Grevillea obtusiflora
Overview
Grevillea obtusiflora is a shrub in the family Proteaceae, native to Australia. Like other members of its genus, it produces the toothbrush-like or spider-like flower clusters characteristic of Grevillea, which attract nectar-feeding birds and insects that act as pollinators. These flowers develop into small woody follicles containing seeds.
The plant's foliage and structure contribute to the understorey composition of the forest and shrubland communities it inhabits, offering shelter and forage resources within these ecosystems.
The species occurs in restricted areas of Australia, where it is associated with forest and shrubland habitats, often on particular soil types within its range. Its distribution is limited, contributing to its conservation concern.
Grevillea obtusiflora is listed as Endangered, with an assessed population trend that is currently stable. It faces ongoing pressure from livestock farming and ranching, which can lead to trampling, grazing damage, and soil disturbance in its habitat. Other ecosystem modifications, such as land clearing or alterations to vegetation structure, further reduce suitable habitat.
Altered fire regimes, including both inappropriate burning frequency and fire suppression, also threaten the species, as many Australian shrubland plants depend on specific fire intervals for seed release and regeneration.
Conservation measures for threatened Grevillea species in Australia typically include habitat protection within reserves, monitoring of known populations, management of grazing pressure, and the development of fire regimes suited to the species' regeneration needs. Seed banking and translocation may also be used to safeguard genetic material.
Given its stable population trend under current management, the species' outlook is cautiously steady, though its restricted range and ongoing habitat pressures mean continued monitoring and management are necessary to prevent future decline.
Grevillea obtusiflora is mainly threatened by ongoing livestock grazing, which can trample and damage plants and their habitat, along with broader changes to the surrounding ecosystem that alter the conditions it needs to survive. Fire, along with efforts to control or suppress it, also poses a continuing risk, potentially disrupting the natural cycles the plant relies on. These threats are currently ongoing and appear to be stable rather than clearly increasing or decreasing.
Habitat
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PROTEACEAE
Threatened in Australia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Grevillea obtusiflora classified as Endangered?
Where does Grevillea obtusiflora live?
What are the main threats to Grevillea obtusiflora?
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