The Wimmera spider-orchid grows to 25 cm high with a single leaf and a single, pale yellow flower, variably red striped. Endemic to Victoria, this species is known from five populations from around Kiata and an estimated 700 individuals, though may have had a historical distribution that included the broader Wimmera region of western Victoria. The Wimmera spider-orchid occurs in Callitris sp. and Eucalyptus leucoxylon woodland in sandy loams derived from Tertiary and Quaternary wind deposits. Rubbish dumping, trampling and track maintenance are threats to this species.
Wimmera Spider-orchid |
Caladenia lowanensis
Status: Endangered on the EPBC Act list
Government evidence of impact of climate change:
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Australian Government, Conservation Advice, Caladenia lowanensis
Fire Timing and frequency potential The influence of fire on the life history of the Wimmera spider orchid is unknown (Todd 2000).
Too frequent fire or aseasonal fires may pose a threat by altering the habitat; removing organic surface materials and negatively impacting pollinators and mycorrhizal agents.