The University of Queensland-led study has compiled a data set, listing the threats to Australian species from habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation.
Michelle Ward, a PhD candidate at UQ’s School of Earth and Environmental Sciences said while it painted a grim picture for many plants and animals, it was not all bad news.
“This information can improve the conservation of some of Australia’s most endangered plants and animals by providing conservation managers with more precise data to better direct their efforts,” Ms Ward said.
“This information can improve the conservation of some of Australia’s most endangered plants and animals by providing conservation managers with more precise data to better direct their efforts,” Ms Ward said.
“The database has been distributed to federal and state governments and conservation groups.
“It brings together knowledge from experts across Australia and it has a range of applications – not only to prioritise conservation work, but also to assess when developments might have significant impacts on species.”
The list includes an in-depth analysis of almost 1800 plants and animals listed as threatened under Australian Commonwealth law – including 1339 plants and 456 animals.