Explore Moreton Bay Flora

Fun Facts about Flora and Fauna of Moreton Bay:

• Moreton Bay is home to over 1000 species of plants, including mangroves, eucalyptus trees, and wildflowers.

• The bay serves as a critical habitat for a variety of marine life, such as dolphins, dugongs, and sea turtles.

• Over 350 species of birds have been recorded in the Moreton Bay region, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

• The bay is also known for its diverse fish species, making it a popular destination for recreational fishing.

• Moreton Bay is a breeding ground for humpback whales, which migrate through the area annually.

• Mangroves: Moreton Bay is home to extensive mangrove forests, which provide crucial habitat for juvenile fish and crabs. These trees can live in saltwater and are known for their complex root systems that stabilize the coastline and filter water.

• Seagrass Meadows: The Southern Tapeweed (Posidonia australis) and other seagrass species are abundant in Moreton Bay, supporting large populations of marine animals like dugongs and sea turtles. Seagrass meadows are essential for marine ecosystems as they act as underwater nurseries.

• Saltmarshes: Saltmarshes in Moreton Bay are made up of salt-tolerant plants like Samphire and Sporobolus virginicus. These plants grow in intertidal zones and help prevent erosion, while providing habitat for shorebirds.

• Casuarina Trees: The Casuarina (She-oak) trees found in coastal areas are uniquely adapted to salty, sandy soils and offer shade and shelter for various animal species.

• Rainforests: On the islands of Moreton Bay, such as North Stradbroke Island, you can find patches of coastal rainforests where hoop pines, eucalypts, and fig trees thrive, creating unique ecosystems separate from the sandy beaches.