Conospermum galeatum  |  

Conospermum galeatum

Status: Critically Endangered on the EPBC Act list

It forms an open shrub 0.5 to 1m tall. Inflorescences form on diversely branching flower clusters on
stems that are extensions of the branch. The perianth is predominately white with a blue upper lip, is
woolly in appearance, about 5 to 8mm long and forms a hairy tube. The flowering period is between
August and September. The leaves are slender, thread like and slightly incurved.
It has been found in the Shires of Bruce Rock, Narembeen, Kellerberrin, Quairading and Tammin
growing in white or yellow sand.
Little is known on the life history of the species other than it has been noted as being common after
fire.
Circumstantial evidence indicates that it is relatively short lived < 15yrs and may have problems with seed set as it is likely that they rely on a specific native pollinator (due to flower shape). These pollinators are likely to have become very rare due to lack of habitat and suitable food resources. (pers.comm G. Keighery)

Government evidence of impact of climate change:

Expand all Close all
  • Australian Government, Conservation Advice, Conospermum galeatum

    They also increase the fire hazard due to the high fuel loads that are produced annually by many grass weed species.

    If fire were introduced it is unknown if any plants would germinate but given that natural wildfire events are increasingly rare events within the region; germination of soil stored seeds becomes increasingly remote.

    The other sites being unspecific in their exact locations; being narrow weedy road side verges or within the townsite of Kellerberrin are considered to be unsuitable for prescribed burning due to high risk of failure due to current environmental pressures as mentioned above.

    Weeds suppress compete with germinants for soil moisture; nutrients and light and also increase the fire hazard.