Spinifex Dune - QLD

Spinifex, also known as Triodia Basedowii is a perennial grass that is well conditioned to arid environments. This grass species occurs predominantly in the north of the park, and in regard to the QAA Line – occurs in the few dunes around this particular location. The Spinifex leaves have waxy cuticles that are also curled, reducing the surface area as to help limit water loss in the desert heat. Spinifex eventually tends to clump together in a large ring-like shape and this is usually a way to determine its approximate age. Spinifex also has a spiky exterior to provide a deterrent to predators hunting for small prey hiding amongst the spikes.