Notes on aquatic fauna dieback following hot conditions in wallum swampland
Background:
Beerwah scientific reserve experienced moderately high temperatures with high humidity (>32c, >80% humidity) on 22/01/2023. Multiple recent high-intensity fire moved through the area (between 09/22 and 11/22) which significantly reduced the depth and thickness of vegetation over the water. Whilst this is a relatively natural process and temperatures are not above those expected during summer months, high mortality was observed that evening, perceived to be directly correlated to hot weather and reduced shade.
Species recorded dead
On pools in or immediately adjacent to track (water depth <1 foot):
- Tadpoles with rear legs formed. Probably either Litoria nasuta or L. freycineti, both species sen previously chorusing around the same pools. Estimated 7-10 observed dead.
- Cherax depressus, found freshly dead immediately outside burrow.
In flooded wallum heath (water depth <1 foot):
- Gobiomorphus australis, multiple (3) found dead in shallow, flooded wallum heath.
- Tenuibranchiurus glypticus, found during dipnetting. Smaller individual, was unable to determine sex.
