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Biosphere Reserve Information |
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Australia
ULURU (AYERS ROCK-MOUNT OLGA)
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General Description |
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The Biosphere Reserve is dominated by two rock formations: Uluru and Kata Tjuta. The monolith Uluru rises 863 metres above sea level and is composed of feldspar rich in sandstone arkose. Kata Tjuta is 1,066 metres above sea level and is comprised of 36 steep-sided rock domes of Mt. Currie conglomerate. Surrounding these exposed rock features are very large areas dominated by sand dunes (tali), sand plains (pila) and woodlands (Puti habitats). They comprise of metamorphosed sedimentaries giving rise to smooth, hummocky hills and creek beds (Karu habitats) that flow from Kata Tjuta. The Mutitjulu community is the only settlement within Uluru-Kata Tjuta and has a population of around 350 people (2003). The Aboriginal use of the land for over one thousand generations is reflected throughout the Uluru - Kata Tjuta landscape, which is recognized as a World heritage cultural landscape area of outstanding universal value. The Anangu people living within the biosphere reserve belongs to two main dialects: Pitjantjara and Yankunytjatjara which extend far beyond the boundaries of the reserve. They are engaged as managers, rangers, and tour guides and consultants in the area. Approximately 500,000 people (2003) visit the biosphere reserve each year. The management plan prepared by the Uluru Kata-Tjuta Board of management and the Director of National Parks and Wildlife Services, features input from traditional Aboriginal owners outlining joint responsibilities, management implementation and administration. |
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Major ecosystem type |
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Warm deserts and semi-deserts |
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Major habitats & land cover types |
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Sand hills, sand plains and mulga woodland. Smaller areas of rock, rocky hill sides and even smaller creek lines |
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Location |
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24°25' to 24°26'S; 130°40' to 131°20'E |
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Area (hectares) |
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Total |
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132,550 |
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Core area(s) |
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Buffer zone(s) |
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Transition area(s) when given |
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Altitude (metres above sea level) |
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+600 to +850 |
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Year designated |
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1977
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Administrative authorities |
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National: Environment Australia (Parks Australia North)
Local: Board of Management |