Speaker – Dr Col Bower, botanist and ecologist.
Gaanha bula (Mt Canobolas) is a volcanic inselberg harbouring isolated occurrences of subalpine vegetation communities. The long isolation of Gaanha bula has facilitated the evolution of new species making it a biodiversity hotspot within the Central West. Ten endemic species are currently known, and other plants are likely to be new undescribed endemic species. Col will discuss his extensive research into a Bluebell (Wahlenbergia) found on the mountain. Come along and hear about his research techniques, including travelling far and wide in NSW, and whether the ‘Canobolas Bluebell’ is indeed a new endemic species, or simply a variant of another more widespread species.
Orange Field Naturalist & Conservation Society Inc. 