enhancing biodiversity hotspots along western ... - South West NRM
enhancing biodiversity hotspots along western ... - South West NRM
enhancing biodiversity hotspots along western ... - South West NRM
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Site 6. Surat – Balonne River<br />
STOCK ROUTE NUMBER: P005<br />
PRIORITY SPECIES: Animals:<br />
Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii).<br />
RATING: BIODIVERSITY HOTSPOT<br />
SHIRE COUNCIL: ROMA REGIONAL COUNCIL<br />
This site contains a large waterhole on the Balonne River that is on the approach to<br />
the town of Surat. It has traditionally been a popular site for Murray cod<br />
(Maccullochella peelii peelii), and similarly to the Charleville area, the cod is an icon<br />
species amongst the locals. Many stock routes converge on Surat and <strong>along</strong> the<br />
Balonne River, but the riparian vegetation of this site is healthy and, until recently,<br />
had supported a colony of little red flying-fox (Pteropus scapulatus) (Plate 60).<br />
Plate 60. Little red flying-fox colony on the Balonne River (Photo: B. Walsh).<br />
THREATS: The major threat to this site are overgrazing by cattle that could reduce<br />
the water quality, overfishing, and introduced carp (Cyprinus carpio) that can<br />
compete with and displace Murray cod.<br />
CURRENT MANAGEMENT: At this site there is monitoring and restocking of Murray<br />
cod undertaken by the Surat Fishing Restocking Club in conjunction with DEEDI. As<br />
with the community in Charleville, this strong local support for Murray cod is<br />
beneficial for the species through monitoring and maintenance of the population.<br />
RECOMMENDATIONS: As for the <strong>biodiversity</strong> <strong>hotspots</strong> for Murray cod on the<br />
Balonne River (sites 6-8, pp. 110-113), it is important to support and maintain the<br />
current actions to conserve Murray cod that are undertaken by the Surat Fishing<br />
Restocking Club and DEEDI.<br />
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