Dyron Daal scored the only goal as Ross County ran out winners and plunged Queens into relegation trouble.
Robert Harris forced a fine save from County keeper Derek Soutar in the 23rd minute when his free-kick went behind.
Barry Wilson got on the end of a Harris cross early in the second half, but his header was easily held by Soutar.
Daal was denied by Craig Reid in the 70th minute, but he made no mistake three minutes later when he tucked away a Sean Higgins knock-down.
It was a disappointing afternoon for the Doonhamers who were perhaps unlucky to go down against a fairly ordinary County. However it's results that count and Gordon Chisolm must be under tremendous pressure as next week's clash with Partick at Palmy approaches.
Doonhamers Travel Club Man of the Match - Martin Lancaster - Looks like he will be a good signing.