Subterranean ecosystems, which exist underground, are known for being highly biodiverse – but also under-sampled and under-sequenced. Our Manager of Molecular Systematics, Dr Joel Huey, has recently contributed to a research paper which provides a roadmap for developing and curating barcode reference libraries for subterranean ecosystems.
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Walpole’s wilderness is stunningly beautiful, unique, and teeming with life.
A group scouring leaf litter in the Tingle forest in search of invertebrates.
But although its forests, heathlands, and coastline ecosystems are home to some of the rarest species on the planet, they face many threats and need to be studied and protected through conservation.
In early October, more than 240 people came together for the 5th annual Walpole Wilderness Bioblitz, recording and celebrating the magnificent plants and animals that they found.
Coordinated by the Walpole Nornalup National Park Association, the Bioblitz saw local community members, scientists, families, and students adventuring deep into the bush to take photos and record information on the thousands of species that live there.
A pygmy possum drew lots of attention, and photographs!
As an area that’s historically been poorly surveyed, the findings contribute crucial habitat and population data that is used to support better land management and decision making for such a precious environment.
In 2025, the event had a particular focus on invertebrates, such as the Roly-Poly millipede, and the ancient Tingle Spider, with citizen scientists capturing these and others in almost 3500 observations across the weekend.
Biologic has been supporting the organising and coordinating activities at the Bioblitz events since they began in 2021.
Staff helped share their expert knowledge at hands-on activities like fauna trapping and leaf litter scouting.
Manager of Vertebrate Zoology and Principal Zoologist Ryan Ellis showing citizen scientists a small native frog.
Senior zoologist Katelyn Gibson said helping people discover and enjoy being in and protecting nature made for a great weekend.
“One of the most enjoyable things is seeing the smile on people’s faces when they learn about what we do and show them the critters that we catch.”
Biologic’s Terrestrial Invertebrates Manager and Principal Ecologist Nihara Gunawardene said connecting with so many people and working toward a common goal was really rewarding.
“Being with like-minded people who want to learn about the forest, and how best to protect the forest here, is a great opportunity to contribute to getting to know the biodiversity of this area, which is obviously a very special place.”
View our video from the 2025 Walpole Bioblitz
