Benefits of Native Grasses

Native grasses have adapted to the many soil types and climates throughout our great continent, and our native fauna has evolved to live with our native grasses. Some insects that rely on our native grasses are threatened with extinction because of the loss of suitable grassy landscapes.

Once common, the Golden Sun Moth relies on common Wallaby and Spear grasses across south-eastern Australia, but agriculture has fragmented these grassy ecosystems, and the Golden Sun Moth is now found on only 65 sites and is now listed as critically endangered.

Key’s Matchstick Grasshopper was once widespread in NSW, ACT and north-central Victoria. Its habitat is Themeda Grasslands and woodlands, and it feeds mainly on native daisies. Its range has been reduced by about 96% due to loss of habitat.

Endangered Insects and Animals

Insects are not the only victim of the loss of our grasslands. Reptiles, mammals, birds and plants have suffered similar fates due to the removal of our grassy ecosystems, for example the Plains Wanderer, a small critically endangered bird found only in grasslands. The Eastern Barred Bandicoot is now considered extinct in the wild due to habitat loss and predation by introduced predators like foxes and cats. Other species in a similar situation include the Grassland Earless Dragon, Striped Legless Lizard, Fat-tailed Dunnart and Smoky Mouse. Many plants have suffered a similar fate, but many important native grasses and wildflowers can be re-introduced to your revegetation project or even you garden!

Although not rare like the species above, many other native animals rely on native grasses for food and cover. It is possible to create valuable habitat using native grasses on small or large scales.

In a time of global warming, native grasslands have been found to sequester significant amounts of carbon, in fact they have been found to store more than pastures dominated by exotic, or non-native grass species and can be part of a valuable strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Cultural and Economic Value

Australian native grasses also have a growing economic and cultural importance. They are increasingly used in landscaping and urban design for their drought tolerance and aesthetic appeal, particularly in areas seeking to reduce water use and promote native flora. Some species are also being explored for their potential as a sustainable grain crop. This aligns with efforts to revitalise traditional ecological knowledge and create more sustainable agricultural systems rooted in Australia’s unique natural heritage.