The Jarrahmond Landcare Group is closing in on a remarkable environmental milestone, with members documenting nearly 2000 species of plants and animals within their local area.
As part of their ongoing citizen science project, LANCANASTAR (Landcare Nature Study Area), the group recently announced at a general meeting that they have recorded 1908 species – just 92 short of their 2000-species goal.
This achievement is based on an impressive 9808 individual observations contributed by 235 people.
Using the online platform iNaturalist, the group has spent several years logging and identifying species across the Jarrahmond landscape.
While the project is an enjoyable and engaging activity for participants, it also contributes valuable data to the broader scientific community.
For context, Victoria is home to approximately 22,162 recorded species, placing the group’s efforts in an impressive statewide perspective.
Nearby, the Marlo Landcare Group has also made significant progress in its own study area, documenting 1535 species from 7625 observations by 440 contributors – a strong demonstration of regional engagement in biodiversity monitoring.
Importantly, these observations are not limited to local residents.
Visitors to the area regularly contribute, adding to the richness of the dataset.
A recent highlight includes the identification of an extremely rare butterfly species never before recorded in the area.
This discovery has already attracted butterfly enthusiasts and experts to Jarrahmond, further showcasing the region’s ecological significance.
Data collected through iNaturalist is used by researchers to better understand local ecosystems and monitor environmental change over time – making community contributions critically important.
Beyond the scientific value, the project fosters a deeper appreciation of the natural world and highlights the complexity and wonder of life in the region.
The group extends a special thanks to Vik from Jarrahmond for compiling and presenting the milestone data.
To learn more about local Landcare activities, visit the Far East Victoria Landcare website.
