Biodiversity is the term given to the variety of life on Earth. Biodiversity comprises all the millions of different species that live on our planet, as well as the genetic differences within species. It also refers to the multitude of different ecosystems in which species form unique communities, interacting with one another and the air, water and soil.
Australia is home to large numbers of species that occur nowhere else in the world. The Dubbo region is home to an extraordinarily diverse range of native plants, with over 1,300 species recorded. More than 55 of these plant species are on display within the Biodiversity Garden.
The clearance of mature bushland and the consequent occurrence of dryland salinity is a threat to our local biodiversity. Some native plant species have been lost and others pushed close to extinction.
The Biodiversity Garden at the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden supports native plant conservation through education. The major plant communities of the Dubbo region are represented in the garden. As visitors wander through the garden, they gain an insight into the diversity of native plants living in grassy white box woodlands, in wetlands and on rocky volcanic slopes.
The natural wild spaces represented within the garden have vibrant complex ecosystems. Where possible the garden has been allowed to mimic the natural cycles and processes present in the wild. Plant species have been allowed to propagate themselves. Dead trees have been left in place to return nutrients to the soil and provide habitat for bugs, birds and lizards.
The success of this approach is reflected in the variety of small native birds which are attracted to the Biodiversity Garden. The garden is often alive with birdsong.
This "safe" area of wilderness with its representative plant communities provides an exciting and informative outdoor classroom for a wide range of curriculum -linked school programs.
By Ian McAlister & Karen Hagan