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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendProposed Development EnvelopeTrackProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214

!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, MorphospeciesXW Copepoda, Copepoda sp. indet._̂ Cyclopoida, Australoeucyclops karaytugiXW Cyclopoida, Cyclopoida sp. indet.#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD001`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops cockingi

")Cyclopoida, Thermocyclops `WAM-CYLT001`

") Cyclopoida, Thermocyclops aberransGF Harpacticoida, Harpacticoida sp. indet.

nmHarpacticoida, Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ001`

kj Amphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`kj Amphipoda, Nedsia sp. indet.^̀ Aphanoneura, Aeolosoma sp. indet.

_̂Oligochaeta, Enchytraeidae `WAM-ENCH002`

XW Oligochaeta, Naididae`WAM NAID002`XW Oligochaeta, Oligochaeta sp. indet.

XWOligochaeta, Pristina longiseta

#*

Ostracoda, Deminutiocandona sp. BOS1149nr atope

GF Ostracoda, Gomphodella `WAM-OSTR001`GF Ostracoda, Ostracoda sp. indet.

Fig. 5.3a: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (Western Range)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km

Greater Paraburdoo Subterranean Fauna Survey

Deminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atopeDiacyclops `WAM-CYLD001`Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops cockingiGomphodella `WAM-OSTR001`Harpacticoida sp. indet.Nedsia sp. indet.Oligochaeta sp. indet.Ostracoda sp. indet.Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ001`Thermocyclops `WAM-CYLT001``Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Aeolosoma sp. indet.Australoeucyclops karaytugiCyclopoida sp. indet.Copepoda sp. indet.Naididae`WAM NAID002`Pristina longisetaThermocyclops aberrans

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendProposed Development EnvelopeTrackProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214Paraburdoo Approved PITS 141218

!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, MorphospeciesXW Copepoda, Copepoda sp. indet._̂ Cyclopoida, Australoeucyclops karaytugiXW Cyclopoida, Cyclopoida sp. indet.#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD001`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops cockingi

#*

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GFHarpacticoida, Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA001`

GF Harpacticoida, Parastenocaris jane



nm Harpacticoida, Schizopera roberiverensis

")Amphipoda, Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB003`

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kj Amphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`$+ Isopoda, Pygolabis `WAM-PYGO001`kj Amphipoda, Nedsia sp. indet.#* Acari, Pezidae sp. indet.^̀ Aphanoneura, Aeolosoma sp. indet.


_̂ Oligochaeta, `Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (2-4)`XW Oligochaeta, Naididae`WAM NAID002`XW Oligochaeta, Oligochaeta sp. indet.

")Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae `WAM-PHRE001`

") Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.") Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae sp. indet.

XW Oligochaeta, Pristina longiseta

#*

Ostracoda, ?Deminutiocandona n.sp.`BOS1158`

#* Ostracoda, Deminutiocandona aporia

#* Ostracoda, Deminutiocandona quasimica

#*


#*

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GF Ostracoda, Gomphodella `WAM-OSTR001`GF Ostracoda, Ostracoda sp. indet.

Fig. 5.3b: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (PBCK and SBF)

¯1:30,0000 0.8 1.60.4

km


Deminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atopeDiacyclops `WAM-CYLD001`Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops cockingiGomphodella `WAM-OSTR001`Harpacticoida sp. indet.Nedsia sp. indet.Oligochaeta sp. indet.Ostracoda sp. indet.Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ001`Thermocyclops `WAM-CYLT001``Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Aeolosoma sp. indet.Australoeucyclops karaytugiCopepoda sp. indet.Cyclopoida sp. indet.Naididae`WAM NAID002`Pristina longisetaThermocyclops aberrans

Abnitocrella halseiBogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB003`Deminutiocandona aporiaDeminutiocandona quasimica`?Deminutiocandona` n.sp. `BOS1160`Diacyclops cockingiDiacyclops humphreysi humphreysiNedsia `WAM-AMPE002`Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA001` Parastenocaris janePezidae sp. indet.Pygolabis `WAM-PYGO001`Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ001`Schizopera roberiverensis`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi?Deminutiocandona n.sp. `BOS1158`Nedsia `hulberti group` indet.Nedsia `WAM-AMPE003`Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `B19`Phreodrilidae `WAM-PHRE001`Phreodrilidae sp. indet.`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Deminutiocandona aporiaDeminutiocandona quasimicaDeminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atope?Deminutiocandona n.sp. `BOS1158`Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysiNedsia sp. indet.Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `B19`Parastenocaris janePhreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002`Schizopera roberiverensis`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore


!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, Morphospecies#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops cockingi

#*


$+ Cyclopoida, Dussartcyclops mortoni

GFHarpacticoida, Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA002`

GF Harpacticoida, Parastenocaris janeGF Harpacticoida, Parastenocaris sp. indet.




") Amphipoda, Nedsia `WAM-AMPE001`

")Amphipoda, Nedsia `hurlberti group` sp. 1spine

") Amphipoda, Nedsia sp. indet.kj Amphipoda, `Pilbarus sp. G`

kj Amphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

kj Amphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP003`GF Syncarida, Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`kj Amphipoda, Nedsia sp. indet.#* Acari, Pezidae sp. indet._̂ Oligochaeta, `Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (2-4)`") Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.

#*

Ostracoda, ?Deminutiocandona n.sp.`BOS1158`



#*


#* Ostracoda, Deminutiocandona stomachosaGF Ostracoda, Gomphodella n.sp. `BOS1156`GF Ostracoda, Limnocythere dorsosiculaGF Ostracoda, Penthesilenula brasiliensis

Fig. 5.3c: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (7MCK and SBF)

¯1:30,0000 0.8 1.60.4

km


Deminutiocandona quasimicaDiacyclops cockingiDiacyclops humphreysi humphreysiParastenocaris sp. indet.`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP003`

Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB002`Deminutiocandona aporiaDeminutiocandona quasimicaDeminutiocandona stomachosaDiacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops cockingiGomphodella n.sp. `BOS1156`Nedsia `hulberti group` indet.Nedsia `WAM-AMPE001`Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002`Schizopera roberiverensis`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001

?Deminutiocandona n.sp. `BOS1158`Deminutiocandona aporiaDeminutiocandona quasimicaDeminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atopeDiacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysiNedsia sp. indet.Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `B19`Parastenocaris janePhreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002`Schizopera roberiverensis`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops cockingiNedsia `hulberti group` indet.Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA002` Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002``Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Deminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atopeDiacyclops humphreysi humphreysiPezidae sp. indet.Pilbarus sp. `B09``Pilbarus sp. G`

Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`Dussartcyclops mortoni`Pilbarus sp. G`

Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi`Pilbarus sp. G`Schizopera roberiverensis

Deminutiocandona aporiaLimnocythere dorsosiculaPenthesilenula brasiliensis

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore


!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, MorphospeciesXW Cyclopoida, Metacyclops sp. B1 nr

pilbaricus

XWCyclopoida, Pescecyclops `WAM-CYLP001`

kj Amphipoda, `Pilbarus sp. G`


_̂ Oligochaeta, Ènchytraeidae sp. E6 (11)`_̂ Oligochaeta, Ènchytraeidae sp. E6 (2-4)`

XW Oligochaeta, Naididae AP1A sp. (Tubificoid)XW Oligochaeta, Oligochaeta sp. indet.


") Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.

Fig. 5.3d: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (ER and Channar)

¯1:45,0000 1 20.5

km


Ènchytraeidae sp. E6 (2-4)Òligochaeta sp. indet.

Ènchytraeidae sp. E6 (11)`Metacyclops sp. B1 nr pilbaricusNaididae AP1A sp. (Tubificoid)Pescecyclops `WAM-CYLP001`Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.Pilbarus sp. `B09``Pilbarus sp. G`

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendTrackParaburdoo Approved PITS 141218

!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, Morphospecies#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops cockingi

#*


_̂ Cyclopoida, Eucyclops australiensisXW Cyclopoida, Metacyclops sp. B1 nr

pilbaricus") Cyclopoida, Microcyclops varicans") Cyclopoida, Paracyclops chiltoni

XWCyclopoida, Pescecyclops `WAM-CYLP001`

GF Harpacticoida, Ameiridae gen. nov. sp. B7

GFHarpacticoida, Parapseudoleptomesochratureei

kj Amphipoda, `Pilbarus sp. G`

kj Amphipoda, `Pilbarus sp. H`

kj Amphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

kjAmphipoda, `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP002`


_̂ Oligochaeta, `Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (11)`

XW Oligochaeta, Naididae AP 5 sp. (Tubificoid)

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") Oligochaeta, Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.

XW Oligochaeta, Pristina `WAM-NAIDP001`

XW Oligochaeta, Pristina longiseta

Fig. 5.3e: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (CHN and TCK)

¯1:60,0000 1.5 30.75

km


Eucyclops australiensisMicrocyclops varicansParacyclops chiltoniPristina longiseta`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

`Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (11)`Metacyclops sp. B1 nr pilbaricusNaididae AP1A sp. (Tubificoid)Pescecyclops `WAM-CYLP001`Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.Pilbarus sp. `B09``Pilbarus sp. G`

Ameiridae gen. nov. sp. B7Diacyclops cockingiDiacyclops humphreysi humphreysiEnchytraeidae `WAM-ENCH001`Naididae AP 5 sp. (Tubificoid)Parapseudoleptomesochra tureei`Pilbarus sp. H``Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP002`

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore


!( Stygo samplingHigher taxon, Morphospecies#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`#* Cyclopoida, Diacyclops cockingi

#*






") Amphipoda, Nedsia `WAM-AMPE001`

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") Amphipoda, Nedsia sp. indet.kj Amphipoda, `Pilbarus sp. G`

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#* Ostracoda, Deminutiocandona stomachosaGF Ostracoda, Gomphodella n.sp. `BOS1156`GF Ostracoda, Vestalenula marmonieri

Fig. 5.3f: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (NBF)

¯1:45,0000 1 20.5

km

Northern Borefield


Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB001`Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysiNedsia sp. indet.`Pilbarus sp. G`Vestalenula marmonieri

Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB002`Deminutiocandona aporiaDeminutiocandona quasimicaDeminutiocandona stomachosaDiacyclops `WAM-CYLD002`Diacyclops cockingiGomphodella n.sp. `BOS1156`Nedsia `hulberti group` indet.Nedsia `WAM-AMPE001`Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002`Schizopera roberiverensis`Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Nedsia sp. indet.`Pilbarus sp. G``Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP001`

Page | 82


5.5 Subterranean fauna potentially restricted to impact areas (all taxa)

Table 5.8 summarises the distribution of all troglofauna and stygofauna species (collected to date

from the Study Area and surrounds) relative to proposed impact areas at the time of writing.

Table 5.8: Distributions of troglofauna and stygofauna species relative to current impact areas.

Inside impact only Inside and outside impact Outside impact only

Troglofauna Araneae `WAM-ARAN001` Cryptops sp. indet. Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003` Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004` Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002` Oniscidae sp. indet. Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001` Scolopendrida sp. indet. Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004` Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002` Symphyella sp. indet. Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001`

Dodecastyla `WAM-ZYGA001` Hemiptera sp. indet. Lophoproctidae ‘Helix clade B’ Lophoturus madecassus Nicoletiidae sp. indet. Phaconeura `WAM-PHAC001` Phaconeura `WAM-PHAC002` Phaconeura sp. indet. Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS002` Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS004`

Armadillidae `WAM-ARMD003` Armadillidae sp. indet. Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD001` Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD002` Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD005` Draculoides `WAM-DRAC001` Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE001` Gracilanillus sp. B10 Japygidae `WAM-DPLJ005` Japygidae sp. indet. Lechytia `WAM-LECYT001` Lepidospora `WAM-ZYGC001` Oliarus? `WAM-CIXO001` Palpigradi `B25`

Pauropoda sp. indet. Protura `WAM-PROT001` Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI002` Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI003` Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI005` Scutigerella sp. indet. Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS002-A` Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS003` Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS005` Troglarmadillo `WAM-ARMD004` Troglarmadillo sp. B67 Tyrannochthonius `WAM-CHTH001` Tyrannochthonius `WAM-CHTH002`

Stygofauna

Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`

Deminutiocandona sp. BOS1149 nr atope Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD002` Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi Dussartcyclops mortoni `Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (2-4)` Ostracoda sp. indet. Parastenocaris jane Pezidae sp. indet. Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l. Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ002` Schizopera roberiverensis

Abnitocrella halsei Aeolosoma sp. 1 Aeolosoma sp. indet. Ameiridae gen. nov. sp. B7 Areacandona sp. 5 Australoeucyclops karaytugi Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB001` Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB002` Bogidiellidae `WAM-AMPB003` Copepoda sp. indet. Cyclopoida sp. indet. Deminutiocandona quasimica Diacyclops `WAM-CYLD001` Diacyclops cockingi Enchytraeidae `WAM-ENCH001` Enchytraeidae `WAM-ENCH002` Enchytraeidae `WAM-ENCH003` `Enchytraeidae sp. E6 (11)` Eucyclops australiensis Gomphodella `WAM-OSTR001` Gomphodella sp. 5 Harpacticoida sp. indet. Metacyclops sp. B1 nr pilbaricus Microcyclops varicans Naididae `WAM NAID002` Naididae AP 1A sp. (Tubificoid) Naididae AP 5 sp. (Tubificoid)

Nedsia `hulberti group` indet. Nedsia `WAM-AMPE001` Nedsia `WAM-AMPE002` Nedsia `WAM-AMPE003` Nedsia sp. 24 Oligochaeta sp. indet. Origocandona inanitas Paracyclops chiltoni Paramelitidae sp. 2 Parapseudoleptomesochra tureei Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA001` Parastenocaris `WAM-PARA002` Parastenocaris sp. indet. Pescecyclops `WAM-CYLP001` Phreodrilidae `WAM-PHRE001` Phreodrilidae `WAM-PHRE002` Phreodrilidae sp. indet. Pilbaracandona sp. 3 Pilbarus millsi Pilbarus `sp. H` Pristina `WAM-NAIDP001` Pristina aequiseta Pristina longiseta Pygolabis paraburdoo (`WAM-PYGO001`) Schizopera `WAM-SCHZ001` Thermocyclops `WAM-CYLT001` Thermocyclops aberrans `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP002` `Yilgarus` `WAM-AMPP003`

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Twelve (12) troglofauna taxa and one (1) stygofauna taxon were recorded only from within

proposed impact areas:

• Araneae `WAM-ARAN001` – Singleton (Western Range);

• Cryptops sp. indet. – Singleton (Western Range);

• Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003` – Singleton (Western Range);

• Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004` – Singleton (Western Range);

• Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002` – Singleton (Paraburdoo);

• Oniscidae sp. indet. – Singleton (Western Range);

• Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001` – Singleton (Western Range);

• Scolopendrida sp. indet. – Putative singleton (Western Range);

• Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004` –Singleton (Western Range);

• Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002` – Singleton (Eastern Range);

• Symphyella sp. indet. – Putative singleton (Western Range);

• Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001` – Known from 4 sites (Western Range); and

• Bathynella `WAM-BATH001` (stygofauna) – Known from 3 sites (Seven-Mile Creek).

Four of these taxa; (Araneae `WAM-ARAN001`, Oniscidae sp. indet., Cryptops sp. indet.,

Scolopendrida sp. indet.) are excluded are excluded from further consideration due to uncertainty

over whether they represent true troglobites, as follows.

Araneae `WAM-ARAN001` was detected from a pale, damaged specimen fragment at a single

site in Western Range. Owing to the condition of the specimen fragment, it was unknown whether

its paleness represented potential troglomorphy, or bycatch of an epigean juvenile/ moulting

specimen. Genetic testing revealed a moderately close match from a terrestrial theridiid spider

collected at Mesa A (10.1% COI, >200 km distance); however, this was not a close enough match

to confirm that the specimen belonged to this species. As the specimen was unable to be

recognised as a troglobite or an SRE, it has been omitted from further consideration.

Similarly, Cryptops sp. indet. and Scolopendrida sp. indet. were detected from pale, damaged

specimen fragments in Western Range. These specimens had sufficient features to show they

belonged to different taxa but lacked the morphological characters to obtain species-level

identifications and confirm troglomorphy. Genetic testing of these specimens failed to obtain a

sequence. As the specimens were unable to be recognised as troglobites or SREs, they were

omitted from further consideration.

Oniscidae sp. indet. was recorded from WAM databases (i.e. a previous survey record from a drill

hole in Western Range), with no additional information regarding troglomorphy, further taxonomic

resolution, or SRE status. The record was collected at a time when the taxonomic knowledge and

consideration of isopods as potential subterranean/ SRE fauna was more limited. As the specimen

was unable to be recognised as a troglobite or an SRE, it was omitted from further consideration.

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The remaining eight (8) troglofauna taxa (Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003` and D. `WAM-

PAUD004`, Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002`, Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`, Scutigellera

`WAM-SCUTI004`, Symphyella ̀ WAM-SYMPH002`, Symphyella sp. indet., and Trinemura ̀ WAM-

ZYGS001`) and one stygofauna taxon (Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`) are regarded as potentially

range-restricted, obligate subterranean fauna. These taxa are known only from within potential

impact areas and are therefore potentially at risk from the proposed development. A risk

assessment for each of these taxa is presented in section 7.

Note: Symphyella sp. indet. was unable to be identified to species-level as the only specimen was

unfortunately lost/ destroyed during morphological identifications. This prevented direct

comparisons with other specimens in the same genus, including Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002`.

Surveys throughout the region have shown that Symphyla have a tendency towards highly

restricted ranges (Bennelongia 2015, 2016), and although troglomorphy occurs throughout the

group, Symphyla collected from bores/ drill holes are generally treated as potential troglobites.

Symphyella sp. indet. was recorded at Western Range, while Symphyella ̀ WAM-SYMPH002` was

recorded at Eastern Range, approximately 25 km away. Owing to the distance and numerous

geological discontinuities between the known locations of these two records, it is unlikely that

these two specimens would represent the same species. As a precaution, Symphyella sp. indet.

was considered within the risk assessment as a potentially unique species/ singleton.

5.6 Sampling adequacy

The total sampling effort undertaken during the current survey (as shown in section 4.2) vastly

exceeds the minimum EPA Guidelines for subterranean fauna, even in consideration of the

diverse habitat units sampled for troglofauna and stygofauna throughout the Study Area and

surrounds. Nevertheless, the species accumulation curves (S(est) and Coleman Rarefaction) for

troglofauna (Figure 5.4) and stygofauna (Figure 5.5) appeared to be rising steadily throughout the

course of sampling, with no indication of an asymptote or plateau in the curve. Slowly rising curve

gradients and the lack of an apparent asymptote are commonly observed for subterranean fauna

surveys, due to inherent characteristics of the fauna assemblages (e.g. the higher proportions of

rare and difficult to detect species, particularly troglofauna), the cryptic habitats, and the

constraints of sampling via drill holes and bores. In addition, the results from the current survey

may have been highly attributed to the low incidence of repeated sampling at the same sites

between phases, which was unavoidable due to the accessibility of holes (particularly rehabilitated

holes which required assistance to locate) and the need to adapt sampling areas in response to

impact information becoming available over time.

For troglofauna, the curves for Brockman Syncline 4 (BS4) appeared to be on a relatively similar

upward trajectory to the current survey despite a comparatively lower sampling effort, while the

Nammuldi-Silvergrass (NS) curves appeared to flatten out considerably toward the end of the

survey effort and almost reach an asymptote (Figure 5.4). These previous troglofauna surveys

both varied from Greater Paraburdoo by not only having fewer samples overall, but by undertaking

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the majority of troglofauna sampling by trapping rather than scraping (Table 5.9), which is known

to collect troglofauna more slowly than a combination of both methods (Halse and Pearson 2014).

Figure 5.4: Troglofauna species accumulation curves (S(est) and Coleman rarefaction) for sampling at Greater Paraburdoo (current survey) Nammuldi-Silvergrass (Biota 2010, 2011) and Brockman Syncline 4 (Biota 2016a, 2016b).

Table 5.9 provides an examination of survey strike rates (i.e. ratio of samples that detected

troglofauna vs those that did not) and species richness per sample (limited to ‘fauna-positive’

samples – i.e. samples where troglofauna were detected). In the context of the species

accumulation curves in Figure 5.4, these statistics indicate that the areas sampled in the NS

survey could be considered less species-rich than Greater Paraburdoo or BS4, having a lower

strike rate and species richness per sample, particularly in the context of a low overall fauna yield

and a near asymptotic species accumulation curve. These results are unlikely to be attributed to

differences in the overall survey area (as BS4 was smaller in area than NS), the taxonomic effort

(all surveys utilised morphology and DNA analysis – to some degree), or the types of habitats

present (all surveys sampled similar bedded iron formations including BrIF and MMIF). It is more

likely that the NS survey result is attributed to a depauperate assemblage at the time of sampling,

and perhaps the lack of scraping methods used.

.

0

5

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20

25

30

35

40

45

1 51 101 151 201 251 301 351 401

Spe

cies

Samples

Troglofauna species by samples

GP S(est) GP Cole NS S(est)

NS Cole BS4 S(est) BS4 Cole

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Table 5.9: Summary of sampling adequacy statistics comparing Greater Paraburdoo (GP) with previous surveys at Nammuldi-Silvergrass (NS) and Brockman Syncline 4 (BS4)

Project Approx. survey area (ha)

Samples Fauna-positive

samples† Species Strike

rate# Average species

richness*

TROGLOFAUNA

GP 17,400 Trapping (143), Scraping (288) 67 39 0.16 0.58

NS 7,500 Trapping (137) 14 7 0.10 0.50

BS4 5,806 Trapping (95), Scraping (54) 28 17 0.19 0.61

STYGOFAUNA (no. sites) (sites) (sites) (sites)

GP 35,600 Hauling/ Pumping/ Karaman (84) 28 63 0.33 2.25

NS 37,500 Hauling (64) 27 23 0.42 0.85

Note: † ‘fauna-positive’ samples comprise samples where troglofauna were detected. # Strike rate comprises the ratio of fauna-positive to fauna-negative samples. * Average species richness was calculated only for fauna-positive samples.

Conversely, the similarities in the trajectory of the species curves from Greater Paraburdoo and

BS4 (Figure 5.4) are matched by similarities in their strike rates and average species richness,

indicating some statistical similarities between the surveys. In this context, the overall high species

richness of troglofauna from Greater Paraburdoo is regarded as being proportional to the higher

survey effort. While both the BS4 and Greater Paraburdoo troglofauna species accumulation

curves failed to reach an asymptote, the considerably greater survey effort at Greater Paraburdoo

would be expected to be far more highly representative of the total species richness present than

that of BS4.

Comparison of the five species estimator models found that the troglofauna survey at Greater

Paraburdoo detected between 52% (Michaelis-Menten mean) and 80% (Bootstrap mean) of the

total species richness estimated to occur (Figure 5.5). The ACE and Chao1 models, which

respectively estimated 60 and 50 species additional to the observed, are considered unreliable in

this analysis as their values exceeded the Michaelis-Menten mean used as a stopping point

(estimated 35 additional species) (Figure 5.5).

These mean percentage values compare well to the range of estimates generated for BS4 (18%

to 76%) and NS (60% to 84%), despite considerable differences in the overall number of species

detected and the shapes of the accumulation curves discussed above. Despite the lack of an

asymptote in the accumulation curve, and the inherent difficulties in estimating species richness

from troglofauna survey data discussed above, these comparisons show that the results from

Greater Paraburdoo are by no means outside of the norm for troglofauna surveys.

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Figure 5.5: Observed troglofauna species richness (current survey S(est)), compared to total species richness estimated by five models in EstimateS (ACE, Chao1, Jack knife 1, Bootstrap and Michaelis-Menten). Data labels indicate number of additional undetected species estimated to occur by each model.

For stygofauna, the species accumulation curve for Greater Paraburdoo appeared to be on a

relatively steeper trajectory than the curves from NS, which appeared to flatten out toward the end

of the survey effort and almost reach an asymptote (Figure 5.6). The Coleman rarefaction

algorithm appears to have produced a slightly flatter curve than S(est) for both data sets, but

particularly for the Greater Paraburdoo data (Figure 5.6). Unfortunately, there was insufficient

stygofauna data to compare with BS4.

Table 5.9 showed that the survey areas, hydrogeological habitats sampled, and methods used in

the current survey were similar to NS (considering few species were detected by Karaman or

pump sampling), and there was less than a third fewer samples taken overall at NS compared to

Greater Paraburdoo. However, the average species richness per site was higher by a factor of 2.6

in the current survey (2.25 species per sample) than the NS survey (0.85 species per sample).

This may be attributed to a more detailed taxonomic/ genetic work to identify species, or sampling

a few highly diverse/ species-rich sites – which was observed in Seven-Mile Creek and

Pirraburdoo Creek (Figures 5.3b and 5.3c). Although the stygofauna survey featured slightly more

repeated sampling than the troglofauna survey at Greater Paraburdoo, there was a similar

diversity of aquifers/ habitat units sampled, in an attempt to find species outside of potential impact

60

50

24

10

35

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80

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100

ACE Mean Chao 1 Mean Jack 1 Mean Bootstrap Mean MMMeans (1 run)

Spec

ies

Troglofauna observed vs estimated richness

S(est) observed Additional species estimated

Page | 88


areas. This would also potentially have had the effect of increasing the gradient of the species

accumulation curve.

Figure 5.6: Stygofauna species accumulation curves (S(est) and Coleman rarefaction) for sites sampled at Greater Paraburdoo (current survey) and Nammuldi-Silvergrass (Biota 2010, 2011).

Comparison of the five species estimator models found that the Greater Paraburdoo stygofauna

survey detected between 50% (Michaelis-Menten mean) and 80% (Bootstrap mean) of the total

species richness estimated to occur (Figure 5.7). These figures were moderately lower than the

range of estimates for the NS survey (72% to 86%), whose curve appeared to reach more of an

asymptote, despite lower sampling effort (Figure 5.6). Combined with the lower average species

richness for fauna-positive sites, this suggests that the NS survey sampled a relatively

depauperate stygofauna assemblage, compared to the Greater Paraburdoo survey. This result,

however, should be taken in the context of significant developments in the taxonomic knowledge

of stygofauna since the NS survey was conducted in 2011, and the much greater use of genetic

analysis to validate species identifications in the current survey. The combination of stygofauna

samples by site, although necessary to enable comparisons with the NS survey, may also have

contributed to a steeper overall accumulation curve.

Despite the lack of an asymptote in the species accumulation curve, in the context of the multiple

hydrogeological habitats sampled, the high use of genetic analysis, and the concentration of

stygofauna diversity in a few sites within Seven-Mile and Pirraburdoo Creeks, the stygofauna

0

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40

50

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70

1 11 21 31 41 51 61 71 81

Spec

ies

Sites

Stygofauna species by sites

GP S(est) GP ColeNS S(est) NS Cole

Page | 89


survey at Greater Paraburdoo appears to have detected a reasonably high proportion of the

species assemblage predicted to occur.

Figure 5.7: Observed stygofauna species richness (current survey S(est)), compared to total species richness estimated by five models in EstimateS (ACE, Chao1, Jack knife 1, Bootstrap and Michaelis-Menten). Data labels indicate number of additional undetected species estimated to occur by each model.

33

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ACE Mean Chao 1 Mean Jack 1 Mean Bootstrap Mean MMMeans (1 run)

Spe

cies

Stygofauna observed vs estimated richness

S(est) observed Additional species estimated

Page | 90


6. HABITAT ASSESSMENT

6.1 Geological habitats AWT

Potential AWT habitats for troglofauna (i.e. caves, cavities, fractures, vugs, and pore spaces)

occur within a variety of geological formations throughout the Paraburdoo Ranges. The secondary

weathering processes that drive enrichment of the orebodies contribute to the occurrence of

subterranean fauna habitat by dissolving cavities, vugs, and pore spaces within the BrIF and

MMIF.

Secondary weathering is also prevalent within carbonate-rich dolomites of the Wittenoom and

Wyloo Formations, which are poorly represented in the drilling data, and in detrital calcrete and

CID deposits, which are not always consistently mapped in the GSWA series maps, as they occur

within Tertiary detrital layers in valleys or palaeodrainage channels. Despite the depth of habitat

often being limited by groundwater, these deposits can still provide highly suitable AWT habitats

for troglofauna.

Deeper habitats for troglofauna also occur in proximity to faulting/ folding zones, because of voids

created by large fractures and the tendency for these to promote water infiltration and secondary

weathering along fracture/ fault planes and geological contact zones. Fractured rock habitats are

prevalent within the BrIF, MMIF and WWIF, especially near fault zones, and faulting may also

create fractured habitats within the less permeable Mt McRae, Whaleback, and Yandicoogina

Shale Members that intersperse the major iron formations.

Further details regarding AWT geological habitats are noted below for each mining area.

Western Range

In the Western Range area, highly suitable habitats for troglofauna have been found in the

secondarily weathered and fractured zones of the Dales Gorge and Joffre Members of BrIF and

the Mt Newman Member of the MMIF (Figure 6.1a). To a lesser degree, similar weathered/

fractured rock habitats can be inferred within the Bee Gorge and Paraburdoo Members of

Wittenoom Dolomite, and the calcrete mapped to the south of the range (Figure 6.1a).

Potential compartmentalisation of habitat (or habitat barriers) occurs throughout the range due to

less permeable strata such as Mt McRae Shales, the McLeod and Nammuldi Members of MMIF

(considered mainly massive/ fresh rock), and shale bands within the Joffre (J3), Yandicoogina

Shale, and Whaleback Shale units of the BrIF, and dolerite intrusives.

Three-dimensional modelling of the ‘current’ extent of habitat (Appendix 4: LS_1, LS_3, LS_5,

LS_7) shows the thickest sections of High and Medium (certain) suitability troglofauna habitat

appearing as relatively thick, extensive and well-connected throughout the western portions of

Western Range. Despite becoming patchy and thinner in eastern parts of the range (near 27W

pit), the overall picture shows well connected/ continuous High and Medium (certain) suitability

Page | 91


troglofauna habitat throughout most of Western Range (Figure 6.1a, Appendix 4: LS_1, LS_3,

LS_5, LS_7).

Major faulting in the central area of Western Range has created a break in the east/west continuity

of High and Medium (certain) suitability habitat, due to a displacement of BrIF with McRae Shales.

Nevertheless, the ‘current’ habitat modelling shows thin High and Medium (certain) suitability

habitat is continuous immediately south of this fault. As noted previously above, the current habitat

modelling is equivalent to the pre-mining habitat modelling in Western Range, which has not been

affected by previously approved mining. There is also the potential for further suitable habitat

within BrIF and MMIF geologies outside of the confidence area of 3D modelling to the north of

Western Range (Figure 6.1a).

Paraburdoo

Modelling of the ‘current’ extent of AWT habitats in the Paraburdoo area revealed High and

Medium (certain) suitability troglofauna habitat throughout the BrIF and parts of the MMIF. Parts

of the WWIF, the colluvial flanks of the main ranges, and the valley fill detritals were also modelled

as High and Medium (certain) suitability troglofauna habitat (Figure 6.1b). Some areas mapped

as BrIF and MMIF beyond the confidence area for the ‘current’ habitat modelling may also be

inferred as potential habitat areas (particularly north of 11W and 4W) (Figure 6.1b). Although much

of the BrIF habitat at 4W and 4E has already been targeted for mining, the ‘current’ 3D modelling

indicated the occurrence of deeper AWT habitats beneath the current pits (Figure 6.1b,

Appendix 6: LS_1, LS_3, LS_5).

Habitat heterogeneity and discontinuities are prevalent in the Paraburdoo area, owing to major

faulting and geological disconformities, frequent dolerite intrusives, and the erosion of deep

valleys/ gorges associated with Pirraburdoo Creek and Seven-Mile Creek. Nevertheless, the

‘current’ 3D modelling suggests potential connectivity of suitable AWT habitats within the main

range between the different geologies (e.g. contiguous BrIF and MMIF at 4E and 18EMM), and

between 11W-4W, via AWT colluvial and alluvial habitats. It remains uncertain whether all

troglofauna species may be able to utilise such detrital habitats to disperse, although there is some

evidence from elsewhere in the Hamersley Ranges that the more vagile troglofauna taxa (such as

Nocticola cockroaches and silverfish) may readily do so.

The ‘current’ habitat modelling shows mainly thin, patchy areas of AWT habitat in western parts

(11W-4W), while larger and thicker extents occur under and surrounding 4W and 4E pits. While

colluvium habitats modelled south of 4E and 18EMM suggest some potential wider habitat

connectivity with calcrete and alluvial deposits to the south (unconfirmed by sampling), suitable

BrIF and MMIF habitats further to the east in Eastern Range are completely disconnected, due to

a major shear zone east of 18EMM (Figure 6.1b).

Page | 92


Eastern Range

At Eastern Range, the ‘current’ habitat modelling shows extensive suitable AWT habitats

throughout the broad band of BrIF dominating the main range. Similar habitats are inferred to also

occur throughout the mapped extent of MMIF (confirmed by sampling at 23EMM) and Wittenoom

Dolomite (Figure 6.1c), despite the majority of these units occurring beyond the habitat modelling

confidence interval. The ‘current’ 3D modelling and GSWA geological mapping indicates

extensive, well-connected areas of suitable habitat beneath the current mining pits in Eastern

Range, surrounding the current pits, and occurring well beyond both these and the proposed pits

(Figure 6.1c, Appendix 5: LS_1, LS_3, LS_5).

A major fault to the west separates the MMIF band at 23EMM from similar geologies at 18EMM.

This shear zone likely forms a westward habitat barrier for troglofauna, potentially separating the

current assemblages found in Eastern Range from those occurring in Paraburdoo. Meanwhile, a

separate faulting zone to the east and north of Eastern Range appears to have potentially

connected contiguous habitats formed in BrIF, MMIF, and Wittenoom Dolomite, which may provide

a degree of wider local habitat connectivity and/or potential pathways for troglofauna dispersal

between these habitable geologies (unconfirmed by sampling) (Figure 6.1c). Despite the ‘current’

3D habitat modelling showing relatively thin high/medium (certain) AWT habitats in the proposed

pits at 42E/ 47E and surrounding the current pits at Eastern Range, the amount of potential habitat

surrounding and between the current and proposed pits appears relatively extensive and

continuous based on current information (Figure 6.1c). .

538000 539000 540000 541000 542000 543000 544000 545000 546000 547000 548000 549000 550000 551000 552000 55300074

3100

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendProposed Development EnvelopeProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214

Current AWT Habitat (High/Med)Habitat thickness

High : 286m

Low : 1m

Habitat modelling confidence boundary (300m)Geo code > description

Czc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateFd > Metadolerite sillsFj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstone

Fo > Boongal Frm: pillow lava, brecciaFp > Pyradie Frm: metabasaltFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedQw > Alluvium_colluvium - clayey soilWas > Thin- to thick-bedded metasandstoneWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstoneUnconsolidated alluvium

Fig. 6.1a: Current (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna (Western Range)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


554000 555000 556000 557000 558000 559000 560000 561000 562000 563000 564000 565000 566000 567000 568000 56900074

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendProposed Development EnvelopeProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214Paraburdoo Approved PITS 141218


High : 286m

Low : 1m


Czc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateCzp > Robe Pisolite - pisolitic limoniteCzr > Surficial hematite-goethite depositsFd > Metadolerite sills

Fj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneFo > Boongal Frm: pillow lava, brecciaFp > Pyradie Frm: metabasaltFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertDisturbedQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedWas > Thin- to thick-bedded metasandstoneWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWm > Mt McGrath Frm: metasandstoneWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstoneUnconsolidated alluvium

Fig. 6.1b: Current (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna (Paraburdoo)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


562000 563000 564000 565000 566000 567000 568000 569000 570000 571000 572000 573000 574000 575000 576000 57700074

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore



High : 286m

Low : 1m


Czc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateCzp > Robe Pisolite - pisolitic limoniteCzr > Surficial hematite-goethite deposits

Fd > Metadolerite sillsFj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneFl > Layered mafic sillsFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertDisturbedQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWm > Mt McGrath Frm: metasandstoneWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstoneUnconsolidated alluvium

Fig. 6.1c: Current (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna (Eastern Range)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


Page | 96


6.2 Hydrogeological habitats (BWT)

As is commonly found throughout the Hamersley Ranges, fractured rock aquifers dominate the

hydrogeological setting of Greater Paraburdoo, as the underlying geology is mainly impermeable,

thus groundwater is hosted within the fractures, joints, cavities and vugs created by secondary

weathering and mineralisation (removal of silica/ carbonates) and structural deformation (faulting,

fracturing) of the geological units (RTIO 2018).

Shallow alluvial aquifers lay atop the deeper fractured rock aquifers in the valleys and along

drainage lines, in some but not all cases, providing a level of hydraulic connectivity (and thus

recharge) between surface water and deeper groundwater habitats. Shale bands (particularly Mt

McRae Shales) and Dolerite intrusions form barriers to groundwater flow and

compartmentalisation, which is further complicated by major faulting and geological unconformity.

Further details on the potential BWT habitats for stygofauna, and their location and extent

throughout the Study Area and immediate surrounds are noted below.

Orebody aquifers

The mineralised BrIF has a softer and more weakly-cemented texture at Paraburdoo than at other

areas of the Hamersley Ranges, which lends itself to greater hydraulic conductivity (5 -10 m/day)

and storage potential (Rathbone 2005). Fractured rock aquifers are common throughout the

Paraburdoo area, and are often contiguous with hydrated/ secondarily weathered ore zones,

creating a network of potentially suitable habitat for stygofauna throughout the BWT extent of the

orebodies. However, this habitat is constrained by harder and more massive/ fresh BIF (very low

transmissivity 10-5 m/day), by dolerite intrusives (sills and dykes often associated with major

faults), and by the structural shifts made throughout the stratigraphy by faulting and folding.

Bores within the Pirraburdoo Creek, Seven-Mile Creek, and 4E/ 4W pits (dewatering bores)

predominantly draw from Orebody aquifers (although some may also draw from surficial detrital

aquifers and Wittenoom Dolomite where present beneath the creeks) (RTIO 2015). The Orebody

aquifers in the area of Pirraburdoo Creek and Seven-Mile Creek are hydraulically connected to

the immediately overlying detrital aquifers (as indicated in Figures 6.2a, 6.2b, and 6.2c by the

extent of unconsolidated alluvium associated with drainage lines). In some areas, these aquifers

may also be connected to adjacent or deeper dolomite aquifers in the Wittenoom and Duck Creek

formations. Nevertheless, the many dolerite intrusives and geological disconformities associated

with the Paraburdoo Ranges complicate the flows of groundwater and aquifer connectivity in the

area of the main ranges.

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Rio Tinto Iron Ore

LegendProposed Development EnvelopeProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214

Current BWT Habitat (High/Med)Habitat thickness

High : 313m

Low : 1m

Habitat modelling confidence boundary (300m)Potential hyporheic habitat (uncons. alluvium)

Geo code > descriptionCzc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateFd > Metadolerite sills

Fj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneFp > Pyradie Frm: metabasaltFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedQw > Alluvium_colluvium - clayey soilWas > Thin- to thick-bedded metasandstoneWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstone

Fig. 6.2a: Current (modelled) extent of BWT habitat for stygofauna (Western Range)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


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High : 313m

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Geo code > descriptionCzc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateCzp > Robe Pisolite - pisolitic limoniteCzr > Surficial hematite-goethite deposits

Fd > Metadolerite sillsFj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneFo > Boongal Frm: pillow lava, brecciaFp > Pyradie Frm: metabasaltFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertDisturbedQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedWas > Thin- to thick-bedded metasandstoneWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWm > Mt McGrath Frm: metasandstoneWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstone

Fig. 6.2b: Current (modelled) extent of BWT habitat for stygofauna (Paraburdoo)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


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High : 313m

Low : 1m


Geo code > descriptionCzc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonate

Czp > Robe Pisolite - pisolitic limoniteCzr > Surficial hematite-goethite depositsFd > Metadolerite sillsFj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneFu > Bunjinah Frm: metabasaltic pillow lavaHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertDisturbedQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedWm > Mt McGrath Frm: metasandstoneWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstone

Fig. 6.2c: Current (modelled) extent of BWT habitat for stygofauna (Eastern Range)

¯1:40,0000 1 20.5

km


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High : 313m

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Geo code > descriptionCza > Alluvium - partly consolidatedCzc > Colluvium - partly consolidatedCzk > Calcrete - sheet carbonateCzr > Surficial hematite-goethite deposits

Fd > Metadolerite sillsFj > Jeerinah Frm: pelite, metasandstoneHb > Brockman Iron Frm: BIF, chert, peliteHd > Wittenoom Frm: metadolomiteHj > Weeli Wolli Frm: BIF, pelite, sillsHm > Marra Mamba Iron Frm: chert, BIF, peliteHo > Boolgeeda Frm: BIF; pelite, chertHs > Mt McRae Mt Sylvia: shale, pelite, chertHw > Woongarra Frm: meta-rhyoliteQc > Colluvium - unconsolidatedTU > Pelite, metasandstone, metadolomiteWb > Cheela Springs: metabasalt, metatuffWd > Duck Creek Dolomite: metadolomiteWm > Mt McGrath Frm: metasandstoneWq > Beasley River: quartzitic metasandstone

Fig. 6.2d: Current (modelled) extent of BWT habitat for stygofauna (CHN & TCK)

¯1:60,0000 1.5 30.75

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Dolomite aquifers

Drilling data and hydrogeological investigations have revealed that Wittenoom Dolomite occurs in

a weathered, karstic form and an unweathered crystalline (massive) form within the Paraburdoo

area (Rathbone 2005). Weathered/ karstic dolomite is highly transmissive (>10 m/day) and has

high storage potential, making it an ideal potential habitat for stygofauna, although such aquifers

are often shallower and less extensive than the massive/ crystalline dolomite formations they sit

atop, which are hydraulically tight (0.01 - 0.1 m/day) (Rathbone 2005) and would not be expected

to provide suitable habitat for stygofauna.

Some bores within the Pirraburdoo Creek and Seven-Mile Creek bore fields draw from weathered

Wittenoom Dolomites (Rathbone 2005) occurring in the valleys between the main ridges.

However, these dolomites (formed as part of the Hamersley Group including MMIF and BrIF), are

of a different origin to the Duck Creek Dolomites of the Wyloo Group that occur south of the

Paraburdoo Ranges (Rathbone 2005, Figure 6.2a, 6.2b).

Bores within the Southern Borefield, which were found to support rich stygofauna assemblages,

draw mainly from the Wyloo Formation dolomites and surface detritals. Although regional

groundwater flows largely follow surface water flows from the north through to the south of the

Paraburdoo Ranges, intrusives and faults occurring throughout the ranges appears to have

caused compartmentalisation and may restrict local hydraulic connectivity between Orebody

aquifers, Wittenoom Dolomite aquifers, and Duck Creek Dolomite aquifers to the south.

Interactions between the various Orebody and Dolomite aquifers, and the alluvial aquifers

associated with Pirraburdoo and Seven-Mile Creek are conceptualised in Figure 6.3, which shows

a cross-section facing north (from Rathbone 2005).

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Figure 6.3: Hydrogeological model (cross section) showing hydraulic compartmentalisation and interactions between aquifers in the Paraburdoo Ranges, from Rathbone (2005)

Detrital aquifers, including calcrete

Detrital aquifers occur throughout the Study Area, typically in association with drainage lines (e.g.

Pirraburdoo Creek and Seven-Mile Creek), valley fill sediments, or palaeodrainage (e.g. Turee

Creek) (refer Figures 6.2b and 6.2d). Unconsolidated or poorly consolidated alluvial or colluvial

sediments can vary greatly in extent and thickness, and in connectivity with other, deeper aquifer

units. Connectivity with the surface occurs via the hyporheic zone – near surface, unconsolidated

alluvial sediments and gravels lining stream beds. These zones provide recharge/ discharge

pathways and an opportunity for some stygofauna species to disperse during flood events.

Flow rates/ transmissivity and storage capacity in the detritals are influenced by particle size/

aperture, as well as intrusions from dykes/ sills and faulting. Intrusions and geological

disconformity of the underlying strata can cause detrital aquifers to rise near to the surface and

chemically precipitate carbonates, which form calcrete deposits that provide highly suitable

habitats for stygofauna when they become secondarily weathered/ karstic (Rathbone 2005).

Further groundwater rises can result in permanent pools and springs along drainage lines, such

as Ratty Springs in Pirraburdoo Creek (RTIO 2016). Despite hydrogeological complexity and

compartmentalisation in the area of the Paraburdoo Ranges, periodic flooding of the riparian and

hyporheic zones may provide a mechanism for dispersal of some stygofauna species along

drainage lines throughout the Study Area and nearby detrital habitats within the same catchment/

Page | 103


sub-catchment (i.e. Bellary Creek and Seven-Mile Creek catchment eventually connect with

Pirraburdoo Creek and Turee Creek at the Ashburton River).

The major detrital aquifers of the Study Area are associated with the riparian sediments of Seven-

Mile Creek, Pirraburdoo Creek, and Turee Creek. The Pirraburdoo Creek and Seven-Mile Creek

aquifers are hydraulically connected to the deeper Orebody aquifers and Wittenoom Dolomite

aquifers occurring beneath the Paraburdoo Ranges, and as they continue on to the south of the

ranges, they may connect with the Southern Borefield aquifers in Duck Creek Dolomite, to an

unknown extent. The Northern Borefield volcanic rock aquifer also has a detrital aquifer overlying

it, as discussed further below.

The Turee Creek Borefield aquifer is an alluvial/ colluvial sedimentary aquifer extending into the

underlying fractured rocks of the Turee Creek palaeovalley south east of Channar (RTIO 2015).

Depth to water is approximately 3 to 50 mbgl (RTIO 2015) and the groundwater flows largely follow

the palaeovalley topography (east to west) (refer Figure 6.2d). Calcrete and unconsolidated

alluvium are prevalent throughout palaeovalley, especially upstream of sills and dykes which

influence permanent and semi-permanent pools in Turee Creek.

Volcanic rock aquifers

The Northern Borefield, located between Paraburdoo township and the airport, is developed in

volcanics of the Fortescue Group (Jeerinah Formation, Mt Roe Basalt and Hardey Sandstone)

and is used by the town, mine, and airport for potable water supply (RTIO 2015). Depth to water

is approximately 9 to 27 mbgl (RTIO 2015) and groundwater flows largely follow surface water

flows in Bellary and Seven-Mile Creeks.

In the area of the 4E/ 4W pits and Seven-Mile Creek Borefield, the geological units of the

Fortescue Group are regarded as having low permeability due to the high frequency of dolerite

sills and dykes (RTIO 2018). Nevertheless, both the upper catchments of Seven-Mile Creek and

Pirraburdoo Creek as well as the Northern Borefield are dominated by Fortescue Group geologies,

and stygofauna are known to occur in these locations (refer Figure 5.1) and further afield in similar

geologies at West Angelas (Ecologia 1998). In the absence of permeable/ fractured rock aquifers

within the volcanic members, it is likely that calcrete deposits, unconsolidated detritals, or

hyporheic aquifers in the drainage lines overlying the Fortescue Group would provide suitable

habitats for the stygofauna assemblages detected in these locations.

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6.3 Groundwater characteristics

Figures 6.4a-6.4e shows mean (and standard deviation as error bars) temperature, pH, EC (as a

proxy for salinity), ORP (redox potential) and DO (dissolved oxygen) for bores within Western

Range, Paraburdoo (Para), Eastern Range, Channar/ Turee Creek and the Northern Borefield.

The interpretation of these data is somewhat affected by the unequal sample sizes between areas.

Sampling areas containing bore fields (Paraburdoo, Channar/ Turee Creek, and Northern

Borefield) were sampled extensively (7 to 36 samples per sampling area), whereas the number of

samples obtained from Western Range, and Eastern Range was limited by the number of bores

that intercepted groundwater (1 to 2 samples respectively).

The average groundwater temperature ranged from 29.0 - 31.8°C and showed little variability

across all sites (Figure 6.4a). The pH of the groundwater (Figure 6.4b) ranged from 7.1 to 8.0

across all sites, indicating neutral to slightly alkaline conditions. Groundwater pH was highest

(slightly alkaline) at Paraburdoo and Eastern Range, with sites to the west and east being more

neutral. Neutral pH values are more likely to support stygofauna; however, these differences were

generally within a pH range regarded as tolerable for stygofauna (excluding a few outlier bores

beyond pH 8.5 at Paraburdoo).

The EC measurements (Figure 6.4c) showed that the salinity of the groundwater was low in all

five sampling areas, with most sites containing fresh water (EC <1,500 uS/cm) and a few sites

being slightly brackish (EC ~2000 uS/cm). These levels are well within the range suitable for

stygofauna and can support rich stygofauna assemblages, which are known to occur up to

approximately double the salinity of sea water (EC 60,000 uS/cm).

There are some difficulties using water quality recorded from individual bores to infer conditions

throughout the wider aquifer, particularly for DO and redox potential, which can be affected by

artificial aeration during bailer sampling (Figures 6.3d, 6.3e). Dissolved oxygen and redox potential

can also be influenced by the type of bore casing (steel vs PVC vs uncased), and the transmissivity

of the substrate/ aquifer, which can lead to highly variable results as seen in Eastern Range and

Channar/ Turee Creek bores particularly. Nevertheless, all sampling areas showed positive or

near positive redox values and sufficient DO for stygofauna occurrence on average, although there

was high variability between individual bores/ holes.

Excluding one species of enchytraeid worm (which are not regarded as obligate stygofauna as

they can occur in water films within subterranean cavities), no stygofauna were recorded from

mining deposits 11W and 18EMM, which both recorded lower DO values (0.09 ppm and 0.98 ppm,

respectively). The lack of stygofauna recorded from these areas may be related to the low DO

conditions in the bores sampled; however, this inference must be treated with caution, in respect

of the low numbers of samples taken from each of these areas (11W- 3 samples and 18EMM- 1

sample), and the fact that water quality conditions within the bore may not reflect the wider aquifer.

The full range of physicochemical data for all sites (bores, drill holes, and stream bed Karaman

samples) measured during the survey can be found in Appendix 7d.

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Figure 6.4: Groundwater physicochemical measurements recorded during sampling at Western range, Paraburdoo, Eastern Range, Channar/ Turee Creek and the Northern Borefield. Mean values are shown as bars, standard deviations as error bars

(A) (B)

(C) (D)

(E)

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7. RISK ASSESSMENT

7.1 Types of impacts to troglofauna

Direct impacts to troglofauna assemblages and habitats occur as a result of the excavation and

removal of subterranean habitat during mining. It can therefore be inferred that the direct impact

areas for troglofauna are the proposed pit boundaries at each of the deposits. Although indirect

impacts such as shock and vibration from blasting, changes to infiltration beneath stockpiles and

waste dumps, and habitat desiccation from pit walls or groundwater drawdown may extend beyond

the pit boundaries, these risks are generally considered minor, manageable, and/ or difficult to

measure and assess, therefore this section has focussed on the direct impacts of mining only.

Geological and geomorphological complexity is created by variabilities in the secondary

weathering processes that create vugs, voids, and cavities; geological disconformities that

influence the occurrence of fractures, intrusives and geological contact zones that change the

permeability of the strata; and interactions with topography and drainage features such as gorges,

major drainage lines, and the relative depth of the groundwater table.

To overcome some of the challenges of assessing such complex habitats at Greater Paraburdoo,

detailed 3D modelling has been undertaken of Current (CUR) High and Medium (certain) suitability

AWT habitats, and ‘Worst-Case Scenario’ (WCS) habitats following the maximum extent and

depth of mining and dewatering associated with the proposed development. The risk assessment

for troglofauna was based upon the best available taxonomic and ecological information regarding

the troglofauna species occurring only within the pit boundaries, as well as the best available

understanding of habitats and habitat connectivity, dewatering contours and 3D modelling of AWT

habitat remaining under the WCS model.

7.2 Risks to troglofauna species

Eight (8) troglofauna taxa recorded during the current and previous surveys of the Study Area are

known only from within proposed pit boundaries, comprising:

• one palpigrade: Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002`;

• one isopod: Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`;

• two pauropods: Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003`, Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004`,

• three symphylans: Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004`, Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002`, and

Symphyella sp. indet.; and

• one silverfish: Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001`.

The current occurrence and linear ranges of the eight troglofauna taxa is likely affected by

sampling artefacts including the high proportions of drill holes within the proposed pit boundaries

and almost exclusively within the BrIF habitat, as well as the low frequency of occurrence of the

species and the inherent difficulties in comprehensively sampling troglofauna assemblages.

Based on current taxonomic and ecological information, and the likely extent of suitable habitats

for troglofauna beyond pit boundaries (Appendices 4, 5 and 6), the risks to these taxa are

Page | 107


presented in Table 7.1. Figures 7.1 to 7.2 show the locations of each of these taxa and the CUR

and WCS extent of High and Medium (certain) suitability AWT habitats relative to the proposed pit

boundaries. Long sections and cross sections of CUR and WCS extents of suitable AWT habitats

(based on 3D habitat modelling) for the locations of each of these taxa are presented in Appendix

4, 5, and 6.

Three of the eight troglofauna taxa were assessed as ‘low’ risk due to a combination of current

taxonomic/ ecological knowledge, their recorded locations near the boundaries of the proposed

pits, and WCS habitat modelling showing extensive, connected habitats remaining after mining

below their current locations and well beyond the proposed pits. Despite Eukoenenia `WAM-

PALE002`, Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004`, and Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002` belonging to

taxonomic groups known to contain SRE troglobitic species, the current WCS habitat modelling

(Appendix 4 and 5, Figures 7.1b and 7.2b) and their locations near the boundary of the proposed

pits (i.e. minimal depth of proposed excavation) suggests that the proposed mining will have a

minimal impact on the local extent or connectivity of their available habitat.

The remaining five troglofauna taxa (Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`, Decapauropus `WAM-

PAUD003`, Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004`, Symphyella sp. indet., and Trinemura `WAM-

ZYGS001`) were assessed as a ‘moderate’ risk. These taxa have only been recorded at the centre

of the proposed pits and the habitat modelling showed no High or Medium (certain) suitability

habitat remaining after mining at their known locations. However, most of these taxa were detected

from single sites only and it would be reasonable to assume that their actual distribution is wider

than recorded throughout the local extent of suitable habitat.

The WCS habitat modelling (Appendix 4 and 5, Figures 7.1b and 7.2b) showed extensive suitable

habitats beyond pit boundaries surrounding the locations of all the troglofauna taxa assessed

above. The occurrence of Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001` throughout multiple sites across two

different pits in Western Range (Figure 7.1b, 7.2b) supports the 3D habitat modelling, indicating

connectivity between habitats inside and outside of the proposed pits.

Despite a lack of suitable habitat remaining in the WCS modelling in the immediate vicinity of

Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`, Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003`, Scutigellera `WAM-

SCUTI004`, Symphyella sp. indet., and Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001`, the risk for these taxa from

the proposed development is regarded as moderate.

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Table 7.1: Subterranean fauna risk assessment based on current taxonomic factors, habitat factors, and recorded occurrence relative to impact areas.

Potentially restricted taxon

Taxonomic factors Distribution factors Habitat factors Risk level

Palpigradi

Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002`

Troglobite. Palpigrades highly susceptible to desiccation, unlikely to be epigean in Pilbara. Genetically identified morphospecies (unique lineage). High divergence to other local lineages (e.g. ‘WAM-PALE001’: 24.2% COI, 0.76 km distance).

Singleton known only from within the proposed 27W pit (RC1527W0142). Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence, E- Research and Expertise). Many short-ranging species/ lineages collected throughout the Pilbara.

Record located on proposed pit boundary. 3D modelling showed continuous, High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, below record and extensively beyond the proposed pit. Proposed mining considered to have a low impact on overall habitat extent/ connectivity in the immediate area of 27W.

Low

Isopoda

Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`

Potential troglobite (depigmented, reduced eye spot). Unique genetic lineage highly divergent to regional Paraplatyarthrus lineages (11.8 - 21% COI).

Singleton known only within the proposed pit at Western Range (RC03WR116). Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence). Genus includes both widespread and restricted species.

Record located on proposed pit boundary. 3D modelling showed High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, nearby record and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Moderate

Pauropoda

Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003’

Troglobite. Unique lineage, highly divergent to other local lineages (‘WAM-PAUD001’, ‘WAM-PAUD002’, ‘WAM-PAUD004’, and ‘WAM-PAUD005’: 27 - 32.2% COI).

Singleton known only from within the proposed Western Range pit (RC03WR002). Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence, E- Research and Expertise). Many short-ranging species/ lineages collected throughout the Pilbara.

Record located at the centre of the proposed pit. 3D modelling showed High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, nearby record and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Moderate

Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004`

Troglobite. Unique lineage, highly divergent to other local lineages (‘WAM-PAUD001’, ‘WAM-PAUD002’, ‘WAM-PAUD003’, and ‘WAM-PAUD005’: 12.4 - 34.9% COI).


Record located on southern boundary of proposed pit. 3D modelling showed continuous, High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, beneath record and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Low

Symphyla

Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004`

Troglobite. Unique lineage, highly divergent to other local Scutigellera lineages (‘WAM-SCUTI002’, ‘WAM-SCUTI003’, and ‘WAM-SCUTI005’: 16.7 - 19.1% COI).


Record located near proposed pit boundary. 3D modelling showed High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, nearby record and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Moderate

Page | 109


Potentially restricted taxon

Taxonomic factors Distribution factors Habitat factors Risk level

Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002`

Troglobite. Unique lineage, highly divergent to other local Symphyella lineages (25.6% COI, Robe River).

Singleton known only from within the proposed Eastern Range pit (RC1747E0002). Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence, E- Research and Expertise). Many short-ranging species/ lineages collected throughout the Pilbara.

Record located on proposed pit boundary. 3D modelling showed High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, beneath record location and extensively surrounding the pit in Eastern Range. Proposed mining considered to have a low impact on overall habitat extent/ connectivity in the immediate area of 47E.

Low

Symphyella sp. indet.

Potential troglobite. Specimen lost prior to genetic sub-sampling. Indeterminate higher-level taxon. Unable to compare to ‘WAM-SYMPH002’. Conservatively treated as singleton.

Putative singleton known only from within the proposed Western Range pit (RC02WR126). Potential SRE (A- Data deficient). Many short-ranging species/ lineages collected throughout the Pilbara.

Record located at the centre of the proposed pit. 3D modelling showed continuous, High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, beneath record location and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Moderate

Zygentoma

Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001`

Troglobite. Unique lineage, moderately divergent to other local lineages (‘WAM-ZYGS002’, WAM-ZYGS002-A’, WAM-ZYGS003’, WAM-ZYGS004’, and WAM-ZYGS005’: 5.3 - 11.7% COI).

Known from 4 sites within the proposed Western Range pit (RC02WR151, RC03WR086, RC03WR116, and RC12WR0199). Its current known linear range is 4 km. Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence). Both short-ranging and widespread species collected throughout the Pilbara.

Occurs between two proposed pit areas at Western Range. Likely to occur within connected habitat to the south of proposed pits at Western Range. 3D modelling showed High and Medium suitability habitat remaining after mining, nearby most records and extensively beyond the pit to the south of Western Range.

Moderate

Syncarida (Stygofauna)

Bathynella `WAM-BATH001`

Stygobite. Genetic update of morphospecies Bathynella sp. 'B39’, may represent a new genus (G. Perina pers. comm.). Unique lineage found only within Study Area. Genetic testing showed high divergence to other known bathynellid species (closest match 25% COI, De Grey River catchment).

Known from 3 sites in Seven-Mile Creek, within the predicted drawdown at Paraburdoo (MB15NLC001, MB15NLC005, WB17NLC0001 (RTIOD2)). Current known linear range is 0.2 km. Potential SRE (D- Molecular Evidence, E– Research and Expertise). Research is ongoing, but most known species/ lineages of Bathynellidae are considered SRE in the Pilbara region (G. Perina pers. comm.).

The current BWT habitat is shallow and affected by existing drawdown from 4E and 4W. Hydrogeological information suggests a series of hydraulic barriers creating discrete aquifer compartments beneath Seven-Mile Creek. ‘Worst-case scenario’ BWT habitat modelling shows no habitat remaining beneath Seven-Mile Creek, with the nearest remaining habitat occurring south of the current species records (0.4 km), in a different aquifer compartment. Sampling beyond hydraulic barriers to the north/ south did not detect additional records, although there is still a chance they may occur.

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LegendProposed Development EnvelopeProposed Conceptual Pits 20181214Habitat modelling confidence boundary (300m)

Status, Morphospecies, Riskkj Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD003`, Modkj Decapauropus `WAM-PAUD004`, Low$1 Eukoenenia `WAM-PALE002`, LowGF Paraplatyarthrus `WAM-PARA001`, Mod#* Scutigellera `WAM-SCUTI004`, Mod#* Symphyella sp. indet., ModXW Trinemura `WAM-ZYGS001`, Mod

Other fauna detected!( Stygofauna") Troglofauna


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Low : 1m

¯1:35,0000 0.95 1.90.475

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Greater Paraburdoo Subterranean Fauna SurveyFig. 7.1a: CUR (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna known only from Western Range

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WCS AWT Habitat (High/Med)Habitat thickness

High : 286m

Low : 1m

¯1:35,0000 0.95 1.90.475

km

Greater Paraburdoo Subterranean Fauna SurveyFig. 7.1b: WCS (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna known only from Western Range

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Status, Morphospecies, Risk#* Symphyella `WAM-SYMPH002`, Low



High : 286m

Low : 1m ¯1:30,0000 0.8 1.60.4

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Greater Paraburdoo Subterranean Fauna SurveyFig. 7.2a: CUR (modelled) extent of AWT habitat for troglofauna known only from Eastern Range

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