New plant species discovered in Perth

• Rare plant finding in metropolitan area

• First significant botanical discovery in Perth in six years

Scientists have discovered a new plant species in suburban Kenwick in the most significant botanical find in the Perth metropolitan area since 2005.

The new species of Ptilotus (Mulla Mulla) was reported in the latest edition of the scientific journal Nuytsia, published this week.  The plant was discovered late last year by botanical consultant Cate Tauss while she was working on behalf of the V&C Semeniuk Research Group.

Environment Minister Bill Marmion said Ms Tauss found the new species while surveying the vegetation of a variety of habitats found at and near the Brixton Street Wetlands in Kenwick.

"It has been named Ptilotus christineae in recognition of scientist Christine Semeniuk's contribution to the study of wetland environments across the State," Mr Marmion said.

"While the discovery of new plant species in Western Australia is not uncommon - with about 80 new species of plants discovered every year - finding one just 14km from the Perth central business district is extremely rare.

"The species also has some significant challenges to deal with, including drying of the wetlands, weeds and pest animals."

      Fact File

• For more information, contact the WA Herbarium on 9219 8481 or visit the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) website http://www.dec.wa.gov.au

• Nuytsia is a peer-reviewed journal publishing original papers and short communications regarding Australian (particularly WA) plants, algae and fungi

• In 2011 Nuytsia commenced open access online publishing to enable more frequent publication of papers, with up to 12 small issues released online every year

• Attached picture courtesy of DEC

Minister's office - 9220 5000