Boggomoss Snail, Adclarkia dawsonensis
Problem:
Dam construction,
fires and grazing are threatening the existence of the unique boggomosses of the
Dawson River between Taroom and Theodore. Most of this habitat has been used
for farming and with the proposal to dam the Dawson River, the future of the
Boggomoss Snail is under question.
Background information:
Boggomosses are small,
elevated peat bogs or swamps scattered among dry woodland communities near
Taroom. They are rich in invertebrates and form a vital chain of permanently
moist oases in an otherwise dry environment. The Boggomoss Snail is a part of
the biodiversity of the area. Land snails can reflect the health of whole
communities. Their shell remains can reveal habitat change and pollution over
thousand of years.
Research:
Queensland Museum
scientists have recently documented the fauna of boggomosses. They have
described new species found in them and have called attention to the importance
of the 50 or so boggomosses as refuges for wildlife survival in a hostile
environment.
Solution:
Develop and provide
guidelines and incentives for landowners to reduce the impact of stock and fire
on boggomosses. Reduce the impact of the dam on the total group of
boggomosses. Move the snails to another suitable habitat.
The next species is the Wingless Dung Beetle