Azorella macquariensis
Azorella macquariensis | |
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A. macquariensis
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Binomial name | |
Azorella macquariensis Orchard[1]
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Azorella selago |
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Azorella macquariensis, also known as Macquarie Azorella or Macquarie Cushions, is a species of cushion plant endemic to Australia’s subantarctic Macquarie Island. It was referred to the more widely distributed A. selago until 1989, when it was described as a separate species.[2]
Description
Azorella macquariensis is a perennial cushion-forming herb. Individuals form cushions and mats that may vary in size from a few centimetres to several metres in diameter and up to 60 cm in height. It is a keystone species dominating Macquarie's feldmark habitat, in which it is the only vascular plant, forming a major structural component of the vegetation. The feldmark community covers about half the island in the most wind-exposed areas of the plateau some 200–400 m above sea level. The plant flowers from December to February and fruits from January to April. It turns brown and ceases to grow during winter (from June to August).[2]
Conservation status
Azorella macquariensis has suffered a catastrophic decline due to dieback from unknown causes, first noticed in December 2008, and is considered to be endangered.[2]
References
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