Olearia ramulosa (Twiggy Daisy Bush)

Aim: Conservation Genomics
Project initiation: Aug 2020
Project lead: Andre Messina | Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Olearia ramulosa var. ramulosa. Reproduced with permission from Andre Messina.


Project description:

The Twiggy Daisy Bush (Olearia ramulosa) is a small shrub with short ‘twiggy’ leaves and white daisy flowers. It occurs in a wide range of habitats throughout south-eastern Australia including Tasmania. Across its distribution there appear to be several localised forms which are likely to be new species that are currently not recognised due to the significant morphological variation within this species complex.

This study will use DNA sequencing methods to help establish taxonomic boundaries, complemented by morphological data, and is likely to reveal new, highly localised species. Recognition as new species may be the first step in the conservation of these cryptic but significant species that have previously been overlooked. This pivotal work will ensure they are not lost before we know of their existence.