Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variety of all life forms - the different plants, animals and micro-organisms, the genes they contain, and the ecosystems of which they form a part. It is not static, but constantly changing; it is increased by genetic changes and evolution and reduced by habitat degradation, population decline and extinction.
Queensland has a remarkably varied climate and this is reflected in our wildlife and landscapes. Queensland has the greatest variety of plant groupings, animals and landscapes in Australia and is one of the most biologically diverse places on earth.
Queensland is home to 70 per cent of Australia's native mammals (210 species), 80 per cent of native birds (594 species), just over half of the nation's native reptiles (429) and native frogs (114), and 11 074 native plant species.
Biodiversity is vital for a healthy environment and a healthy region, so biodiversity underpins our environment and our economy.
See the Environmental Protection Agency website for more information on biodiversity.
Last updated 22 December 2008