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Celebrating biodiversity: New species discovered on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

Good News Post

Aug 6, 2024 — 1 min read

Photo supplied Australia Zoo

By Jill Dando News

Two new plant species have been discovered on the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve.

The findings are according to Paulo Baleeiro, a PhD student at The University of Queensland and Dr. Richard Jobson, a Senior Research Scientist at the National Herbarium of NSW in Sydney.

One of the newly discovered species is Utricularia irwinica, named in honour of the reserve, highlighting its rich biodiversity and significance for scientific research.

The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, spanning 330,000 acres of untouched wilderness, is home to an array of rare and endangered species.

Mr. Baleeiro's PhD research, focusing on the phylogenetics and population genetics of Australian Eriocaulon, led to this significant discovery.

Utricularia irwinica is a carnivorous plant with deep cream-white flowers and mauve markings. The second species discovered is Eriocaulon insectum, or Pipewort, featuring golden flower heads.

Wildlife conservationist Terri Irwin said, "These findings highlight the rich biodiversity of the reserve and underscore the importance of our conservation efforts.

It emphasizes the critical need to protect and study our planet's unique yet threatened flora and fauna species."

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The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve is currently home to over 40 species of conservation significance, including the palm cockatoo, saltwater crocodile, and red goshawk.

It's also where the Australia Zoo and Wildlife Warriors team conducts annual crocodile research.

To find out more about Wildlife Warriors and how you can help, visit www.wildlifewarriors.org.au.

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"Discovering and sharing the wonders of Queensland fills me with pride. With countless species still to be found, the role of taxonomy becomes indispensable," said Paulo Baleeiro.