Grevillea divaricata (a shrub) - endangered species listing

The Scientific Committee, established by the Threatened Species Conservation Act, has made a Final Determination to list Grevillea divaricata R.Br., a shrub as an ENDANGERED SPECIES on Part 1 of Schedule 1 of the Act. Listing is provided for by Part 2 of the Act.

NSW Scientific Committee - final determination

The Scientific Committee has found that:

1. Grevillea divaricata R.Br. (Proteaceae) is described in the Flora of Australia. Volume 17A. Proteaceae 2, Grevillea. by Makinson (2000), from which the following is taken in full. "Low shrub to 40 cm tall. Leaves entire, well spaced along branchlets, spreading, linear, often gently curved, 0.8-1.3 cm long, 0.5-0.6 mm wide; margins revolute; upper surface scabrid; lower surface enclosed including midvein and 1-grooved, or rarely slightly exposed near leaf base. Conflorescence terminal, simple to 3-branched; unit conflorescence a decurved 1-4 flowered loose cluster, opening uncertain; floral rachis 2-6 mm long, glabrous. Flowers acroscopic. Flower colour: not known, probably red or red and cream. Perianth glabrous outside, bearded inside. Pistil c. 16 mm long; ovary shortly stipitate, glabrous or with a few ascending hairs ventrally on basal half; stipe swollen, c. 0.5 mm long, ventrally tomentose; style glabrous, slightly exserted from late bud; pollen-presenter lateral. Fruit and seed not known".

2. Grevillea divaricata has been considered as representing a depauperate plant of G. rosmarinifolia, however, re-examination of the types indicates that while very closely related, it should be recognised as distinct (Makinson 2000). The differences between G. divaricata and G. rosmarinifolia are described in Makinson (2000).

3. Grevillea divaricata is only known from the Type collection made north of Bathurst. It was last collected in 1823.

4. In view of 2 and 3 above the Scientific Committee is of the opinion that Grevillea divaricata is likely to become extinct in nature in NSW unless the circumstances and factors threatening its survival or evolutionary development cease to operate.

Proposed Gazettal date: 15/06/01
Exhibition period: 15/06/01 - 20/07/01