Journal articles: 'Urban Ecology Australia'

1

Davis, R. A., and J. A. Wilcox. "Adapting to suburbia: bird ecology on an urban-bushland interface in Perth, Western Australia." Pacific Conservation Biology 19, no. 2 (2013): 110. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc130110.

Full text

Abstract:

Birds in urban landscapes must contend with fragmented and degraded remnants of native vegetation and their survival may be dependent on factors such as their ability to disperse through and/or utilize the urban matrix. We examined the frequency of occurrence of birds in native bushland in Kings Park, Perth, Western Australia, and in nine adjacent suburban gardens. We quantified dispersal capacity by observing bird crossing frequency and height over a major six-lane road separating the bushland from adjacent gardens. Finally we quantified matrix utilisation by recording foraging behaviour in urban gardens and bushland. Native bushland had a higher species richness than urban gardens (30 versus 17 species) and 18 species were associated more strongly with bushland. Of these 18 species, 61% were never recorded in urban gardens. Gardens were typified by three generalist species, the Singing Honeyeater Lichenostomus virescens and the introduced Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis and Spotted Dove S. chinensis. Three generalist species, the Red Wattlebird Anthochaera carunculata, Rainbow Lorikeet Trichoglossus haematodus, and Brown Honeyeater Lichmera indistincta were equally abundant in all habitats. Four of 18 bird species (Singing Honeyeater Red Wattlebird, Rainbow Lorikeet, and Australian Ringneck Barnardius zonarius) accounted for the majority of road crossing events. Urban gardens provided a rich resource for generalists and urban exploiters, all of which spent significantly more time foraging on nectar in gardens and significantly more time foraging on insects in bushland. We conclude that urban gardens provide habitat for some species that exploit nectar, but most species in bushland, particularly insectivores, do not use gardens. Our results indicate the importance of retaining well-managed bushland for supporting viable urban bird populations.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

2

McPherson, J. R. "Studies in Urban Ecology: Strangler Figs in the Urban Parklands of Brisbane, Queensland, Australia." Australian Geographical Studies 37, no. 3 (November 1999): 214–29. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1467-8470.00080.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

3

JENKINS, D. J., and C. N. L. MACPHERSON. "Transmission ecology ofEchinococcusin wild-life in Australia and Africa." Parasitology 127, S1 (October 2003): S63—S72. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0031182003003871.

Full text

Abstract:

Following the introduction ofE. granulosusinto Australia with domestic animals during European settlement, the parasite quickly became established in theE. granulosus-naive native animals of the continent. The distribution ofE. granulosusin wildlife in Australia is restricted by rainfall, but nevertheless the parasite is currently widespread and highly prevalent in many areas including numerous national parks and privately owned farms. The human population of Africa is rapidly increasing resulting in ever more pressure on wild-life populations and habitat. National parks, reserves and conservation areas now provide important tracts of preserved habitat for maintaining populations of wildlife that are also important in the maintenance ofE. granulosus. In some parts of Africa, hydatid-infected humans provide a source ofE. granulosusinfection to wildlife definitive hosts. In many areas felids may also act as important definitive hosts forE. granulosuswith the parasite being maintained in a prey/predator relationship between lions and a range of intermediate hosts. Populations ofE. granulosus-infected wild-life both in Australia and Africa act as important reservoirs in perpetuating the transmission ofE. granulosusto both domestic animals and humans. In Australia,E. granulosus-infected wild-life is infiltrating urban areas and currently represents a potentially important new public health problem.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

4

Noack, Ann, Jyri Kaapro, Kathryn Bartimote-Aufflick, Sarah Mansfield, and Harley Rose. "Efficacy of Imidacloprid in the Control of Thaumastocoris peregrinus on Eucalyptus scoparia in Sydney, Australia." Arboriculture & Urban Forestry 35, no. 4 (July 1, 2009): 192–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.48044/jauf.2009.032.

Full text

Abstract:

Thaumastocoris peregrinus, an Australian native, is a new and serious pest of urban eucalypts planted in Sydney and commercial centers of Australia. In recent years, it has spread to and attained pest status in South African Eucalyptus plantations and, more recently, has been discovered in Argentina and Uruguay. Mature Eucalyptus scoparia street trees, growing in a southern Sydney suburb, were microinjected with imidacloprid at three concentrations and monitored for three years. The abundance of T. peregrinus on treated eucalypts declined significantly compared to untreated trees over this time. Further, at the lowest concentration of chemical this insect was effectively controlled for two years. Imidacloprid (SilvaShield®; Bayer Environmental Science) has been registered in Australia for the control of T. peregrinus.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

5

O'Connor, Julie M., Sanjeev K. Srivastava, Elizabeth A. Brunton, and Scott E. Burnett. "Urban fringe dweller: the European red fox (Vulpes vulpes) in an urban coastal ecosystem." Australian Journal of Zoology 68, no. 1 (2020): 9. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/zo20069.

Full text

Abstract:

The spatial ecology of the European red fox in urban environments has not been widely studied in Australia. The spatial organisation and habitat selection of red foxes in coastal south-east Queensland was investigated using the GPS data from 17 collared foxes from seven putative fox families. Home range and core activity areas were calculated using 95% (KDE95) and 50% (KDE50) kernel density estimates respectively. Mean KDE95 home range size was 198 ha, and the mean core (KDE50) use area was 34 ha. Habitat selection, based on four broad habitat classes – Beach, Dunes, Urban and Green Space – was assessed using compositional analyses. At both 2nd order (study site) and 3rd order (home range) habitat selection, urban space was overwhelmingly the least preferred habitat in the study area despite being the most extensive habitat type. The unusual findings of this study contribute to a broader understanding of the ecology of this previously unstudied fox population.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

6

Chessman, Bruce C., Nina Bate, Peter A. Gell, and Peter Newall. "A diatom species index for bioassessment of Australian rivers." Marine and Freshwater Research 58, no. 6 (2007): 542. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf06220.

Full text

Abstract:

The Diatom Index for Australian Rivers (DIAR), originally developed at the genus level, was reformulated at the species level with data from diatom sampling of rivers in the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Victoria. The resulting Diatom Species Index for Australian Rivers (DSIAR) was significantly correlated with the ARCE (Assessment of River Condition, Environment) index developed in the Australian National Land and Water Resources Audit (NLWRA), and with nine of the ARCE’s constituent indices and sub-indices, across 395 river reaches in south-eastern Australia. These correlations were generally stronger than those shown by the biological index that was used to assess river condition in the NLWRA, the ARCB (Assessment of River Condition, Biota) index based on macroinvertebrates and the Australian River Assessment System (AUSRIVAS). At a finer spatial scale, DSIAR was strongly and significantly correlated with measures of catchment urbanisation for streams in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria. DSIAR scores across south-eastern Australia bore little relationship to the latitude, longitude or altitude of sampling sites, suggesting that DSIAR is not greatly affected by macro-geographical position. In addition, DSIAR scores did not vary greatly among small-scale hydraulic environments within a site. DSIAR appears to have potential as a broad-scale indicator of human influences on Australian rivers, especially the effects of agricultural and urban land use, and also for impact studies at a local scale. Further evaluation is warranted to test the sensitivity of the index to natural variables such as catchment geology, and to assess its performance in northern, western and inland Australia.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

7

Smith, Geoffrey C., and Nicholas Carlile. "Food and Feeding Ecology of Breeding Silver Gulls (Larus novaehollandiae) in Urban Australia." Colonial Waterbirds 16, no. 1 (1993): 9. http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/1521551.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

8

Fulton, Graham R., Grace R. Fulton, and Yee Wan Cheung. "A comparison of urban and peri-urban/hinterland nocturnal birds at Brisbane, Australia." Pacific Conservation Biology 26, no. 3 (2020): 239. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc19042.

Full text

Abstract:

This study identified and compared the abundance and detectability of owls and other nocturnal birds, over 1 year, in an urban parkland of a Brisbane suburb to a peri-urban/hinterland/rainforest site 27km away. Five owl species were detected, but only at the peri-urban/hinterland/rainforest site, they were powerful owl Ninox strenua, southern boobook Ninox boobook, sooty owl, Tyto tenebricosa, masked owl Tyto novaehollandiae and barn owl Tyto alba. A single southern boobook was detected outside the study, at the urban site. The tawny frogmouth Podargus strigoides was only detected at the urban site whereas the plumed frogmouth Podargus ocellatus plumiferus was only detected at the rainforest site. The bush stone-curlew Burhinus grallarius was the most frequently detected nocturnal species, yet we discuss its recent decline in Brisbane. Incidentally recorded mammals, reptiles, frogs and diurnal birds are given. The rainforest site had more scansorial mammals whereas the urban site had more possums, dogs and cats.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

9

Beer, Tanja, and Cristina Hernandez Santin. "Refugium WA: crafting connection through plant-relating arts-science experiences of urban ecology." Nordic Journal of Science and Technology Studies 5, no. 2 (December 22, 2017): 30–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.5324/njsts.v5i2.2320.

Full text

Abstract:

Various platforms have demonstrated the value of hands-on activities – such as community gardening and crafting – in making meaningful connections and collective identities for a sustainable and resilient future. In his seminal book, Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience (1990), psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes how these activities can be an opportunity to engage with ‘flow’ – a highly focused mental state that increases awareness, connectivity and well-being. In Through Vegetal Being (2016), philosophers Luce Irigaray and Michael Marder also argue that it is through ‘vegetal’ (or plant relating) activities in particular (e.g. touching and smelling plants), that our relations with the more-than-human world can be reignited. Drawing upon these publications and others, this paper explores how combining these two modes of thought – to enable ‘flow’ through shared ‘vegetal’ or plant-based activities – may assist communities in gaining a greater awareness of and connection to sustainability. The potential of plant-based creative activities are examined through a recent, practice-led, arts-science research project (Refugium WA, Australia 2017), which used scientific knowledge and ‘vegetal’ or ‘botanical’ crafting as a way of engaging people in biodiversity issues. The project employed the community in creating mini native plant- sculptures which were temporally installed at the State Library of Western Australia. Indication of flow, increased nature-connection and biodiversity understanding were explored through gathering observations of the participants, pre- and post-activity surveys and discussions. The research sought to examine the capacity for vegetal- crafting activities to lead to new modes of arts-science communication that connect people to the importance of biodiversity in urban spaces.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

10

Moore, G. M., and A. Chandler. "The Potential of Yellow Gum (Eucalyptus leucoxylon F. Muell.) as an Urban Street Tree: An Assessment of Species Performance in the City of Greater Melbourne, Australia." Arboriculture & Urban Forestry 49, no. 1 (January 1, 2023): 16–37. http://dx.doi.org/10.48044/jauf.2023.003.

Full text

Abstract:

"Background: In contrast to trees from northern hemisphere genera, there has been little research into the selection and vegetative propagation of Australian native tree species for use as street trees. Eucalyptus leucoxylon F. Muell. is one of a few eucalypts occurring in south-eastern Australia with bright coloured fl owers and is highly regarded as an ornamental tree that fl owers readily. It is propagated from seed, but progeny typically show seedling variability and diversity. Eucalyptus leucoxylon was identifi ed as the most widely planted eucalypt in the streets of the city of greater Melbourne, Australia. Methods: This research assessed 300 E. leucoxylon street trees growing across the city of greater Melbourne for their performance against arboricultural criteria relating to canopy structure and density, straightness of the trunk, health (assessed on canopy, trunk, and branch condition, production of exudates, and presence of fungal fruiting bodies), fl ower colour, and root systems. Results: The results showed that E. leucoxylon was a suitable street tree species with most specimens showing good habit, vigour, and health. Discussion: The trees had traits such as live crown ratio, height, fl ower colour, and capacity to cope with pruning that are considered appropriate for a street tree. Their dense canopies and high live crown ratios provide shade that can reduce the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Conclusion: This suggests the species has the potential to be a successful street tree not only in Australia, but in other parts of the world where it has been grown successfully in forestry plantations.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

11

PARSONS, HOLLY, RICHARD E. MAJOR, and KRIS FRENCH. "Species interactions and habitat associations of birds inhabiting urban areas of Sydney, Australia." Austral Ecology 31, no. 2 (April 2006): 217–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2006.01584.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

12

Bailey, Aisling, and Jonathan Kingsley. "Valuing the Benefits and Enhancing Access: Community and Allotment Gardens in Urban Melbourne, Australia." Land 11, no. 1 (January 2, 2022): 62. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/land11010062.

Full text

Abstract:

The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions of the benefits and challenges experienced by community and allotment gardens utilising a broad theoretical analysis, pertaining to the case study of Melbourne, a city in Australia that until recently has been experiencing significant population growth and urban densification. The study involved qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 23 participants from six urban community and allotment gardens. Interviews identified the perceived benefits of community and allotment gardening, perceived demographic patterns of engagement, challenges faced in relation to secure land access, and the potential offered by community and allotment gardens for social and environmental wellbeing. Findings revealed a range of perceived benefits, perceived demographic patterns, highlighted challenges posed to participation due to insecurity around ongoing land access, and detailed the perceived capacity community and allotment gardens have to contribute to social and environmental wellbeing. This study contributes to existing literature focused on the benefits and potential of community and allotment gardening for personal, social and environmental wellbeing, by offering an original theoretical contribution through carrying out an analysis informed by urban geography, phenomenology, political economy and ecology, and to literature focused on issues of access to land for these amenities.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

13

Walsh, K. J. E., H. Betts, J. Church, A. B. Pittock, K. L. McInnes, D. R. Jackett, and T. J. McDougall. "Using Sea Level Rise Projections for Urban Planning in Australia." Journal of Coastal Research 202 (April 2004): 586–98. http://dx.doi.org/10.2112/1551-5036(2004)020[0586:uslrpf]2.0.co;2.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

14

Hogan, Fiona E., Marian Weaving, and Gregory R. Johnston. "Isolation and characterisation via 454 sequencing of microsatellites from the tawny frogmouth, Podargus strigoides (Class Aves, Family Podargidae)." Australian Journal of Zoology 60, no. 2 (2012): 133. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/zo12062.

Full text

Abstract:

We isolated 24 novel polymorphic microsatellite markers from the tawny frogmouth, a nocturnal bird endemic to Australia, which has successfully adapted to urban environments. Initially, 454 shotgun sequencing was used to identify 733 loci with primers designed. Of these, we trialled 30 in the target species of which all amplified a product of expected size. Subsequently, all 30 of these loci were screened for variation in 25 individuals, from a single population in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Twenty-eight loci were polymorphic with observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.03 to 0.96 (mean 0.58) and the number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 18 (average of 6.5); we confirmed that 24 loci conformed to Hardy–Weinberg expectations. The 24 loci identified here will be sufficient to unequivocally identify individuals and will be useful in understanding the reproductive ecology, population genetics and the gene flow amongst localities in urban environments where this bird thrives.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

15

Stenhouse, Renae N. "Local Government Conservation and Management of Native Vegetation in Urban Australia." Environmental Management 34, no. 2 (July 8, 2004): 209–22. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00267-004-0231-6.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

16

Brearley, G., C. McAlpine, S. Bell, and A. Bradley. "Squirrel glider home ranges near urban edges in eastern Australia." Journal of Zoology 285, no. 4 (July 7, 2011): 256–65. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-7998.2011.00837.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

17

Goldingay, Ross L. "Population monitoring of an urban gliding mammal in eastern Australia." Australian Mammalogy 40, no. 2 (2018): 214. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/am17029.

Full text

Abstract:

Long-term monitoring is an important element of species conservation. This study describes changes in the size of a squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) population over a 10-year period. The population occupied a 45-ha forest remnant within the urban area of Brisbane. Gliders were tagged from 25 nights of trapping during 2006–08 and from 16 nights of trapping in 2015. Population modelling was used to estimate adult population size. This suggested the adult population comprised 30–40 individuals at the beginning and end of the 10-year period. It reached a peak of 70 individuals in mid-2007. These data suggest that the study area contains a small population that is prone to interannual variation but there was no evidence of it being in decline. Survival estimates during 2006–08 were equivalent to those estimated for a larger population in Victoria. Population monitoring should be continued to determine how resilient this population is to population decline and to investigate factors that may cause decline. This study provides an example of an approach that could be used to monitor threatened populations of the squirrel glider.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

18

Jansen, Cassie C., Natalie A. Prow, Cameron E. Webb, Roy A. Hall, Alyssa T. Pyke, Bruce J. Harrower, Ian L. Pritchard, et al. "Arboviruses Isolated from Mosquitoes Collected from Urban and Peri-urban Areas of Eastern Australia." Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association 25, no. 3 (September 2009): 272–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.2987/09-5908.1.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

19

Hobbs, Richard J. "Landscapes, ecology and wildlife management in highly modified environments - an Australian perspective." Wildlife Research 32, no. 5 (2005): 389. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wr03037.

Full text

Abstract:

Landscapes in southern Australia have been extensively modified by a variety of human activities, predominantly agriculture and urban development. Over much of the area, native vegetation has been replaced with agriculture or buildings and infrastructure. A continuum exists from areas that remain largely intact, but are modified in some way (e.g. forests managed for timber production), to areas where the remaining native vegetation is fragmented to varying degrees. Habitat management will vary across this continuum, depending on the degree of habitat loss and isolation. In areas outside the main zones of agricultural and urban development, the process of habitat loss and fragmentation is less in evidence. Here, instead, the landscapes remain apparently structurally intact, in that the native vegetation is not actually removed. However, these landscapes have also, in many cases, been significantly modified, particularly by pastoralism and related activities, to the extent that their value as habitat is impaired. Declining habitat value in northern landscapes may lead to the same types of functional fragmentation as found in the south. An examination of the differences and similarities between southern and northern landscapes can highlight what can be learned from the southern experience which may be of value in savanna landscapes. In both cases, the importance of considering impacts in relation to species-specific responses needs to be emphasised.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

20

Ives, Christopher D., Grant C. Hose, David A. Nipperess, and Mark Patrick Taylor. "The influence of riparian corridor width on ant and plant assemblages in northern Sydney, Australia." Urban Ecosystems 14, no. 1 (August 10, 2010): 1–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11252-010-0141-8.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

21

Newham, Michael J., Christine S. Fellows, and Fran Sheldon. "Functions of riparian forest in urban catchments: a case study from sub-tropical Brisbane, Australia." Urban Ecosystems 14, no. 2 (September 14, 2010): 165–80. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11252-010-0151-6.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

22

Moxham, Claire, and Vivienne Turner. "The effect of fragmentation on the threatened plant community Coastal Moonah Woodland in Victoria, Australia." Urban Ecosystems 14, no. 4 (March 1, 2011): 569–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11252-011-0171-x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

23

Riddell, William E. "Aspects of breeding ecology of the Brown Goshawk ('Accipiter fasciatus') in an urban environment in northern Australia." Northern Territory Naturalist 26 (June 2015): 32–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.5962/p.295458.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

24

Plowright, Raina K., Patrick Foley, Hume E. Field, Andy P. Dobson, Janet E. Foley, Peggy Eby, and Peter Daszak. "Urban habituation, ecological connectivity and epidemic dampening: the emergence of Hendra virus from flying foxes ( Pteropus spp.)." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 278, no. 1725 (May 11, 2011): 3703–12. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2011.0522.

Full text

Abstract:

Anthropogenic environmental change is often implicated in the emergence of new zoonoses from wildlife; however, there is little mechanistic understanding of these causal links. Here, we examine the transmission dynamics of an emerging zoonotic paramyxovirus, Hendra virus (HeV), in its endemic host, Australian Pteropus bats (fruit bats or flying foxes). HeV is a biosecurity level 4 (BSL-4) pathogen, with a high case-fatality rate in humans and horses. With models parametrized from field and laboratory data, we explore a set of probable contributory mechanisms that explain the spatial and temporal pattern of HeV emergence; including urban habituation and decreased migration—two widely observed changes in flying fox ecology that result from anthropogenic transformation of bat habitat in Australia. Urban habituation increases the number of flying foxes in contact with human and domestic animal populations, and our models suggest that, in addition, decreased bat migratory behaviour could lead to a decline in population immunity, giving rise to more intense outbreaks after local viral reintroduction. Ten of the 14 known HeV outbreaks occurred near urbanized or sedentary flying fox populations, supporting these predictions. We also demonstrate that by incorporating waning maternal immunity into our models, the peak modelled prevalence coincides with the peak annual spill-over hazard for HeV. These results provide the first detailed mechanistic framework for understanding the sporadic temporal pattern of HeV emergence, and of the urban/peri-urban distribution of HeV outbreaks in horses and people.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

25

Connell, K. A., U. Munro, and F. R. Torpy. "Daytime behaviour of the grey-headed flying fox Pteropus poliocephalus Temminck (Pteropodidae: Megachiroptera) at an autumn/winter roost." Australian Mammalogy 28, no. 1 (2006): 7. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/am06002.

Full text

Abstract:

The grey-headed flying fox (Pteropus poliocephalus Temminck) is a threatened large fruit bat endemic to Australia. It roosts in large colonies in rainforest patches, mangroves, open forest, riparian woodland and, as native habitat is reduced, increasingly in vegetation within urban environments. The general biology, ecology and behaviour of this bat remain largely unknown, which makes it difficult to effectively monitor, protect and manage this species. The current study provides baseline information on the daytime behaviour of P. poliocephalus in an autumn/winter roost in urban Sydney, Australia, between April and August 2003. The most common daytime behaviours expressed by the flying foxes were sleeping (most common), grooming, mating/courtship, and wing spreading (least common). Behaviours differed significantly between times of day and seasons (autumn and winter). Active behaviours (i.e., grooming, mating/courtship, wing spreading) occurred mainly in the morning, while sleeping predominated in the afternoon. Mating/courtship and wing spreading were significantly higher in April (reproductive period) than in winter (non-reproductive period). Grooming was the only behaviour that showed no significant variation between sample periods. These results provide important baseline data for future comparative studies on the behaviours of flying foxes from urban and ?natural? camps, and the development of management strategies for this species.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

26

Maru, Y. T., and V. H. Chewings. "How can we identify socio-regions in the rangelands of Australia?" Rangeland Journal 30, no. 1 (2008): 45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/rj07041.

Full text

Abstract:

The Australian rangelands are divided into regions for statistical reporting, cultural identification or administrative and bioregional management purposes. However, many of these divisions do not reflect the characteristics of inland towns. In this study we used the Urban Centre/Locality (UCL) structure (for settlements with at least 200 people) as the smallest unit of analysis to build preliminary socio-regions based on demographic (e.g. Median Age and percentage of Indigenous people in UCL), socio-economic (dependency ratio and unemployment rate) and a few environmental indicators (e.g. Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Rainfall variability). A key finding of the study is that there are strong differences among UCLs in the rangelands. A threshold of around 5000 people is apparent with some indicators across all UCLs around which variability changes. There is much greater variability in the indicators among UCLs with fewer than 5000 people than there is among UCLs with over 5000 people. This confirms the need to consider statistical units smaller than those commonly used such as Statistical Local Areas (SLAs) as these and other regionalisation techniques mask the detail within areas that contain socio-economically and culturally different settlements. The high variability of indicator values observed for UCLs with smaller populations suggests that they have more diverse research, policy and investment needs than larger urban centres. We used a non-traditional approach and grouped UCLs into socio-regions based on their social characteristics instead of their geographic location. This created clusters of similar UCLs rather than contiguous regions. Some of these socio-regions cross administrative and statistical borders. The regionalisation presented in this study is likely to be valuable when selecting case-study areas for research projects and, in the long-term, when developing policy and investment initiatives.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

27

Sharpe, David J., and Ross L. Goldingay. "Population ecology of the nectar-feeding squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) in remnant forest in subtropical Australia." Wildlife Research 37, no. 2 (2010): 77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wr09051.

Full text

Abstract:

Context. Nectar is a temporally variable food resource. However, because few studies describe the population dynamics of nectar-feeding non-flying mammals, it is unclear how such populations are influenced by resource availability. Aims. We investigated the population ecology of the squirrel glider (Petaurus norfolcensis) in remnant forest in Brisbane, Australia, where nectar was a dominant food item. Methods. We used 36 tree-mounted traps to census a squirrel glider population inhabiting a 47-ha urban remnant over a 4-year period. Key results. A total of 201 gliders was captured 705 times in 3729 trap-nights (19% trap success). Population density peaked in the first year at ~1.6 individuals ha–1, and declined down to ~0.5 individuals ha–1 by the final year. This change in population density appeared to be mediated by annual variation in flowering intensity. Births occurred from March to November, peaking between April and July. All females >1 year old bred in each year of the study, with a mean litter size of 1.7 (n = 122). The overall natality rate was 1.9, indicating that females occasionally bred twice per year. The sex ratio was at parity in the pouch and in the trappable population. Gliders first entered the trappable population at 4 months of age, and persisted for a mean of 32 months. The maximum longevity was at least 6 years. Conclusions. The demographic characteristics of this squirrel glider population within remnant forest surrounded by urban development were similar to those reported elsewhere. Variation in nectar availability appears to have a substantial influence on the dynamics of squirrel glider populations. Implications. The substantial variation in population size driven by food availability raises concerns regarding the viability of small populations of nectarivorous non-flying mammals inhabiting remnant habitat.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

28

Simpson, Greg D., Jackie Parker, Erin Gibbens, and Philip G. Ladd. "A Hybrid Method for Citizen Science Monitoring of Recreational Trampling in Urban Remnants: A Case Study from Perth, Western Australia." Urban Science 4, no. 4 (December 8, 2020): 72. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/urbansci4040072.

Full text

Abstract:

Vegetation trampling that arises from off-trail excursions by people walking for recreation can negatively impact the structure of understory plants in natural spaces that are an essential element of urban green infrastructure in a modern city. In addition to reducing the esthetic quality and environmental values of urban remnant and replanted native vegetation, such trampling reduces the habitat that supports wildlife populations within the urban fabric. This case study draws upon several disparate methods for measuring vegetation structure and trampling impacts to produce a hybrid method that community-based citizen scientists (and land managers and other researchers) could use to simply, rapidly, and reproducibly monitor how trampling associated with urban recreation trails impacts the structure of understory vegetation. Applying the novel hybrid method provided evidence that trampling had reduced the vegetation structure adjacent to a recreational walking trail in an urban woodland remnant in Perth, Western Australia. The hybrid method also detected ecological variability at the local ecosystem-scale at a second similar woodland remnant in Perth. The hybrid sampling method utilized in this case study provides an effective, efficient, and reproducible data collection method that can be applied to recreation ecology research into aspects of trampling associated with trail infrastructure.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

29

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

30

Pearson, Diane, Muhammad Nawaz, and Robert Wasson. "Creating sustainable future landscapes: a role for landscape ecology in the rangelands of Northern Australia." Rangeland Journal 41, no. 1 (2019): 13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/rj18040.

Full text

Abstract:

The principles and theory of landscape ecology can be used with careful spatial planning to maintain ecosystem function and services in the face of urbanisation and agricultural intensification of the rangelands. In the largely undisturbed catchment of Darwin harbour in Northern Australia, an area of cattle grazing, some agriculture and small urban areas, seasonally waterlogged grassy valley floors known as dambos are demonstrated to be of vital importance for the minimisation of fine sediment transport to the harbour. If the dambos are disturbed fine sediment from them will have potentially detrimental effects on the biodiversity of the upper harbour and may also add pollutants contained in the fine sediment. The incorporation of such important landscape features into landscape planning in rangelands worldwide is critical to the creation of sustainable future landscapes. Techniques that monitor condition and function of the landscape coupled with spatially informed design are able to assist in preserving the important ecosystem services that natural features can provide and thus have a significant contribution to make in landscape sustainability.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

31

Price, Owen F., and Michael Bedward. "Using a statistical model of past wildfire spread to quantify and map the likelihood of fire reaching assets and prioritise fuel treatments." International Journal of Wildland Fire 29, no. 5 (2020): 401. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wf18130.

Full text

Abstract:

We present a method to quantify and map the probability of fires reaching the vicinity of assets in a wildfire-prone region, by extending a statistical fire spread model developed on historical fire patterns in the Sydney region, Australia. It calculates the mean probability of fire spreading along sample lines around assets, weights the probability according to ignition probability and also estimates the change in spread probability that fuel reduction in treatment blocks would achieve. We have developed an R package WildfireRisk to implement the analysis and demonstrate it with two case studies in forested eastern Australia. The probability of a fire reaching the vicinity of an asset was highest in the heavily forested parts of each case study, but when weighted for ignition probability, the high probability shifted to the wildland–urban interface. Further, when weighted by asset location, high-priority areas for treatment were in blocks next to the wildland–urban interface. This method is objective, fast and based on the behaviour of real historical fires. We recommend its use in wildfire risk planning, as an adjunct to heuristic methods and simulations. Additional functionality can be incorporated into our method, for instance via a function for building impact.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

32

Braby, Michael F., Matthew R. Williams, Fabian Douglas, Campbell Beardsell, and David F. Crosby. "Changes in a peri‐urban butterfly assemblage over 80 years near Melbourne, Australia." Austral Entomology 60, no. 1 (January 14, 2021): 27–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/aen.12514.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

33

Brunton, Elizabeth A., Sanjeev K. Srivastava, and Scott Burnett. "Spatial ecology of an urban eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus) population: local decline driven by kangaroo–vehicle collisions." Wildlife Research 45, no. 8 (2018): 685. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wr18077.

Full text

Abstract:

Context As urban landscapes proliferate globally, the need for research into urban wildlife interactions is magnified. The eastern grey kangaroo (Macropus giganteus) is a widespread species commonly involved in wildlife–vehicle collisions in urban areas in Australia. Despite the many urban kangaroo populations and associated conflicts with human activities, few studies have examined how eastern grey kangaroos interact with, and are affected by, the urban matrix. Aims The present study aimed to quantify kangaroo demography, movements, habitat utilisation and exposure to risks during a period of intensive urban development in a rapidly changing suburb located in a region undergoing high urban growth rates. Methods We utilised foot-based census surveys, global positioning system (GPS) collars, direct observations and reports of wildlife mortality between 2014 and 2016. Geographical information systems (GIS) were used to integrate GPS-tracking data with spatial layers, to quantify kangaroo movements and habitat utilisation. Key results The kangaroo population underwent a steep decline and kangaroo–vehicle collisions were the main source of mortality (73%) during the study period. Kangaroos were regularly exposed to the risk of injury, with roads intersecting many parts of their home range. Kangaroos showed positive habitat selection both for lawn and forest habitats and kangaroo movement and presence at the study site were influenced by high-quality forage and cover. Conclusions The present research has highlighted that despite areas of suitable habitat remaining, road-kill was a major contributor to localised kangaroo-population decline. We showed that habitat preferences of eastern grey kangaroos in this urban area were consistent with those in natural landscapes. Implications The present study is the first to implicate kangaroo–vehicle collisions as the major factor in population decline in kangaroos. These findings can be utilised to guide design and placement of kangaroo–vehicle collision mitigation and assist in planning of urban areas, particularly where kangaroo populations are in decline. Local extirpation of urban kangaroo populations would be greatly reduced by incorporating site-specific kangaroo habitat preferences and existing patterns of kangaroo habitat use in infrastructure planning. The study has contributed to our understanding of the effects of roads on urban wildlife in general and highlighted the importance of landscape permeability.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

34

Frantzeskaki, Niki, Cathy Oke, Guy Barnett, Sarah Bekessy, Judy Bush, James Fitzsimons, Maria Ignatieva, et al. "A transformative mission for prioritising nature in Australian cities." Ambio 51, no. 6 (March 29, 2022): 1433–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s13280-022-01725-z.

Full text

Abstract:

AbstractAustralia is experiencing mounting pressures related to processes of urbanisation, biodiversity loss and climate change felt at large in cities. At the same time, it is cities that can take the leading role in pioneering approaches and solutions to respond to those coupling emergencies. In this perspective piece we respond to the following question: What are the required transformations for prioritising, valuing, maintaining and embracing nature in cities in Australia? We adopt the mission framework as an organising framework to present proposed pathways to transform Australian cities as nature-positive places of the future. We propose three interconnected pathways as starting actions to steer urban planning, policy and governance in Australian cities: First, cities need to establish evidence-based planning for nature in cities and mainstream new planning tools that safeguard and foreground urban nature. Second, collaborative planning needs to become a standard practice in cities and inclusive governance for nature in cities needs to prioritise Aboriginal knowledge systems and practices as well as look beyond what local governments can do. Third, for progressing to nature-positive cities, it is paramount to empower communities to innovate with nature across Australian cities. Whilst we focus on Australian cities, the lessons and pathways are broadly applicably globally and can inspire science-policy debates for the post COP15 biodiversity and COP26 climate change implementation processes.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

35

Brandimarti, Maquel E., Rachael Gray, Fabiola R. O. Silva, and Catherine A. Herbert. "Kangaroos at maximum capacity: health assessment of free-ranging eastern grey kangaroos on a coastal headland." Journal of Mammalogy 102, no. 3 (March 30, 2021): 837–51. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/jmammal/gyab022.

Full text

Abstract:

Abstract Sprawling urban development is fragmenting the landscape and native wildlife habitats on the Australian east coast. The impact of this rapid urbanization on wildlife health is largely unknown. This study surveyed the health of a high-density (5.4 individuals per ha) population of eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) affected by urban encroachment and prolonged drought. Blood parameters (hematological and serum protein), trace element and heavy metal concentrations, and parasite counts (fecal worm egg counts, ticks, and mites) are reported for a sample of ≤ 54 kangaroos at Look at Me Now Headland, New South Wales, Australia. These parameters were compared to lower density kangaroo populations from other sites in New South Wales. We found the health and welfare of this population to be severely compromised, with nonregenerative anemia and nutritional deficiencies evident. Our results indicate that high-density kangaroo populations isolated by urban encroachment are at significant health risk. To prevent further decline in this population’s health, we discuss management strategies that could be employed, concurrent with ongoing health and disease monitoring, to mitigate the poor health outcomes in this population. We conclude that it is essential to retain habitat connectivity when altering land use in areas with resident kangaroo populations if managers are to maintain healthy populations.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

36

Hingston, Andrew B. "Does the introduced bumblebee, Bombus terrestris (Apidae), prefer flowers of introduced or native plants in Australia?" Australian Journal of Zoology 53, no. 1 (2005): 29. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/zo04048.

Full text

Abstract:

Proponents of importation of the European bumblebee, Bombus terrestris (L.), into Australia for pollination of commercial greenhouse crops argue that this species will have little impact on Australian native ecosystems because it prefers to forage on flowers of introduced species of plants rather than Australian native plants. However, data presented as evidence of preference for introduced plants have been equivocal. This study compared the attractiveness of introduced and Australian native plants to free-foraging B. terrestris in a garden at the interface between an urban area and native vegetation in the Australian island of Tasmania, where a feral population of B. terrestris had been established for over 10 years. No evidence was found to support the proposal that B. terrestris forages on flowers of introduced plants in preference to those of Australian native plants. The numbers of B. terrestris seen foraging per 1000 flowers did not differ significantly between introduced plants and Australian native plants, and the preferred food sources of B. terrestris included flowers of both introduced and Australian native species. Because B. terrestris forages frequently on many species of both introduced and native plants, assessments of its ecological impacts must include the effects of altered pollination on recruitment rates in both introduced weeds and native plants, and reduced quantities of nectar and pollen of native plants on recruitment rates of dependent fauna.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

37

Hill, Nichola J., Elizabeth M. Deane, and Michelle L. Power. "Prevalence and Genetic Characterization of Cryptosporidium Isolates from Common Brushtail Possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) Adapted to Urban Settings." Applied and Environmental Microbiology 74, no. 17 (July 18, 2008): 5549–55. http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/aem.00809-08.

Full text

Abstract:

ABSTRACT The common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) is one of the most abundant native marsupials in urban Australia, having successfully adapted to utilize anthropogenic resources. The habituation of possums to food and shelter available in human settlements has facilitated interaction with people, pets, and zoo animals, increasing the potential for transmission of zoonotic Cryptosporidium pathogens. This study sought to examine the identity and prevalence of Cryptosporidium species occurring in possums adapted to urban settings compared to possums inhabiting remote woodlands far from urban areas and to characterize the health of the host in response to oocyst shedding. Findings indicated that both populations were shedding oocysts of the same genotype (brushtail possum 1 [BTP1]) that were genetically and morphologically distinct from zoonotic species and genotypes and most closely related to Cryptosporidium species from marsupials. The urban population was shedding an additional five Cryptosporidium isolates that were genetically distinct from BTP1 and formed a sister clade with Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis. Possums that were shedding oocysts showed no evidence of pathogenic changes, including elevated levels of white blood cells, diminished body condition (body mass divided by skeletal body length), or reduced nutritional state, suggesting a stable host-parasite relationship typical of Cryptosporidium species that are adapted to the host. Overall, Cryptosporidium occurred with a higher prevalence in possums from urban habitat (11.3%) than in possums from woodland habitat (5.6%); however, the host-specific nature of the genotypes may limit spillover infection in the urban setting. This study determined that the coexistence of possums with sympatric populations of humans, pets, and zoo animals in the urban Australian environment is unlikely to present a threat to public health safety.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

38

Jung, Kirsten, and Caragh Grace Threlfall. "Trait-dependent tolerance of bats to urbanization: a global meta-analysis." Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 285, no. 1885 (August 22, 2018): 20181222. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2018.1222.

Full text

Abstract:

Urbanization is a severe threat to global biodiversity, often leading to taxonomic and functional homogenization. However, current urban ecology research has focused mostly on urban birds and plants, limiting our ability to make generalizations about the drivers of urban biodiversity globally. To address this gap, we conducted a global meta-analysis of 87 studies, including 180 bat species (Chiroptera) from urban areas in Asia, Australia, Europe, North and South America. We aimed to (i) understand the importance of functional traits and phylogeny in driving changes in urban bat assemblages, and (ii) assess the capacity of traits for predicting which types of species are most sensitive to urbanization. Our results indicate that species-specific functional traits explain differences in the intensity of urban habitat use. Urban tolerance mainly occurred within the open and edge space foraging and trawling species as well as in bats with flexible roosting strategies. In addition, across bioregions and independent of phylogeny, urban tolerance correlated with higher aspect ratio, a trait enabling fast flight but less agile manoeuvres during aerial food acquisition. Predictive success varied between bioregions, between 43 and 83%. Our analysis demonstrates that the local extinction of bat species in urban areas is non-random, trait-based and predictable, allowing urban landscape managers to tailor local conservation actions to particular types of species.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

39

Walsh, Christopher J. "Biological indicators of stream health using macroinvertebrate assemblage composition: a comparison of sensitivity to an urban gradient." Marine and Freshwater Research 57, no. 1 (2006): 37. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf05041.

Full text

Abstract:

Biological indicators are increasingly being used as integrative measures of ecosystem health in streams, particularly indicators using macroinvertebrate assemblage composition. Several indicators of this type have been advocated, including biotic indices based on taxa sensitivities, richness indices and ratios of observed to expected taxa from models predicting assemblage composition in streams with little human impact (O/E scores). The present study aimed to compare the sensitivity of indicators of each of these types (all used for legislated objectives for stream protection in Victoria, Australia) to a gradient of urban disturbance in 16 streams in a small area in eastern Melbourne. The biotic index SIGNAL and number of Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera or Trichoptera families were the most sensitive indicators, whereas total number of families and O/E scores from Australian river assessment system (AUSRIVAS) models were least sensitive. Differences in sensitivity were not the result of sampling or taxonomic inadequacies. AUSRIVAS and similar models might be improved by using only predictor variables that are not affected by human impacts and by sounder approaches to model selection. Insensitivities of indicators and misclassification of sites by the Victorian objectives show that assessment of indicators against disturbance gradients is critical for setting management objectives based on biological indicators.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

40

Hahs, Amy K., and Mark J. McDonnell. "Composition of the plant community in remnant patches of grassy woodland along an urban–rural gradient in Melbourne, Australia." Urban Ecosystems 10, no. 4 (August 16, 2007): 355–77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11252-007-0034-7.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

41

Lymbery, Alan. "Are pet cats bad for wildlife?" Pacific Conservation Biology 16, no. 3 (2010): 155. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/pc100155.

Full text

Abstract:

Pet cats receive bad press from conservationists. This is partly because there is an obvious link between pet cats and feral cats, and predation by feral cats is widely regarded as a key threatening process for endangered species of small vertebrates in Australia. There is also a perception, however, that pet cats are directly responsible for declines in wildlife populations, particularly around urban areas. As a consequence, many local government authorities have introduced regulations aimed at controlling cats, ranging from night-time curfews and confinement to complete prohibition of cat ownership. Greenaway (2010) discusses the approaches taken by local and state governments to control pet cats throughout Australia.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

42

Aryal, Jagannath, Chiranjibi Sitaula, and Sunil Aryal. "NDVI Threshold-Based Urban Green Space Mapping from Sentinel-2A at the Local Governmental Area (LGA) Level of Victoria, Australia." Land 11, no. 3 (February 27, 2022): 351. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/land11030351.

Full text

Abstract:

Obtaining accurate, precise and timely spatial information on the distribution and dynamics of urban green space is crucial in understanding livability of the cities and urban dwellers. Inspired from the importance of spatial information in planning urban lives, and availability of state-of-the-art remote sensing data and technologies in open access forms, in this work, we develop a simple three-level hierarchical mapping of urban green space with multiple usability to various stakeholders. We utilize the established Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) threshold on Sentinel-2A Earth Observation image data to classify the urban vegetation of each Victorian Local Government Area (LGA). Firstly, we categorize each LGA region into two broad classes as vegetation and non-vegetation; secondly, we further categorize the vegetation regions of each LGA into two sub-classes as shrub (including grassland) and trees; thirdly, for both shrub and trees classes, we further classify them as stressed and healthy. We not only map the urban vegetation in hierarchy but also develop Urban Green Space Index (UGSI) and Per Capita Green Space (PCGS) for the Victorian Local Government Areas (LGAs) to provide insights on the association of demography with urban green infrastructure using urban spatial analytics. To show the efficacy of the applied method, we evaluate our results using a Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform across different NDVI threshold ranges. The evaluation result shows that our method produces excellent performance metrics such as mean precision, recall, f-score and accuracy. In addition to this, we also prepare a recent Sentinel-2A dataset and derived products of urban green space coverage of the Victorian LGAs that are useful for multiple stakeholders ranging from bushfire modellers to biodiversity conservationists in contributing to sustainable and resilient urban lives.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

43

Pepper, Coral, Laura McCann, and Michael Burton. "Valuation study of urban bushland at Hartfield Park, Forrestfield, Western Australia." Ecological Management and Restoration 6, no. 3 (December 2005): 190–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-8903.2005.00236.x.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

44

Stokeld, Danielle, Andrew J. Hamer, Rodney van der Ree, Vincent Pettigrove, and Graeme Gillespie. "Factors influencing occurrence of a freshwater turtle in an urban landscape: a resilient species?" Wildlife Research 41, no. 2 (2014): 163. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wr13205.

Full text

Abstract:

Context Species vary broadly in their ability to adapt to urbanisation. Freshwater turtles are vulnerable to the loss and degradation of terrestrial and aquatic habitat in urban environments. There have been few publications investigating impacts of urbanisation on freshwater turtles in Australia. Aims We investigated the effects of urbanisation on the distribution and abundance of the eastern long-necked turtle (Chelodina longicollis) in greater Melbourne. Methods We examined occurrence and relative abundance of C. longicollis at 55 wetlands across an urban–rural gradient in relation to site- and landscape-level factors. Occupancy was modelled using the program PRESENCE, and incorporated landscape and habitat covariates. A negative binomial regression model was used to examine the influence of landscape and habitat factors on relative abundance by using WinBUGS. Key results C. longicollis occupied 85% of the 55 wetlands we surveyed, and we found no evidence that wetland occupancy was influenced by the variables we measured. However, relative abundance was highest at wetlands with low water conductivity and heavy metal pollution, and in wetlands furthest from rivers. Conclusions C. longicollis appears to be resilient to urbanisation and is likely to persist in urban landscapes, possibly because of the creation of new wetlands in Australian cities. However, long-term studies focussed on demographic parameters, or survivorship, may elucidate as yet undetected effects of urbanisation. Although no specific management recommendations may be necessary for C. longicollis in urban areas at this time, this species may be in decline in non-urban areas as a result of climatic changes and wetland drying. Implications Our findings suggest that caution is required before drawing generalised conclusions on the impacts of urbanisation on turtles, as the effects are likely to be species-specific, dependent on specific ecology and life-history requirements. Further studies are required to ascertain these relationships for a wider array of species and over longer time spans.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

45

Gilbert, Michelle, and Cris L. Brack. "Changes in public requests to remove significant urban trees after severe bushfires in Canberra, Australia." Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 6, no. 1 (February 2007): 41–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2006.10.001.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

46

Orozco-Aguilar, Luis, Stephen J. Livesley, Cris Brack, and Denise Johnstone. "Standing volume yield, canopy structure and allometric relationships of dominant urban trees in Melbourne, Australia." Urban Forestry & Urban Greening 43 (July 2019): 126363. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2019.06.006.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

47

Smith, J. M. B., S. Borgis, and V. Seifert. "Studies in Urban Ecology: the First Wave of Biological Invasion by Pistacia chinensis in Armidale, New South Wales, Australia." Australian Geographical Studies 38, no. 3 (November 2000): 263–74. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/1467-8470.00115.

Full text

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

48

Tozer, P., and J. Leys. "Dust storms – what do they really cost?" Rangeland Journal 35, no. 2 (2013): 131. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/rj12085.

Full text

Abstract:

Dust storms are frequent in Australia and can have a large impact on the soil resource, the economy and people. There have been few economic studies of the impact of wind erosion worldwide and only one in Australia before this study. While wind erosion impacts on the soil resource at the point of the erosion, the level of economic impact rises as the population and associated infrastructure affected by dust increases. This study estimates the impact on the economy of the state of New South Wales of a single large dust storm called Red Dawn that passed over the eastern coast of Australia on 23 September 2009. Estimates for rural and urban areas are presented with both on- and off-site costs evaluated. The estimated cost is A$299 million (with a range of A$293–A$313 million) with most of the cost being associated with household cleaning and associated activities. The dust storm also impacted on many cities on the coast of the state of Queensland, but their costs are not included in this study. This study demonstrates some, but not all, of the major economic costs associated with wind erosion in Australia. Given the annual average cost of dust storms it is suggested that A$9 million per year would be a conservative estimate of the level of investment required in rural areas for dust mitigation strategies, based on improved land management that could be justified to achieve a positive impact on soil condition and reduce economic losses in rural towns and the more populous coastal cities.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

49

Jennings, JG, R. de Nys, TS Charlton, MW Duncan, and PD Steinberg. "Phenolic compounds in the nearshore waters of Sydney, Australia." Marine and Freshwater Research 47, no. 8 (1996): 951. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/mf9960951.

Full text

Abstract:

Ten pollutant phenols extracted from an oil refinery discharge, urban storm water and sewage effluent were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Recoveries varied from 43% to 97%, with a detection limit of 0.5 μg L-1. Concentrations ranged from below the detection limit up to 114.0μg L-1, the highest being in sewage effluent. The most common were phenol and cresol. The effects of similar concentrations were determined in bioaccumulation experiments using the mussel Mytilus edulis and fish Trachurus novaezelandiae. Recoveries of phenols from tissues were 10-40%, with a detection limit of 0.5 ng g-1. 2,4-dimethylphenol, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 4-chloro, 3-methylphenol, 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and pentachlorophenol were accumulated, with bioconcentration factors ranging from 2.51 � 0.51 for dimethylphenol to 283.8 � 5.58 for pentachlorophenol; when placed in clean sea water, both species depurated all accumulated phenols to concentrations below detection within 24 h. Neither phenol nor cresol were accumulated. Phenol and o-cresol inhibited the germination of Ulva lactuca gametes at concentrations above 1 mg L-1 (100 times the concentrations detected in the water samples). Muscle and liver tissue from fish and invertebrates collected from the oil refinery discharge site in Botany Bay and control localities contained no detectable phenols.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

50

Hartigan, Martin, James Fitzsimons, Maree Grenfell, and Toby Kent. "Developing a Metropolitan-Wide Urban Forest Strategy for a Large, Expanding and Densifying Capital City: Lessons from Melbourne, Australia." Land 10, no. 8 (August 1, 2021): 809. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/land10080809.

Full text

Abstract:

Urban forests provide many ecosystem services, such as reducing heat, improving air quality, treatment of stormwater, carbon sequestration, as well as biodiversity benefits. These benefits have resulted in increasing demand for urban forests and strategies to maintain and enhance this natural infrastructure. In response to a broader resilience strategy for Melbourne, Australia, we outline how a metropolitan-wide urban forest strategy (Living Melbourne) was developed, encompassing multiple jurisdictions and all land tenures. To this end, we mapped tree cover within the Melbourne metropolitan area, modelled potential habitat for some bird species, and investigated the role of tree cover for urban heat island mitigation. We outline the consultation and governance frameworks used to develop the strategy, the vision, goals and actions recommended, including canopy and shrub cover targets for different parts of the metropolitan area. The metropolitan-wide urban forest strategy acts as an overarching framework to guide local government authorities and various stakeholders towards a shared objective of increasing tree cover in Melbourne and we discuss the outcomes and lessons from this approach.

APA, Harvard, Vancouver, ISO, and other styles

Journal articles on the topic 'Urban Ecology Australia'

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