Distribution, habitat and conservation status of the rare dusky hopping-mouse, Notomys fuscus (Rodentia : Muridae)

Abstract

The distribution, habitat and conservation status of Notomys fuscus were determined by collating past records of the species and conducting field investigations covering areas of historical distribution and similar habitats. Detailed population sampling was carried out in two geographically distinct locations where populations appeared to be extant. Evidence of N. fuscus was found throughout the Strzelecki Desert east and south of the Strzelecki Creek in South Australia and in an isolated group of dunes south-east of the Diamantina River in south-west Queensland. Populations were located in a variety of sand dune habitats (excepting those dominated by Triodia) throughout these areas, implying that the species is a habitat-generalist with a preference for a sandy substrate. Eight floristic groups were identified from the 66 sites sampled, three of which supported N. fuscus populations. These ranged from extremely degraded dune and sand plain systems in the southern Strzelecki Desert, supporting mostly ephemeral plants, to well-vegetated dunes covered by sandhill canegrass,Zygochloa paradoxa, in south-west Queensland. However, the results suggest that the presence of consolidated dunes and perennial vegetation are important for the maintenance of stable populations. Relatively dense populations of N. fuscus were recorded only in the vicinity of major drainage systems. It is hypothesised that the higher nutrient status of the soils surrounding such systems may be an important factor affecting the distribution of N. fuscus. The study reaffirmed the species’ decline since European settlement of Australia, and recommends that the present vulnerable status of the species (IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) Rodent Specialist Group) be maintained.