Dodonaea polyandra Merr. & L.M.Perry X X X 

Dodonaea viscosa Jacq. subsp. viscosa X X 

Ganophyllum falcatum Blume X X X 

Harpullia arborea X 

Jagera pseudorhus (A.Rich.) Radlk. var. pseudorhus X X 

Lepidopetalum fructoglabrum Welzen X X 


231


Mischocarpus lachnocarpus (F.Muell.) Radlk. X X 

Mischocarpus stipitatus S.T.Reynolds X X 

Toechima daemelianum (F.Muell.) Radlk. X X 

Tristiropsis acutangula (Rare) X 

Sapotaceae Chrysophyllum roxburgii X 

Manilkara kauki (L.) Dubard X X 

Mimusops elengi L. X X 

Palaquium galactoxylon X 

Pouteria myrsinodendron (F.Muell.) Jessup X 

Pouteria obovata (R.Br.) Baehni X X 

Pouteria sericea (Aiton) Baehni X X X 

Pouteria sp. (DGFell 9168+DJStanton) X 

Pouteria unmackiana (F.M.Bailey) Erlee X 

Scrophulariaceae Adenosma caerulea R.Br. X 

Angelonia salicariifolia Bonpl.* X 

Buchnera gracilis R.Br. X 

Buchnera linearis R.Br. X X 

Buchnera ramosissima R.Br. X 

Buchnera tetragona R.Br. X 

Limnophila fragrans (G.Forst.) Seem. X 

Lindernia antipoda (L.) Alston X 

Lindernia ciliata (Colsm.) Pennell X 

Lindernia crustacea (L.) F.Muell. X 

Lindernia scapigera R.Br. X 

Lindernia tenuifolia (Colsm.) Alston X 

Mecardonia procumbens (Mill.) Small* X X 

Scoparia dulcis L.* X X 

Striga curviflora (R.Br.) Benth. X 

Striga parviflora (R.Br.) Benth. X 

Simaroubaceae Brucea javanica (L.) Merr. X X 

Smilacaceae Smilax australis R.Br. X X X 

Smilax calophylla Wall. ex A.DC. X X 

Smilax glyciphylla X 

Solanaceae Capsicum annuum var. glabriusculum (Dunal) Heiser & X 

Pickersgill* 

Capsicum frutescens L.* X 

Datura inoxia Mill.* X 

Datura wrightii Regel* X 

Lycianthes shanesii (F.Muell.) A.R.Bean X 

Physalis angulata L.* X 

Physalis pubescens L.* X 

Solanum seaforthianum Andrews* X X 

Solanum viridifolium Dunal X X 

Sparrmanniaceae Corchorus aestuans L. X X 

Grewia breviflora Benth. X X 

Grewia latifolia X X 

Grewia oxyphylla Burret X X 


232


Grewia retusifolia X X 

Triumfetta pentandra A.Rich.* X 

Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq.* X X 

Stackhousiaceae Stackhousia intermedia F.M.Bailey X 

Stackhousia viminea Sm. X 

Stemonuraceae Gomphandra australiana X 

Sterculiaceae Argyrodendron polyandrum L.S.Sm. X X 

Heritiera littoralis Dryand. X X 

Sterculia quadrifida R.Br. X X 

Sterculia shillinglawii subsp. shillinglawii (Rare) X 

Sterculia sp. (Annan River L.J.Brass 20319) X X 

Stylidiaceae Stylidium alsinoides R.Br. X X 

Stylidium schizanthum F.Muell. X 

Stylidium tenerum Spreng. X 

Surianaceae Suriana maritima L. X X 

Taccaceae Tacca leontopetaloides (L.) Kuntze X X X 

Thymelaeaceae Phaleria octandra (L.) Baill. X X 

Thecanthes cornucopiae (Vahl) Wikstr. X 

Wikstroemia indica (L.) C.A.Mey. X X X 

Turneraceae Turnera ulmifolia L.* X 

Ulmaceae Celtis paniculata (Endl.) Planch. X X 

Celtis philippensis Blanco var. philippensis X X 

Trema tomentosa (Roxb.) Hara var. tomentosa X 

Trema tomentosa var. aspera (Brongn.) Hewson X X 

Urticaceae Laportea interrupta (L.) Chew X 

Nothocnide repanda (Blume) Blume X 

Pipturus argenteus (G.Forst.) Wedd. X X 

Pouzolzia zeylanica (L.) Benn. X 

Verbenaceae Lantana camara L.* X X 

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl* X X 

Violaceae Hybanthus enneaspermus (L.) F.Muell. X X X 

Viscaceae Viscum articulatum Burm.f. X 

Vitaceae Ampelocissus acetosa (F.Muell.) Planch. X X 

Cayratia acris (F.Muell.) Domin X X 

Cayratia cardiophylla Jackes X X 

Cayratia clematidea (F.Muell.) Domin X X 

Cayratia maritima Jackes X X 

Cayratia trifolia (L.) Domin X X 

Cissus adnata Roxb. X X 

Cissus aristata Blume (Vulnerable) X 

Cissus opaca F.Muell. X X 

Cissus reniformis Domin X X 

Cissus repens Lam. X X 

Leea indica (Burm.f.) Merr. X X 

Xyridaceae Xyris complanata R.Br. X X X 

Zingiberaceae Alpinia caerulea (R.Br.) Benth. X X 


233


Alpinia sp. X 

Curcuma australasica Hook.f. X X X 

Globba marantina L. (Rare) X 

Kaempferia sp. (Murray Island M.Lawrie 5) X 

Zingiber officinale Roscoe* X 

Zingiber zerumbet (L.) Sm.* X 

Zygophyllaceae Tribulopis solandri R.Br. X 

Tribulus cistoides L. X X 


234

Appendix 2 - Vegetation Communities and Regional Ecosystems

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