Limestone Coast, South Australia
A karstic aquifer stretching 400km from the Coorong to the Victorian border, the Limestone Coast of South Australia lives up to its name; crystal clear waters fill sinkholes that pepper the landscape, drawing people from around the world to swim, dive or simply marvel upon these windows to the underworld.
Migratory birds fly from the northern hemisphere for this once reliable freshwater source and feeding ground.
Groundwaters sustaining life above and below ground
Other life is drawn to the RAMSAR wetlands sustained by groundwater - migratory birds find respite from their long journey from as far away as Siberia. And underground, a diverse and undocumented groundwater fauna are expected to be discovered, with only a few species currently described.
GReG team member Nicole Fechner sampling stygofauna with haul net and hand reel
Precarious subterranean life
Regrettably, the subterranean waters that sustain these natural wonders are being degraded. Historic land clearing, continued water extraction for agriculture, and extensive, water-hungry timber plantations have seen a massive recent drop in groundwater levels. The ongoing drought is emphasising the imbalance between economic and environmental needs.
The contrast of a 5 metre strip of roadside remnant native vegetation on the left and the many hectarce blocks of pine plantation on the right.
Improved monitoring of these groundwaters and their subterranean communities will be critical to understanding the changes occurring, ensuring these vital groundwaters are safeguarded and sustained for all life.