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A consistent vegetation classification for wetland conservation and management in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia

Yiwen Chen , Matthew Colloff , Michael Doherty, Jamie Pittock

Abstract

Context Wetland classifications aid decision making for conservation purposes. Multiple classifications exist for the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia, including the Australian National Aquatic Ecosystem (ANAE) classification and ones for each Basin State. The Basin ANAE classification lacks clear definitions of wetland types and is misaligned with international conservation frameworks. Most State-based classifications cannot be used to support wetland management at Basin-scale. Aims Our objective was to provide a simple, consistent, standardised classification of wetlands for the Basin to support for decision making on conservation policy and management. Methods We assessed the applicability and compatibility of existing classifications. We merged datasets of vegetation communities from each Basin State into vegetation classes used by New South Wales, which represents the most consistent and logically structured framework. We mapped wetland extent within protected areas and areas that receive managed environmental flows. Key results We identified nine major wetland types. Only 8% of their extent was within protected areas and 12% within the actively managed floodplain. Conclusions Basin wetlands are poorly protected and continue to rely on occasional high, natural, unregulated flows for their persistence. Implications Our synthesis presents a consistent typology of wetlands that can be used to improve conservation policy and management.

MF24205  Accepted 18 February 2025

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