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The flowers of Waratahs, Telopea speciosissima (family Proteaceae) are regularly harvested illegally from natural bushland, particularly close to urban areas such as the New South Wales Central Coast. The removal of Waratah blooms from the wild may have implications for the long-term survival of local populations because of the interaction between wildfire events, subsequent flowering and limited seedling recruitment opportunities. To reduce the incidence of theft, blue acrylic paint was applied to blooms to reduce their commercial value. The painting of blooms in 2004 did not significantly reduce the incidence of wildflower theft when compared to unpainted blooms, but overall losses were lower (27%) than in 2003 (33%). However, painting of blooms had a deleterious affect on fruit production on plants with multiple heads with painted blooms having significantly reduced fruit set compared to unpainted blooms. Painting of blooms had no significant effect on seed quality (seed production per fruit, seed germination or seedling vigour) when compared to unpainted blooms. The painting of Waratah blooms to reduce theft was relatively ineffective and decreased fruit production. Alternative strategies should be considered to reduce wildflower theft in the area.
A resurvey (previously surveyed 2003–04) of the northern metapopulation of the listed Vulnerable shrub Astrotricha crassifolia (family Araliaceae) near Gosford, New South Wales, revealed six additional small subpopulations nearby, bringing to nine the total number, all in Brisbane Water National Park. While the stem count of the previously measured sites remained largely the same, the discovery of further subpopulations has increased the total known stem number to 1211 stems, with an area of occupancy of only 385 m2. The majority (nearly 80%) of these subpopulations are very small, directly adjacent to roads, and remain vulnerable to park management and maintenance practices. Astrotricha crassifolia is surviving due to its successful rhizomatous growth, but may not be reproducing from seed. This paper recommends some changes to management to reduce potential threats.