Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia
The Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia is a temperate grassland in the southeast of South Australia that stretches from Orroroo in the north, to Strathalbyn in the south, just straddling the eastern fringes of Adelaide's Mount Lofty Ranges. Listed as Critically Endangered under the EPBC Act, the grasslands predominantly feature Iron-grasses (Lomandra species).
| Iron-grass Natural Temperate Grassland of South Australia | |
|---|---|
A sloped grassy field near Burra | |
| Ecology | |
| Realm | Australasia |
| Biome | Temperate grasslands, savannas, and shrublands |
| Borders |
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| Geography | |
| Area | 50 km2 (19 sq mi) |
| Country | Australia |
| Elevation | 50–500 metres (160–1,640 ft) |
| Coordinates | 33°50′0″S 138°36′0″E |
| Climate type | Mediterranean climate (Csa) Semi-arid climate (BSk) |
| Soil types | Loam, clay |
The community is found in smooth slopes of low-level hills, and in wide valleys with elevations from 50 m (160 ft) to more than 500 m (1,600 ft) above sea level, covering most of the Mid North area and Clare Valley. They are distinguished from other grasslands of southeastern Australia because they are frequently dominated by Lomandra species (Iron-grasses) which are tussocks in the Asparagaceae family, rather than actual grasses.