Floristic variation in Sphagnum-dominated peatland communities of the Central Highlands, Victoria

The floristic composition of Sphagnum-dominated peatlands in the Central Highlands region of Victoria was surveyed (37º 25´ S; 145º 50´ E). NMDS ordination and cluster analysis divided the peatland sites into two broad groups with altitude being the most important factor separating these groups. Other important factors were aspect, slope and the amount of shade. Group 1 included subalpine sites that are similar to those found at higher altitudes further east in Victoria. Important species included Empodisma minus, Epacris paludosa, Richea continentis and Baeckea gunniana. The two species of Sphagnum present were Sphagnum cristatum and the more inundation-tolerant Sphagnum novozelandicum. Group 2 included montane peatlands with abundant Sphagnum cristatum. These sites range from broad wet heaths dominated by Richea victoriana and Carex appressa, to narrower cool temperate rainforest and riparian systems. The ‘rainforest’ peatlands are characterised by Leptospermum grandifolium, Nothofagus cunninghamii, Carex appressa and Blechnum penna-marina, and are in varying stages of post-fire succession regulated by sitespecific microclimate. The conservation status and catchment function of these peatlands are briefly discussed