Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 6.14:
Bullrushes/Cumbungi. Three species of Cumbungi occur in Australia: Narrow Leaf Cumbungi
Typha domingensis
and Broadleaf Cumbungi
Typha orientalis
(pictured)
,
both of which are native and
Typha
latifolia
which is an exotic species that is now found in some parts of Victoria. (Photo by John Tann)
Threats and their management
The removal of native vegetation around farms dams can have a significant impact
on both water quality and wildlife habitat suitability.
1
This problem can be
compounded by unregulated livestock grazing and/or uncontrolled stock access to
water. The way to address this problem is to halt or limit native vegetation clearing
around farm dams and replant appropriate native vegetation where cover is
limited. In addition, gates and fences can be used to control stock access to water or
water can be piped to nearby troughs.
Two other potential threats to wildlife around farm dams can be readily
managed. First, the use of barbed wire in fences around farm dams can snag and
kill flying or gliding animals. For those fences where it is not feasible to exchange
barbed wire for straight wire, it can be useful to enclose barbed wire in a poly-pipe
covering or increase its visibility by tying flagging tape to the barbed rung. Second,
the removal of weeds is often needed as part of restoring waterways on farms.
Many herbicides (e.g. products using a Picloram/Triclopyr mix) are toxic to aquatic
organisms and are not allowed to be used within a minimum distance from a
