Journal articles: 'Australia's biodiversity'

1

BUCKLEY, RALF. "Australia's Biodiversity and Climate Change." Austral Ecology 35, no. 6 (November 25, 2009): 712. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2010.02166.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

SMYTH, ANITA K., JEFF FOULKES, and ANNEMARIE WATT. "Biodiversity monitoring in Australia's rangelands: Introduction." Austral Ecology 29, no. 1 (January 30, 2004): 1–2. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2004.01348.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

F. Recher, Harry. "The past, future and present of biodiversity conservation in Australia." Pacific Conservation Biology 8, no. 1 (2002): 8. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc020008.

Full text

Abstract:

Australia has a poor record for biodiversity conservation. Government and community priorities promote growth and resource exploitation over conservation and ecologically sustainable land and water use. Programmes to protect biodiversity are inadequate, poorly funded, and inappropriate. Consequently, Australia has a large extinction debt and the 21st Century will see massive losses of continental biodiversity. Because birds are well known, these trends are already evident among Australia's avifauna and illustrate the magnitude of the problems facing biodiversity conservation in 21st Century Australia. Only by ending land clearing, limiting population growth, and adopting scientifically based land and water management and conservation practices can these trends be reversed. This is unlikely, as Australia's largely urban population is ill-informed, while the scientific community is marginalized and the agenda of green groups perpetuates the status quo.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Hayward, M. W., G. Ward-Fear, F. L'Hotellier, K. Herman, A. P. Kabat, and J. P. Gibbons. "Could biodiversity loss have increased Australia's bushfire threat?" Animal Conservation 19, no. 6 (March 20, 2016): 490–97. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/acv.12269.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

F. Recher, Harry. "Opportunities for the future." Pacific Conservation Biology 9, no. 3 (2003): 159. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc030159.

Full text

Abstract:

IN the last issue, David Paton wrote about water rationing in Australia's largest cities and lost opportunities. The opportunities Australia passed by were those which would have avoided the need for water rationing, protected the continent's river systems from degradation, conserved continental biodiversity and contributed importantly to achieving an ecologically sustainable economy. Had Australians been prepared to work together, the opportunities missed could have been taken up at no great cost to either society or individuals. Indeed, the environmental and social benefits generated would have more than compensated for any imagined losses in productivity and income.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

HILL, ROSEMARY, KRISTEN J. WILLIAMS, PETINA L. PERT, CATHERINE J. ROBINSON, ALLAN P. DALE, DAVID A. WESTCOTT, ROWENA A. GRACE, and TONY O'MALLEY. "Adaptive community-based biodiversity conservation in Australia's tropical rainforests." Environmental Conservation 37, no. 1 (March 2010): 73–82. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0376892910000330.

Full text

Abstract:

SUMMARYIn the globally significant Australian tropical rainforests, poor performance of community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) approaches mandated by national policy highlights the importance of the global search for better models. This paper reports on co-research to develop, apply and test the transferability and effectiveness of a new model and tools for CBNRM in biodiversity conservation. Adaptive co-management, designed with specific communities and natural resources, recognized as linked multi-scalar phenomena, is the new face of CBNRM. New tools used to achieve adaptive co-management include a collaborative focal species approach focused on the iconic southern cassowary, scenario analysis, science brokering partnerships, a collaborative habitat investment atlas and institutional brokering. An intermediate-complexity analytical framework was used to test the robustness of these tools and therefore likely transferability. The tools meet multiple relevant standards across three dimensions, namely empowering institutions and individuals, ongoing systematic scientific assessment and securing effective on-ground action. Evaluation of effectiveness using a performance criteria framework identified achievement of many social and environmental outcomes. Effective CBNRM requires multi-scale multi-actor collaborative design, not simply devolution to local-scale governance. Bridging/boundary organizations are important to facilitate the process. Further research into collaborative design of CBNRM structures, functions, tools and processes for biodiversity conservation is recommended.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Bradshaw, S. D. "Albert Russell ('Bert') Main 1919 - 2009." Historical Records of Australian Science 22, no. 1 (2011): 104. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/hr10013.

Full text

Abstract:

Bert Main (1919?2009)was recognized both nationally and internationally as one of Australia's leading zoologists and a gifted naturalist. His research and ecological teaching on a wide variety of animals, including frogs, reptiles, birds, insects and marsupials, laid the foundations for three generations of graduate students who were inspired by his imagination and biological insight. His foresight and energy as an administrator on government bodies also led to the creation of some of Western Australia's most important National Parks and Nature Reserves that are vital for the preservation of Australia's rich biodiversity and form part of his enduring legacy.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

West, Judy. "The Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research." Pacific Conservation Biology 1, no. 4 (1994): 276. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc940276.

Full text

Abstract:

The critical importance of advancing knowledge for management of Australia's plant biodiversity has been recognized by two of the country's prominent research and conservation organizations. In 1993 the Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research was established in Canberra. This is a joint venture between the CSIRO Division of Plant Industry and the Australian Nature Conservation Agency (ANCA), through the Australian National Botanic Gardens (ANBG), which ANCA administers. The national perspective of the Centre combines the programmes and activities of the two herbaria and the native plant research of both institutions.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

F. Recher, Harry. "Australian Elections, Wilderness and the Lost Billions." Pacific Conservation Biology 4, no. 3 (1998): 177. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc980177.

Full text

Abstract:

As I write this editorial, Australia is in the final week of national elections. Apart from the appearance of a strongly nationalistic, and minority, party which the media has promoted as racist, it is unlikely that Australia's election has received much notice outside Australia. Yet there are aspects to this election which should disturb anyone interested in achieving global ecological sustainability and the conservation of global biodiversity. First, there has been a conspicuous silence from the major political parties concerning environmental issues. To be sure, the sitting conservative government has rolled out the pork barrel and grandly announced funding for local conservation initiatives ? especially in marginal seats ? but there has been no debate on issues nor have environmental policies been afforded even a small fraction of the attention given to the economy, unemployment, health or education. Moreover, the projects funded do nothing to resolve the underlying causes of Australia's declining environmental quality (e.g., land clearing, unsustainable logging practices, over grazing, and excessive demands on fresh water). This is despite the fact that respondents to polls continue to list the environment among the most important issues concerning Australians.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Ritchie, Euan G., Corey J. A. Bradshaw, Chris R. Dickman, Richard Hobbs, Christopher N. Johnson, Emma L. Johnston, William F. Laurance, et al. "Continental-Scale Governance and the Hastening of Loss of Australia's Biodiversity." Conservation Biology 27, no. 6 (December 2013): 1133–35. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/cobi.12189.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

Cahill, David M., James E. Rookes, Barbara A. Wilson, Lesley Gibson, and Keith L. McDougall. "Phytophthora cinnamomi and Australia's biodiversity: impacts, predictions and progress towards control." Australian Journal of Botany 56, no. 4 (2008): 279. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/bt07159.

Full text

Abstract:

Phytophthora cinnamomi continues to cause devastating disease in Australian native vegetation and consequently the disease is listed by the Federal Government as a process that is threatening Australia’s biodiversity. Although several advances have been made in our understanding of how this soil-borne pathogen interacts with plants and of how we may tackle it in natural systems, our ability to control the disease is limited. The pathogen occurs widely across Australia but the severity of its impact is most evident within ecological communities of the south-west and south-east of the country. A regional impact summary for all states and territories shows the pathogen to be the cause of serious disease in numerous species, a significant number of which are rare and threatened. Many genera of endemic taxa have a high proportion of susceptible species including the iconic genera Banksia, Epacris and Xanthorrhoea. Long-term studies in Victoria have shown limited but probably unsustainable recovery of susceptible vegetation, given current management practices. Management of the disease in conservation reserves is reliant on hygiene, the use of chemicals and restriction of access, and has had only limited effectiveness and not provided complete control. The deleterious impacts of the disease on faunal habitat are reasonably well documented and demonstrate loss of individual animal species and changes in population structure and species abundance. Few plant species are known to be resistant to P. cinnamomi; however, investigations over several years have discovered the mechanisms by which some plants are able to survive infection, including the activation of defence-related genes and signalling pathways, the reinforcement of cell walls and accumulation of toxic metabolites. Manipulation of resistance and resistance-related mechanisms may provide avenues for protection against disease in otherwise susceptible species. Despite the advances made in Phytophthora research in Australia during the past 40 years, there is still much to be done to give land managers the resources to combat this disease. Recent State and Federal initiatives offer the prospect of a growing and broader awareness of the disease and its associated impacts. However, awareness must be translated into action as time is running out for the large number of susceptible, and potentially susceptible, species within vulnerable Australian ecological communities.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

SMYTH, ANITA K., and CRAIG D. JAMES. "Characteristics of Australia's rangelands and key design issues for monitoring biodiversity." Austral Ecology 29, no. 1 (January 30, 2004): 3–15. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2004.01360.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

F. Recher, H. "Conservation priorities: myths and realities." Pacific Conservation Biology 3, no. 2 (1997): 81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc970081.

Full text

Abstract:

Jim Davie's essay on integrating nature conservation with the economic, social and political realities of Indonesia is as relevant to Australia as it is to developing nations. Although Davie makes this clear, it is a message that most Australians might overlook or choose to ignore. For too long Western nations have pursued the myth of nature conservation through reserves. We know that Australia's system of conservation reserves in neither representative nor viable in the long term. Conserving the continent's biodiversity requires a system of reserves and the environmentally sensitive management of the matrix within which the reserve system is embedded. Yet, Landcare and growing efforts by State forestry authorities aside, there is little evidence of environmentally sensitive management directed at conserving biodiversity on the vast expanse of urban, forestry, agricultural and pastoral lands throughout Australia. Moreover, it is by no means clear what the end result of establishing a comprehensive, adequate, and representative system of forest reserves throughout Australia will be. One concern is that the relevant authorities will adhere to the message of the myth and decide that with an "adequate" reserve system, management of forest biodiversity outside the reserves is less important or even unnecessary. If this eventuates, then the creation of a reserve system will actually have a negative impact on forest conservation.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Bennett, Scott, Thomas Wernberg, Sean D. Connell, Alistair J. Hobday, Craig R. Johnson, and Elvira S. Poloczanska. "The 'Great Southern Reef': social, ecological and economic value of Australia's neglected kelp forests." Marine and Freshwater Research 67, no. 1 (2016): 47. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf15232.

Full text

Abstract:

Kelp forests define >8000km of temperate coastline across southern Australia, where ~70% of Australians live, work and recreate. Despite this, public and political awareness of the scale and significance of this marine ecosystem is low, and research investment miniscule (<10%), relative to comparable ecosystems. The absence of an identity for Australia’s temperate reefs as an entity has probably contributed to the current lack of appreciation of this system, which is at odds with its profound ecological, social and economic importance. We define the ‘Great Southern Reef’ (GSR) as Australia’s spatially connected temperate reef system. The GSR covers ~71000km2 and represents a global biodiversity hotspot across at least nine phyla. GSR-related fishing and tourism generates at least AU$10 billion year–1, and in this context the GSR is a significant natural asset for Australia and globally. Maintaining the health and ecological functioning of the GSR is critical to the continued sustainability of human livelihoods and wellbeing derived from it. By recognising the GSR as an entity we seek to boost awareness, and take steps towards negotiating the difficult challenges the GSR faces in a future of unprecedented coastal population growth and global change.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Harris, Peter T., Andrew D. Heap, Tara J. Anderson, and Brendan Brooke. "Comment on: Williams et al. (2009) “Australia's deep-water reserve network: implications of false homogeneity for classifying abiotic surrogates of biodiversity”. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 214–224." ICES Journal of Marine Science 66, no. 10 (August 21, 2009): 2082–85. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsp207.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Harris, P. T., Heap, A. D., Anderson, T. J., and Brooke, B. 2009. Comment on: Williams et al. (2009) “Australia's deep-water reserve network: implications of false homogeneity for classifying abiotic surrogates of biodiversity”. ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 214–224. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 2082–2085. Williams et al. (2009) report on new multibeam sonar bathymetry and underwater video data collected from submarine canyons and seamounts on Australia's southeast continental margin to “investigate the degree to which geomorphic features act as surrogates for benthic megafaunal biodiversity” (p. 214). The authors describe what they view as deficiencies in the design of the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the southeast region of Australia, in which geomorphology information was employed as a surrogate to infer regional-scale patterns of benthic biodiversity. This comment is designed to support and underscore the importance of evaluating MPA designs and the validity of using abiotic surrogates such as geomorphology to infer biodiversity patterns, and also seeks to clarify some of the discrepancies in geomorphic terminologies and approaches used between the original study and the Williams et al. (2009) evaluation. It is our opinion that the MPA design criteria used by the Australian Government are incorrectly reported by Williams et al. (2009). In particular, we emphasize the necessity for consistent terminology and approaches when undertaking comparative analyses of geomorphic features. We show that the MPA selection criteria used by the Australian Government addressed the issues of false homogeneity described by Williams et al. (2009), but that final placement of MPAs was based on additional stakeholder considerations. Finally, we argue that although the Williams et al. (2009) study provides valuable information on biological distributions within seamounts and canyons, the hypothesis that geomorphic features (particularly seamounts and submarine canyons) are surrogates for benthic biodiversity is not tested explicitly by their study.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Godden, Lee, Rebecca Nelson, and Jacqueline Peel. "Controlling Invasive Species: Managing Risks to Australia's Agricultural Sustainability and Biodiversity Protection." Australasian Journal of Environmental Management 13, no. 3 (January 2006): 166–84. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14486563.2006.10648684.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Currie, David R., and Shirley J. Sorokin. "Megabenthic biodiversity in two contrasting submarine canyons on Australia's southern continental margin." Marine Biology Research 10, no. 2 (September 30, 2013): 97–110. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17451000.2013.797586.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

Williams, Alan, Nicholas J. Bax, and Rudy J. Kloser. "Remarks on “Comment on: Williams et al. (2009) Australia's deep-water reserve network: implications of false homogeneity for classifying abiotic surrogates of biodiversity, ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 214–224” by Peter T. Harris, Andrew D. Heap, Tara J. Anderson, and Brendan Brooke." ICES Journal of Marine Science 66, no. 10 (August 11, 2009): 2086–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/icesjms/fsp212.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Williams, A., Bax, N. J., and Kloser, R. J. 2009. Remarks on “Comment on: Williams et al. (2009) Australia's deep-water reserve network: implications of false homogeneity for classifying abiotic surrogates of biodiversity, ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 214–224” by Peter T. Harris, Andrew D. Heap, Tara J. Anderson, and Brendan Brooke. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 2086–2088. Commitment by many nations at the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development to complete national networks of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) by 2012 focused attention on MPA design and implementation, especially for the deep waters that make up the majority of many national EZs. Further, there is a focus on conservation in the High Seas through the Convention on Biological Biodiversity and the FAO, e.g. for seamounts and other vulnerable benthic habitats. Any manuscript that raises basic issues on one identified area for conservation is therefore a prospectively useful addition to the international debate. The Comment by Harris et al. (2009) on a paper authored by myself and colleagues (Williams et al., 2009) is a potentially useful contribution. The authors provide data, examples, and insights into aspects of the design and planning process for Australia's SE network of reserves. Here, we address the main question of how geological descriptions can be used or modified to provide the most information on marine biodiversity patterns for use in conservation planning—in the context of the major points raised by Harris et al. (2009).

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Quinn, Ronald J. "High-throughput screening in natural product drug discovery in Australia utilising Australia's biodiversity." Drug Development Research 46, no. 3-4 (March 1999): 250–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/(sici)1098-2299(199903/04)46:3/4<250::aid-ddr9>3.0.co;2-8.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Hutchings, Pat. "1998 Edith Cowan University Research Lecture?The challenge to conserve and manage Australia's marine biodiversity." Pacific Conservation Biology 5, no. 4 (1999): 242. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc000242.

Full text

Abstract:

Austrelia is facing a major challenge in this new millenium to conserve and manage its marine biodiversity and to prevent the loss of any more species. Time is critical and immediate action is required.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Radke, Lynda C., Jin Li, Grant Douglas, Rachel Przeslawski, Scott Nichol, Justy Siwabessy, Zhi Huang, Janice Trafford, Tony Watson, and Tanya Whiteway. "Characterising sediments of a tropical sediment-starved shelf using cluster analysis of physical and geochemical variables." Environmental Chemistry 12, no. 2 (2015): 204. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/en14126.

Full text

Abstract:

Environmental context Australia's tropical marine estate is a biodiversity hotspot that is threatened by human activities. Analysis and interpretation of large physical and geochemistry data sets provides important information on processes occurring at the seafloor in this poorly known area. These processes help us to understand how the seafloor functions to support biodiversity in the region. Abstract Baseline information on habitats is required to manage Australia's northern tropical marine estate. This study aims to develop an improved understanding of seafloor environments of the Timor Sea. Clustering methods were applied to a large data set comprising physical and geochemical variables that describe organic matter (OM) reactivity, quantity and source, and geochemical processes. Arthropoda (infauna) were used to assess different groupings. Clusters based on physical and geochemical data discriminated arthropods better than geomorphic features. Major variations among clusters included grain size and a cross-shelf transition from authigenic-Mn–As enrichments (inner shelf) to authigenic-P enrichment (outer shelf). Groups comprising raised features had the highest reactive OM concentrations (e.g. low chlorin indices and C:N ratios, and high reaction rate coefficients) and benthic algal δ13C signatures. Surface area-normalised OM concentrations higher than continental shelf norms were observed in association with: (i) low δ15N, inferring Trichodesmium input; and (ii) pockmarks, which impart bottom–up controls on seabed chemistry and cause inconsistencies between bulk and pigment OM pools. Low Shannon–Wiener diversity occurred in association with low redox and porewater pH and published evidence for high energy. Highest β-diversity was observed at euphotic depths. Geochemical data and clustering methods used here provide insight into ecosystem processes that likely influence biodiversity patterns in the region.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Nelson, Gil, and Shari Ellis. "The history and impact of digitization and digital data mobilization on biodiversity research." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 374, no. 1763 (November 19, 2018): 20170391. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2017.0391.

Full text

Abstract:

The first two decades of the twenty-first century have seen a rapid rise in the mobilization of digital biodiversity data. This has thrust natural history museums into the forefront of biodiversity research, underscoring their central role in the modern scientific enterprise. The advent of mobilization initiatives such as the United States National Science Foundation's Advancing Digitization of Biodiversity Collections (ADBC), Australia's Atlas of Living Australia (ALA), Mexico's National Commission for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), Brazil's Centro de Referência em Informação (CRIA) and China's National Specimen Information Infrastructure (NSII) has led to a rapid rise in data aggregators and an exponential increase in digital data for scientific research and arguably provide the best evidence of where species live. The international Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) now serves about 131 million museum specimen records, and Integrated Digitized Biocollections (iDigBio) in the USA has amassed more than 115 million. These resources expose collections to a wider audience of researchers, provide the best biodiversity data in the modern era outside of nature itself and ensure the primacy of specimen-based research. Here, we provide a brief history of worldwide data mobilization, their impact on biodiversity research, challenges for ensuring data quality, their contribution to scientific publications and evidence of the rising profiles of natural history collections. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Biological collections for understanding biodiversity in the Anthropocene’.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Pepper, D. A., Hania Lada, James R. Thomson, K. Shuvo Bakar, P. S. Lake, and Ralph Mac Nally. "Potential future scenarios for Australia's native biodiversity given on-going increases in human population." Science of The Total Environment 576 (January 2017): 381–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.021.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

Bryan, B. A., M. Nolan, T. D. Harwood, J. D. Connor, J. Navarro-Garcia, D. King, D. M. Summers, et al. "Supply of carbon sequestration and biodiversity services from Australia's agricultural land under global change." Global Environmental Change 28 (September 2014): 166–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.gloenvcha.2014.06.013.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Hunt, L. P. "Opportunities for the future in Australia's grazed rangelands." Rangeland Journal 25, no. 2 (2003): 183. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/rj03015.

Full text

Abstract:

The importance, use and management of Australia's grazed rangelands are being questioned. Financial returns from pastoralism have declined for some and there is increasing interest in alternative land uses. There are also concerns for the protection of natural resources and the conservation of biodiversity. As a result many rangeland users and residents consider that the pastoral rangelands are at a point when substantial and radical change in the way they are used, administered and managed must be implemented. One perspective on the future values the rangelands for all natural resource values that provide sustainable incomes for its residents, strives for more integrated natural resource management, involves the development of more tightly integrated regional economies, and facilitates an increased influence of local communities in guiding land use in their regions. These changes offer many opportunities for individual sectors and for cross-sectoral benefits, cooperation and integration. They offer truly complementary options for future use, although there are still likely to be conflicts over land use. To realise these opportunities will require legislative reform, improved knowledge and skills in pastoralists, legislators and advisers, and better planning processes that engage all stakeholders, set appropriate targets, have land capability as a basis for land use decisions and provide for satisfactory conflict resolution. An understanding of the ecological and economic implications of a new mix of land uses is also required.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

F. Recher, Harry. "Musings and Elections." Pacific Conservation Biology 10, no. 1 (2004): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc040001.

Full text

Abstract:

In this issue of Pacific Conservation Biology, Bob Fox responds to the conservation and animal welfare policies of environmentalists and animal rights activists. It would be easy to dismiss his reaction as those of a frustrated public servant and a person who enjoys hunting. I have sympathy with Bob's ideas and not just because I also enjoy hunting and have had my share of frustrations in working for scientifically based environmental management. I have long felt that too many environmentalists and environmental organizations not only had a narrow agenda, but failed to understand the simplest ecological principles necessary for conserving and managing Australia's biodiversity. Too often the actions and policies of environmental organizations were not only counterproductive, but created an environment within which politicians could grandstand as being environmentally sensitive and concerned, while implementing policies inimical to the long-term needs of biodiversity conservation and ecological sustainability. As for animal rights groups, their actions frustrate the conservation of Australia's native flora and fauna and lead to more animals suffering than are ever saved. They also fail to recognize the simplest of ecological principles, such as the well-known ability of herbivores to increase beyond the carrying capacity of their food supply; the plight of koalas on Kangaroo Island is just one of many examples that could be cited where animal rights and welfare activists prevent essential conservation management causing needless suffering of animals and environmental degradation.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Bates, Gerry. "Environmental Assessment Australia's New Outlook under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth)." Environmental Law Review 4, no. 4 (December 2002): 203–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/146145290200400402.

Full text

Abstract:

Environmental law in Australia owes much of its origins to British ancestry, but as a political federation of states and territories, Australia has also looked to other federal jurisdictions in the USA and Canada to help determine appropriate legal responsibilities for protection of the environment and management of natural resources. Environmental assessment of activities at Commonwealth level indeed was initially influenced by the American and Canadian models; but in recent years Australian governments have sought a more refined approach that reflects the realities of a new era of ‘co-operative federalism’ ushered in by the Inter-governmental Agreement on the Environment 1992. The promulgation of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBCA) represents the conclusion of this search for the most appropriate statement of Commonwealth/state responsibilities for the environment; and represents the most fundamental reform of Commonwealth responsibility for the environment in the past 30 years. The Act, which came into force on 16 July 2000, replaces five existing statutes; the Endangered Species Protection Act 1992 (Cth); the Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1974 (Cth) (EPIP Act); the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975 (Cth); the Whale Protection Act 1980 (Cth), and the World Heritage Properties Conservation Act 1983 (Cth).1 The passage of the Act has been controversial because it appears to limit the legal responsibilities of the federal government to a narrow list of defined circumstances, omitting in the process some environmental issues in Australia that might appear to demand a national approach. The purpose of this paper is to describe the background and philosophy behind the new legislation, and outline the provisions for Commonwealth environmental assessment and approval of actions that might significantly affect the environment.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Creighton, Colin, Paul I. Boon, Justin D. Brookes, and Marcus Sheaves. "Repairing Australia's estuaries for improved fisheries production – what benefits, at what cost?" Marine and Freshwater Research 66, no. 6 (2015): 493. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf14041.

Full text

Abstract:

An Australia-wide assessment of ~1000 estuaries and embayments undertaken by the National Land and Water Resources Audit of 1997–2002 indicated that ~30% were modified to some degree. The most highly degraded were in New South Wales, where ~40% were classified as ‘extensively modified’ and <10% were ‘near pristine’. Since that review, urban populations have continued to grow rapidly, and increasing pressures for industrial and agricultural development in the coastal zone have resulted in ongoing degradation of Australia's estuaries and embayments. This degradation has had serious effects on biodiversity, and commercial and recreational fishing. A business case is developed that shows that an Australia-wide investment of AU$350 million into repair will be returned in less than 5 years. This return is merely from improved productivity of commercial fisheries of a limited number of fish, shellfish and crustacean species. Estuary repair represents an outstanding return on investment, possibly far greater than most of Australia's previous environmental repair initiatives and with clearly demonstrated outcomes across the Australian food and services economies.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

E. Williams, S., R. G. Pearson, and P. J. Walsh. "Distributions and biodiversity of the terrestrial vertebrates of Australia's Wet Tropics: a review of current knowledge." Pacific Conservation Biology 2, no. 4 (1995): 327. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc960327.

Full text

Abstract:

This paper presents a review and collation of the current knowledge on vertebrate distributions and patterns of diversity within the Wet Tropics biogeographic region. Data are collated from a large range of published and unpublished sources. A summary of broad diversity patterns is presented and the collated distributional data are included. The data contained in this paper will be used as the basis for analyses on the determinants of diversity and assemblage composition in the Wet Tropics, as a means of receiving further feedback on distributional data and as baseline information to guide management, conservation and future research on vertebrates within the Wet Tropics. The highest species diversity of vertebrates within the Wet Tropics is found in sclerophyll habitats (approximately 388 species). Rainforest is considerably less species-rich with about 259 vertebrate species; however, regional endemism is much higher in rainforest (25%) than in the combined sclerophyll habitats (4%). The Atherton Uplands are identified as being the most species rich area within the Wet Tropics, with species richness declining both to the north and south of these central uplands. Although there is no consistent latitudinal or altitudinal cline in diversity between taxonomic groups, there is a consistent turnover in the assemblage composition of vertebrates, both altitudinally and latitudinally. These patterns are consistent in all major terrestrial vertebrate taxa. The importance of the Wet Tropics region is emphasized by the identification of 143 species of terrestrial vertebrates (23% of the total vertebrate fauna of the region) which are very important species for biological conservation: that is, those species or sub-species which are endemic to the region and/or have a recognized rare and threatened status. Several areas are identified as being poorly known due to insufficient sampling effort, including the Finnegan Uplands, Thornton Uplands, Malbon-Thompson Range and the Lee Uplands. The latter two zones present the most significant gaps in knowledge, as they have been very poorly sampled and are important in the interpretation of biogeographic and evolutionary patterns within the region. Probably the most significant ecological gradient in need of detailed examination is altitude, because of the significant effect it has on assemblage composition in all subsets of the terrestrial vertebrate fauna.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

30

Cockerell, Brayden, Robert L. Pressey, Alana Grech, Jorge G. Álvarez-Romero, Trevor Ward, and Rodolphe Devillers. "Representation does not necessarily reduce threats to biodiversity: Australia's Commonwealth marine protected area system, 2012–2018." Biological Conservation 252 (December 2020): 108813. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2020.108813.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

31

Kearney, Stephen G., Josie Carwardine, April E. Reside, Diana O. Fisher, Martine Maron, Tim S. Doherty, Sarah Legge, et al. "Corrigendum to: The threats to Australia’s imperilled species and implications for a national conservation response." Pacific Conservation Biology 25, no. 3 (2019): 328. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc18024_co.

Full text

Abstract:

Since European occupation of Australia, human activities have caused the dramatic decline and sometimes extinction of many of the continent's unique species. Here we provide a comprehensive review of threats to species listed as threatened under Australia's Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Following accepted global categories of threat, we find that invasive species affect the largest number of listed species (1257 species, or 82% of all threatened species); ecosystem modifications (e.g. fire) (74% of listed species) and agricultural activity (57%) are also important. The ranking of threats was largely consistent across taxonomic groups and the degree of species' endangerment. These results were significantly different (P

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

32

F. Recher, Harry. "Gondwanan Heritage." Pacific Conservation Biology 3, no. 1 (1997): 77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc970077.

Full text

Abstract:

Gondwanan Heritage is dedicated to two inspirational Western Australian biologists, Bert Main and Sid James. Let me therefore add my appreciation for the efforts of Bert Main and Sid James. Bert is probably most revered for his wit and commitment to scientifically based environmental management and conservation. His research on evolutionary ecology is that of a true naturalist with publications on plants, fish, invertebrates, reptiles, fire ecology, biodiversity, and the history of science to mention just a few of his interests. Sid James is a plant evolutionist and geneticist and, as Steve Hopper puts it, his work provides "compelling reasons for conserving all that remains of Western Australia's remnant vegetation".

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

33

Newman, Peter. "The city and the bush—partnerships to reverse the population decline in Australia's Wheatbelt." Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 56, no. 6 (2005): 527. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ar04198.

Full text

Abstract:

Major trends that are draining people from the Wheatbelt are globalisation of the economy (and its associated global urban culture) and coastalisation based on lifestyle preferences. A focus on Wheatbelt towns in partnership with the adjacent global city is needed to reverse the decline. It will require a new quality of life attraction similar to that drawing people to the coast, a stronger sense of place, and greater social diversity. It will also require tapping of new global city sustainability obligations through partnerships between the city and its bioregion on issues of biodiversity, new bioindustries, and new water regimes, and clear planning to contain sprawl in the city and coasts. Hope for rejuvenation can be provided through the example of inner city areas, which suffered similar problems of decline, and reversed them over a 30-year period.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

34

Johnston, S. D., J. Gosalvez, and W. V. Holt. "046. FUTURE PROOFING AUSTRALIA'S MAMMALIAN BIODIVERSITY USING GENOME RESOURCE BANKING AND ART: WHERE ARE WE UP TO?" Reproduction, Fertility and Development 21, no. 9 (2009): 11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/srb09abs046.

Full text

Abstract:

The establishment of a functional genome resource bank for the genetic management and future proofing of Australian native mammals sounds great in theory, but what is the reality of this idea. In order to understand the current rate of progress in this area, we will present an overview of the inherent structural and physiological limitations of non-eutherian mammalian reproduction in terms of gamete biology and ART. For the male, these include (1) an unique mode of spermatid condensation that imparts the need for major structural changes to sperm morphology during epididymal transit, (2) a lack of cysteine protamines and disulphide bonds in the sperm chromatin that predisposes the nucleus to post-thaw chromatin relaxation, (3) an extremely stable acrosome, which to date, has not been possible to experimentally react in vitro, (4) unusual lipid composition in the plasma membrane that potentially makes the sperm cell resistant to cold shock trauma and (5) the need, in some species, for extremely high concentrations of cryoprotectant, that paradoxically, appear to be cytotoxic to the spermatozoon. Female limitations include, (1) the production of a large yolky oocyte and resulting embryo, making it difficult to cryopreserve, (2) a small and technically challenging complex reproductive tract that makes gamete recovery and artificial insemination problematic and (3) a general lack of information on marsupial reproductive physiology and behaviour that has hindered the development of protocols for timed induction of oestrus and ovulation. We shall also identify, socio-political and ethical limitations holding back the application of assisted breeding technology in these species.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

35

Pittock, Jamie, and C. Max Finlayson. "Australia's Murray - Darling Basin: freshwater ecosystem conservation options in an era of climate change." Marine and Freshwater Research 62, no. 3 (2011): 232. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf09319.

Full text

Abstract:

River flows in the Murray–Darling Basin, as in many regions in the world, are vulnerable to climate change, anticipated to exacerbate current, substantial losses of freshwater biodiversity. Additional declines in water quantity and quality will have an adverse impact on existing freshwater ecosystems. We critique current river-management programs, including the proposed 2011 Basin Plan for Australia’s Murray–Darling Basin, focusing primarily on implementing environmental flows. River management programs generally ignore other important conservation and adaptation measures, such as strategically located freshwater-protected areas. Whereas most river-basin restoration techniques help build resilience of freshwater ecosystems to climate change impacts, different measures to enhance resilience and reoperate water infrastructure are also required, depending on the degree of disturbance of particular rivers on a spectrum from free-flowing to highly regulated. A crucial step is the conservation of free-flowing river ecosystems where maintenance of ecological processes enhances their capacity to resist climate change impacts, and where adaptation may be maximised. Systematic alteration of the operation of existing water infrastructure may also counter major climate impacts on regulated rivers.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

36

Prendergast, Kit S., Sean Tomlinson, Kingsley W. Dixon, Philip W. Bateman, and Myles H. M. Menz. "Urban native vegetation remnants support more diverse native bee communities than residential gardens in Australia's southwest biodiversity hotspot." Biological Conservation 265 (January 2022): 109408. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2021.109408.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

37

Eyre, Teresa J., Don W. Butler, Annie L. Kelly, and Jian Wang. "Effects of forest management on structural features important for biodiversity in mixed-age hardwood forests in Australia's subtropics." Forest Ecology and Management 259, no. 3 (January 2010): 534–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.foreco.2009.11.010.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

38

Andersen, Alan N., Relena R. Ribbons, Magen Pettit, and Catherine L. Parr. "Burning for biodiversity: highly resilient ant communities respond only to strongly contrasting fire regimes in Australia's seasonal tropics." Journal of Applied Ecology 51, no. 5 (July 21, 2014): 1406–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1365-2664.12307.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

39

Williams, R. J., J. C. Z. Woinarski, and A. N. Andersen. "Fire experiments in northern Australia: contributions to ecological understanding and biodiversity conservation in tropical savannas." International Journal of Wildland Fire 12, no. 4 (2003): 391. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wf03025.

Full text

Abstract:

The management of fire in savannas has been informed by a strong tradition of fire experiments, especially in Africa. This research tradition is much shorter in the 2 million square kilometres of tropical savannas in northern Australia, but has yielded several natural experiments, and three designed, manipulative, controlled field experiments (hereafter 'manipulative' experiments) of international significance (at Munmarlary, Kapalga and Kidman Springs in the Northern Territory). Here we assess the contributions of experiments, in particular the manipulative experiments, to ecological understanding and biodiversity management in Australia's savannas. Running from 1973 to 1996, the Munmarlary experiment comprised hectare-scale experimental plots with four replicated dry season fire treatments, and was designed to examine interactions between fire, landscape and biodiversity. The Kapalga experiment ran from 1989 to 1995, with a range of fire treatments broadly similar to those at Munmarlary. However, experimental units were 10–20�km2 sub-catchments, making it one of the largest, replicated fire experiments ever conducted. The Kidman Springs experiment focused on grass-layer productivity and composition to meet the needs of the pastoral industry, but also provided an opportunity to examine biodiversity responses to different fire regimes. Methodologically, the experiments have generally focused on phenomena—the responses to different fire treatments of individual taxa—rather than on mechanisms that determine response syndromes. They have highlighted that a range of responses to differences in fire regime is possible, and that no single fire regime can optimise all biodiversity outcomes. For effective conservation of biodiversity in the face of such complexity, conservation goals will need to be made explicit. The existing portfolio of manipulative experiments is incomplete, lacking especially a consideration of some critical savanna taxa and environments, and providing little information on the significance of spatial and temporal variability in fire patterns, especially at small scales. An understanding of fire in Australian savanna landscapes remains inadequate, so there is a continuing need for close partnerships between scientists and conservation managers, with fire management treated as a series of landscape experiments in an adaptive management framework.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

40

Radke, Lynda, Tony Nicholas, Peter A. Thompson, Jin Li, Eric Raes, Matthew Carey, Ian Atkinson, Zhi Huang, Janice Trafford, and Scott Nichol. "Baseline biogeochemical data from Australia's continental margin links seabed sediments to water column characteristics." Marine and Freshwater Research 68, no. 9 (2017): 1593. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf16219.

Full text

Abstract:

Surficial marine sediments are an important source of nutrients for productivity and biodiversity, yet the biogeochemistry of these sediments is poorly known in Australia. Seabed samples were collected at >350 locations in Australia’s western, northern and eastern continental margins during Federal Government surveys (2007–14). Parameters analysed included measures of organic matter (OM) source (δ13C, δ15N and C:N ratios), concentration (percentage total organic carbon,%TOC, and surface area-normalised TOC, OC:SA) and bioavailability (chlorin indices, total reactive chlorins, total oxygen uptake, total sediment metabolism (TSM), sediment oxygen demand (SOD) and SOD and TSM normalised against TOC). The aim of the present study was to summarise these biogeochemical ‘baseline’ data and make contextualised inferences about processes that govern the observed concentrations. The OM was primarily from marine sources and the OC:SA broadly reflected water column productivity (based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer, MODIS). Approximately 40% of sediments were organic poor by global standards, reflecting seawater oligotrophy; ~12% were organic rich due to benthic production, high water column productivity and pockmark formation. OM freshness varied due to pigment degradation in water columns and dilution with refractory OM in reworked sediments. δ15N values confirmed the importance of N2 fixation to Timor Sea productivity, and point to recycling of fixed nitrogen within food chains in Western Australia.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

41

Johnson, Christopher N., Joanne L. Isaac, and Diana O. Fisher. "Rarity of a top predator triggers continent-wide collapse of mammal prey: dingoes and marsupials in Australia." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 274, no. 1608 (October 31, 2006): 341–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2006.3711.

Full text

Abstract:

Top predators in terrestrial ecosystems may limit populations of smaller predators that could otherwise become over abundant and cause declines and extinctions of some prey. It is therefore possible that top predators indirectly protect many species of prey from excessive predation. This effect has been demonstrated in some small-scale studies, but it is not known how general or important it is in maintaining prey biodiversity. During the last 150 years, Australia has suffered the world's highest rate of mammal decline and extinction, and most evidence points to introduced mid-sized predators (the red fox and the feral cat) as the cause. Here, we test the idea that the decline of Australia's largest native predator, the dingo, played a role in these extinctions. Dingoes were persecuted from the beginning of European settlement in Australia and have been eliminated or made rare over large parts of the continent. We show a strong positive relationship between the survival of marsupials and the geographical overlap with high-density dingo populations. Our results suggest that the rarity of dingoes was a critical factor which allowed smaller predators to overwhelm marsupial prey, triggering extinction over much of the continent. This is evidence of a crucial role of top predators in maintaining prey biodiversity at large scales in terrestrial ecosystems and suggests that many remaining Australian mammals would benefit from the positive management of dingoes.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

42

Philip, Justine. "The Dingo Barrier Fence: Presenting the case to decommission the world’s longest environmental barrier in the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030." Biologia Futura 73, no. 1 (November 22, 2021): 9–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s42977-021-00106-z.

Full text

Abstract:

AbstractThe longest environmental barrier in the world is Australia's 5614 km Dingo Barrier Fence. The structure was completed in the 1950s, designed to facilitate the eradication of the country's apex predator and cultural keystone species the dingo (Canis dingo) from sheep (Ovis aries) grazing areas to the south-east of the continent. The fence and its support systems now present an immense obstacle to ecological restoration in Australia's arid zone, preventing traditional management practices, and are hazardous to all terrestrial wildlife in the immediate vicinity. The barrier presents a worst-case scenario for animal-generated seed dispersal patterns over the wider region and limits genetic transfer. Plummeting biodiversity inside the fence line and increasing pressures of climate change have left this region highly vulnerable to ecological collapse. Concurrently, sheep numbers have contracted over 75% in the arid zone since 1991, due to market forces and climate change, while demand for ethically produced goods such as predator-friendly meat production and organic produce is increasing. Decommissioning the Dingo Barrier Fence, moving the stock protection zone south and diversifying land use would not impact significantly on the current livestock production. It offers a sound economic alternative for the region, with the potential for regeneration of 82 million hectares of land, a scale encouraged for inclusion in the global initiative the United Nations Decade for Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030). This would restore connectivity across the region, including vital access to the waters of the Murray Darling Basin. This would provide mitigation for the effects of climate change, new markets in organic and sustainable industries, and support ecological and cultural renewal.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

43

Vlachos, Alexandra. "Fortress Farming in Western Australia? The Problematic History of Separating Native Wildlife from Agricultural Land through the State Barrier Fence." Global Environment 13, no. 2 (June 15, 2020): 368–403. http://dx.doi.org/10.3197/ge.2020.130206.

Full text

Abstract:

The Western Australia (WA) State Barrier Fence stretches 2,023 miles (3,256 kilometres) and divides Australia's largest state. The original 'Rabbit Proof Fence' fence was built from 1901–1907 to stop the westbound expansion of rabbits into the existing and potential agricultural zone of Western Australia. Starting as a seemingly straightforward, albeit costly, solution to protect what was considered a productive landscape, the fence failed to keep out the rabbits. It was subsequently amended, upgraded, re-named and used to serve different purposes: as Vermin Fence and State Barrier Fence (unofficially also Emu Fence or Dog Fence) the fence was designed to exclude native Australian animals such as emus, kangaroos and dingoes. In the Australian 'boom and bust' environment, characterised by extreme temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, interrupting species movement has severe negative impacts on biodiversity – an issue aggravated by the fact that Australia leads in global extinction rates (Woinarski, Burbidge and Harrison, 2015). The twentieth century history of the fence demonstrates the agrarian settlers' struggle with the novelty and otherness of Western Australia's ecological conditions – and severe lack of knowledge thereof. While the strenuous construction, expensive maintenance and doubtful performance of the fence provided useful and early environmental lessons, they seem largely forgotten in contemporary Australia. The WA government recently commenced a controversial $11 million project to extend the State Barrier Fence for another 660 kilometres to reach the Esperance coast, targeting dingoes, emus and kangaroos – once again jeopardising habitat connectivity. This paper examines the environmental history, purposes and impacts of the State Barrier fence, critically discusses the problems associated with European farming and pastoralism in WA, and touches on alternative land-use perspectives and futures.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

44

A. McAlpine, C., D. B. Lindenmayer, T. J. Eyre, and S. R. Phinn. "Landscape surrogates of forest fragmentation: Synthesis of Australian Montreal Process case studies." Pacific Conservation Biology 8, no. 2 (2002): 108. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc020108.

Full text

Abstract:

Habitat loss and fragmentation are key biodiversity indicators of the Montreal Protocol for monitoring progress towards ecologically sustainable forest management. Over the last 15 years, an array of landscape metrics have been developed as spatial measures of habitat loss and fragmentation. However, most metrics require rigorous empirical testing if they are to provide scientifically credible information to managers and policy makers. We present a synthesis of three Australian case studies for developing Montreal Indicator 1.1e, fragmentation of forest type, each representing different levels of landscape modification: St Mary State Forest, south-east Queensland; Tumut, southern New South Wales; and the Central Highlands, Victoria. Collectively, the studies found that no single landscape metric captured the response of the target species and fauna assemblages, or served as a reliable ecological surrogate for the conservation of a large set of species. Rather, species demonstrated a diversity of responses to habitat loss and fragmentation. Fragmentation effects were more important for the Tumut study, but not important for the Central Highlands study. Stand-scale habitat variables and area of suitable habitat were dominant explanatory variables for the St Mary study. Differences in observed response are partly explained by: (i) differences in landscape structure, particularly the proportion of preferred forest habitat remaining; (ii) differences in the ecology of target species; and (iii) the insensitivity of the landscape measures. Based on the outcomes of the three case studies, we propose principles for developing landscape surrogates for conserving biodiversity in Australia's eucalypt forest landscapes.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

45

Pepper, D. A., Hania Lada, James R. Thomson, K. Shuvo Bakar, P. S. Lake, and Ralph Mac Nally. "A method to identify drivers of societal change likely to affect natural assets in the future, illustrated with Australia's native biodiversity." Science of The Total Environment 581-582 (March 2017): 80–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.10.112.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

46

Henry, B. K., T. Danaher, G. M. McKeon, and W. H. Burrows. "A review of the potential role of greenhouse gas abatement in native vegetation management in Queensland's rangelands." Rangeland Journal 24, no. 1 (2002): 112. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/rj02006.

Full text

Abstract:

Concern about the risk of harmful human-induced climate change has resulted in international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. We review the international and national context for consideration of greenhouse abatement in native vegetation management and discuss potential options in Queensland. Queensland has large areas of productive or potentially productive land with native woody vegetation cover with approximately 76 million ha with woody cover remaining in 1991. High rates of tree clearing, predominantly to increase pasture productivity, continued throughout the 1990s with an average 345,000 ha/a estimated to have been cleared, including non-remnant (woody regrowth) as well as remnant vegetation. Estimates of greenhouse gas emissions associated with land clearing currently have a high uncertainty but clearing was reported to contribute a significant proportion of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 (21%) to 1999 (13%). In Queensland, greenhouse emissions from land clearing were estimated to have been 54.5 Mt CO2-e in 1999. Management of native vegetation for timber harvesting and the proliferation of woody vegetation (vegetation thickening) in the grazed woodlands also represent large carbon fluxes. Forestry (plantations and native forests) in Queensland was reported to be a 4.4 Mt CO2-e sink in 1999 but there are a lack of comprehensive data on timber harvesting in private hardwood forests. Vegetation thickening is reported for large areas of the c. 60 million ha grazed woodlands in Queensland. The magnitude of the carbon sink in 27 million ha grazed eucalypt woodlands has been estimated to be 66 Mt CO2-e/a but this sink is not currently included in Australia's inventory of anthropogenic greenhouse emissions. Improved understanding of the function and dynamics of natural and managed ecosystems is required to support management of native vegetation to preserve and enhance carbon stocks for greenhouse benefits while meeting objectives of sustainable and productive management and biodiversity protection.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

47

Ward, Tim M., David C. Smith, Rod Lukatelich, Rob Lewis, Gavin A. Begg, and Rochelle Smith. "INTEGRATED APPROACH TO ECOLOGICAL AND SOCIO-ECONOMIC RESEARCH TO SUPPORT THE OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY: THE GREAT AUSTRALIAN BIGHT COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH SCIENCE PROGRAM." International Oil Spill Conference Proceedings 2014, no. 1 (May 1, 2014): 2193–205. http://dx.doi.org/10.7901/2169-3358-2014.1.2193.

Full text

Abstract:

ABSTRACT BP is investing $A1.43B and drilling four exploratory wells in the hope of discovering a new deep-water oil and gas province in the Great Australia Bight (GAB). The GAB is one of Australia's most valuable marine ecosystems. It supports globally significant populations of seabirds and marine mammals, diverse and endemic benthic assemblages and important fishing, aquaculture and ecotourism industries. Two research agencies (CSIRO, South Australian Research and Development Institute) and two universities (University of Adelaide, Flinders University of South Australia) recently entered into a collaborative research partnership with BP Australia to undertake an integrated study of the ecological processes and socio-economic importance of the GAB. Uniquely, this four year $20M research program is being undertaken during the exploration phase and conducted as a single integrated program. The Research Program is comprised of seven themes: physical oceanography; pelagic ecosystem and environmental drivers; benthic biodiversity; ecology of iconic and apex predators; petroleum geology and geochemistry; socio-economic values; and data integration and ecosystem modelling. Sixteen inter-related projects are being undertaken by some of Australia's leading marine scientists and will involve at least seven post-graduate Ph.D. students. Scientific quality assurance is provided by a review process that involves an Independent Science Panel and BP's international Subject Matter Experts. Ecological data collected during the study will be publically available. Findings will be presented to stakeholders and regulators and published in technical reports and scientific papers throughout the course of the program. The program is one of the few whole of system studies ever undertaken in Australia and is the first large-scale, integrated study of the ecosystems, resources and socio-economic values of the GAB. The approach has several advantages over undertaking discrete projects on key issues near the start of the production phase.1)BP Australia's financial contribution has leveraged significant investment from the other partners.2)Establishing baseline environmental conditions during the exploration phase provides the opportunity to conduct temporally replicated analyses of the ecosystem prior to commencement of production, should it occur.3)Engaging with the local scientific community builds on the existing knowledge base and working relationships with stakeholders and will assist the development of relevant local scientific capability.4)An integrated program provides for efficient development and validation of whole of system (i.e. ecological and socio-economic) models that elucidate interconnections among components of the system and can inform decisions regarding future development and predict, monitor and assess potential future impacts.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

48

Bartrim, Graeme, Laura Hahn, Benita Blunden, Chris Ewing, Wendy Simpson, Rob Coulson, Tara D'Arcy-Evans, and Jaiben Baker. "Lessons learned from developing offsets in the Brigalow Belt of Queensland." APPEA Journal 55, no. 2 (2015): 457. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/aj14092.

Full text

Abstract:

Origin Energy—on behalf of the Australia Pacific LNG Project, the upstream tenures for which occupy some 570,000 ha—has established an offsets project in the Brigalow Belt of Queensland. This belt of Acacia woodland runs between the tropical rainforest of the coast and the semi-arid interior of Queensland, and is one of 15 bio-regions in Queensland. Its reduction to less than 8% of its distribution makes it a significant part of Australia's natural environment. The offsets project has the aim of re-establishing areas of Brigalow and associated vegetation communities and fauna habitats for impacts on matters of federal or state significance. This should result in a long-term reduction in environmental impacts. Given the long-term decline in Queensland's biodiversity, such work is vital and its associated challenges—such as gaining long-term access to and protection of appropriate land, comparatively new and evolving regulatory requirements and, at times, working on the edge of scientific knowledge—requires persistence and innovation. This extended abstract presents valuable lessons learned to help inform future offsetting projects.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

49

Stiller, Josefin, Nerida G. Wilson, and Greg W. Rouse. "A spectacular new species of seadragon (Syngnathidae)." Royal Society Open Science 2, no. 2 (February 2015): 140458. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.140458.

Full text

Abstract:

The exploration of Earth's biodiversity is an exciting and ongoing endeavour. Here, we report a new species of seadragon from Western Australia with substantial morphological and genetic differences to the only two other known species. We describe it as Phyllopteryx dewysea n. sp. Although the leafy seadragon ( Phycodurus eques ) and the common seadragon ( Phyllopteryx taeniolatus ) occur along Australia's southern coast, generally among relatively shallow macroalgal reefs, the new species was found more offshore in slightly deeper waters. The holotype was trawled east of the remote Recherche Archipelago in 51 m; additional specimens extend the distribution west to Perth in 72 m. Molecular sequence data show clear divergence from the other seadragons (7.4–13.1% uncorrected divergence in mitochondrial DNA) and support a placement as the sister-species to the common seadragon. Radiographs and micro-computed tomography were used on the holotype of the new species and revealed unique features, in addition to its unusual red coloration. The discovery provides a spectacular example of the surprises still hidden in our oceans, even in relatively shallow waters.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

50

Gilmore, Sandy, Brendan Mackey, and Sandra Berry. "The extent of dispersive movement behaviour in Australian vertebrate animals, possible causes, and some implications for conservation." Pacific Conservation Biology 13, no. 2 (2007): 93. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc070093.

Full text

Abstract:

We review categorizations of, and published evidence for, large-scale or dispersive movement in Australia's vertebrate fauna. For the purposes of this paper, dispersive movements are defined as any large scale movements, relative to an individual's territory or to the population breeding range. A continuum in dispersive behaviours can be recognized between regular annual migration and less regular more opportunistic and either more or less extensive re-colonization movements. We argue that dispersive movements can be explained in terms of individuals maximizing Darwinian fitness through optimizing net energy intake traded off against mortality risk, as these vary over space and time. We find that migration, nomadism and other forms of dispersive behaviour can be considered to differ, not in type, but merely in degree. Our review revealed evidence of dispersive movement for 36 (16%) freshwater fish species, 2 (1 %) frogs, 5 (0.6%) land and freshwater reptiles, 7 (100%) marine reptiles, 342 (51%) land and freshwater birds, 88 (56%) marine birds, 27 (8%) land and freshwater mammals, and 28 (50%) marine mammals. The Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act) is the Australian Government's main legal instrument for the conservation of biodiversity. While it recognizes, and has special provisions for, international migratory species, the Act does not recognize the special conservation challenges of continental dispersive fauna. The continental dispersive fauna not recognized by the Act includes 246 bird species. We conclude that the EPBC Act needs to be amended to explicitly account for the national conservation responsibilities of the Australian Government with respect to dispersive fauna.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Journal articles on the topic 'Australia's biodiversity'

Create a spot-on reference in APA, MLA, Chicago, Harvard, and other styles