Improved conservation status of Atriplex kochiana maiden

Abstract

Five new populations and a significant expansion of the Andamooka opal fields population of Atriplex kochiana have considerably increased the range and known population of this rare saltbush. Evidence from repeated monitoring of these populations has confirmed that A. kochiana is a short-lived saltbush that can regenerate from seed following summer rains. No evidence that either cattle or rabbits had impacted the monitored individuals was detected and regenerating populations on track verges and erosion gutters suggest the species is relatively robust to disturbance.