Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 4.16: Native grasslands provide habitat for the endangered Golden Sun Moth, which needs Wallaby
Grass to complete its life cycle. Invasion of weeds and overgrazing by sheep and cattle threaten this
endangered insect. (Photo by Suzi Bond)
way this problem has been addressed has been to apply carbon to pastures (in the
form of sugar). 46 This may be feasible over only relatively small areas, however, and
might not be financially or logistically practical over extensive paddocks.
Because native pastures can sometimes be overlooked, they can be threatened
by inappropriate tree establishment programs such as plantations of exotic tree
species (e.g. Radiata Pine). Plantings of native woodland trees have occasionally
Box 4.6.
The economic benefits of native grasses
It is increasingly recognised that native grasses can have economic benefits for the
bottom line on a farm as well as substantial ecological benefits. Many species of
native grasses have comparable levels of protein to some traditional exotic pasture
species. Native grasses, particularly perennials, are better adapted to acidic and
saline soils than pastures dominated by exotic grasses, as well as being more
drought-tolerant and persistent under adverse seasonal conditions. 44 For example,
on the South West Slopes of New South Wales, few exotic pasture species are able
to take advantage of summer rain. In contrast, native grasses can respond rapidly
after just a few millimetres of rain, and provide quality feed for livestock at a time
when it would otherwise be scarce. Finally, the establishment of swards of native
grasses (e.g. Kangaroo Grass) can help control exotic weed species. 45
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