Extensive and diverse biocrusts protect remnant dunes and flood plains of Bladensburg national park

Bladensburg National Park (22.5033 degrees S, 142.9881 degrees E) is located 17 km south of Winton (NW QLD) and covers approximately 84,900 Ha. The northern section of the park is dominated by Mitchell Grass plains on cracking clays, with scattered small areas of Gidgee woodlands. In the north-western region there are extensive shallowsoil flood plains with low sandy hummocks dominated by Spinifex tussock grasses or 'Eremophila' shrubs. A diverse and unique biocrust system was found covering a broad region including the flood plain (approximately 1000 ha).