Cyperaceae

Experimental translocations of the threatened New Zealand plants Carex inopinata Cook (Cyperaceae) and Simplicia laxa Kirk (Poaceae)

Carex inopinata Cook (Cyperaceae) and Simplicia laxa Kirk (Poaceae) are two threatened ‘grassy’ plants that generally occur in dry grassland and rock outcrop habitats. However, the restriction of these species to such areas may indicate relict habitats. We tested this idea by translocating both species to Ōrokonui Ecosanctuary, near Dunedin. Carex inopinata was translocated to two sites (moderately- and highly-shaded) in 2010 and Simplicia laxa was translocated in 2011, but only to one site due to insuf cient propagated material.