Distribution, habitat characteristics and conservation status of lepidium hyssopifolium desv. (brassicaceae) in Tasmania

Lepidium hyssopifolium Desv. (Soft Peppercress) is a threatened vascular plant that is widespread in eastern Tasmania. It is virtually restricted to anthropogenic habitats such as disturbed grassy road verges and the drip-zone of mature ornamental conifers, with very few sites in “natural” habitat (presumed to be some form of native grassland and grassy woodland). A review of database and herbarium collections revealed 87 locations for the species in Tasmania, of which 33 are locally extinct, 30 are of uncertain status and 24 are confirmed as extant. Most subpopulations are localised and of low abundance. The species appears to be resilient and robust to most forms of disturbance, although is absent from areas subject to heavy grazing. Removal of overtopping ornamental trees appears to result in local extinction in the longer term. Complex management of sites along road verges is not considered warranted but continuation of some long-term monitoring at a limited number of sites and active in situ management to minimise risk of heavy disturbance or destruction during road works is appropriate. A review of the formal conservation status of the species suggests that a status of vulnerable under the Tasmanian Threatened Species Protection Act 1995 may be appropriate but that more detailed population information is recommended before a change of status from endangered is made.

Keywords:

Lepidium hyssopifolium, Brassicaceae, threatened, endangered, vulnerable, distribution, habitat, conservation, Tasmania.