including filter-feeders, invertebrate herbivores, sea stars, anemones, ascidians, crustaceans, sharks, shellfish as well as multiple fish species. The sanctuary is particularly important as its sandbanks provide habitat for approximately 50 species of shorebirds some of which are threatened. Threatened fish species that may use the sanctuary as habitat include: Yarra pigmy perch (Edelia obscura) Australian grayling (Prototroctes maraena) Spotted galaxias (Galaxias truttaceus) Cultural heritage The Point Cook Coastal Park has cultural values for the original indigenous population. The Boon wurrung people have a number of significant sites throughout the park including stone artefact sites and middens. The majority of these important sites are near the coastline or near the Point Cook homestead. Protection of these areas is ongoing and involves the Boon wurrung people. The Point Cook Homestead also has cultural significance and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The Homestead and gardens was built in 1857. Environmental threats Introduced species Introduced species are one of the largest problems that the parklands face. Pest plants and animals can severely degrade ecosystems as well as out-compete native species for breeding sites, habitat or food sources. Weed species are very resilient and have the potential to change the structure and composition of the already fragmented floristic communities of the park. The following weed species are a particular threat: Serrated tussock Spiny rush African boxthorn Artichoke thistle Fennel Gorse Pampas grass Flax-leaf broom Italian buckthorn Pest animals have also been recognized as a serious threat to the parklands. Habitat and food resources are taken by pest rodents such as rats, rabbits and mice. These species also lead to land degradation and erosion as they are ground dwelling fauna. This damage to grassland and wetland ecosystems leads to further opportunities for the spread of exotic plant species that prefer disturbed soils. Native wildlife are preyed upon by feral and domestic cats, dogs as well as foxes. Feral cats and foxes also negatively impact on shorebird populations especially when species are roosting or are flightless. There are also marine and intertidal pest species present at the coastal park. The sabellid fan worm (Sabella spallanzanii) and the northern Pacific sea star (Asterias amurensis) both reside along the western shoreline of Port Phillip Bay and are very successful at spreading and out-competing native species. Erosion Erosion of soils and sediments from coastal dune habitats as well as from saltmarshes and sand flats is a threat to