The aquatic ecosystem of the lower Lachlan River catchment has been greatly modified since European settlement, by river regulation, agricultural land uses and the introduction of non-native species. Species have declined in their numbers and distribution, some to the point where they are now listed as threatened.

The aquatic ecological community in the natural drainage system of the lower Lachlan River catchment is listed as an endangered ecological community in NSW. This means that it is likely to become extinct in nature in NSW unless the circumstances and factors threatening its survival or evolutionary development cease to operate. The listing of the lowland Lachlan River aquatic ecological community has several legal implications, including the establishment of heavy penalties for harming species that form part of the ecological community without appropriate authority. Impacts on the ecological community must be considered during development assessment processes, and the NSW Department of Primary Industries may prepare a recovery plan for the endangered ecological community.

The contents of this Primefact include the following:

• Description
• Habitat and ecology
• Reasons why the aquatic ecological community is endangered
• Recovery actions that are underway
• Legal implications
• Further reading
• Contact details for further information