Vegetation survey of Queensland: central western Queensland
1991
Nelder, V.J. (Queensland Dept. of Primary Industries, Brisbane (Australia). Botany Branch)
Central western Queensland covers an area of 27.23 million hectares, and experiences a predominantly arid climate, typified by low and unreliable rainfall and high evaporation. Nine major soils groups are recognised for the area. Vegetation of the area is dominated by Astrebla spp. tussock grasslands in north-east, north-west and east, Triodia basedowii and-or Zygochloa paradoxa hummock grasslands in south-east, Eucalyptus spp. low open-woodlands and Triodia spp. hummock grasslands in Mt. Isa highlands, and Acacia spp. low open-woodlands and tall open-shrublands on residual plateaus, scarps, pediments and sand plains throughout the area. Flora consists of predominantly arid Australian species and is similar to adjacent regions in central Australia. Forbs (36 percent of total flora) and graminoides (20 percent) are dominant forms in the area, and most of these life forms are annual drought evading plants (ephemerals). The moisture regime is the most significant factor affecting plant distribution and growth in the area. Land use is briefly discussed. The majority of land is productive and relatively stable, although soil erosion and pasture degradation has occurred in some areas.
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