Warrawoona Gold Project: Subterranean Fauna Survey · Tabitha Rudin, Shae Callan, Dean Main Brad...

Warrawoona Gold Project: Subterranean Fauna Survey

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Warrawoona Gold Project:

Subterranean Fauna Survey

Biologic Environmental Survey

Report to Calidus Resources Limited

August 2019


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Document Status

Revision

No. Author

Review / Approved for

Issue

Approved for Issue to

Name Date

1 Tabitha Rudin, Shae Callan,

Dean Main Brad Durrant

Dave Reeves

Kate George August 2019

2

Final Tabitha Rudin, Dean Main Brad Durrant Dave Reeves

Kate George August 2019

“IMPORTANT NOTE”

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary .................................................................................................... 7

1 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 10

1.1 Background ............................................................................................................. 10

1.2 Legislation and guidance ....................................................................................... 11

1.3 Subterranean fauna ................................................................................................ 11

2 Environment ........................................................................................................ 14

2.1 Biogeography .......................................................................................................... 14

2.2 Climate..................................................................................................................... 14

2.3 Geology ................................................................................................................... 15

2.4 Surface drainage and indicative catchments ........................................................ 15

2.5 Hydrogeology .......................................................................................................... 16

2.6 Suitability for subterranean fauna habitat ............................................................ 16

3 Methods ............................................................................................................... 21

3.1 Database search and review of previous reports ................................................. 21

3.2 Survey timing .......................................................................................................... 21

3.3 Site selection and survey effort ............................................................................. 23

3.4 Sampling methods .................................................................................................. 27

3.4.1 Troglofauna trapping .............................................................................................. 27

3.4.2 Troglofauna scraping ............................................................................................. 27

3.4.3 Stygofauna net-hauling .......................................................................................... 27

3.4.4 Water physicochemistry ......................................................................................... 28

3.4.5 Sorting and taxonomy ............................................................................................ 28

3.4.6 Conservation status and SRE classification ........................................................... 28

4 Results ................................................................................................................. 31

4.1 Database searches ................................................................................................. 31

4.3 Previous survey results ......................................................................................... 37

4.4 Current survey results ............................................................................................ 39

4.4.1 Troglofauna results ................................................................................................ 39

4.4.2 Stygofauna results ................................................................................................. 43

5 Subterranean Habitat assessment .................................................................... 51

5.1 Troglofauna habitats .............................................................................................. 51

5.1.1 Klondyke ................................................................................................................ 51

5.1.2 Copenhagen .......................................................................................................... 51


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5.2 Stygofauna habitats ................................................................................................ 55

5.2.1 Klondyke ................................................................................................................ 55

5.2.2 Copenhagen .......................................................................................................... 55

5.2.3 Potential habitat in the wider local area .................................................................. 55

5.3 Groundwater characteristics ................................................................................. 56

6 Risk Assessment ................................................................................................ 58

6.1 Impacts to troglofauna ........................................................................................... 58

6.2 Risks to troglofauna species ................................................................................. 58

6.3 Impacts to stygofauna ............................................................................................ 62

6.4 Risks to stygofauna species .................................................................................. 63

7 Key findings ........................................................................................................ 70

7.1.1 Risks to Troglofauna Species ................................................................................ 70

7.1.2 Risks to Stygofauna Species ................................................................................. 70

8 References .......................................................................................................... 72

9 Appendices ......................................................................................................... 75

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1.1: Regional location and IBRA sub-regions ............................................................................... 13

Figure 2.1: Long-term monthly average rainfall and temperature from Marble Bar (BoM 2019) ............. 14

Figure 2.2: Geology of the Study Area and surrounds (GSWA 1:250,000) ............................................. 18

Figure 2.3: Surface drainage of the Study Area and surrounds .............................................................. 19

Figure 2.4: Regional surface hydrology ................................................................................................... 20

Figure 3.1: Long term average (LTA) and current (2018-2019) climatic data at Marble Bar ................... 23

Figure 3.2: Sites sampled for troglofauna (current survey) ...................................................................... 25

Figure 3.3: Sites sampled for stygofauna (current survey) ...................................................................... 26

Figure 4.1: Previous troglofauna records within 60 km of the Study Area ............................................... 35

Figure 4.2: Previous stygofauna records within 60 km of the Study Area ............................................... 36

Figure 4.3: Locations of troglofauna taxa collected during the current survey ........................................ 42

Figure 4.4a: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (Copepoda) ...................................... 48

Figure 4.4b: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (Nematoda, Oligochaeta,

Ostracoda and Polychaeta) ................................................................................................. 49


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Figure 4.4c: Stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey (Amphipoda, Isopoda and

Syncarida) ....................................................................................................................... 50

Figure 5.1: Conceptual hydrological model (GRM, 2019b) ...................................................................... 52

Figure 5.2: Indicative local extent of habitat features for subterranean fauna ......................................... 53

Figure 5.3: Permeability modelling (K-zones) and subterranean habitat features .................................. 54

Figure 5.4: Groundwater physicochemical measurements recorded during the survey ......................... 57

Figure 6.1: Locations of troglofauna taxa at risk from proposed impacts ................................................ 61

Figure 6.2: Locations of stygofauna taxa at risk from proposed impacts ................................................ 68

LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1: Surface geology of the Study Area and generalised suitability for subterranean fauna ......... 17

Table 3.1. Databases searched for subterranean fauna records ............................................................ 21

Table 3.2: Numbers of samples collected within and near each deposit ................................................. 24

Table 3.3: SRE categorisation used by WAM taxonomists ..................................................................... 29

Table 4.1: Troglofauna and stygofauna morphospecies recorded in the databases within 60 km of

the Study Area ....................................................................................................................... 31

Table 4.2: Summary of previous subterranean fauna survey effort and results within 100 km of the

Study Area ............................................................................................................................. 38

Table 4.3: Troglofauna results to date, taxonomic and distribution comments, known linear ranges

and collection locations. Red fonts indicate taxa detected only within proposed impact

areas. ..................................................................................................................................... 41

Table 4.4:Stygofauna results to date, taxonomic and distribution comments, known linear ranges

and collection locations. Red fonts indicate taxa detected only within proposed impact

areas. ..................................................................................................................................... 45

Table 4.5: Higher level stygofauna identifications in the Study Area ....................................................... 47

Table 6.1: Troglofauna risk assessment based on current taxonomic factors, habitat factors, and

distribution relative to impacts ................................................................................................ 60

Table 6.2: Stygofauna risk assessment based on current taxonomic factors, habitat factors, and

distribution relative to impacts ................................................................................................ 66


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APPENDICES

Appendix A – Sampling effort .................................................................................................................. 75

Appendix B – Database search results .................................................................................................... 81

Appendix C – Water physicochemistry .................................................................................................... 96


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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Calidus Resources Limited (Calidus) owns the Warrawoona Gold Project, located approximately 25

kilometres (km) south-east of the town of Marble Bar in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia. The

Project comprises the Klondyke, Copenhagen, Coronation and Fieldings Gully Prospects with a global

gold resource currently at 1.25 million ounces. Pre-feasibility studies are currently underway to evaluate

the potential development of a new open pit and underground mine at Klondyke (which hosts the majority

of the gold resource), and the extension of an existing open pit at Copenhagen (and associated

infrastructure).

Biologic Environmental Survey Pty Ltd (Biologic) was commissioned by Calidus to undertake a Level 2

subterranean fauna (troglofauna and stygofauna) assessment within the Warrawoona Gold Project

(approximately 1,212 ha). The survey was designed and conducted in accordance with relevant EPA

guidelines for subterranean fauna assessments, and sampling included a balanced mix of sites in

proposed impact areas as well as reference (non-impact) sites. The survey aimed to provide a

comprehensive assessment of all subterranean species and habitats occurring within the Study Area and

immediate surrounds and assess the potential risks to subterranean species and habitats from the

proposed developments at the Warrawoona Gold Project.

No previous subterranean fauna sampling has been undertaken within the Study Area. The nearest

subterranean fauna survey was conducted 20 km south of the Study Area at Corunna Downs which

detected a rich troglofauna species assemblage comprising cockroaches, beetles, diplurans, isopods,

millipedes, pseudoscorpions, scolopendrids and symphylans. Similarly, database searches revealed no

subterranean fauna records within the Study Area, with the nearest record being located 10 km north of

the Study Area.

The current survey sampled a total of 118 bores and holes throughout all prospects within the Study Area

resulting in 198 troglofauna samples (87 trapping, and 111 scraping respectively) and 93 stygofauna

samples (all net-hauls). A total of 1979 subterranean fauna specimens were recorded, comprising almost

99% stygofauna (1955 specimens) with the remaining 1% representing troglofauna (24 specimens).

Using morphological identification methods, the troglofauna specimens were identified as representatives

from 6 morphospecies comprising pseudoscorpions, silverfish, cockroaches, dipterans and weevils.

Relative to other subterranean fauna surveys within the wider area, the troglofauna species assemblage

recorded within the Study Area is considered depauperate. Blattodea were the most abundant group,

accounting for the majority of troglofauna recorded (75%, 19 specimens), followed by Zygentoma (3

specimens) with single records of Pseudoscorpiones, Diptera and Coleoptera. Of the six morphospecies

recorded, one taxon is known to be widespread in the Pilbara and one taxon was recorded from multiple

sites within the Study Area. Two troglofauna taxa were recorded as singleton records (one individual form

a single site). The remaining two groups represented indeterminate taxa that could not be resolved to

species-level due to specimens being immature, in poor/damaged condition or the wrong sex for species-

level identifications. Of these, one taxon was recorded form multiple locations within the Study Area

whereas the remaining taxon was a unique singleton record.


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The stygofauna were also identified using morphological methods, revealing 28 morphospecies and five

indeterminate taxa comprising nematode, polychaete and oligochaete worms, ostracods, cyclopoid and

harpacticoid copepods, syncarids, amphipods and isopods. This represents a rich stygofauna species

assemblage compared to other nearby surveys. Copepods were the most abundant group, accounting

for more than 79% of all stygofauna. The majority (14) of stygofauna taxa were widespread taxa known

to occur beyond the Study Area. Ten stygofauna taxa were recorded from multiple locations within the

Study Area. Three stygofauna taxa were singleton taxa or known only from a single site, whereas the

remaining taxon represented a unique higher-level taxon that could not be identified to species level.

The risk assessment for subterranean fauna was based on current taxonomic and ecological information,

available habitat information and the likelihood that any species of troglofauna or stygofauna would be

limited to habitats directly impacted by the proposed development. For troglofauna, the direct impact area

comprised the proposed pit boundaries at Klondyke and Copenhagen, while for stygofauna the direct

impact area comprised the estimated groundwater drawdown (based on hydrogeological modelling).

Four (4) troglofauna taxa are currently known only from the direct impact areas of the proposed

development. The potential risks to these taxa from mining were characterised using a three-point risk

classification system (i.e. high, moderate, or low risk) as follows:

• Low risk (3 taxa): Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`, Trinemura sp. indet. and Nocticola sp. indet.

Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` and Trinemura sp. indet. were regarded as low risk because their known

records were located in the surface detritals which extend extensively beyond the impact areas. The risk

assessment of Nocticola sp. indet. was based on current taxonomic information and the likely extent of

suitable habitats (fractured rock habitats) beyond impact areas.

• Moderate risk (1 taxon): Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`,

This taxon was assessed as moderate risk as it is more likely to represent troglobitic SRE fauna and was

recorded as a singleton within the Klondyke pit. Nevertheless, its habitat is likely to continue beyond

impact areas in the nearby vicinity.

Seven (7) stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey of the Study Area are known only from

within the estimated groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen and Klondyke. Based on current taxonomic

and ecological information, modelling of groundwater drawdown and the likely extent of suitable habitats

for stygofauna beyond the modelled extent of drawdown, the following risk categories were assigned to

these taxa.

• Low risk (4 taxa): Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028`, Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060`, Parastenocaris sp. indet.,

and Bogidiellidae sp. indet.

These taxa were regarded as low risk due to current taxonomic and ecological information, and the likely

extent of suitable habitats (surface detritals and fractured rock aquifers) beyond impact areas.


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• Moderate risk (3 taxa): Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`, Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042`, and

Billibathynella sp. `BSY043`

These taxa were regarded as moderate risk because of their high likelihood to represent short-range

endemic stygobite species, as localised speciation and short-range endemism are common patterns

within their respective taxonomic groups. However, hydrogeological connectivity with other nearby

aquifers is likely, as several shears extend beyond the impact area to the north, north-west and east, with

surface detritals/colluvials extending to the south.


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1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Calidus Resources Limited (Calidus) owns the Warrawoona Gold Project, located approximately 25

kilometres (km) south-east of the town of Marble Bar in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia. The

Project comprises the Klondyke, Copenhagen, Coronation and Fieldings Gully Prospects with a global

gold resource currently at 1.25 million ounces. Pre-feasibility studies are currently underway to evaluate

the potential development of a new open pit and underground mine at Klondyke (which hosts the majority

of the gold resource), and the extension of existing mining operations at the satellite deposit Copenhagen

(and associated infrastructure).

The key components of the proposed developments are:

• Development of a new open pit at Klondyke;

• Development of an underground mine below the main Klondyke open pit;

• Extension of the existing Copenhagen deposit; and

• Construction of associated infrastructure, including a processing plant, accommodation village,

wastewater treatment plants, mine water treatment plants, surface water management structures

and power station.

The proposed Klondyke open pit is expected to be approximately 2 kilometres long by 200 metres wide,

and the final pit floor elevations will be approximately 150 metres deep. The Copenhagen mining

developments will extend the existing pit 35 metres to the perimeter and 25 metres deep.

Groundwater drawdown associated with the proposed mining activities is expected to occur both at

Copenhagen and Klondyke. Groundwater modelling predicts that the drawdown impact from dewatering

at the end of Copenhagen mining (seven months) will extend out radially to around 500 m from the

Copenhagen pit perimeter. This groundwater drawdown is expected to have largely recovered by the end

of project mining (six years). At Klondyke, the drawdown impact is predicted to extend around 3 km to the

northeast and southeast along the strike of the Warrawoona Ranges by the end of mining. However, this

estimate does not take into consideration the frequency of large seasonal recharge events and it is

considered likely that the final drawdown impact will be smaller than predicted.

Biologic Environmental Survey (Biologic) was commissioned by Calidus to undertake a baseline two-

season Level 2 subterranean fauna survey within the Warrawoona Gold Project. The area of interest,

hereafter referred to as the Study Area, covers approximately 1,212 hectares (ha) (Figure 1.1).

This report provides:

• a desktop review of all previous subterranean fauna surveys in the vicinity of the Study Area and

existing subterranean fauna databases on the local/ sub-regional scale;

• results of a two-phase Level 2 stygofauna and troglofauna survey throughout the Study Area,

including detailed identifications of all species collected;


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• assessment of the likely local occurrence of stygofauna and troglofauna species relative to key

habitat units and proposed impact areas, and a discussion of their conservation status and wider

potential distribution with reference to regional taxonomic comparisons; and

• a detailed risk assessment of key subterranean fauna values (species and habitat) in relation to

the potential impacts of the proposed mining development.

1.2 Legislation and guidance

Western Australia’s subterranean fauna is considered globally-significant due to an unprecedented

richness of species and high levels of short-range endemism (EPA, 2016c). The EPA’s environmental

objective for subterranean fauna is to “protect subterranean fauna so that biological diversity and

ecological integrity are maintained” (EPA, 2016a, p2). In this context, the EPA defines ecological integrity

as “the composition, structure, function and processes of ecosystems, and the natural range of variation

of these elements” (EPA, 2016a, p2).

Protection for conservation significant subterranean species and/ or Threatened or Priority Ecological

Communities (TECs and PECs) is provided under State and Federal legislation, comprising:

• Environmental Protection Act 1986 (EP Act 1986) (WA);

• Wildlife Conservation Act 1950 (WC Act 1950) (WA);

• Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 (BC Act 2016) (WA); and

• Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act 1999)

(Commonwealth).

Most subterranean species and assemblages are not listed under these Acts, due to incomplete

taxonomic or ecological knowledge. Consideration of range-restricted subterranean fauna is therefore

also important, including species that only occur within restricted habitats, as these have a higher potential

of being Short-Range Endemic (SRE) species (Eberhard et al., 2009; Harvey, 2002).

This assessment has been undertaken in consideration of the following EPA guidance statements:

• EPA (2016c) Technical Guidance Subterranean Fauna Survey;

• EPA (2016b) Technical Guidance Sampling Methods for Subterranean Fauna; and

• EPA (2016a) Environmental Factor Guideline Subterranean Fauna.

1.3 Subterranean fauna

Subterranean fauna are animals that live underground. In Western Australia, subterranean fauna are

mainly invertebrates such as crustaceans, insects, arachnids, myriapods, worms, and snails, but a small

number of vertebrate taxa such as fish and reptiles have also been found (EPA, 2013; Humphreys, 1999).

Subterranean fauna are grouped into two major ecological categories:

• stygofauna - aquatic animals that inhabit groundwater in caves, aquifers and water-saturated

interstitial voids; and


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• troglofauna - air-breathing animals that inhabit air-filled caves and smaller voids above the water

table.

Nevertheless, there are some taxa which cross-over between these categories and are known to occur

in groundwater as well as air-filled subterranean habitats (e.g. enchytraeid worms), and yet other species

that occur within subterranean habitats for only part of their lifecycles (stygoxenes/ stygophiles, and

trogloxenes/ troglophiles respectively).

Following EPA (EPA, 2016c) guidelines, obligate subterranean fauna (known respectively as stygobites

and troglobites) are defined as species that live their entire lives underground and are completely

dependent upon, or restricted to, subterranean habitats. Such species are considered to have a high

likelihood of being limited to very narrow ranges (i.e. short-range endemic (SRE) species), and therefore

may be at greater risk of impacts from proposed developments (EPA, 2016c). SRE species as described

by (Harvey, 2002), are species whose natural ranges are limited to <10,000 km2 (or <100 km x 100 km),

whereas Eberhard et al. (2009) regarded even this criterion as potentially too vast for range-restricted

subterranean fauna, offering an alternative threshold of <1,000 km2 for subterranean SRE species.

Troglobites and stygobites often display evolutionary adaptations to underground life; these include

features such as reduced pigment, reduced or vestigial wings, reduced cuticle thickness, elongation of

sensory appendages, and reduced eyes or eyelessness. Additional adaptations to underground life can

include changes to physiology, lifecycle, metabolism, feeding and behaviour (Christiansen, 2005; Gibert

& Deharveng, 2002)

As the darkness of hypogean environments precludes photosynthesis, subterranean ecosystems are

generally dependent upon allochthonous inputs of nutrients and oxygen from the surface (except in cases

where chemo-autotrophic bacteria are present) (Hahn, 2009). Energy and nutrients are generally

transported into subterranean ecosystems by the infiltration of water, particularly via the roots of

groundwater dependent vegetation (Howarth, 1983; Humphreys, 2006; Malard & Hervant, 1999; Poulson

& Lavoie, 2000). Thus, the porosity (or otherwise) of the overlying geologies, the distance from the

surface, and the presence/absence of caves or fissures that can provide a conduit for water and nutrients

are important physical features that influence the suitability of underground habitats for subterranean

fauna (Hahn & Fuchs, 2009; Strayer, 1994). Groundwater physicochemistry (including salinity, pH,

dissolved oxygen and redox potential) is also an important determinant of habitat suitability for stygofauna

(Eberhard et al., 2009; Hahn, 2009; Humphreys, 2008; Watts & Humphreys, 2004).

784453 793453 80245376

3301

776

4051

7

Size A4. Created 13/03/2019

Coordinate System: GDA 1994 MGA Zone 50Projection: Transverse MercatorDatum: GDA 1994

Calidus Resources - Warrawoona

Figure 1.1: Regional location and IBRA sub-regions1:75,000


0 1.5 30.75km

Greater ParaburdooStudy Area

LegendStudy AreaKlondyke PitCopenhagen PitRoads

IBRA sub-regionsChichesterFortescueHamersleyRoebourne ¯

Marble Bar

Klondyke

CopenhagenCoronation

Fieldings Gully


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2 ENVIRONMENT

2.1 Biogeography

The Study Area is located within the Pilbara bioregion (Figure 1.1), as defined by the Interim

Biogeographic Regionalisation of Australia (IBRA; Thackway & Cresswell, 1995). The Pilbara bioregion

is characterised by vast coastal plains and inland mountain ranges with cliffs and deep gorges (Thackway

& Cresswell, 1995). Vegetation is predominantly mulga low woodlands or snappy gum over bunch and

hummock grasses (Bastin, 2008). Within the Pilbara bioregion the Study Area is located within the

Chichester (PIL 1) subregion. The Chichester subregion is comprised of undulating Archaean granite and

basalt plains with areas of basaltic ranges (Kendrick & McKenzie, 2001). The plains support a shrub

steppe characterised by Acacia inaequilatera over Triodia wiseana hummock grasslands, while

Eucalyptus leucophloia tree steppes occur through the ranges (Kendrick & McKenzie, 2001).

2.2 Climate

The Pilbara bioregion has a semi-desert to tropical climate, with rainfall occurring sporadically throughout

the year, although mostly during summer (Thackway & Cresswell, 1995). Summer rainfall is usually the

result of tropical storms in the north or tropical cyclones that impact upon the coast and move inland

(Leighton, 2004). The winter rainfall is generally lighter and is the result of cold fronts moving north

easterly across the state (Leighton, 2004). The average annual rainfall ranges from 200-350 mm,

although there are significant fluctuations between years (BoM, 2017), with up to 1,200 mm falling in

some locations in some years (McKenzie et al., 2009).

Long-term climatic data is not available for the Study Area itself; however, long term climatic data is

available from the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) weather station at Marble Bar located approximately

north of the Study Area (BoM, 2017). The Marble Bar weather station is expected to provide the most

accurate long-term average (LTA) dataset for climatic conditions experienced within the Study Area

(Figure 2.1).

Figure 2.1: Long-term monthly average rainfall and temperature from Marble Bar (BoM 2019)

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

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5

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Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Rain

fall (

mm

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pera

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(°C

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LTA Rainfall (mm) LTA Min Temp (°C) LTA Max Temp (°C)


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2.3 Geology

The Warrawoona Gold Project is situated within the Eastern Pilbara Domain of the Archean Pilbara

Craton. The Study Area is located on an Archean greenstone terrain synclinally folded between large

granitic batholiths (Calidus, 2019) (Figure 2.2). The greenstone succession comprises layered

assemblages of volcanic and intrusive mafic, ultramafic and intermediate rocks interbedded with minor

cherts and sedimentary rocks, overlain by Proterozoic banded iron formations (BIF) (Calidus, 2019).

Figure 2.2 shows the surface geology of the Warrawoona Gold Project based on GSWA 1:250,000

mapping, and Table 2.1 shows the generalised suitability for subterranean fauna for each of the geological

units. The geology of the Study Area comprises the Warrawoona Group, characterised by high-Mg

basaltic lavas with lesser tholeiite, andesite, sodic dacite, potassic rhyolite, chert and banded iron

formation (BIF) (Calidus, 2019).

The proposed deposits are hosted within three localized ductile shear zones: the Klondyke, Copenhagen

and Fielding’s Find shear zones (Calidus, 2019). Gold mineralisation generally occurs within the shear

zones, with mineralisation outcropping at surface. At Klondyke, the shear strikes northwest through the

centre of the deposit. Several shears parallel the Klondyke shear including the St. George and Coronation

shears. At the Copenhagen deposit, the mineralised units occur within a thick sequence of amphibole-

chlorite-quartz mafic schists. The area of mineralisation at Copenhagen is up to 80 m thick and lies

between a thick chlorite-quartz schist to the north and a 10 m thick bed of talc carbonate schist to the

south. At Fieldings Gully, the shear strikes east-west. The Fieldings Gully deposit comprises a sequence

of sheared and hydrothermally altered volcanic and sedimentary rocks.

2.4 Surface drainage and indicative catchments

The Warrawoona Gold Project is located within the Brockman Hay Cutting Creek catchment situated

along the Warrawoona Ranges which form the local surface water divide. (Figure 2.3, Figure 2.4). The

main ephemeral water course within the Study Area is the Brockman Hay Cutting creek, which runs from

Klondyke to the west into Coongan River, a tributary of the De Grey River system (Figure 2.3). Several

small ephemeral water courses and drainage lines flow through the western section of the Study Area

near deposits Copenhagen, Coronation and Fielders Gully before joining with Brockman Hay Cutting

Creek (Figure 2.3). All watercourses and drainages in the vicinity of the Warrawoona Gold Project are

ephemeral, with flows occurring periodically during the summer, however because the Project is situated

within the Warrawoona Ranges there are very limited catchment areas upstream of the proposed mining

areas.

The Warrawoona Range runs along the north-eastern section of the Study Area. Areas to the south-west

and north-east of these rocky ranges are comparatively low lying with elevations of 230 – 300 m (Figure

2.3). The highest peak in the area is Warrawoona Peak with an elevation of 398 m. The Warrawoona

Range is comprised of steep-sided relatively small hills and outcrops trending SE-NW (following the

regional shear zone), forming a series of parallel ridges separated by narrow valleys. Drainage lines cut

through the Range in certain areas (associated with transverse faulting), connecting the narrow valleys

and emptying onto the surrounding undulating plains.


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The Warrawoona Ranges form a local surface and groundwater divide directly to the east of the Study

Area (GRM, 2019a). Surface water runoff from the Warrawoona Range moves either to the Brockman

Creek catchment to the north-east (which discharges into Talga River) or to the Camel Creek catchment

in the south-west (which discharges into the Coongan River) (Figure 2.4).

2.5 Hydrogeology

Within the Study Area, the stratigraphic layers of the Warrawoona syncline run vertical or near vertical

along the regional shear zone. Water penetration and permeability is facilitated by infiltration along the

geological contacts and preferential flow paths created by the fractures/ faults of the shear zones.

However, in some areas, transverse faulting has created flow paths perpendicular to the regional shear

trend, and in other areas, dolerite dykes may restrict flow paths along the shear zone, which creates

further complexities/ heterogeneity for the hydrogeological setting. The Study Area also features a large

(20 km long) north-east striking dyke that is likely to form a local barrier to groundwater flow between

Klondyke and Copenhagen (GRM, 2019a).

As fractured rock aquifers dominate the hydrogeological settings at the Study Area, permeability can be

moderate to high, although storage is variable depending on the size of individual fractures and the

degree of wider hydraulic connectivity (GRM, 2019a).

Groundwater table levels are lowest along the topographic highs of the Warrawoona Ranges, such as

the proposed Klondyke deposit where it averages around 25 mbgl. There is a strong hydraulic gradient

from the Warrawoona Ranges to the south (towards the Coongan River) and to the north (towards the

De Grey River), with groundwater levels rising quickly to less than 5 mbgl in the catchment areas to the

north-east and south-west of the Warrawoona Ranges (e.g. including Copenhagen, Fieldings Gully and

Coronation). Consequently, prospective troglofauna habitat in the low-lying areas at Copenhagen,

Coronation and Fieldings Gully is relatively limited.

2.6 Suitability for subterranean fauna habitat

As described above (section 1.3) subterranean fauna habitat is predicated on the occurrence and

interconnectedness of subterranean porosity, aperture spaces, voids, cracks, cavities, and caverns

(above and below water table). Other than thin detrital layers (i.e. colluvium in the valleys of the

Warrawoona Range, and alluvium following drainage lines), subterranean voids are largely limited to

fractured rocks associated with the shear zones and transverse faults. The geological layers found in the

Study Area are mostly massive and impermeable (Table 2.1), and in-situ weathering has not enhanced

their permeability (in contrast to secondary weathering of ironstone geologies). Therefore, deeper

subterranean habitats are expected to be limited to the fractures and faults of the shear zones, with

geological contacts/ transverse faults providing preferential flow paths for water. These may be overlain

in patches by superficial detrital habitats, potentially forming a network of habitable voids/ porosity, but

the overall extent of these kinds of habitats and their interconnectivity at the landscape scale is uncertain.


Page | 17

Table 2.1: Surface geology of the Study Area and generalised suitability for subterranean fauna

Unit Description Generalised suitability for subterranean fauna (AWT/BWT)

Detritals (valley fill, colluvium, alluvium)

Poorly consolidated scree, gravel, sand and silt associated with slope flanks (scree/ colluvium), washplains (colluvium), and drainage lines (alluvium).

Medium to High, depending upon the degree of consolidation, interconnectivity of pore spaces/ voids and the depth from the surface.

Sedimentary rocks Formed by the accumulation of small particles. Permeability depends largely on the type of sedimentary rock and ranges from low to high.

Low to Medium, depending upon the degree of fracturing.

Sandstone Sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized mineral particles or rock fragments. Permeable and porous. Medium to High, where sufficient vugs, cavities, fractures, or void spaces occur.

Shale A clastic sedimentary rock composed of mud. Shale is characterized by parallel layering less than one centimetre in thickness (fissility). Shale has generally low permeability, except where deeply fractured or faulted.

Typically low, except where fractured by faulting (Medium)

Conglomerate Coarse-grained clastic sedimentary rock that is composed of rounded gravel-sized clasts. Conglomerates typically contain finer grained sediment (e.g. sand, silt, clay) filling their interstices (called matrix).


Granite Dense and hard igneous rock that is granular in texture, consisting mainly of feldspar and quartz. Granite has poor permeability, except where deeply fractured or faulted.


Gneiss Metamorphic rock formed by high temperature and high-pressure. Gneiss nearly always shows a banded texture (alternating darker and lighter coloured bands). Gneiss has generally low permeability.


Basalt Volcanic rock that weathers relatively fast compared to other rocks. Low to Medium, depending upon the degree of fracturing and porosity of the local geology.

Basic and ultrabasic volcanic rocks

Igneous rock with a very low silica but high magnesium and iron content. Unknown/ uncertain

Acid volcanic rocks

Igneous rock that is compositionally rich in silica, alumina and alkalis. They are generally less dense and lighter in colour than basic rocks.

Unknown/ uncertain

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Figure 2.2: Geology of the Study Areaand surrounds (GSWA 1:250,000)1:200,000


0 4.5 92.25km

Greater ParaburdooStudy Area ¯

LegendStudy AreaCopenhagen PitKlondyke Pit

Geology 250kAcid volcanic rocksBasalt, sandstone, conglomerateBasic and ultrabasic volcanic rocksGneissGraniteSandstone, shale, conglomerateSedimentary rocks

780510 789510 798510 80751076

3008

276

3758

276

4508

2




Figure 2.3: Surface drainage of the Study Area and surrounds1:100,000


0 2 41km


LegendCopenhagen PitKlondyke PitStudy Area

Drainage LinesRoads

Elevation Contours230-260 meters

260-280 meters280-300 meters300-330 meters330-390 meters ¯

Camel Creek

Brockman HayCutting Creek

Sandy Creek

BrockmanCreek

COPENHAGEN PIT

KLONDYKE PIT

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9




Figure 2.4: Regional surface hydrology

1:75,000


0 1.5 30.75km


LegendStudy AreaCopenhagen PitKlondyke PitDrainage Lines

Local Catchment AreasBrockman Creek catchment areaBrockman Hay Cutting Creek catchment areaCamel creek catchment areaSandy Creek catchment area ¯

Brockman HayCutting Creek

Camel Creek

Sandy Creek

BrockmanCreek


Page | 21

3 METHODS

3.1 Database search and review of previous reports

Four databases were searched for subterranean fauna records in April 2014 (Table 3.1):

• Western Australian Museum (WAM) Arachnida/ Myriapoda database;

• WAM Crustacea database;

• DBCA’s Pilbara Stygofauna Survey species list (Halse & Eberhard, 2014); and

• Subterranean Ecology’s database (last updated in 2012).

All records were filtered based on collection methods and known stygofauna/ troglofauna taxonomic

groups where information on subterranean status was not present in the data.

Table 3.1. Databases searched for subterranean fauna records

Database Parameters

NatureMap 20 km radius around 21°19`38”S and 119°52`33”E

ALA 10 km radius around 21°19`38”S and 119°52`33”E

WAM Arachnida/ Myriapoda

WAM Crustacea 60 km radius around 21°19`38”S and 119°52`33”E

DBCA’s Pilbara Stygofauna Survey

60 km radius around 21°19`38”S and 119°52`33”E

Subterranean Ecology database

60 km radius around 21°19`38”S and 119°52`33”E

Reports from subterranean fauna surveys within 100 km of the Study Areas were reviewed for local and

regional context. Reports from relevant surveys are listed below:

• Corunna Downs Subterranean Fauna Assessment (MWH, 2016);

• McPhee Creek Subterranean Fauna Survey (Subterranean Ecology, 2012a);

• Sulphur Springs Subterranean Fauna Survey Report 1 (Subterranean Ecology, 2006);

• Panorama Project Subterranean Fauna Survey Report 2 (Subterranean Ecology, 2007);

• Mount Webber Desktop Assessment of Subterranean Fauna (Subterranean Ecology, 2012b);

• Abydos Troglofauna Survey (Subterranean Ecology, 2009); and

• Abydos Troglofauna Survey 2010 (Subterranean Ecology, 2010).

3.2 Survey timing

The Level 2 subterranean fauna survey was a two-phase survey, undertaken in accordance with

guidelines for subterranean fauna assessments (EPA 2016a, 2016b, 2016c). The first phase of sampling

was undertaken during the dry season months May – July 2018, with the second phase being undertaken

in March – May 2019, representing a wet season survey. Each survey phase comprised two field trips as

follows:


Page | 22

Phase 1

• Trip 1, 8th – 15th May 2018: trap deployment and scrape / haul / pump sampling; and

• Trip 2, 15th July 2018: trap retrieval by Calidus personnel.

Phase 2

• Trip 3, 12 – 19 March 2019: trap deployment and scrape / haul / pump sampling; and

• Trip 4, 28th May 2019: trap retrieval by Calidus personnel.

The daily maximum temperatures during Phase 1 (Trip 1: 8 – 15 May 2018) at the Study Area ranged

from 35.8°C to 36.2°C, whereas the overnight minima ranged from 17°C to 19.9°C (Figure 3.1). These

conditions were consistent with the long-term average temperatures for the same period (Figure 3.1).

Marble Bar received no rainfall in the four weeks prior to Phase 1 trap deployment, and rainfall in the

three months prior to Trip 1 was well below average (63 mm; 111 mm below the long-term average).

However, significant rainfall well above average, was recorded in January 2018 (377 mm; 210 mm

above the long-term average). This would be expected to have significantly recharged the

subterranean habitats, and therefore fauna sampling during Phase 1 (dry season) survey was unlikely

to have been limited by a lack of wet season rainfall.

The daily maximum temperatures during Phase 2 (Trip 3: 12 – 19 March 2019) ranged from 36.7°C

to 42.7°C, reflecting slightly warmer than average long-term temperatures. Wet season sampling was

conducted following a significant rainfall event (32 mm) in late February, with a further 64 mm received

during the course of Phase 2 sampling (BoM, 2019). During the period Phase 2 troglofauna traps

were deployed (12 March – 28 May 2019) , the Study Area was hit by Cyclone Veronica, experiencing

well above average rainfall for March 2019 (236 mm; 324% above the long-term average) (Figure

3.1). This resulted in groundwater levels throughout the Study Area experiencing significant recharge,

particularly through drainage channels and low-lying areas such as Copenhagen. Consequently, a

number of troglofauna traps at Copenhagen were flooded with the rise in groundwater levels and

were subsequently raised above groundwater levels and remained in-situ for an additional eight

weeks to align with recommended guidance statements (EPA, 2016b). This is not expected to be a

limitation or have materially affected Phase 2 faunal results of the survey.


Page | 23

Figure 3.1: Long term average (LTA) and current (2018-2019) climatic data at Marble Bar (Station 004106), (data from BoM 2019*)*Note: Data includes total monthly rainfall (mm) and average

monthly maximum and minimum temperatures (°C). Approximate survey timing (trap deployment and

scrape/haul sampling) is indicated by the black boxes. The arrows depict the timing of trap retrieval by Calidus

personnel.

3.3 Site selection and survey effort

Within the Study Area, site selection for subterranean fauna sampling was limited to accessible, vertical

bores (i.e. cased, production or monitoring bores) and drill holes (uncased holes). The ratios of

troglofauna trapping to scraping and net hauling within and near each deposit were dependent upon drill

hole construction (uncased required for troglofauna), angle (90° required for scraping and net hauling),

time since drilling (>6 months required for stygofauna, following EPA 2016b), and whether the holes

intercepted groundwater (required for stygofauna).

A total of 118 bores and holes were sampled throughout the Study Area over the course of two phases.

In total, 82 holes were sampled by troglofauna trapping, 99 bores and holes were sampled by scraping

for troglofauna, and 87 were sampled by stygofauna net-hauling. Some holes were sampled during both

trips while others were sampled using combined net hauling/ scraping/ trapping methods. Three

troglofauna traps (excluded from survey sample numbers) were lost to disturbance.

A total of 207 subterranean fauna samples were collected during the survey. This comprised 198

troglofauna samples collected by trapping (87 samples) and scraping (111 samples), and 93 stygofauna

samples collected by net hauling during the survey. Table 3.2 provides details of the number of samples

collected within and nearby each sampling area with respect to the methods employed, and Figures 3.2

and 3.3 shows the location of holes visited and sampled throughout the Study Area. Details of bores and

drill holes visited during the survey are provided in Appendix A.

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Page | 24

Table 3.2: Numbers of samples collected within and near each deposit

Copenhagen Coronation Fieldings

Gully Klondyke Total

Traps retrieved 18 6 12 51 87

Scrapes 6 - 2 19 27

Net hauls 5 - 1 3 9

Combined scrape/ net haul

19 13 11 41 84

Troglofauna total 43 19 25 111 198

Stygofauna total 24 13 12 44 93

Grand total, all samples 48 19 26 114 207

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0 1.5 30.75km



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Calidus Resources - WarrawoonaFigure 3.3: Sampling effort for Stygofaunaper site (current survey)

1:75,000


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Page | 27

3.4 Sampling methods

The sampling methods used were consistent with EAG #12 (EPA, 2016c), Guidance Statement #54A

(EPA, 2016b) and the Stygofauna Sampling Protocol developed for the Pilbara Biodiversity Study

Subterranean Fauna Survey (Eberhard et al., 2005; Eberhard et al., 2009). The field work was undertaken

by Syngeon Rodman, Michael Brown, Phil Runham and Courtney Brown. Laboratory sorting was

undertaken by Dean Main, Shae Callan, Syngeon Rodman, Fabian Rudin, Mary van Wees, and Dr Nihara

Gunawardene.

3.4.1 Troglofauna trapping

Trapping utilises custom made cylindrical PVC traps (approximately 50 mm x 300 mm) baited with

decaying leaf litter (dead spinifex / acacia sourced from the Pilbara region), which were sterilised with

boiling water. Traps are lowered via a nylon cord to a suitable depth and left in operation six to eight

weeks, before being collected and transported back to the laboratory in Perth.

3.4.2 Troglofauna scraping

Scraping was undertaken at vertical, uncased drill holes using a reinforced 150 µm weighted stygofauna

net, with a specialised scraping attachment used above the net to maximise gentle contact with the walls

of the hole. The net was lowered and raised through the full length of the hole at least three (3) times for

holes where no water was present, with each haul being emptied into a sample bucket as per net-hauling.

Where the water table was intercepted, a combined net-haul / scrape sample was taken using the

scraping attachment, comprising six (6) hauls throughout the full length of the hole from top to bottom,

including both the air filled and below water subterranean habitats. The contents of the sample were

elutriated, processed, and stored in 100 % ethanol as per net-hauling. Nevertheless, this technique can

frequently result in stygofauna by-catch where scraping nets are lowered below the water table to collect

any invertebrates that may have fallen past the net.

3.4.3 Stygofauna net-hauling

Stygofauna were sampled by standard net-hauling methods, using a plankton net of a diameter to suit

each bore or drill hole (in most cases 30-80 mm). Each haul sample comprised a total of six hauls from

the bottom of the hole to the top, with three hauls using a 150 μm mesh and three hauls using a 50 μm

mesh. The base of the net was fitted with a lead weight and a sample receptacle with a base mesh of

50 μm. To stir up sediments, the net was raised and lowered at the bottom of the hole prior to retrieval

and hauled at an even pace through the water column to maximise filtration of the water.

The sample from each haul was emptied into a bucket, which was elutriated after the final haul to remove

coarse sediments and filtered back through the 50 μm net/ sample receptacle to remove as much water

as possible. The sample was transferred to a 50-120 mL preservation vial (depending upon the quantity

of sediment) and preserved in 100% ethanol. The ethanol and the samples were kept chilled on ice to

facilitate cool-temperature DNA fixation.


Page | 28

3.4.4 Water physicochemistry

Prior to stygofauna sampling, a groundwater sample was collected using a 1m plastic cylindrical bailer,

for the purposes of physicochemical measurements. The bailer was lowered down the hole until reaching

groundwater and a water sample was collected at a depth of 2 m below the surface. As such the results

were not indicative of water parameters throughout the entire bore (or aquifer) but rather provide a general

indication of near surface conditions. Conditions sampled during pumping were measured using a sample

collected from the pump outflow, which would have artificially increased the dissolved oxygen readings.

Groundwater physicochemical data (including EC, pH, TDS, Redox ORP, and dissolved O2) was

measured using a multi-parameter water meter. Constrictions in piezometer bores, blockages from root

material, or excessive depths to groundwater inhibited the collection of physicochemical readings at some

sites.

3.4.5 Sorting and taxonomy

Sorting and parataxonomy were undertaken in-house using dissecting microscopes. The personnel

involved (D. Main, S. Callan, N. Gunawardene, S. Rodman, F. Rudin, and M. van Wees) were all suitably

trained and experienced in sorting and parataxonomy of subterranean fauna.

Parataxonomy of the specimens utilised published literature and taxonomic keys where available. Each

morphospecies from each sample was assigned a separate labelled vial and labelled with a specimen

tracking code. Taxonomic groups were examined in as much detail as possible using in-house expertise,

before sending a reference collection to specialist taxonomists for detailed taxonomic advice. Species

comparisons and alignments were performed using regional specimens collected beyond the Study Area

throughout the wider sub-regional area. Jane McRae provided specialist taxonomic identifications and

regional alignments.

3.4.6 Conservation status and SRE classification

A few subterranean species and assemblages from the Pilbara region are listed under relevant legislation

as threatened species, or as Threatened or Priority Ecological Communities in certain locations. Any

listed subterranean species or community is regarded as conservation significant although, due to a lack

of survey effort and taxonomic certainty for the majority of subterranean fauna in the Pilbara region, there

are many potentially range-restricted (SRE) or conservation significant species and communities that do

not appear on these lists.

The likelihood of taxa representing SRE species (i.e. distribution <10,000 km2 following Harvey 2002, or

<1,000 km2 following Eberhard et al. 2009) was assessed based on the known local species distribution,

and regional comparisons where data was available, following advice from the WAM and other relevant

taxonomic specialists. The assessment of SRE status was highly dependent on:

1. the degree of taxonomic certainty at the genus and species levels;

2. the current state of taxonomic and ecological knowledge for each taxon (including whether a

regional genetic context has been investigated);

3. the scale and intensity of the local and regional sampling effort; and

4. whether or not relevant taxonomic specialists were available to provide advice.


Page | 29

The SRE status categories used in this report follow the WAM’s categorisation for SRE invertebrates.

This system is based upon the 10,000 km2 range criterion proposed by Harvey (2002), and uses three

broad categories to deal with varying levels of taxonomic certainty that may apply to any given taxon

(Table 3.3). Owing to the fact that the majority of subterranean fauna are poorly known taxonomically,

and the general limitations to sampling subterranean fauna, the majority of morphospecies invariably fall

within one (or several) of the five Potential SRE sub-categories.

Table 3.3: SRE categorisation used by WAM taxonomists

Taxonomic Certainty Taxonomic Uncertainty

Distribution

<10 000km2

Confirmed SRE

• A known distribution of < 10,000km2.

• The taxonomy is well known.

• The group is well represented in collections and/ or via comprehensive sampling.

Potential SRE

• Patchy sampling has resulted in incomplete knowledge of geographic distribution.

• Incomplete taxonomic knowledge.

• The group is not well represented in collections.

• Category applies where there are significant knowledge gaps.

SRE Sub-categories may apply:

A) Data Deficient

B) Habitat Indicators

C) Morphology Indicators

D) Molecular Evidence

E) Research & Expertise

Distribution

>10 000km2

Widespread (not an SRE)

• A known distribution of > 10,000km2.

• The taxonomy is well known.

• The group is well represented in collections and/ or via comprehensive sampling.

The degree of stygomorphy or troglomorphy (observable physical adaptations to subterranean habitats

such as eyelessness, depigmentation, elongation of sensory appendages and thinning of the cuticle)

assessed to determine each morphospecies’ ‘subterranean status’, i.e. whether a taxon was more or

less likely to be an obligate subterranean species (stygobite/ troglobite). It is acknowledged that the

current EPA guideline for subterranean fauna does not account for non-obligate subterranean fauna,

stating, "…subterranean fauna are defined as fauna which live their entire lives (obligate) below the

surface of the earth.... Fauna that use a subterranean environment for only part of the day or season

(e.g. soil-dwelling or burrowing species, cave-dwelling bats and birds) are not considered as

subterranean fauna for this EAG" (EPA, 2013).

Nevertheless, there may be fauna with restricted distributions <10,000 km2 following Harvey (2002), or

<1,000 km2 following Eberhard et al. (2009) that are of interest because of their SRE status, regardless

of whether they can be definitively regarded as ‘obligate’ subterranean fauna. For this reason, this report

presents an assessment of both the subterranean status and the SRE status of each taxon collected, to

the best available knowledge.

In some cases where thorough sampling has been conducted and sufficient habitat information and

ecological information is available, the potential occurrence of a taxon at a local scale may be inferred

via the extent of habitats, particularly where the rest of the assemblages are highly similar, and the


Page | 30

habitats appear well-connected. Despite the suggestion within the current EPA (2013) guidelines that

related species’ ranges may be used as surrogates for poorly-known species’ ranges, the level of

evidence required to support the identification of an appropriate surrogate is almost prohibitively high for

most subterranean fauna, therefore this would only be investigated as a last resort.


Page | 31

4 RESULTS

4.1 Database searches

The WAM, Subterranean Ecology and DBCA’s Pilbara Stygofauna Survey records revealed 29

troglofauna taxa belonging to 14 taxonomic groups, and 68 stygofauna (including potential stygofauna)

taxa from 12 taxonomic groups within 60 km of the Study Area (Table 4.1). The locations of these

subterranean fauna records are shown in Figure 4.1 and 4.2. None of the troglofauna or stygofauna taxa

recorded from the database searches were recorded within the Study Area, owing to the lack of previous

sampling.

Based on current knowledge, none of the described troglofauna or stygofauna species appear on any

threatened species lists. Particularly in relation to the stygofauna taxa, the majority of the records

comprise widespread species known to occur beyond the Study Area. However, owing to the

indeterminate identifications of many of the taxa recorded, a number of records cannot be assessed for

wider local/ regional distributions. A list of all database search records is presented in Appendix B.

Table 4.1: Troglofauna and stygofauna morphospecies recorded in the databases within 60 km of the Study Area (search parameters as per Table 3.1)

Taxonomy Likely subterranean status

SRE status where known

Source

Rotifera

Bdelloidea sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Platyhelminthes

Turbellaria sp. D4: ED4: E278 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Platyhelminthes sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Nematoda

Nematoda sp. 17 Stygofauna Potential SRE DBCA

Nematoda sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Polychaeta

Aeolosoma sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Oligochaeta

Dero furcata Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Enchytraeidae sp. McP Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Insulodrilus lacustris s.l. Pilbara type 2/3 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Monopylephorus n. sp. WA29 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Phreodrilid with dissimilar ventral chaetae

Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Phreodrilid with similar ventral chaetae Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Pristina? sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Enchytraeidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Phreodrilidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Acari

Guineaxonopsis sp. S1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Oribatida sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain WAM

Recifella sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain WAM & DBCA

Wandesia sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain WAM


Page | 32



Source

Guineaxonopsis sp. indet.* Potential stygofauna Uncertain WAM

Ostracoda

Amphitritecandona secunda Stygofauna Potential SRE WAM & DBCA

Areacandona cf. sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Bennelongia sp.2 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Bennelongia strelleyensis Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Candonopsis pilbarae Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Cypretta seurati Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Cyprinotus kimberleyensis Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Gomphodella hirsuta Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Gomphodella 'quasihirsuta' ms Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Heterocypris 'kimberleyensis' ms Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol & DBCA

Kencandona harleyi Stygofauna Widespread WAM & DBCA

Leicacandona cf. carinata Stygofauna Potential SRE DBCA

Leicacandona jimi Stygofauna Potential SRE DBCA

Leicacandona lite Stygofauna Potential SRE WAM & DBCA

Leicacandona makra Stygofauna Potential SRE WAM & DBCA

Limnocythere sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Strandesia sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Cyprididae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Leicacandona sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Ostracoda sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol & DBCA

Cyclopoida

Diacyclops cockingi Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol & DBCA

Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol & DBCA

Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Diacyclops sobeprolatus Stygofauna Widespread WAM & DBCA

Meridiecyclops baylyi Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Mesocyclops brooksi Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol

Metacyclops sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread WAM & DBCA & SubEcol

Orbuscyclops westaustraliensis Stygofauna Widespread WAM

Cyclopoida sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Harpacticoida

Dussartstenocaris sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol & DBCA

Megastygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol

Megastygonitocrella unispinosa Stygofauna Widespread WAM

Parastenocaris jane Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol

Parastenocaris sp. 3 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Parastenocaris sp. B23 Stygofauna Potential SRE WAM


Page | 33



Source

Pseudectinosoma galassiae Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Stygonitocrella bispinosa Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Stygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread SubEcol & DBCA

Stygonitocrella unispinosa Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Canthocamptidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Parastenocaris sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Harpacticoida sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol & DBCA

Syncarida

Bathynella sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Bathynellidae sp. McP Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Billibathynella sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

nr Kimberleybathynella sp. McP Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

nr Atopobathynella sp. B16 Stygofauna Potential SRE WAM

Amphipoda

Bogidiellidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Melitidae sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Nedsia sp. indet. Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Paramelitidae sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread DBCA



Paramelitidae sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Pilbarus millsi Stygofauna Widespread DBCA

Melitidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain DBCA

Paramelitidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain SubEcol & DBCA

Isopoda

Coxicerberus sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Hanoniscus? sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Philosciidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Troglarmadillo sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Troglarmadillo sp. Mcp2 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Microcerberidae sp. indet.* Stygofauna Uncertain WAM & DBCA

Scolopendrida

Cryptops sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Geophilida

Chilenophilidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Polyxenida

Polyxenida sp. S1 (MW) Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Polyxenida sp. RRV Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Polyxenida sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Pauropoda

Pauropoda sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Diplura


Page | 34



Source

Anajapygidae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol



Pseudoscorpiones

Indohya sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Palpigradi

Palpigradi sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Palpigradi sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Schizomida

Draculoides sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Araneae

Anapistula sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Prethopalpus sp. indet. Troglofauna Uncertain WAM

Oonopidae sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Zygentoma

Ateluridae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Trinemura sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Ateluridae sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Blattodea

Nocticola sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Nocticola sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Nocticola sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Hemiptera

Meenoplidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Meenoplidae sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Meenoplidae sp. indet.* Troglofauna Uncertain SubEcol

Coleoptera

Anillini sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Anillini sp. McP2 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Anillini sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Cryptorhynchinae sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Curculionidae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Pselaphinae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE SubEcol

Note: *Asterisk indicates indeterminate taxa such as ‘Meenoplidae sp. indet.’ which are not included in species counts

as they represent specimens that cannot be allocated to the other known species based on current taxonomic

information.

732370 748370 764370 780370 796370 812370 828370 84437076

0233

976

1633

976

3033

976

4433

976

5833

9




Figure 4.1: Previous troglofauna recordswithin 60 km of the Study Area1:400,000


0 9 184.5km



Troglofauna OrderAraneaeBlattodeaColeoptera

DipluraGeophilidaHemipteraIsopoda

PalpigradiPauropodaPolydesmidaPolyxenida

PseudoscorpionesSchizomidaScolopendridaSymphylaZygentoma

Anapistula sp. MWAnillini sp. MWCryptorhynchinae sp. MWHanoniscus? sp. MWIndohya sp. MWMeenoplidae sp. MWNocticola sp. MWPolyxenida sp. S1 (MW)

Anajapygidae sp. McP1Anajapygidae sp. McP2Anajapygidae sp. McP3Anillini sp. McP1Anillini sp. McP2Ateluridae indet.Ateluridae sp. McP1Chilenophilidae sp. McPCryptops sp. McPCurculionidae sp. McP1Meenoplidae indet.Meenoplidae sp. McPNocticola indet.Nocticola sp. McPOonopidae indet.Palpigradi indet.Palpigradi sp. McPPauropoda sp. McPPhilosciidae sp. McPPolyxenida indet.Polyxenida sp. RRVPrethopalpus sp. indet.Pselaphinae sp. McPTrinemura sp. McPTroglarmadillo sp. McP1Troglarmadillo sp. McP2

Cryptops-OES5Curculionidae-OES11Illaphanus-OES2Indohya-OES6InjapxInjapx-OES5Injapx-OES5Lophoproctidae-OES1Nocticola-OES10Philosciidae-OES18Projapygidae-OES2Prosopodesmus-OES8Symphyla-OES1Tenebrionidae-OES1Tyrannochthonius-OES16

#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#* #*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#* #*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*

#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

#*#*#*#*#*#*#*

713551 737551 761551 785551 809551 833551 857551 88155175

9508

876

1508

876

3508

876

5508

876

7508

876

9508

8




Figure 4.2: Previous stygofauna recordswithin 60 km of the Study Area1:600,000


0 10 205km



Higher Order#* Acari#* Amphipoda#* Cyclopoida

#* Isopoda#* Nematoda#* Oligochaeta#* Ostracoda

#* Platyhelminthes#* Polychaeta#* Rotifera#* Syncarida


Page | 37

4.3 Previous survey results

Reports from subterranean fauna surveys within 100 km of the Study Area were reviewed for local and

regional context. Little previous subterranean fauna work has been conducted within the immediate

vicinity of the Study Area, owing mainly to the low number of nearby (i.e. within 50 km) mining operations.

None of the surveys sampled bores/ drill holes within the Study Area and most sampling was undertaken

at sites characterised by different geologies to that of the Study Area (e.g. BIF), hindering the direct

comparison of subfaunal records.

The closest subterranean fauna survey was conducted at Corunna Downs, located approximately 20 km

to the south of the Study Area (MWH, 2016). In total, 140 bores and drill holes were sampled for

troglofauna and stygofauna, though no stygofauna specimens were detected. Thirteen troglofauna

species from nine higher level taxonomic groups were recorded, comprising Blattodea, Coleoptera,

Diplura, Isopoda, Polydesmida, Polyxenida, Pseudoscorpiones, Scolopendromorpha and Symphyla.

Troglofauna were collected from geothite-hematite BIF habitat.

Subterranean fauna surveys undertaken at McPhee Creek, approximately 50 km south-east of the Study

Area, recorded a diverse troglofauna assemblage (Subterranean Ecology, 2012a). Twenty-one

troglofauna species representing 11 higher groups were recorded, comprising Araneae, Palpigradi,

Diplura, Blattodea, Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Zygentoma, Isopoda, Chilopoda, Diplopoda and Pauropoda.

The distributions of troglofauna demonstrated that the habitable geology was not confined to BIF zones

but also included the weathered and fractured geological units outside the deposits. A total of 12

stygofauna species from four orders (Copepoda, Syncarida, Oligochaeta and Ostracoda) were collected,

most of which were widespread and not of conservation concern.

Surveys conducted at Sulphur Springs, located approximately 50 km north-west of the Study Area,

recorded a diverse stygofauna assemblage in the alluvial aquifer systems associated with the upper

catchment tributaries of the East Strelley and Shaw Rivers. In contrast, only one species of troglofauna

was recorded, a subterranean Nocticola cockroach. This specimen was mainly found in the volcanic-

sedimentary units that overlay the granite-greenstone complex.

Subterranean fauna surveys at Mt Webber, located approximately 60 km south-west of the Study Area,

revealed a moderately rich troglofauna assemblage, with 12 troglofauna species from nine orders being

recorded. The troglofauna were collected from geothite-hematite and chert-rich BIF habitat in the western

part of the Mt Webber Project and fractured ultramafic/mafic rock type habitats to the east. A total of ten

stygofauna morphospecies and six indeterminate stygofauna taxa were recorded at Mt Webber. Of these,

two species were only known from the Study Area (Billibathynella sp. MW and Dussartstenocaris sp.

MW).

The two troglofauna surveys at Abydos, approximately 80 km north-west of the Study Area, recorded a

diverse troglofauna assemblage from Archean BIF deposits within the Paddy Market Formation. Diamond

drill cores from the mineralised zones indicated relatively well-developed secondary porosity that

extended to more than 50 mbgl. The distributions of troglofauna collected indicated that many species


Page | 38

were not confined to individual deposit areas but were more widely dispersed along the ridge

demonstrating that weathered and fractured geological units provided suitable habitat for troglofauna as

well as BIF.

Table 4.2: Summary of previous subterranean fauna survey effort and results within 100 km of the Study Area

Previous survey

Corunna Downs

Subterranean Fauna

Assessment

McPhee Creek Subterranean Fauna Survey

Sulphur Springs


Mount Webber Desktop

Assessment of Subterranean

Fauna

Abydos Troglofauna

Survey

Abydos Troglofauna

Survey

Author, year MWH 2016 Subterranean Ecology 2012

Subterranean Ecology 2006

& 2007




Distance from Study Area

22 km S 50 km SE 53 km NW 63 km SW 77 km NW 77 km NW

Geology Goethite-

hematite BIF Goethite-

hematite BIF

Alluvium, calcrete, chert,

shales, sandstone

Goethite-hematite and chert-rich BIF,

ultramafic/mafic

BIF, minor shale, siltstone

BIF, minor shale, siltstone

Fauna targeted Troglofauna &

Stygofauna Troglofauna &



Stygofauna Troglofauna Troglofauna

Areas sampled Corunna Downs

McPhee Creek

Sulphur Springs

Mount Webber

Abydos Abydos

Bores sampled 140 99 53 109 183 95

Bores sampled in current deposits

0 0 0 0 0 0

Methods Trapping,

Scraping, Net hauling

Trapping, Net hauling

Scraping, Net hauling

Trapping, Scraping, Net

hauling Trapping

Trapping, Scraping

Trog collected Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Araneae ● ●

Blattodea ● ● ● ● ● ●

Coleoptera ● ● ● ●

Diplura ● ●

Geophilida ●

Hemiptera ● ●

Isopoda ● ● ● ● ●

Oligochaeta ● ●

Palpigradi ●

Pauropoda ●

Polydesmida ● ● ●

Polyxenida ● ● ● ● ●

Pseudoscorpiones ● ● ● ●

Schizomida ●

Scolopendrida ● ●

Zygentoma ●

Stygo collected Not found Yes Yes Yes No No

Acari ●

Amphipoda ●


Page | 39

Previous survey

Corunna Downs

Subterranean Fauna

Assessment

McPhee Creek Subterranean Fauna Survey

Sulphur Springs


Mount Webber Desktop

Assessment of Subterranean

Fauna

Abydos Troglofauna

Survey

Abydos Troglofauna

Survey

Author, year MWH 2016 Subterranean Ecology 2012


& 2007




Copepoda ●

Cyclopoida ● ●

Harpacticoida ● ●

Isopoda ● ●

Nematoda ●

Oligochaeta ● ● ●

Ostracoda ● ● ●

Podocopida ●

Syncarida ● ●

4.4 Current survey results

The current survey recorded a total of 1979 subterranean fauna specimens, comprising almost 99%

stygofauna (1955 specimens) with the remaining 1% troglofauna (24 specimens). The records were

collected from 62 bores and holes throughout Klondyke, Copenhagen, Coronation and Fieldings Gully

prospects of the Study Area.

4.4.1 Troglofauna results

A total of 24 troglofauna or potential troglofauna specimens were collected during the current survey,

representing six morphospecies belonging to five taxonomic groups: Pseudoscorpiones, Zygentoma,

Blattodea, Diptera, and Coleoptera. Blattodea were the most abundant group, accounting for the majority

of troglofauna recorded (75%, 19 specimens), followed by Zygentoma (3 specimens) with single records

of Pseudoscorpiones, Diptera and Coleoptera.

Compared to other subterranean fauna surveys within the wider area, the troglofauna species

assemblage recorded during the current survey is relatively depauperate. Surveys at Corunna Downs,

McPhee Creek and Mt Webber recorded at least twice the number of troglofauna morphospecies with

similar (or smaller) sample effort, with 13, 21, and 12 species recorded respectively (Table 4.2). The

depauperate troglofauna species assemblage at Warrawoona most likely reflects the limited troglofauna

habitat available in many of the prospects due to high groundwater levels.

Table 4.3 lists all troglofauna taxa collected within the Study Area alongside taxonomic and distribution

comments including known linear ranges. The locations of subterranean troglofauna collected during the

survey are shown in Figure 4.3.

Of the six morphospecies recorded; Sciaridae sp. `DPT006` is known to be widespread in the Pilbara

with a linear range exceeding 1000 km, and Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` was recorded from multiple sites

across two deposits (Klondyke and Copenhagen) spanning 9 km within the Study Area. Two troglofauna

taxa (Lagynochthonius sp. `BPS203` and Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`) were recorded as singleton


Page | 40

records (one individual from a single site) and as such, their distributions are currently unknown. Two

further groups; Nocticola sp. indet. and Trinemura sp. indet., represent indeterminate taxa (higher level

identifications) that could not be resolved to species-level due to specimens being immature, in

poor/damaged condition or the wrong sex for species-level identifications. Nocticola sp. indet. were

recorded from multiple sites across deposits Klondyke and Coronation, whilst Trinemura sp. indet.

represents a singleton record from Copenhagen. Due to the taxonomic uncertainty, it is unclear whether

Nocticola sp. indet. consists of a single or multiple species, whereas Trinemura sp. indet. represents a

unique morphospecies to the Study Area.

The survey results identified four troglofauna taxa that are currently known only within the proposed

mining pits, as shown in red font in Table 4.3 and listed below:

• Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`

• Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`

• Trinemura sp. indet.

• Nocticola sp. indet.

Further details relating to these taxa are discussed in section 6.


Page | 41

Table 4.3: Troglofauna results to date, taxonomic and distribution comments, known linear ranges and collection locations. Red fonts indicate taxa detected only within proposed impact areas.

Taxonomy COP COR FG KL Total Taxonomic comments Subterranean status, SRE status

Distribution comments

Known linear range (km)

ARACHNIDA

Pseudoscorpiones

Lagynochthonius sp. `BPS203` 1 1 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies Troglofauna, Potential SRE Singleton -

INSECTA

Zygentoma

Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` 1 1 2 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies Potential Troglofauna, Potential SRE

2 sites 9

Trinemura sp. indet.* 1 1 Indeterminate genus-level taxon (juvenile specimen)

Troglofauna, Uncertain Putative Singleton Uncertain

Blattodea

Nocticola sp. indet.* 1 17 18 Indeterminate genus-level taxon (juvenile specimens)

Troglofauna, Uncertain 9 sites Uncertain

Diptera

Sciaridae sp. `DPT006` 1 1 Morphologically identified to unique, widespread morphospecies

Potential Troglofauna, Widespread

Singleton, Widespread

1000+1

Coleoptera

Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185` 1 1 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies Troglofauna, Potential SRE Singleton -

TOTAL 3 2 19 24

Note: indeterminate taxa with asterisk (*) were included in species count, as they were regarded as distinct taxa. All other indeterminate taxa were not included, as there was insufficient information to exclude the possibility that they may be the same as other specimens collected. Known linear range based on 1Pilbara Stygofauna Survey occurrence records (Halse & Eberhard, 2014).

#* ")

XW

$+

")

GF

")")XW

")

")

XW

")

")

")

784127 793127 80212776

3219

376

3969

3




Figure 4.3: Locations of troglofauna taxacollected during the current survey1:75,000


0 1.5 30.75km



Higher taxon, Morphospecies") Blattodea, Nocticola sp.

#* Coleoptera, Cryptorhynchinae `BCO185`GF Diptera, Sciaridae `DPT006`

$+ Pseudoscorpiones, Lagynochthonius `BPS203`

XW Zygentoma, Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`

XW Zygentoma, Trinemura sp.

#*

")

XW

")

")

")")

")

GF

XWXW


Page | 43

4.4.2 Stygofauna results

A total of 1955 stygofauna or potential stygofauna specimens were collected during the current survey,

representing 28 unique morphospecies belonging to the following taxonomic groups: Nematoda,

Polychaeta, Oligochaeta, Ostracoda, Copepoda, Syncarida, Amphipoda, and Isopoda (Table 4.4). A

further five indeterminate taxa were identified from taxonomic groups previously recorded and may

potentially represent species known from the Study Area (Table 4.5).

Copepods were the most abundant group, accounting for more than 79% of all stygofauna, including 58%

Cyclopoida (1129 specimens) and 22% Harpacticoida (424 specimens). The remaining stygofauna

comprised; Oligochaeta (10%, 195 specimens), Amphipoda (5%, 106 specimens) and Ostracoda (2%,

46 specimens), with the Isopoda and Syncarida accounting for less than 1% (11 and 3 specimens

respectively).

Compared to other subterranean fauna surveys within the wider area, the stygofauna species

assemblage recorded during the current survey is considered relatively rich. Comparatively, surveys at

Corunna Downs, McPhee Creek and Mt Webber recorded half or less the number of stygofauna

morphospecies, with 0, 12, and 10 species recorded respectively (Table 4.2).

Table 4.4 lists all stygofauna taxa collected within the Study Area alongside taxonomic and distribution

comments including known linear ranges. The locations of subterranean stygofauna collected during the

survey are shown in Figures 4.4a-c.

Of the 28 morphospecies recorded, half (14) of the stygofauna taxa were widespread and known to occur

throughout the wider catchment or regionally (Table 4.4). This includes two stygofauna taxa;

Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l. and Phreodrilidae sp. AP SVC s.l., that represent species complexes that

have historically been extensively recorded with distributions known to occur widespread throughout the

Pilbara (Halse & Eberhard, 2014). Ten stygofauna taxa were recorded from multiple locations within the

Study Area, as shown in Table 4.4. Of these, the amphipods; Melitidae sp. `BAM159` (sp. 1 group),

Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `BAM060`, and Pilbarus sp. `BAM059` were recorded more widely throughout

the Study Area, with linear ranges ranging from 13 to 17 km. Three stygofauna taxa were singleton

records or known only from a single site, comprising Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`, Billibathynella

sp. `BSY043` and Parastenocaris sp. indet. that could not be recorded to species-level as the specimen

was juvenile. The remaining stygofauna, Bogidiellidae sp. indet., represents a unique family-level taxon

recorded from multiple sites including Klondyke, Copenhagen and Fieldings Gully (Table 4.4). Species-

level identifications were unable to be achieved due to the current poor taxonomic framework that exists

for the group as well as specimens being damaged or in poor condition.

All five indeterminate stygofauna taxa including one nematode (Nematoda sp. indet.), one cyclopoid

(Cyclopoida sp. indet.), two amphipods (Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. indet., Paramelitidae sp. indet.) and

one isopod (Microcerberidae sp. indet.) may be representatives of other morphospecies known from

elsewhere in the Study Area and surrounds Table 4.5. For instance, Microcerberidae sp. indet. is likely

to represent Microcerberidae sp. B01 recorded from multiple sites at the same deposit, though specimens

were too immature or of the wrong sex for species-level identifications.


Page | 44

Seven (7) stygofauna taxa are currently known only from within the estimated groundwater drawdowns

at Copenhagen and Klondyke and are therefore considered at risk of impacts:

• Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028`

• Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060`

• Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`

• Parastenocaris sp. indet.

• Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042`

• Billibathynella sp. `BSY043`

• Bogidiellidae sp. indet.

Further details relating to the potential wider occurrence of these taxa are discussed in section 6.


Page | 45

Table 4.4:Stygofauna results to date, taxonomic and distribution comments, known linear ranges and collection locations. Red fonts indicate taxa detected only within proposed impact areas.

Taxonomy COP COR FG KL Total Taxonomic comments Subterranean status, SRE status

Distribution comments

Known linear range (km)

NEMATODA

Family unknown

Nematoda sp. 01 (rat-tailed gp) (PSS)

3 3 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Not assessed in EIA, Widespread

2 sites, Widespread

3301

POLYCHAETA

Nereididae

Namanereis pilbarensis 1 1 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.

Stygofauna, Widespread Singleton, Widespread

4902

OLIGOCHAETA

Enchytraeidae

Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028` 112 112 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Potential Stygofauna/ Amphibious, Potential SRE

9 sites 0.16

Phreodrilidae

Phreodrilidae sp. AP DVC s.l.* 32 32 Morphologically identified to widespread species complex

Potential Stygofauna, Widespread

3 sites, Species complex widespread

1000+1

Phreodrilidae sp. AP SVC s.l.* 4 5 9 Morphologically identified to widespread species complex

Potential Stygofauna, Widespread

4 sites, Species complex widespread

1000+1

Tubificidae

Monopylephorus sp. nov. WA29 (ex Pristina WA3) (PSS)

42 42 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Potential Stygofauna, Widespread

5 sites, Widespread

3101

OSTRACODA

Candonidae

Candonopsis tenuis 2 2 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.

Stygofauna, Widespread 1 site, Widespread 3601

Leicacandona sp. `BOS1236` 10 26 36 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 2 sites 2

Leicacandona carinata 3 3 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.

Stygofauna, Widespread 2 sites, Widespread

2501

Cyprididae

Heterocypris sp. `BOS1237` 1 4 5 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 2 sites 2


Page | 46

Copepoda

Cyclopidae

Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060` 12 2 14 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 4 sites 11

Diacyclops cockingi 33 31 100 164 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


6701

Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi

306 344 162 75 887 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


7001,3

Diacyclops scanloni 14 1 15 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


4501

Microcyclops varicans 10 10 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


1000+1

nr Pilbaracyclops ngen sp. B02 29 3 32 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 6 sites 2

Thermocyclops decipiens 7 7 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.

Stygofauna, Widespread 1 site, Widespread 2201

Ameiridae

Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`

8 8 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 1 site -

Megastygonitocrella trispinosa 2 28 61 91 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


1354

Canthocamptidae

Elaphoidella humphreysi 109 201 14 324 Morphologically identified to named, widespread species.


5501

Parastenocarididae

Parastenocaris sp. indet.* 1 1 Indeterminate genus-level taxon. Stygofauna, Uncertain Singleton Uncertain

SYNCARIDA

Bathynellidae

Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042` 2 2 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 2 sites 0.13

Parabathynellidae

Billibathynella sp. `BSY043` 1 1 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE Singleton -

AMPHIPODA

Bogidiellidae

Bogidiellidae sp. indet.* 5 5 1 11 Indeterminate family-level taxon (poor taxonomic resolution/ specimens damaged).

Stygofauna, Uncertain 7 sites Uncertain

Melitidae

Melitidae sp. `BAM159` (sp. 1 group)

2 1 1 4 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 4 sites 14.7


Page | 47

Paramelitidae

Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `BAM060`

21 12 5 38 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 7 sites 13

Pilbarus sp. `BAM059` 46 14 3 63 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 11 sites 17

ISOPODA

Microcerberidae

Microcerberidae sp. B01 8 3 11 Morphologically identified, unique morphospecies. Stygofauna, Potential SRE 4 sites 5

Total 824 599 243 262 1928

Note: only indeterminate taxa with asterisk (*) were included in species count, as they were regarded as distinct taxa. All other indeterminate taxa were not included, as there was insufficient information to exclude the possibility that they may be the same as other specimens collected. Known linear range based on 1Pilbara Stygofauna Survey occurrence records (Halse & Eberhard, 2014), 2Glasby (2014), 3Pesce & De Laurentiis (1996), and 4Karanovic (2006).

Table 4.5: Higher level stygofauna identifications in the Study Area

Taxonomy COP COR FG KL Total Taxonomic comments Probable species

Nematoda sp. indet. 9 1 10 Indeterminate higher-level taxon. May represent widespread Nematoda sp. 01 recorded from same deposit (Copenhagen) and beyond.

Nematoda sp. 01 (rat-tailed gp) (PSS)

Cyclopoida sp. indet. 1 1 Indeterminate higher-level taxon (very juvenile specimen). Likely to represent one of several Cyclopoida spp. recorded from same deposit (Copenhagen) and beyond.

Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060` Diacyclops cockingi Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi Diacyclops scanloni Microcyclops varicans nr Pilbaracyclops ngen sp. B02 Thermocyclops decipiens

Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. indet.

1 1

Indeterminate higher-level taxon (juvenile specimen in poor condition). Likely to represent Paramelitidae Gen2 sp. BAM060 recorded from multiple sites/deposits at Study Area.

Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `BAM060`

Paramelitidae sp. indet. 1 1 Indeterminate higher-level taxon (specimen head fragment only). May represent one of two Paramelitidae sp. recorded from same deposit (Klondyke).

Paramelitidae Genus 2 sp. `BAM060` Pilbarus sp. `BAM059`

Microcerberidae sp. indet. 7 7 14

Indeterminate higher-level taxon (immature and wrong sex specimens for species-level ID). Likely to represent Microcerberidae sp. B01 recorded from multiple sites/deposits at Study Area.

Microcerberidae sp. B01

TOTAL 18 7 0 2 27

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1:75,000


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Page | 51

5 SUBTERRANEAN HABITAT ASSESSMENT

The habitat assessment for potentially restricted species within the Study Area is based upon available

geological and hydrogeological reports and surface geology maps (GSWA 1: 250,000). Groundwater

physicochemical measurements taken during the survey were incorporated into the stygofauna habitat

assessment where appropriate.

5.1 Troglofauna habitats

5.1.1 Klondyke

Recent hydrological tests of bores in and around the proposed Klondyke pit showed that the majority of

the underlying geology at Klondyke is of low to very low permeability (GRM, 2019b) (Figure 5.1). However,

the Klondyke shear which strikes northwest through the centre of the deposit (Figure 5.2) provides a zone

of preferential flow and permeability (fractured rock habitats), which is the most likely habitat for

troglofauna in the area of the deposit. The Klondyke shear zone runs for approximately 40 km throughout

and beyond the Klondyke deposit to the north, north-west and south-east (Figure 5.3). The Klondyke

shear is paralleled by several other shears, including the St. George and Coronation shears.

Hydrological testing showed that at least two vertical fracture zones and faults cross the Klondyke Shear

within and near the deposit (Figure 5.3), though it is very likely that they are more numerous throughout

the area (GRM, 2019b). Such fracture zones and faults support enhanced permeability (GRM, 2019b)

and are likely to comprise highly suitable habitat for troglofauna (above water table). Therefore, it is likely

that a network of habitable rock fractures may occur to the north, north-west and south-east of the

proposed pit via the Klondyke shear, and into the west via transverse/ vertical fractures and faults.

Potential connectivity between fractured rock habitats and superficial detrital habitats may also occur in

the vicinity of weathered saprolite valley fill and alluvials near drainage lines.

Overall, the current geological and hydrogeological information suggests that the potential habitats for

troglofauna species found in the proposed Klondyke pit are likely to extend beyond the pit boundaries,

particularly to the north, north-west and south-east via shear zones and to the west via faults and

fractures.

5.1.2 Copenhagen

Due to a strong hydraulic gradient from the Warrawoona Ranges to the south-west, the groundwater table

at Copenhagen, Fieldings Gully, and Coronation is very close to the surface. Consequently, potential

troglofauna habitat at these deposits is limited to surface geologies <5 mbgl. Similarly to Klondyke,

hydraulic testing showed the basement geology (basic and ultrabasic volcanic rocks) to be mostly

impermeable, therefore shears/ fracture zones in the rocks and thin detrital layers are likely to be the most

suitable habitat at Copenhagen. Figure 2.2 shows that these near-surface habitats are extensive along

the Warrawoona Syncline. This is further supported by a recent soil and landforms report (Mine Earth,

2019) which demonstrated that the surface soils between Copenhagen and Klondyke are chemically and

physically consistent. Although current geological information is limited, it is likely that suitable habitat for

the troglofauna species found within Copenhagen occurs beyond the pit boundaries.


Page | 52

Figure 5.1: Conceptual hydrological model (GRM, 2019b)

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Higher taxon, Morphospecies") Blattodea, Nocticola sp.

#* Coleoptera, Cryptorhynchinae `BCO185`

XW Zygentoma, Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`

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GF Amphipoda, Bogidiellidae sp.


Page | 55

5.2 Stygofauna habitats

5.2.1 Klondyke

Suitable hydrogeological habitat for stygofauna at Klondyke comprises fractured rock aquifers which have

developed within the Klondyke shear zone throughout the proposed pit and beyond (Figure 5.1, Figure

5.2, Figure 5.3). These moderately to highly permeable aquifers are constrained by massive/ fresh

geologies with very low porosity GRM (2019b). The fractured rock aquifers extend beyond the Study Area

to the west along fracture zones and faults (Figure 5.3), potentially connecting to a network of other

fractured rock aquifers to the north, north-west and south-east throughout the Klondyke shear zone.

The current habitat information suggests that potentially suitable habitats for stygofauna are likely to

extend beyond the boundaries of the proposed pit and drawdown zone, particularly to the north, north-

west and south-east via shear zones and to the west via faults and fractures.

5.2.2 Copenhagen

Similar to the geologies in the Klondyke area, the underlying geology at the Copenhagen deposit is mostly

impermeable (GRM, 2019b). However, suitable stygofauna habitat exists along a shear which strikes

northwest through the centre of the Copenhagen deposit (Figure 5.2). The shear extends beyond the

deposit both to the north-west and south-east (Figure 5.2). While current geological mapping does not

indicate that the Copenhagen shear system is directly connected to the shears and fault/fracture zones

in the Klondyke area, the fractured rock habitats of the Study Area may be further connected through

detrital habitats (particularly the hyporheic zone following the course of major drainage lines) extending

more widely throughout the sub-regional area.

Based on current hydrogeological information, it is considered likely that suitable habitat for stygofauna

occurs beyond the proposed pit and groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen, throughout the wider local

area.

5.2.3 Potential habitat in the wider local area

Geological mapping (GSWA 1:100,000 series, Figure 5.2) revealed the presence of significant calcrete

deposits associated with Brockman Hay Cutting Creek approximately 1-2 km south of the Copenhagen

deposit (Figure 5.2). There were no bores or drill holes available for sampling in these calcrete deposits,

but based on regional patterns of stygofauna occurrence, if these deposits extend beneath groundwater,

they would be expected to provide highly suitable habitats for stygofauna species. In addition, the regional

patterns of stygofauna occurrence show that stygofauna assemblages can often inhabit and disperse

throughout alluvial detrital habitats, where groundwater levels are close enough to the surface to provide

a long-term habitat within the hyporheic zone.

There is no current information on groundwater levels within the hyporheic zone of Brockman Hay Cutting

Creek and associated tributaries, but the occurrence of near surface water tables upstream at

Copenhagen (5 - 17 m measured during the survey), and in the north west corner of the Klondyke Study

Area (3.5 m at CRA bore), indicate that areas further downstream on Brockman Hay Cutting Creek (such

as the calcrete deposits) may also have elevated groundwater levels, and thus may provide a network of

suitable habitat for stygofauna extending throughout the wider local area. This potential habitat network


Page | 56

within the detrital layers overlying the basement geology may provide pathways for stygofauna species

to disperse between deeper fractured rock habitats hosted within the shear zones and fractures running

throughout the Study Area. Potential connectivity between fractured rock habitats may also be possible

along the preferential flow pathways offered by the shear zones and transverse faults as shown by

permeability mapping (Figure 5.3).

It was observed that in the south-eastern part of Klondyke Study Area (i.e. in the catchment of Sandy

Creek, and south east of the dolerite dyke shown in pink on Figure 5.2), groundwater was significantly

deeper (average 27 m) than in the northern part of the Klondyke Study Area north west of the dyke. This

may have been a contributing factor to the relatively low abundance of stygofauna from the area

surrounding Klondyke pit, which probably hosts only fractured rock aquifers. While there may be detrital

alluvial aquifers associated with the lower reaches of Sandy Creek to the south west of Klondyke, it is

less likely that these may be interconnected with the deeper fractured rock aquifers in the Klondyke Study

Area.

5.3 Groundwater characteristics

Figure 5.4 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 Copenhagen, Coronation,

Fielders Gully and Klondyke.

The average groundwater temperature ranged from 29.7 - 30.6°C and showed little variability across all

sites (Figure 5.4A). The pH of the groundwater (Figure 5.4B) ranged from 7.0 to 7.35 across all sites,

indicating neutral conditions suitable for stygofauna. The EC measurements (Figure 5.4C) 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 one site (Fielders Gully) 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).

Redox and DO measurements (Figure 5.4D & E) are typically variable between sites due to individual

bore conditions rather than overall aquifer conditions. Most bores contained groundwater with sufficient

dissolved oxygen for stygofauna to occur (> 1ppm), with the exception of a few bores at deposits Klondkye

and Coronation. The redox potential of groundwater is a measure of the system’s capacity to oxidise

materials through chemical reactions and has important implications for metal mobility, bio-availability

and toxicity (Schuring et al., 1999). All areas surveyed showed positive or near positive ORP’s, suitable

for stygofauna occurrence.

Overall, there was little variability in groundwater characteristics across the prospects which may indicate

that the aquifers are relatively well connected throughout the Study Area.

The full range of physicochemical data for all sites (bores and drill holes) measured during the survey can

be found in Appendix C.


Page | 57

Figure 5.4: Groundwater physicochemical measurements recorded during the survey. Mean values are shown as bars, standard deviations as error bars

(E)

(A) (B)

(C) (D)


Page | 58

6 RISK ASSESSMENT

6.1 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.

6.2 Risks to troglofauna species

Four (4) troglofauna taxa recorded during the current surveys of the Study Area are known only from

within proposed pit boundaries, comprising:

• Two (2) silverfish: Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` and Trinemura sp. indet.;

• One (1) cockroach: Nocticola sp. indet.; and

• One (1) weevil: Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`.

The current occurrence of these four troglofauna taxa within the proposed deposits is at least partly

attributable to sampling artefacts such as the higher numbers of suitable bores/ drill holes within deposit

boundaries. Many troglofauna taxa are rare and difficult to detect, especially when primarily using litter

traps. Particularly for the rarer and less vagile taxa, detecting a species throughout the full extent of its

potential habitat or range can require a very high, repeated survey effort over a long period of time, and

even in this case, the extent of sampling is still constrained by the locations of suitable drill holes.

The risks to these taxa from the proposed development are presented in Table 6.1, based on current

taxonomic and ecological information and the likely extent of suitable habitats beyond pit boundaries.

Figure 6.1 shows the current records of each of these taxa relative to the proposed impact areas.

Three of the four troglofauna taxa; Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`, Trinemura sp. indet. and Nocticola sp.

indet., were assessed as ‘low risk’ due to current knowledge of taxonomy, species distributions and the

extent of prospective habitats.

The silverfish Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` belongs to the subfamily Atelurinae whose members are most

frequently known from surface soil habitats or as cohabitors to termites and ants, though some

subterranean species are known to occur also (Smith & McRae, 2014). Whilst limited subterranean fauna

surveys have been previously undertaken in the immediate area, database searches revealed two

silverfish species; Ateluridae sp. McP1 and Trinemura sp. McP, whose distributions were shown to extend

approximately 3.5 km and 1.5 km respectively (Atlas Iron, 2014). Given that the record at Copenhagen

was collected from a shallow trap (Approx. 5 mbgl), it is considered likely that the taxon inhabits superficial

detrital habitats that are known to extend beyond project impacts. This is further supported by its extensive

distribution (9km linear range) across deposits, Copenhagen and Klondyke, and inferred habitat

connectivity between the two species records. Similarly, the silverfish Trinemura sp. indet. was only


Page | 59

collected at Copenhagen from a trap set at 5 mbgl, indicating that it may represent an epigean species

inhabiting surface detritals, as is the case for approximately 50% of all described silverfish to date (Smith

& McRae, 2014). While species-level taxonomy could not be resolved for Trinemura sp. indet. (owing to

the juvenile specimen) it is unlikely this morphospecies, recorded from surface detritals, would be

restricted to the proposed mining pit at Copenhagen (<200m diameter).

The cockroach Nocticola sp. indet. is known from 18 records and 9 sites, both inside and outside the

proposed Klondyke pit, as well as extending outside of direct impacts at Coronation. Due to all Nocticola

specimens collected being immature, or the wrong sex for taxonomic resolution, species-level

identifications could not be achieved. Whilst taxonomic constraints could not confirm whether the records

represent the same species, morphological consistencies between specimens (both females and male

nymphs) suggest they likely represent the same species and were consistent with the described species

‘Nocticola currani’ group known from approx. ~135km south (Jane McRae, pers. comm., Trotter et al.,

2017). Subterranean Nocticola have also been found in the nearby Corunna Downs located 20 km south

of the Study Area, where a single species (Nocticola OES10) was collected from multiple deposits with

distributions spanning approximately 5 km (MWH, 2016). Similarly, only a single Nocticola

species,Nocticola sp. McP (confirmed via DNA), was recorded across several deposits (~5.5 km linear

range) at the much larger mining tenement at McPhee Creek (Atlas Iron, 2014). Whilst the Nocticola

specimens from the current survey could not be compared against these records, these surveys indicate

that Nocticola are often found as single species across wider local areas. As such, there is a low

likelihood, that current clustered records inside Klondyke impacts would either represent multiple species,

or be restricted to pits given their proximity to pit boundaries (<100m) and existing records outside impacts

(within ~200m).

The remaining troglofauna taxon Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`, belonging to the weevil family

Curculionidae, was assessed as ‘moderate risk’, as this taxon may potentially represent troglobitic SRE

fauna and was recorded as a singleton within Klondyke pit. Molecular analysis of troglobitic weevils from

nearby Corunna Downs project, showed species, Curculionidae OES11 (0.4% genetic divergence), to

have a distribution extending beyond 3 km (MWH, 2016). While Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185` is

currently only known within proposed impacts (singleton record), its close proximity to the pit boundary

(30 m) and location within the valley floor habitat, (that extends south, east and west beyond Klondyke

pit), suggests a ‘moderate risk’ the species may potentially be restricted to mining impacts (Table 6.1).


Page | 60

Table 6.1: Troglofauna risk assessment based on current taxonomic factors, habitat factors, and distribution relative to impacts

Taxon Taxonomic factors Distribution factors Habitat factors Risk level

Zygentoma

Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`

Potential troglofauna (possible trogloxene/troglophile). Sub-family Atelurinae known from soil and termite nests as well as subterranean habitats.

Morphologically unique, based on regional comparisons.

Known from 2 sites within the proposed Klondyke and Copenhagen pits (17KLRC014, KKC002). Current known linear range is 9 km.

Potential SRE (C- Morphology Indicators, E- Research and Expertise). Both short-ranging and widespread species collected throughout the Pilbara.

Klondyke record from valley floor fractured rock/ detritals (to 22m bgl). Copenhagen record most likely from detritals (to 6m bgl).

Most likely habitat is detritals – habitat occurs extensively beyond impacts.

Inferred habitat connectivity between records at Klondyke and Copenhagen

LOW

Trinemura sp. indet.

Potential Troglobite

Indeterminate genus-level taxon (juvenile specimen).

Putative singleton known only from within the proposed Copenhagen pit (KKC002).

Potential SRE (C- Morphology Indicators, E- Research and Expertise). Genus includes both widespread and restricted species.

Record was collected from a trap set at ~5 m depth. The groundwater table was <6 mbgl, suggesting limited most likely from detrital habitats.

Copenhagen pit <200m in diameter, most likely habitat is detritals – habitat occurs extensively beyond impacts.

LOW

Blattodea

Nocticola sp. indet.

Potential Troglobite

Indeterminate genus-level taxon (many juvenile specimens).

Unable to confirm species level IDs (juvenile specimens), potential alignment to ‘N. currani’ group.

Known from 9 sites, inside and outside impacts (Klondyke, Coronation).

Potential linear range is 13.6 km (assuming specimens belong to the same species).

Taxonomic uncertainty precludes assessment of taxon distribution.

Most records likely from fractured rock habitats (13- 50m bgl).

Assuming specimens belong to the same species, wider habitat connectivity may occur between deposits (unconfirmed by genetic analysis).

LOW

Coleoptera

Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`

Troglobite

Morphologically unique, based on regional comparisons.

Singleton known only from within the proposed Klondyke pit (DD95KL11).

Potential SRE (C- Morphology Indicators, E- Research and Expertise). Both short-ranging and widespread species collected throughout the Pilbara.

Record located in the valley floor, approximately 30 m from the boundary of the proposed Klondyke pit.

Potential habitat (fractured rock) likely extends beyond pit area.

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Figure 6.1: Locations of troglofauna taxa potentially at risk from proposed impacts

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Page | 62

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Page | 63

6.3 Impacts to stygofauna

Direct impacts to stygofauna assemblages and habitats comprise the removal of porous/ fractured

hydrogeological strata from BWT mining, and depletion of groundwater by abstraction for mine dewatering

and operational uses. The propagation of groundwater drawdown throughout all suitable, connected

hydrogeological habitats is considered to be a direct impact, regardless of distance from the mine or

whether the drawdown propagates through strata with different porosities.

6.4 Risks to stygofauna species

Seven (7) stygofauna taxa recorded during the current survey of the Study Area are known only from

within the estimated groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen and Klondyke, comprising:

• One (1) oligochaete worm: Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028` (Copenhagen);

• One (1) cyclopoid: Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060` (Copenhagen & Klondyke);

• Two (2) harpacticoids: Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256` (Copenhagen) and Parastenocaris sp.

indet. (Copenhagen);

• One (1) amphipod: Bogidiellidae sp. indet. (Copenhagen, Klondyke & Fieldings Gully); and

• Two (2) syncarids: Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042` (Copenhagen) and Billibathynella sp. `BSY043`

(Copenhagen).

The current occurrence of these taxa is at least partly attributable to sampling artefacts such as the high

proportion of bores/ drill holes within deposits and their associated estimated groundwater drawdowns.

This is particularly relevant for Copenhagen where a high proportion of drill holes were sampled within a

relatively small impact area, as availability of holes outside of impact areas was limited. It is also worth

noting that the groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen is expected to be relatively restricted (500 m

radius) and is expected to be temporal (up to six years) (GRM, 2019a) which was factored into the risk

assessment.

Based on current taxonomic and ecological information, modelling of groundwater drawdown and the

likely extent of suitable habitats for stygofauna beyond these impacts, the risks to these taxa are

presented in Table 6.2. Figure 6.2 shows the current records of each of these taxa relative to the proposed

impact areas. All stygofauna risk levels are contingent upon the extent of groundwater drawdown

modelling as modelled by GRM (2019a). Any new information/ new modelling that changes the spatial

extent or magnitude of drawdown, the duration of drawdown, or the duration of subsequent recovery of

aquifer habitats following the end of project may result in changes to the potential risks to stygofauna

taxa.

Four of the seven stygofauna taxa were assessed as ‘low risk’ due to current knowledge of taxonomy

and habitats: Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028`, Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060`, Parastenocaris sp. indet., and

Bogidiellidae sp. indet. (Table 6.2).

Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028` belongs to an amphibious family which is known to inhabit both terrestrial

and aquatic habitats (Moldovan, 2018). Accordingly, Enchytraeidae sp. ̀ BOL028` has been detected both

from traps and from net-hauls/scrapes within the Study Area, indicating that this taxon occurs within water


Page | 64

films in the surface detritals above the water table as well as within groundwater. This means that this

morphospecies is unlikely to be largely affected by the short-lived groundwater drawdown at

Copenhagen, as both groundwater and humid subterranean habitats are likely to extend well beyond

drawdown impact areas.

Species of Anzcyclops are infrequently collected and have not been observed to have ranges beyond the

scale of a single tributary (McRae et al., 2015). However, Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060` was assessed as low

risk as it was detected both at Copenhagen and Klondyke (11 km linear range) and suitable habitats

(surface detritals and fractured rock aquifers) extend well outside of impact areas (Figure 6.2).

Parastenocaris sp. indet. could not be identified to species-level as the specimen was juvenile. Most

members of this genus are widespread in the Pilbara (Halse & Eberhard, 2014; Karanovic & Cooper,

2011), and detrital/ fractured rock habitats are likely to extend beyond the drawdown at Copenhagen and

beyond, suggesting that the risks to this taxon from the proposed mining developments are low. The

widespread Parastenocaris jane has been recorded both west and east of the Study Area at nearby

Mount Webber and McPhee Creek (Figure 4.2), whereas Parastenocaris sp. 3 has been found 20 km

south-east of Klondyke (Figure 4.2).

Bogidiellidae sp. indet. could not be identified to species level due to the current poor taxonomic

framework that exists for the group, as well as specimens being damaged or in poor condition. All records

were located within shears which are likely connected periodically after rainfall events. Suitable habitat is

also likely to extend to the south within detritals (colluvials) which are connected to calcrete deposits

further downstream.

The remaining three taxa, Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`, Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042, and

Billibathynella sp. `BSY043`, were assessed as ‘moderate risk’ owing mainly to taxonomic information

and their only occurrence within aquifers that will be affected by groundwater drawdowns at Copenhagen,

although it is likely that suitable habitat continues beyond impact areas.

Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042 belongs to an obligate stygobitic group (Bathynellidae) that is currently

undergoing a taxonomic study to describe previously unrecognised species and genera found in Western

Australia (G. Perina pers. comm. 2019). Current patterns of diversity across the region suggest the

occurrence of many SRE taxa, with turnover at the species-level and generic level between different

catchments and discrete hydrogeological habitat units (Perina, 2019; Perina et al., 2018). Similarly,

Billibathynella sp. `BSY043` belongs to a group (Parabathynellidae) for which taxonomic studies have

shown that most of the species are restricted in their distribution to single calcretes (Guzik et al., 2008).

Accordingly, the single species of Billibathynellid (Billibathynella sp. MW) recorded at the nearby Mount

Webber operations had a small linear range of ~1 km and was assessed to be likely restricted to the local

area (Subterranean Ecology, 2012b).

Bathynellacea are known to have limited dispersal abilities due to their habit of crawling over the sub-

strata as opposed to free swimming within water-filled subterranean cavities (Coineau & Camacho, 2013;

Schminke, 1974). This would suggest that the distributions of Bathynellacea may be more limited, and

species turnover potentially higher per unit of distance, than the more vagile, free-swimming stygofauna


Page | 65

such as cyclopoid copepods, ostracods, or amphipods (i.e. groups that contain more well-known,

widespread species in the Pilbara).

Similarly, Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256` belongs to a group (Stygonitocrella s. l.) that mainly

comprises short-range endemic species known only from their type localities within discrete river

catchments (Karanovic et al., 2013). With the exception of one taxon (Megastygonitocrella trispinosa)

which is more widespread with a distribution spanning several adjacent river catchments, members of

this group are characterised by high incidents of localised speciation, endemism and sympatry (Karanovic

et al., 2013). Therefore, the distributions of Megastygonitocrella sp. ̀ BHA256` recorded during the current

survey may be relatively limited.

Nevertheless, the habitat assessment indicated that suitable habitats for these three species likely exist

well beyond impact areas.


Page | 66

Table 6.2: Stygofauna risk assessment based on current taxonomic factors, habitat factors, and distribution relative to impacts

Potentially restricted taxon Taxonomic factors Distribution factors Habitat factors Risk level

Oligochaeta

Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028`

Amphibious subterranean fauna

Morphologically unique morphospecies.

Known from 9 sites within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen, current linear range 0.16 km.


Multiple records from troglofauna traps indicates taxon can occur within water films/habitats above water table as well as within groundwater.

Groundwater/ humid subterranean habitats likely to extend well beyond drawdown, likely to recover within 6 years post mining.

LOW

Cyclopoida

Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060`

Stygobite

Morphologically unique morphospecies.

Known from 4 sites within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen and Klondyke, current known linear range 11 km.


Inferred habitat connectivity between Klondyke and Copenhagen – taxon may occur in fractured rock aquifers and detrital aquifers. Habitat likely to extend beyond potential impact areas. Habitat at Copenhagen likely to recover within 6 years post mining.

LOW

Harpacticoida

Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`

Stygobite

Morphologically unique taxon (regional comparisons).

Most species within group have been found to be SREs.

Known from a single site within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen.


Detrital/ fractured rock habitats likely to extend beyond drawdown, groundwater habitats likely to recover within 6 years post mining.

MODERATE

Parastenocaris sp. indet.

Potential Stygobite

Indeterminate genus-level taxon.

Putative singleton known only from within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen. Most representatives of the genus are widespread in the Pilbara.


LOW


Page | 67

Potentially restricted taxon Taxonomic factors Distribution factors Habitat factors Risk level

Amphipoda

Bogidiellidae sp. indet.

Potential Stygofauna

Indeterminate family-level taxon (specimens damaged).

Unable to confirm species level ID’s.

Known from 7 sites inside and outside impacts (Copenhagen, Klondyke, Fieldings Gully).

Potential linear range is 9.3 km (assuming specimens belong to the same species).

Taxonomic uncertainty precludes assessment of taxon distribution.

Known from multiple shears which are likely connected and extend beyond drawdown.

The record at Klondyke will be subject to minimal drawdown (~1m) whereas at Copenhagen, groundwater habitats are likely to recover within 6 years post mining.

LOW

Syncarida

Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042`

Stygobite

Morphologically unique morphospecies

All species within family have been found to be highly restricted SREs.

Known from 2 sites within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen, current linear range 0.13 km.


MODERATE


Stygobite

Morphologically unique morphospecies

Most species within family have been found to be SREs.

Singleton known only from within the predicted groundwater drawdown at Copenhagen.


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Page | 69

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Page | 70

7 KEY FINDINGS

The key findings are based on results of all sampling to date (previous and current surveys), available

habitat information and current knowledge of the impacts to subterranean fauna from the proposed mining

at the Study Area. These findings may be subject to change following the receipt of further molecular

studies of subterranean fauna from the Study Area and beyond.

7.1.1 Risks to Troglofauna Species

Four (4) troglofauna taxa are currently known only from the direct impact areas of the proposed

developments at Copenhagen and Klondyke and were therefore considered to be potentially at risk. The

potential risks to these taxa were characterised as follows, using a three-point system (i.e. high, moderate,

or low risk):

• Low risk (3 taxa): Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087`, Trinemura sp. indet. and Nocticola sp. indet.

Dodecastyla sp. `BZY087` and Trinemura sp. indet. were regarded as low risk because their known

records were located in the surface detritals which extend extensively beyond the impact areas. The risk

assessment of Nocticola sp. indet. was based on current taxonomic information and the likely extent of

suitable habitats (fractured rock habitats) beyond impact areas.

• Moderate risk (1 taxon): Cryptorhynchinae sp. `BCO185`,

This taxon was assessed as moderate risk as it is more likely to represent troglobitic SRE fauna, and was

recorded as a singleton within the Klondyke pit. Nevertheless, its habitat is likely to continue beyond

impact areas in the nearby vicinity.

7.1.2 Risks to Stygofauna Species

The current survey recorded seven (7) stygofauna taxa known only from within the modelled groundwater

drawdown at Copenhagen and/or Klondyke. Based on current taxonomic and ecological information,

modelling of groundwater drawdown and the likely extent of suitable habitats for stygofauna beyond the

modelled extent of drawdown, the following risk categories were assigned to these taxa.

• Low risk (4 taxa): Enchytraeidae sp. `BOL028`, Anzcyclops sp. `BCY060`, Parastenocaris sp. indet.,

and Bogidiellidae sp. indet.

These taxa were regarded as low risk due to current taxonomic and ecological information, and the likely

extent of suitable habitats (surface detritals and fractured rock aquifers) beyond impact areas.

• Moderate risk (3 taxa): Megastygonitocrella sp. `BHA256`, Pilbaranella sp. `BSY042`, and


These taxa were regarded as moderate risk because of their high likelihood to represent short-range

endemic stygobite species, as localised speciation and short-range endemism are common patterns

within their respective taxonomic groups. However, hydrogeological connectivity with other nearby


Page | 71

aquifers is likely, as several shears extend beyond the impact area to the north, north-west and east, with

surface detritals/colluvials extending to the south.


Page | 72

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Subterranean Ecology. (2012b). Mount Webber DSO Project. Stage 1 and Public Road Upgrade. Desktop Assessment of Subterranean Fauna. September 2012.

Thackway, R., & Cresswell, I. D. (1995). An Interim Biogeographical Regionalisation for Australia. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory: Australian Nature Conservation Agency.

Trotter, A. J., McRae, J. M., Main, D. C., & Finston, T. L. (2017). Speciation in fractured rock landforms: towards understanding the diversity of subterranean cockroaches (Dictyoptera: Nocticolidae: Nocticola) in Western Australia. Zootaxa, 4250, 143-170.

Watts, C. H. S., & Humphreys, W. F. (2004). Thirteen new Dytiscidae (Coleoptera) of the genera Boongurrus Larson, Tjirtudessus Watts & Humphreys and Nirripirti Watts and Humphreys, from underground waters in Australia. Transactions of the Royal Society of South Australia, 128, 99-129.


Page | 75

9 APPENDICES

Appendix A – Sampling effort


Page | 76

APPENDIX A: Bores and drill holes visited during the survey

Hole ID Easting Northing Deposit Phase 1 Phase 2

Trapping Scraping Hauling Trapping Scraping Hauling

17CP008 791804.9035 7641360.756 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

17CP009 791831.4332 7641415.334 Copenhagen ✓

17CPRC006 791824.9135 7641368.887 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC008 791801.0256 7641356.426 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC012 791716.5608 7641388.983 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC013 791687.3758 7641396.813 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC014 791710.1711 7641471.419 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC015 791695.2285 7641453.39 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

17CPRC017 791897.9193 7641434.901 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

17CPRC018 791911.5263 7641413.017 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

17CPRC022 791851.7498 7641370.259 Copenhagen ✓

17CPRC023 791728.6932 7641329.261 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

✓

17CRDD001 789049.3701 7641992.135 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓

17FGRC001 786685.5027 7641446.579 Fieldings Gully ✓ ✓


✓

17FGRC007 786551.9644 7641467.06 Fieldings Gully ✓ ✓ ✓

17FGRC008 786476.5504 7641474.908 Fieldings Gully ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓



17FGRC011 786739.0362 7641426.183 Fieldings Gully ✓


✓ ✓



17KLDD002 799883.1575 7637698.282 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC006 800451.6346 7637576.341 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC009 800438.5129 7637544.301 Klondyke ✓ ✓


Page | 77



17KLRC010 800464.0316 7637526.731 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC011 800247.7165 7637608.819 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC013 800288.2469 7637601.878 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC014 800325.7836 7637580.641 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC017 800731.4843 7637348.615 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC018 800659.2224 7637459.049 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC020 800686.5873 7637429.566 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC022 800800.9805 7637388.947 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC027 800768.3565 7637321.239 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC028 800816.3061 7637335.504 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC029 800801.7798 7637315.725 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC033 800667.6489 7637394.596 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC034 800645.8776 7637433.518 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC036 800573.3963 7637457.128 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC037 800535.2914 7637480.748 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC039 800707.8609 7637400.826 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC040 800545.28 7637498.816 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC045 800847.1608 7637249.25 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC046 800903.1044 7637215.648 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC048 800985.3023 7637168.961 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC049 801086.2348 7637132.689 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC050 801130.8505 7637105.837 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC053 801318.7517 7637040.705 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓

17KLRC055 800535.4471 7637573.756 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC059 800209.1504 7637549.276 Klondyke ✓

✓

17KLRC067 800029.0505 7637641.066 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC068 799942.2851 7637689.172 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓


Page | 78



17KLRC070 799768.1998 7637737.186 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC073 799637.564 7637816.814 Klondyke ✓ ✓

17KLRC075 799728.3502 7637810.615 Klondyke

17KLRC077 799695.4993 7637884.669 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC078 799644.0312 7637920.799 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC081 800836.9656 7637290.374 Klondyke ✓

17KLRC083 799580.636 7637849.62 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC086 799336.1214 7637989.261 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

17KLRC087 799408.061 7637901.414 Klondyke ✓ ✓

✓

✓

17KLRC091 799620.0092 7637870.097 Klondyke ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC024 791869.8085 7641440.091 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC026 791875.811 7641470.357 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC027 791954.6471 7641401.133 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC028 791975.1295 7641442.099 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

18CPRC030 792014.8548 7641412.778 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

18CPRC031 792009.0803 7641444.119 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC034 791825.6542 7641463.894 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC036 791754.0151 7641473.273 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC037 791776.4142 7641521.586 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓

18CPRC038 791943.3329 7641256.615 Copenhagen ✓

18CPRC039 791678.6909 7641422.791 Copenhagen ✓

18CPRC040 791717.9362 7641581.271 Copenhagen ✓

18CRRC003 788907.6418 7642078.876 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓

18CRRC005 789419.9544 7641838.503 Coronation ✓ ✓

18CRRC009 789338.8319 7641847.23 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓

18CRRC012 789244.2299 7641928.697 Coronation ✓ ✓

18CRRC013 789176.3749 7641916.7 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓


Page | 79



18CRRC017 789075.4514 7641946.098 Coronation ✓ ✓

18CRRC018 789110.0637 7641996.114 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓

18CRRC021 788993.5756 7641989.786 Coronation ✓ ✓ ✓

18CRRC022 789035.9774 7642035.188 Coronation ✓ ✓

18CRRC024 788989.258 7642056.302 Coronation ✓ ✓

18KLDD014 800571.0504 7637575.527 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLDD018 800376.9692 7637651.687 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLDD028 800469.3755 7637601.558 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLDD039 800721.6052 7637331.986 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18KLRC097 802907.9156 7636495.167 Klondyke ✓

18KLRC101 803340.5097 7636330.535 Klondyke ✓ ✓

✓

18KLRC103 801983.1852 7636828.941 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLRC115 798864.2559 7638333.864 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18KLRC116 798595.4183 7638557.859 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLRC118 801827.9491 7636769.422 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18KLRC121 801598.8735 7636860.786 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLRC126 802419.9176 7636540.66 Klondyke ✓

18KLRC138 802291.3011 7636641.897 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18KLRC145 802610.0363 7636453.996 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18KLRC172 801537.4455 7636918.839 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18KLRC187 801191.3299 7637251.621 Klondyke ✓

18SGRC025 801699.2053 7637194.153 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

18SGRC064 799917.3083 7638037.968 Klondyke ✓ ✓

18SGRC069 800668.1763 7637644.662 Klondyke ✓ ✓

CalUnk001 791804.9465 7641439.365 Copenhagen ✓ ✓

CRA_bore 796044.0676 7640701.156 Klondyke ✓

CRC8 791827.1933 7641423.299 Copenhagen ✓ ✓ ✓


Page | 80



DD95KL11 800923.1905 7637175.471 Klondyke ✓ ✓

KKC002 791804.5434 7641439.472 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

KKC005 800201.1708 7637628.536 Klondyke ✓ ✓

KKC007 801168.7264 7637143.579 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

KKC008 801055.4681 7637186.495 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓

KLRC103 800015.1019 7637699.536 Klondyke ✓ ✓

KLRC143 799844.847 7637794.977 Klondyke ✓

PCR1 789949.1871 7641700.41 Coronation ✓ ✓

PCR2 789893.6704 7641709.605 Coronation ✓ ✓

RC95KL37 800051.4207 7637635.191 Klondyke ✓ ✓ ✓


Page | 81

Appendix B – Database search results


Page | 82

APPENDIX B: Database search results

Order Lowest ID Likely subterranean status (Biologic)

SRE status where known (Biologic)

Site/ Well Latitude Longitude Source

Isopoda Hanoniscus? sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW016 -21.538013 119.285156 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW016 -21.538013 119.285156 SubEcol

Coleoptera Anillini sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW025 -21.538 119.2883 SubEcol


Coleoptera Cryptorhynchinae sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW026 -21.535505 119.286667 SubEcol






Coleoptera Anillini sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW090 -21.53558 119.288445 SubEcol



Pseudoscorpiones Indohya sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW155 -21.544445 119.298973 SubEcol









Polyxenida Polyxenida sp. S1 (MW) Troglofauna Potential SRE MW199 -21.533106 119.309097 SubEcol


Schizomida Draculoides sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW200 -21.53396 119.309097 SubEcol


Hemiptera Meenoplidae sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW210 -21.532154 119.305595 SubEcol



Page | 83




Araneae Anapistula sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MW215 -21.533842 119.304459 SubEcol





Isopoda Hanoniscus? sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MWD007 -21.538057 119.286835 SubEcol

Isopoda Hanoniscus? sp. MW Troglofauna Potential SRE MWD010 -21.535421 119.291176 SubEcol

Tubificida Pristina? Stygofauna Uncertain McPhee Creek Well -21.6247419

120.2094629 SubEcol

Tubificida Phreodrilidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain McPhee Creek Well -21.6247419

120.2094629 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Stygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread McPhee Creek Well -21.6247419

120.2094629 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Diacyclops humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread McPhee Creek Well -21.6247419

120.2094629 SubEcol

Coleoptera Anillini sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE MCRC0027 -21.6006762

120.1044336 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE MCRC0034 -21.596998 120.1062538 SubEcol

Zygentoma Ateluridae indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC279 -21.5995461

120.1038094 SubEcol

Platyhelminthes Platyhelminthes indet. Stygofauna Uncertain No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Tubificida Phreodrilidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Amphipoda Paramelitidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Podocopida Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Parastenocaris jane Stygofauna Widespread No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Diacyclops humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread No. 19 Well -21.4070712

120.1231693 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC001 -21.5850478

120.1491884 SubEcol


120.1076355 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC120 -21.5906132

120.1076355 SubEcol

Isopoda Philosciidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC122 -21.5910079

120.1080137 SubEcol

Tubificida Enchytraeidae sp. McP Stygofauna Potential SRE RCMC122 -21.5910079

120.1080137 SubEcol


Page | 84




Geophilomorpha Chilenophilidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC122 -21.5910079

120.1080137 SubEcol


120.1080137 SubEcol


120.109955 SubEcol

Zygentoma Ateluridae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC149 -21.5958937

120.1029652 SubEcol

Polyxenida Polyxenida sp. RRV Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC149 -21.5958937

120.1029652 SubEcol

Coleoptera Pselaphinae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC149 -21.5958937

120.1029652 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola sp. McP troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC162 -21.5973671

120.1077522 SubEcol


120.1068141 SubEcol

Hemiptera Meenoplidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC164 -21.5969716

120.1068141 SubEcol


120.1068141 SubEcol


120.1062978 SubEcol

Isopoda Philosciidae sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC166 -21.5962405

120.1062978 SubEcol

Polyxenida Polyxenida indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC166 -21.5962405

120.1062978 SubEcol


120.1026048 SubEcol


120.1026048 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola indet. troglofauna Uncertain RCMC181 -21.6004187

120.1026048 SubEcol

Zygentoma Trinemura sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC183 -21.599797 120.1016327 SubEcol

Zygentoma Ateluridae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC183 -21.599797 120.1016327 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread RCMC183 -21.599797 120.1016327 SubEcol

Palpigradida Palpigradi indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC183 -21.599797 120.1016327 SubEcol


120.1020699 SubEcol


120.1020699 SubEcol


120.1020699 SubEcol

Hemiptera Meenoplidae indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC185 -21.6001386

120.1020699 SubEcol


Page | 85





120.1032889 SubEcol


120.1032889 SubEcol


120.1032889 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread RCMC193 -21.6017936

120.1043245 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread RCMC193 -21.6017936

120.1043245 SubEcol

Zygentoma Trinemura sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC197 -21.6018724

120.1021126 SubEcol


120.1021126 SubEcol

Zygentoma Trinemura sp. McP troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC197 -21.6018724

120.1021126 SubEcol


120.1021126 SubEcol


120.1027679 SubEcol


120.1200137 SubEcol

Diplura Anajapygidae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC208 -21.5783141

120.1224524 SubEcol

Isopoda Troglarmadillo sp. Mcp2 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC233 -21.5807363

120.1168939 SubEcol

Coleoptera Anillini sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC240 -21.5726168

120.1265506 SubEcol


Diplura Anajapygidae sp. McP2 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC244 -21.573612 120.1282488 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC244 -21.573612 120.1282488 SubEcol

Pauropoda Pauropoda sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC257 -21.5681502

120.1261176 SubEcol


120.1265984 SubEcol


Coleoptera Anillini sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC330 -21.581013 120.1172359 SubEcol


120.1274859 SubEcol


120.1274859 SubEcol


120.1274859 SubEcol


Page | 86





120.1162562 SubEcol

Zygentoma Ateluridae sp. McP1 troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC363 -21.5866196

120.1162562 SubEcol


120.1116341 SubEcol

Coleoptera Anillini sp. McP2 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC395 -21.5973489

120.1087853 SubEcol

Tubificida Enchytraeidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain RCMC405 -21.5988642

120.0916326 SubEcol

Zygentoma Ateluridae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC416 -21.5961706

120.0903931 SubEcol

Isopoda Philosciidae sp. McP troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC416 -21.5961706

120.0903931 SubEcol


120.0899603 SubEcol


120.0953623 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola sp. McP troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC427 -21.5938294

120.0953623 SubEcol

Isopoda Philosciidae sp. McP troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC427 -21.5938294

120.0953623 SubEcol


120.0953623 SubEcol


120.0953623 SubEcol

Araneae Oonopidae indet. Troglofauna Uncertain RCMC434 -21.5907987

120.0954903 SubEcol


120.0954903 SubEcol


120.0954903 SubEcol


120.0959529 SubEcol


120.0959529 SubEcol

Isopoda Troglarmadillo sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC437 -21.5908339

120.0959529 SubEcol

Isopoda Troglarmadillo sp. McP2 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC437 -21.5908339

120.0959529 SubEcol


120.0959529 SubEcol


120.0959529 SubEcol

Coleoptera Curculionidae sp. McP1 Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC437 -21.5908339

120.0959529 SubEcol


Page | 87





120.0959529 SubEcol

Isopoda Troglarmadillo sp. McP1 troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC437 -21.5908339

120.0959529 SubEcol


120.0959529 SubEcol

Scolopendromorpha Cryptops sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC442 -21.5899513

120.096067 SubEcol


120.096067 SubEcol


120.096067 SubEcol

Palpigradi Palpigradi sp. McP Troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC442 -21.5899513

120.096067 SubEcol


120.096067 SubEcol


120.096067 SubEcol


120.096067 SubEcol

Diplura Anajapygidae sp. McP3 troglofauna Potential SRE RCMC445 -21.589874 120.0952578 SubEcol

Blattodea Nocticola indet. troglofauna Uncertain RCMC445 -21.589874 120.0952578 SubEcol

Podocopida Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread Underwood Well -21.4058652

120.0687125 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Mesocyclops brooksi Stygofauna Widespread Underwood Well -21.4058652

120.0687125 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Parastenocaris jane Stygofauna Widespread Underwood Well -21.4058652

120.0687125 SubEcol

Podocopida Cyprididae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Underwood Well -21.4058652

120.0687125 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Stygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread Underwood Well -21.4058652

120.0687125 SubEcol

Tubificida Pristina? Stygofauna Uncertain UNK 1 (Well) -21.3722025

120.163557 SubEcol

Podocopida Cyprididae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain UNK 1 (Well) -21.3722025

120.163557 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread UNK 1 (Well) -21.3722025

120.163557 SubEcol

Bathynellacea nr Kimberleybathynella sp. McP

stygofauna Potential SRE WBMC001 -21.5804679

120.1495194 SubEcol

Bathynellacea Bathynellidae sp. McP stygofauna Potential SRE WBMC001 -21.5804679

120.1495194 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Diacyclops humphreysi stygofauna Widespread WBMC001 -21.5804679

120.1495194 SubEcol

Bathynellacea nr Kimberleybathynella sp. McP

Stygofauna Potential SRE WBMC001 -21.5804679

120.1495194 SubEcol


Page | 88




Bathynellacea Bathynellidae sp. McP Stygofauna Potential SRE WBMC001 -21.5804679

120.1495194 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Diacyclops cockingi Stygofauna Widespread GWB1 -21.5281131

119.315987 SubEcol

Cyclopoida Cyclopoida indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB1 -21.5281131

119.315987 SubEcol


119.3294338 SubEcol

Tubificida Enchytraeidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Megastigonitocrella trispinosa

Stygofauna Widespread GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Dussartstenocaris sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Parastenocaris jane Stygofauna Widespread GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Podocopida Ostracoda indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Isopoda Coxicerberus sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol


119.3294704 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread GWB12 -21.5445398

119.3294704 SubEcol

Podocopida Leicacandona sp. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB3 -21.5151624

119.3187441 SubEcol


119.3187441 SubEcol

Bathynellacea Billibathynella sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB3 -21.5151624

119.3187441 SubEcol

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB3 -21.5151624

119.3187441 SubEcol


119.3187441 SubEcol

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB3 -21.5151624

119.3187441 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Harpacticoida indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB3 -21.5151624

119.3187441 SubEcol



119.3187441 SubEcol


119.3187441 SubEcol


119.3187441 SubEcol


119.3187441 SubEcol


Page | 89





119.3177483 SubEcol

Tubificida Phreodrilidae indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB6 -21.5217318

119.3177483 SubEcol

Podocopida Leicacandona indet. Stygofauna Uncertain GWB6 -21.5217318

119.3177483 SubEcol


119.3177483 SubEcol



119.3177483 SubEcol


119.3177483 SubEcol



119.3183204 SubEcol


119.3183204 SubEcol


119.3183204 SubEcol


119.3183204 SubEcol

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB7 -21.5219044

119.3183204 SubEcol


119.3183204 SubEcol


119.3222452 SubEcol

Bathynellacea Billibathynella sp. MW Stygofauna Potential SRE GWB8 -21.5150505

119.3222452 SubEcol

Harpacticoida Parastenocaris jane Stygofauna Widespread GWB8 -21.5150505

119.3222452 SubEcol



119.3222452 SubEcol


119.3222452 SubEcol


119.3222452 SubEcol

Aphaneura Aeolosoma sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Aphaneura Aeolosoma sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread COMET1 -21.23175 119.72464 PSS

Ostracoda Amphitritecandona secunda Stygofauna Potential SRE MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Ostracoda Amphitritecandona secunda Stygofauna Potential SRE MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Ostracoda Areacandona cf. sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS

Syncarida Bathynella sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Syncarida Bathynella sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS


Page | 90




Bdelloidea Bdelloidea sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS

Ostracoda Bennelongia sp.2 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314B -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Ostracoda Bennelongia strelleyensis Stygofauna Widespread MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Amphipoda Bogidiellidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314B -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Bogidiellidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Amphipoda Bogidiellidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Ostracoda Candonopsis pilbarae Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Canthocamptidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Ostracoda Cypretta seurati Stygofauna Widespread MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Ostracoda Cypretta seurati Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Ostracoda Cyprinotus kimberleyensis Stygofauna Widespread NPM03 -21.12531 119.35964 PSS

Ostracoda Cyprinotus kimberleyensis Stygofauna Widespread NPM03 -21.12531 119.35964 PSS

Tubificida Dero furcata Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops cockingi Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops cockingi Stygofauna Widespread NPM01 -21.09728 119.40647 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops humphreysi humphreysi

Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS


Stygofauna Widespread CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS


Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS



Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314B -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS



Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops scanloni Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Copepoda Diacyclops sobeprolatus Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS


Page | 91




Copepoda Diacyclops sobeprolatus Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Copepoda Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Copepoda Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Copepoda Elaphoidella humphreysi Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Gomphodella hirsuta Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS

Ostracoda Gomphodella hirsuta Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS

Ostracoda Gomphodella hirsuta Stygofauna Widespread EGINBAH1 -21.21186 119.77431 PSS

Ostracoda Gomphodella 'quasihirsuta' ms


Acariformes Guineaxonopsis sp. S1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Copepoda Harpacticoida Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Copepoda Harpacticoida Stygofauna Uncertain NPM04 -21.10322 119.40764 PSS

Ostracoda Heterocypris 'kimberleyensis' ms

Stygofauna Widespread MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread EGINBAH1 -21.21186 119.77431 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread COMET1 -21.23175 119.72464 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Humphreyscandona capillus Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Tubificida Insulodrilus lacustris s.l. Pilbara type 2/3


Tubificida Insulodrilus lacustris s.l. Pilbara type 2/3


Ostracoda Kencandona harleyi Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Leicacandona cf. carinata Stygofauna Potential SRE MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Ostracoda Leicacandona jimi Stygofauna Potential SRE MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS

Ostracoda Leicacandona lite Stygofauna Potential SRE NPM04 -21.10322 119.40764 PSS

Ostracoda Leicacandona makra Stygofauna Potential SRE BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Leicacandona makra Stygofauna Potential SRE BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Limnocythere sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK344 -20.83944 119.60722 PSS


Page | 92




Amphipoda Melitidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Amphipoda Melitidae sp. 1 Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Meridiecyclops baylyi Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Metacyclops Stygofauna Uncertain BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK284 -21.14025 119.86514 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain NPM04 -21.10322 119.40764 PSS

Copepoda Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Copepoda Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Copepoda Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Tubificida Monopylephorus n. sp. WA29












Amphipoda Nedsia sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Amphipoda Nedsia sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK324 -20.90283 119.76925 PSS

Nematoda Nematoda Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Nematoda Nematoda sp. 17 Stygofauna Potential SRE NPM03 -21.12531 119.35964 PSS


Page | 93




Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK284 -21.14025 119.86514 PSS

Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain EGINBAH1 -21.21186 119.77431 PSS

Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain MEEN2 -21.17317 119.94103 PSS

Ostracoda Ostracoda (Unident.) Stygofauna Uncertain MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. Stygofauna Uncertain MBSLK284 -21.14025 119.86514 PSS



Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 2 Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 6 Stygofauna Widespread COMET1 -21.23175 119.72464 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 7 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314A -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 7 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK314B -20.95911 119.84769 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 7 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Amphipoda Paramelitidae sp. 7 Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS



Copepoda Parastenocaris Stygofauna Uncertain CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Copepoda Parastenocaris Stygofauna Uncertain CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Copepoda Parastenocaris Stygofauna Uncertain BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Copepoda Parastenocaris sp. 3 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Tubificida Phreodrilid with dissimilar ventral chaetae









Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS


Page | 94






Tubificida Phreodrilid with similar ventral chaetae



Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS


Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS



Amphipoda Pilbarus millsi Stygofauna Widespread COMET1 -21.23175 119.72464 PSS

Amphipoda Pilbarus millsi Stygofauna Widespread NPM01 -21.09728 119.40647 PSS

Copepoda Pseudectinosoma galassiae Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Acariformes Recifella sp. Potential stygofauna Uncertain BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Ostracoda Strandesia Stygofauna Uncertain NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Ostracoda Strandesia Stygofauna Uncertain NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Stygonitocrella bispinosa Stygofauna Widespread CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Copepoda Stygonitocrella bispinosa Stygofauna Widespread BCR1 -20.93778 119.96014 PSS

Copepoda Stygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK284 -21.14025 119.86514 PSS

Copepoda Stygonitocrella trispinosa Stygofauna Widespread NPM02 -21.09689 119.36628 PSS

Copepoda Stygonitocrella unispinosa Stygofauna Widespread CORUNNA1 -21.4595 120.02136 PSS

Turbellaria Turbellaria sp.D4:ED4:E278 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK316 -20.93522 119.85008 PSS

Turbellaria Turbellaria sp.D4:ED4:E278 Stygofauna Widespread MBSLK240 -21.44986 120.07806 PSS

Turbellaria Turbellaria sp.D4:ED4:E278 Stygofauna Widespread MUC03 -20.87278 119.98692 PSS

Acari Oribatida sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Site PSB003, bore NRPP1

-21.3308 120.3756 WAM

Acari Wandesia sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain Site PSB003, bore NRPP1

-21.3308 120.3756 WAM

Araneae Prethopalpus sp. indet. Troglofauna Uncertain 210 km SE. of Port Hedland

-21.59083 120.0956 WAM

Acari Recifella sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain Site PSS409, bore BCR1

-20.9378 119.9601 WAM

Acari Guineaxonopsis sp. indet. Potential stygofauna Uncertain Site PSS248, bore MBSLK240

-21.4497 120.0781 WAM

Bathynellacea nr Atopobathynella sp. B16 Stygofauna Potential SRE BlueSpec -21.0136 120.004 WAM

Cyclopoida Diacyclops sobeprolatus Stygofauna Widespread BlueSpec -21.0136 120.003 WAM

Cyclopoida Microcyclops varicans Stygofauna Widespread BlueSpec -21.0136 120.003 WAM


Page | 95




Cyclopoida Orbuscyclops westaustraliensis

Stygofauna Widespread BlueSpec -21.0136 120.004 WAM

Harpacticoida Megastygonitocrella unispinosa

Stygofauna Widespread BlueSpec -21.0136 120.004 WAM

Harpacticoida Parastenocaris sp. B23 Stygofauna Potential SRE BlueSpec -21.0136 120.004 WAM

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Bore MBSLK284 -21.1402 119.865 WAM

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Sandy Creek Well (a.k.a. Tony Well), bore COR

-21.4595 120.021 WAM

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Box Soak Well, bore BCR1

-20.9377 119.96 WAM

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Box Soak Well, bore BCR1

-20.9377 119.96 WAM

Isopoda Microcerberidae sp. indet. Stygofauna Uncertain Camp5, bore NPM04

-21.1032 119.408 WAM

Podocopida Amphitritecandona secunda Stygofauna Potential SRE Bamboo Creek, Mbslk316

-20.9352 119.851 WAM

Podocopida Kencandona harleyi Stygofauna Widespread Box Soak Well, Bcr1 -20.9377 119.96 WAM



Podocopida Leicacandona lite Stygofauna Potential SRE Camp 5, Npm04 119.408 119.408 WAM

Podocopida Leicacandona lite Stygofauna Potential SRE Camp 5, Npm04 119.408 119.408 WAM

Podocopida Leicacandona makra Stygofauna Potential SRE Box Soak Well, Bcr1 119.96 119.96 WAM




Page | 96

Appendix C – Water physicochemistry


Page | 97

APPENDIX C: Water physicochemical measurements observed during the current survey

Deposit Bore/ site

No. Date

DTW (m)

Temp (°C)

EC (μS/cm)

Salinity (ppm)

Acidity (pH)

Redox (mV)

Dissolved oxygen (ppm)

Appearance

Klondyke 17KLRC018 2018-05-10 32 29 1190 0.59 7.32 -51.8 1.2 Stale odor

Klondyke 17KLRC027 2018-05-09 37 31.9 1257 0.62 6.92 10.7 1.48 Mineral odor

Klondyke 17KLRC033 2018-05-09 38 31.2 946 0.46 7.37 -1 2.4

Klondyke 17KLRC040 2018-05-13 48 30.9 1241 0.61 7.22 -89.4 1.3 Slight sulphurous odor

Klondyke 17KLRC046 2018-05-09 28 31.9 7.02 0.34 6.98 -7.2 1.34 Fresh clean odor

Klondyke 17KLRC048 2018-05-14 31 29.8 8 0.38 7.62 -44.8 1.85 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC014 2018-05-11 15 29.6 4300 2.27 7.64 -118.4 1.38 Biological odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC010 2018-05-11 18 28.5 1314 0.65 7.12 -40 2.44 Mineral odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC012 2018-05-11 19 29.9 1593 0.79 7.14 -58.6 1.81 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC001 2018-05-11 33 29.5 1372 0.68 7.13 -26.2 2.73 Mineral odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC008 2018-05-11 13 32.1 1352 67 7.52 -26.9 2.45 Stale odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC017 2018-05-12 17 27.4 2211 1.13 7.53 -71.2 1.78 Stale odor

Coronation 17CRDD001 2018-05-12 23 30.4 707 0.34 7.31 -47.6 1.75 Mineral odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC013 2018-05-12 6 29.7 1327 0.66 7.04 -45.8 1.47 Biological odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC023 2018-05-12 5 30.7 1095 0.54 7.27 -87.6 0.82

Copenhagen 17CP008 2018-05-12 9 30.3 1214 0.6 6.95 -52.8 1.31 Biological odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC018 2018-05-12 10 30.3 1105 0.54 6.63 -50.2 1.26

Copenhagen CalUnk001 2018-05-13 5 25.7 1058 0.52 7.26 -54.1 1.98 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 17CP009 2018-05-13 8 28 1301 0.64 7.35 -91 0.99 Biological odor

Klondyke 17KLRC053 2018-05-09 33 30.9 911 0.44 6.99 75.5 1.27 Fresh clean odor

Klondyke 17KLRC067 2018-05-13 137 30.2 795 0.38 7.39 -50 1.29 Fresh clean odor



Klondyke 17KLRC078 2018-05-10 32 32 1276 0.63 7.36 -22 2.42 Salty odor

Klondyke 17KLRC083 2018-05-10 19 32.2 1645 0.82 7.44 -36.8 0.91

Klondyke 17KLRC086 2018-05-13 42 29 1431 0.71 7.39 -53.5 2 Fresh clean odor


Copenhagen 18CPRC024 2019-03-17 14.5 29.2 1301 0.59 7 169.9 1.38 Stale odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC006 2019-03-17 8 29.6 1319 0.6 7.33 -125.2 0.69 Biological odor

Copenhagen 18CPRC036 2019-03-16 6.5 29.5 1210 0.55 6.81 92.6 1.93 Chemical odor

Copenhagen 18CPRC034 2019-03-16 8 30.1 1255 0.56 7.08 99.7 3.72 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC022 2019-03-16 8 30 1330 0.6 7.16 -169.4 0.9 Biological odor

Copenhagen KKC002 2019-03-17 30.4 1057 0.47 7.32 98.8 4.81 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC008 2019-03-16 11 30 1182 0.53 7 77.8 1.82 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC012 2019-03-16 9 29.1 1103 0.5 7.16 72.3 0.44 Stale odor

Copenhagen CRC8 2019-03-16 29.6 1181 0.53 7.19 55.1 2.13 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC017 2019-03-16 12.5 29 1486 0.68 7.73 96.1 1.87 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 18CPRC038 2019-03-17 8.5 30.4 1332 0.59 7.17 109.3 1.97 Fresh clean odor

Copenhagen 18CPRC028 2019-03-17 15.5 30.8 1295 0.57 7 113.5 1.4 Fresh clean odor


Copenhagen 18CPRC039 2019-03-16 5 30.4 1519 0.68 7.23 -132.8 1.46 Major sulphurous odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC014 2019-03-16 6 29.3 1223 0.56 7.17 57.2 2.1 Biological odor


Page | 98

Deposit Bore/ site

No. Date

DTW (m)

Temp (°C)

EC (μS/cm)

Salinity (ppm)

Acidity (pH)

Redox (mV)

Dissolved oxygen (ppm)

Appearance

Copenhagen 18CPRC030 2019-03-17 15.5 30.8 1273 0.56 7.24 98.8 1.54 Stale odor

Copenhagen 18CPRC040 2019-03-17 29.9 989 0.44 7.82 87.7 1.33 Fresh clean odor


Copenhagen 17CPRC023 2019-03-16 12.5 31.4 1126 0.49 7.04 -99.7 1.73 Biological odor

Copenhagen 17CPRC015 2019-03-16 6 29 1448 0.67 7.19 74.9 1.27 Fresh clean odor


Copenhagen 18CPRC026 2019-03-16 11.5 29.9 1366 0.62 7.16 104.5 1.54 Fresh clean odor

Coronation PCR1 2019-03-18 17.5 31.4 1161 0.5 6.88 109.3 1.61 Stale odor

Coronation PCR2 2019-03-18 22.5 31.4 1179 0.51 6.88 106.2 2.69 Fresh clean odor

Coronation 18CRRC017 2019-03-18 30 30.8 1002 0.44 7.03 -61.7 1.43 Slight sulphurous odor

Coronation 18CRRC013 2019-03-18 32.5 30.7 996 0.44 6.96 -7.6 1.69 Slight sulphurous odor

Coronation 18CRRC005 2019-03-18 62 30.6 1163 0.51 7.1 -45.8 1.95 Slight sulphurous odor

Coronation 18CRRC009 2019-03-18 49.5 30.8 1074 0.47 7.01 107.7 1.62 Fresh clean odor

Coronation 18CRRC012 2019-03-18 49 30.6 977 0.43 6.97 105.9 2.09 Stale odor

Coronation 18CRRC018 2019-03-18 32.5 30.5 967 0.42 6.94 92.7 1.51 Fresh clean odor

Coronation 18CRRC022 2019-03-18 36.9 30.3 1011 0.45 6.89 85.6 2.07 Stale odor

Coronation 18CRRC024 2019-03-18 21.5 29.9 1049 0.47 7 -66.6 10.7 Stale odor

Coronation 18CRRC003 2019-03-18 15 30.1 1170 0.52 7.13 139.8 2.57 Fresh clean odor

Coronation 18CRRC021 2019-03-18 24 29 1054 0.48 7.14 125.5 1.77 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC011 2019-03-17 31.6 1529 0.67 7.13 123.7 3.23 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC009 2019-03-17 12 31.3 2137 0.96 7.14 120 4.18 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC017 2019-03-17 20 30.8 2399 1.09 7.4 -73 1.51 Biological odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC012 2019-03-17 20.5 31.1 1545 0.68 7.23 125 4.31 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC008 2019-03-17 12.5 31.1 1879 0.84 7.21 117.7 2.83 Fresh clean odor

Fielders Gully 17FGRC010 2019-03-17 22 30.9 1274 0.56 7.09 116.2 2.29 Fresh clean odor

Klondyke 17KLRC020 2019-03-14 35 30.1 1115 0.5 7.38 -93.4 1.22 Biological odor

Klondyke 18KLDD014 2019-03-14 44 31.7 1310 0.57 7.34 57.722 1.81 Stale odor

Klondyke 17KLRC014 2019-03-14 22.5 30.8 1504 0.67 7.25 -74.4 1.85 Biological odor

Klondyke 18KLDD028 2019-03-15 37.5 30.9 1439 0.63 7.63 -138.7 1.87 Fresh clean odor

Klondyke 18KLRC187 2019-03-14 14.5 30.2 1176 0.52 7.4 91.8 1.85 Stale odor


Klondyke 18SGRC025 2019-03-13 13.5 30.8 1275 0.56 7.54 -170.2 0.83 Slight sulphurous odor

Klondyke 18KLRC182 2019-03-13 18.5 30.6 1488 0.66 7.65 -99 22.4 Chemical odor


Klondyke CRA_bore 2019-03-15 3.5 31.6 1969 0.87 8.05 75.4 4.07 Fresh clean odor

Klondyke 18KLDD018 2019-03-14 30 30.6 1611 0.72 7.37 -31.8 1.25 Stale odor

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