bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lignotuber Development and Growth Parameters in Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Dehnh.): Effects of Phosphorus and Nitrogen Levels
Authors: Jahnke R , Carr DJ , Carr SGM
Published: December 2005

Previous reports of nutritional and genetical effects on lignotuber development in eucalypts are
summarized. Seedlings of two provenances of E. camaldulensis, one normally lignotuberous the other
non-lignotuberous, were raised under combinations of nitrogen and phosphorus levels. When an effect
of nitrogen on overall growth is taken into account, there is no additional effect of phosphorus on
lignotuber size or plant height, but there is an effect on the number of branches. Lignotubers were
not formed on plants of the southern provenance irrespective of the plane of nutrition. In the northern
provenance the percentage of lignotuber-bearing seedlings was highest at high levels of phosphorus
associated with low to intermediate levels of nitrogen. At high nitrogen levels there was no statistical
effect of change in phosphorus level on percentage of lignotuber formation. Nitrogen supply appears
to be the main controlling nutritional factor.
Relationship between time since the last fire and flowering in Telopea speciosissima R. Br. and Lambertia formosa Sm
Authors: Pyke GH
Published: December 2005

For Telopea speciosissima the percentage (or density) of plants in flower, the average number of flowers per inflorescence and the average number of fruits per inflorescence all appear to peak 2 years after a summer fire and decline thereafter. On the other hand, the average height of the inflorescences above the ground increases with time since the last fire. For Lambertia formosa the density of inflorescences appears to reach a peak 2 or 3 years after a summer fire.
Development of ovule and seed in Cartonema spicatum R. Br. (Cartonemataceae)
Authors: Grootjen CJ
Published: December 2005

In Cartonema spicatum the ovule is completely anatropous and has dermally initiated integuments. The seed coat is formed by the outermost layer of the inner integument and the silicified inner layer of the outer integument, the remaining layers of the last forming a loose cover around the testa. The seed has an operculum (also called embryostega) but no micropylar collar. In these respects Cartonema does not differ appreciably from Commelinaceae, so that the segregation of a separate family Cartonemataceae on seed characteristics alone is unwarranted.
Litter Fall and Leaf Decomposition in a River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) Swamp
Authors: Briggs SV , Maher MT
Published: December 2005

Litter fall and leaf decomposition rates were measured in Murrumbidgil Swamp, a river red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) swamp near Booligal, New South Wales. Total litter fall, excluding large branches, was about the same as in other eucalypt and overseas hardwood forests (369-580 g m-2 year-1), but the proportion of leaf fall (21-29%) was lower. Litter fall was greater after the swamp dried out following a prolonged period of flooding than during the flood period. Ionic concentrations in the leaf litter were higher than in other eucalypts, but accessions were similar because leaf fall was lower in the red gum forest. The order of nutrient input was Ca > N > Mg ≈ Na ≈ K > S > P > Fe. Decomposition of red gum leaves submerged in the swamp was rapid at first (up to 19.2% loss in weight in 24 h) and then slowed down. The half life of the leaves decomposing over 4 months was 80 days. It is suggested that E. camaldulensis litter may provide an important food source for
detritivorous invertebrates and hence for waterfowl in red gum swamps.
Nitrogen Fixation Associated With Acacia dealbata Link. Seedlings as Estimated by the Acetylene Reduction Assay
Authors: Hopmans P , Douglas LA , Chalk PM
Published: December 2005

Seedlings of Acacia dealbata were grown in pots containing a sandy loam and inoculated with a suspension of homogenized nodules collected from naturally occurring A. dealbata trees. Plants were
maintained in a controlled environment growth room. The rate of acetylene reduction by intact plants
was determined by placing pots inside 1 25 litre jars. Experiments were conducted after 12 weeks
of growth when the plants had attained a steady acetylene reduction activity.
The rate of ethylene production was linear for at least 3 h, and the Michaelis-Menten constant
(Km) value was 3 87 kPa acetylene. The seedlings showed little diurnal variation in acetylene reduction
activity when day and night lengths were 12 h, but activity declined when the dark period was extended
to 15 h. Acetylene reduction activity was markedly affected by soil moisture, the optimum rate
occurring between 25 and 50% of field capacity (33 kPa).
A rapid decline in the rate of acetylene reduction occurred when 8 mg nitrate-N was added per
pot. Acetylene reduction activity, dry matter yield and nitrogen uptake were adversely affected by
induced soil salinity. The loss in acetylene reduction activity was highly correlated with the degree
of soil salinization.
Inheritance of Stolon Development, Rhizome Development and Setigerous Lemmas in the Digitaria milanjiana Complex, and Its Taxonomic Significance
Authors: Hacker JB
Published: December 2005

Hybrids were made between nine diploid accessions of Digitaria milanjiana. These included accessions
previously included in Digitaria milanjiana subsp. eylesiana, D. swynnertonri, D. sp. aff. mombasana,
D. natalensis subsp. stentiana and D. endlichii. All accessions had scabemlous lemmas but they differed
in growth habit (tufted, rhizomatous or stoloniferous) and in presence or absence of setae on the
sterile lemma.
There was a high order of cross compatibility among accessions and chromosome pairing at meiosis
was almost complete. The occurrence of 2-4 univalents in hybrids having CPI 59765 or CPI 59727
as one parent suggested some chromosomal divergence within the species. Genetic imbalance occurred
in many F1 and F2 progenies.
Lemma setigerousness is a recessive character and is possibly controlled by a single gene. Divergence
from expected genetic ratios could have been due to linkage of the gene controlling setigerousness
to genes associated with genetic imbalance.
Rhizome development is controlled by incompletely recessive genes. Stolon development is under
polygenic additive gene control, with little evidence for dominance. There was some evidence for
different genetic control of stolon development in different stoloniferous accessions.
It is concluded that this group of accessions is closely related and in the early stages of genetic
divergence. Although the accessions exhibit considerable differences in morphology, this study supports
the view that they are biologically a single species and that growth habit and lemma setigerousness
are not taxonomically significant characters within the group.
Gross morphology and floral biology on Ondinea purpurea den Hartog
Authors: Schneider EL
Published: December 2005

The floral biology of Ondinea purpurea, consisting of an apetalous subspecies and a newly discovered petaloid subspecies, has been investigated. Anthesis occurs over a 3-day period. First-day flowers are protogynous and characterized by colourful reflexed perianth and stamina1 parts. The pollen-receptive stigmas of first-day flowers secrete a fluid that fills the small stigmatic cup. As potential pollinators are attracted and attempt to land on the distally exposed gynoecium, they contact the stigmatic fluid which loosens pollen from the insect's body and pollination is achieved. Second- and third-day flowers are functionally staminate. On the basis of comparative reproductive anatomy and pollination syndromes the placement of Ondinea in the Nymphaeaceae s. str. is supported.
The study of plant phylogeny using amino acid sequences of Ribulose-1,5-Bisphosphate Carboxylase. II. The analysis of small subunit data to form phylognetic trees.
Authors: Martin PG , Dowd JM , Stone SJL
Published: December 2005

The first 40 amino acid sequences of the small subunit of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase are given for 24 angiosperm species, three from each of eight families chosen because cytochrome c and plastocyanin sequences are already available. Using computer methods, these data have been analysed to yield minimal phylogenetic Steiner trees. A well defined minimal tree becomes apparent when data from all three proteins are combined. The root of the minimal tree is indicated by the node where a gymnosperm joins. The minimal tree is briefly compared with published phylogenies: in agreement is the divergence of the dicotyledons and monocotyledons from the root and the grouping of the Asteraceae and Caprifoliaceae; in disagreement, and a feature of all three proteins, is the close grouping of the Fabaceae with the Brassicaceae.
The Genus Lolium in Australia
Authors: Kloot PM
Published: December 2005

The genus Lolium is represented in Australia by the following five species: L. perenne, L. multiflorum,
L. rigidum, L. loliaceum and L. temulentum. L. remotum is probably extinct in Australia as it has
been found only associated with flax crops which are no longer grown locally. Natural and bred hybrids
between the three outcrossing species are also found, viz. L. multiflorum × L. perenne (= L. ×
hybridum), L. multijlorum × L. rigidum and L, perenne × L. rigidum.
Earlier botanical treatments of the genus in Australia are reviewed. A diagnostic key, species
descriptions and ecological notes are presented.
Plant Communities of Tasmanian Wetlands
Authors: Kirkpatrick JB , Harwood CE
Published: December 2005

The macrophytic vegetation of Tasmanian wetlands consists of forest, scrub, marginal herbland, tussock
sedgeland, sedgeland, reed swamp and aquatic herbland. More than 80 taxa dominate or codominate
in at least one division of at least one of the 530 wetlands from which data were obtained. Communities
dominated by each of 16 of these taxa occur in 10 or more wetlands and vary in mean richness from
4 to 18 species, richness increasing towards the margins of wetlands, with the area of wetland, and
with decreasing salinity. A combination of salinity and permanence indices explains over one-third
of the floristic variation between these communities; within freshwater wetlands, pH has more influence
than the permanence index. The Tasmanian wetland flora is a subset of that of mainland Australia.
Most Tasmanian wetland plant communities probably occur on the Australian mainland. Many of
the wetland vegetation types discriminated on the mainland do not occur in Tasmanian non-tidal
wetlands.
Further new species of Parmelia subgen. Xanthoparmelia (lichens) from Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Elix JA , Armstrong PM
Published: December 2005

Eleven new species of Parmelia subgen. Xanthoparmelia (lichens) are described from southern Australia, namely P. arapilensis, P. dayiana, P. digitiformis, P. erosa, P. everardensis, P. flindersiana, P. neorimalis, P. norconvoluta, P. oleosa, P, praegnans and P. streimannii. P. arapilensis, P. digitformis, P. flindersiana and P. streimannii also occur in New Zealand.
The opening mechanism of follicles of some species of Banksia
Authors: Wardrop AB
Published: December 2005

Banskia ornata F. Muell. is a common dominant in heaths in south-eastem Australia that are frequently
swept by fires which kill the plants. Regeneration is only from seed, suggesting that the future of the
species is almost completely fire-dependent. At maturity, a multiple fruit is formed consisting of a
number of follicles attached to a central rachis. Each valve of the follicle consists of an exocarp
comprising an epidermis with hair cells and some sclereid bundles; a mesocarp containing bundles
of sclereids in which the microfibrils are almost transverse to the major cell axis; and an endocarp
in which the innermost cells are fibrous in form and in which the microfibrils of cellulose are oriented
mainly parallel to the longitudinal axis of the cell.
Also present in the endocarp but abaxial to the fibrous sclereids are sclereid bundles that show
similar microfibril orientation to the mesocarp sclereids. The junction between the valves of the follicle
has a layer of interdigitating cells. A resinous substance together with phenols are present in and
between these cells. Because of the difference in structure of the sclereids of the endocarp and of
those of the mesocarp and exocarp, stresses develop between these tissues on desiccation. Events
leading to the opening of the follicles are: (1) at maturity resin and phenols are secreted into the
vascular elements at the base of the rachis, severing the vascular supply to the follicle; (2) with the
advent of fire, the resin at the junction of the valves of the pericarp is destroyed, releasing the stress
in the valves of the follicles, which reflex, allowing the release of seed. In B. marginata and B.
Integrifolia, the anatomy of the valves of the follicle is basically similar to that of B. ornata. However,
the follicles open without the intervention of fire. Thin-layer chromatography has shown that the
resins extracted from the cells of the junction zone between the valves of the follicle of B. ornata
are chemically different from those extracted from the non-fire-dependent species, suggesting that
they may differ also in their physical properties.
Morphology of Dictymia brownii (Wikstr.) Copel. (Polypodiaceae)
Authors: Chandra S
Published: December 2005

The Australian endemic fern Dictymia brownii exhibits more features of a polypodioid fern and is perhaps morphologically distinct from the pleopeltioid and microsoroid ferns. The most interesting and unique morphological features are found in the structure of the paleae and the vascular cylinder of the rhizome.
Cladistic Relationships and Biogeographic Patterns in the Peppermint Group of Eucalyptus (Informal Subseries Amygdalininae, Subgenus Monocalyptus) and the Description of a New Species, E. willisii
Authors: Ladiges PY , Humphries CJ , Brooker MIH
Published: December 2005

A preliminary study of eastern Monocalyptus suggested that the peppermint eucalypts, informal subseries Amygdalininae, form a monophyletic group whose sister taxon is series Pilulares. Subseries Amygdalininae was then analysed using four cladistic methods: transformed cladistic method, Wagner trees, a branch and bound method (all three being parsimony methods) and character compatibility analysis. The branch and bound method produced the shortest trees, four in all. They suggested that, within the Amygdalininae, Eucalyptus pulchella is the sister species to E. amygdalina, which in turn is the sister species to all other taxa. The remaining species from Tasmania form a monophyletic group characterized by, for example, protruding oil glands on seedling and juvenile-leaf margins. The Victorian taxa form a monophyletic group characterized by high oil gland densities and lack of anthocyanin pigment on the lamina of juvenile leaves at node 7. Tasmanian and mainland forms attributed to E. nitida were treated as separate terminal taxa and it was shown that they are not sister taxa. Tasmanian populations are typical E. nitida Hook. f. and a new species, E. willisii, is here erected for the mainland populations. A revised classification of subseries Amygdalininae and a formal description of E. willisii sp. nov. are appended. A vicariance-biogeographic analysis is also included.
Floral development of Maidenia rubra Rendle, (Hydrocharitaceae)
Authors: McConchie CA
Published: December 2005

Floral development of Maidenia rubra was followed from initiation to maturity. Plants are dioecious. Both male and female inflorescences develop from complexes initiated subapically. Complexes have three meristematic components that include two inflorescence initials flanking a central primordium; these form sequentially in the axil of the preceding initial. The third component also produces an inflorescence and branches sympodially to form further floral initials that have a spiral arrangement. The female inflorescences produce a single flower only with an inferior, unilocular ovary and three sepals, staminodes and bifid stigma. In the locule, numerous bitegmic ovules, borne panetally, are produced. A male inflorescence produces hundreds of small flowers that are released and float to the surface individually. Each male flower has three sepals, a staminode and two stamens, each anther consisting of three locules with eight pollen grains. Prior to maturation, the anther wall breaks down leaving a membraneous layer that assists in binding the octad of pollen grains together. Both male and female inflorescences are enclosed in a pair of fused bracts. The floral morphology is compared with other closely related genera in the Hydrocharitaceae and the unique features are assessed.
Characteristics of resting state colonies of the Alga Botryocccus braunii obtained from a bloom of the organism
Authors: Wake LV
Published: December 2005

Resting state colonies from an extensive bloom of the alga Botryococcus braunii were predominantly green in appearance and had an extremely high proportion of matrix to cells. The surface of the matrix was characterized by the presence of cups, i.e. small depressions, each containing a unit cell of the colony. The cups were composed of concentric membranes (6-8) extending down through the matrix of the colony and separated by translucent material. Below this region were further series of membranes of larger parent cups also containing translucent material. Small sac-like vesicles were present throughout the cups, both along and between the membranes. Pores and sinuses were observed along the medial sections of the colony. When maintained in suspension the unit cells detached from the cups, resulting in an apparent colour change to the colonies. The hydrocarbon composition of the detached cells closely resembled that of the colonies, although the major hydrocarbon store was located in the matrix. Colonies produced considerable amounts of extracellular mucilage and were characterized by a distinctive odour due to the presence of short-chain fatty acids.
Root Occupation and Root Channels of Jarrah Forest Subsoils
Authors: Dell B , Bartle JR , Tacey WH
Published: December 2005

The role of root channels in the occupation of deep soil profiles by jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata
Sm.) forest in south-western Australia was explored by coring and excavation. In profiles derived
from granite, major descending roots are confined to channels that extend vertically from fissures
and conduits in the shallow subsurface caprock layer deep in the clay subsoil. The channels are
permanent features of the profile and are occupied by successive generations of trees. The channels
have a diameter of 1-300 mm, abundance of 3 5 m-2 (all channels) or 1 m-2 (large channels), and
occupy 1% of a horizontal surface at 6 m. Each forest tree has potential access to 100-200 channels.
Large roots, fine roots with root hairs, and decaying root remains occur in the channels. Only fine
roots (less than Imm diam.) penetrate the clay matrix and occupy the entire profile down to basement
at depths of up to 40 m. In profiles derived from dolerite, occupation of the deep clay by large and
fine roots is diffuse and root channels are absent. The dissimilar mode of root occupation of the two
profile types may be explained by the difference in bulk density. In providing avenues for access by
large roots as well as preferential wetting, the root channels may play a dominant role in the water
and salt balance of jarrah forests on the granitic profile.
Development of the Lignotuber and Plant Form in Lehmannianae
Authors: Carr DJ , Jahnke R , Carr SGM
Published: December 2005

In lignotuberous species of the Lehmannianae, lignotuber formation is preceded by the appearance of a crescent-shaped array of accessory buds, adaxial to the axillary bud. Lignotubers may be formed at successive nodes but those with only one upper accessory bud (which may be present even in non- lignotuberous species) do not form lignotubers. The subsequent development of the lignotuber is described, as is the development of the seedling. Seedling shoot growth is characterized by indeterminate growth and, like that of the adult shoots, is sympodial. In well protected sites lignotuberous species may develop into small, single-stemmed trees but in harsher habitats death of the seedling shoot and its replacement from lignotuber buds result in enlargement of the lignotuber and enhance the tendency to adopt a mallee (many-stemmed) form. Non-lignotuberous and lignotuberous species of the Lehmannianae occur side-by-side in habitats that are prone to fire. Lignotuberous species survive shoot-destructive vicissitudes, such as fire, by replacement from the lignotuber. Whereas flowering and fruiting of seedlings of lignotuberous species may be postponed for many years, seed production is precocious in the non-lignotuberous species of the series. This is regarded as an alternative adaptation to fire, which is one of the major factors of the habitats of the Lehmannianae. Even-aged pole stands of the non-lignotuberous species result from regeneration from seed, after fire. Following the production of gaps in the canopy and the thinning out of the stand, pole-stage trees assume their mature form by outgrowth of epicormic shoots, including some placed near the base of the trunk.
Ecological Differentiation Between Species of Scribbly Gums [Eucalyptus Informal Subseries Haemastominae (MATK) Prior & Johnson] and Angophora in Seedling Responsiveness to Mineral Nutrients
Authors: Mowatt J , Myerscough PJ
Published: December 2005

When four species of scribbly gums (Eucalyptus subseries Haemastominae) and four species of Angophora, together with Eucalyptus pilularis, were grown in a range of nutrient levels from distilled water to full Hoagland's nutrient solution, the two groups reacted differently, reflecting their contrasting distributions in relation to soil fertility. Their mean relative growth rates were similar, but the magnitude of the response to increasing nutrient availability varied among the angophoras although it was very similar for all the scribblies. The degree of response of the angophoras was correlated with the fertility of their natural soils: A. floribunda, coming from the most fertile soils, showed the greatest response in mean relative growth rate to increasing nutrient supply. Specific leaf areas did not vary among nutrient levels but, as with mean relative growth rates, the angophoras showed a correlation between the fertility of their natural soils and the specific leaf area: A. hispida, from the least fertile soils, developed the thickest leaves. The angophoras differed from each other in leaf area ratio whereas the scribblies did not. This characteristic was influenced by nutrient availability: the angophoras growing at the higher levels of nutrient supply developed greater leaf areas ratios. There was little difference among the four scribbly gum species in their response to nutrients. They all occur on infertile soils and showed little response to increased nutrient supply.
Identification of Genotypes and the Clonal Development of Armillaria luteobubalina Watling & Kile in Eucalypt Forests
Authors: Kile GA
Published: December 2005

Armillaria luteobubalina is a bifactorial heterothallic fimgus with multiple alleles at the incompatibility
loci. Genotypes and clones of the fungus in eucalypt forests in central Victoria were differentiated
by pairings of single basidiospore isolates to determine the identity and distribution of mating alleles
or by utilizing intraspecific antagonism between genetically distinct forest isolates. Both methods gave
similar results although neither could distinguish between closely related genotypes.
Forty-nine patches of forest vegetation infected by A. luteobubalina from c. 24 m2 to 3.5 ha in
extent were mapped and isolates obtained from hosts within the patches. Of infected areas, 71% were
occupied by a single genotype and the maximum number found in any one patch was three. In multiple
genotype patches the different genotypes occupied separate sectors. Clones of some genotypes had a
locally discontinuous distribution while others were restricted to a single location. Within areas
occupied by a single genotype all hosts were infected by that genotype. Forty-four distinct genotypes
were identified. Attempts to artificially inoculate stumps with basidiospores of A. luteobubalina failed.
A. luteobubalina is present in these eucalypt forests as a community of genetically distinct mycelia.
The size, distribution and development of clones are consistent with the hypothesis that the fungus
is dispersed by both basidiospore infections and vegetative growth through host root systems.
A geometrical model of Phyllotaxis
Authors: Williams RF , Brittain EG
Published: December 2005

A geometrical model of phyllotaxis which simulates the requirements of the next-available-space theory is developed and is shown to reproduce the spiral systems of nature. It also models the evolution of high-order from low-order members of the same type of system and the devolutionary processes that are characteristic of composite capituli. It is shown that all systems which arise de novo from a bare apex are likely to belong to the series m : m+l. This implies that high-order Fibonacci systems do not arise de novo but evolve from 1 : 2 or 2 : 3 systems. It is suggested that the development of whorled systems requires the intervention of secondary constraints that permit the initiation of more than one primordium at each node. Finally, the results are interpreted as showing that the Fibonacci and related limiting divergence angles that are approximated in nature are inevitable consequences of the packing of the primordia as they arise on the edge of the apical dome. The shoot apices of higher plants are seen as hierarchical systems and the phenomena of phyllotaxis as relating to their higher levels. Systems theory suggests that causal mechanisms should be sought in the next lower level, rather than more remotely.
Mistletoes on mistletoes: The floral ecology of Amyema miraculosum and its host, Amyema miquelii (Loranthaceae)
Authors: Bernhardt P
Published: December 2005

In Victoria, self-incompatible Amyema miraculosum may exist as a locally obligate parasite on partially self-compatible Amyema miquelii. For the first time, the pollination ecology of a mistletoe on a mistletoe is analysed. Both species were generalist ornithophiles with overlapping flowering seasons from January to March. Consequently, the hyperparasite was in competition with its congeneric host for pollen vectors belonging to the local nectar bird guild (Meliphagidae and Zosteropidae). Amyema miquelii produced flowers that were longer-lived, and had a higher nectar content, than those of A. miraculosum. From mid February through March, A. miquelii plants offered more inflorescences, with open flowers, than A. miraculosum. There was an average of twice as many flowers on an A. miquelii inflorescence as on an A. miraculosum inflorescence, Not surprisingly, more than 70% of avian foraging bouts observed were to A. miquelii only. Eight bird species foraged for nectar on A. miquelii while only five were recorded on A. miraculosum. While 22% of all foraging bouts were interspecific, no examples of interspecific hybridization were found. This corresponds with previous observation of the reciprocal failure of interspecific crosses in vitro.
Observations on the Floral and Vegetative Phenologies of North-Eastern Australian Mangroves
Authors: Duke NC , Bunt JS , Williams WT
Published: December 2005

The mangrove forests of north-eastern Australia are both species-rich and well developed but there is very little information available on their vegetative growth or flowering and fruiting behaviour. This account attempts to rectify this situation by presenting the results of at least 4 years of field studies and observations. Previous reports recorded no less than 35 mangrove species occumng along the north-eastern coast and observations of the flowering and fruiting status of all these species were made. The results are supported by some litter fall studies and overall they reflect the diversity of mangrove species by displaying a range of peak activity months. However, there are some common trends and most species flower mainly during the dry hot summer (September-December) prior to the rainy season when they drop their propaguies during the morniks of peak rainfall (around February). Detailed studies of litter fall were camed out in Missionary Bay, Hinchinbrook Island (18° 16̸2S.,146° 13̸2E.), and care was taken to record components of floral development and vegetative growth. The results for five species (Rhizophora apiculata, R. stylosa, R. × lamarckii, Bruguiera gymnorhiza and Ceriops tagal var. tagal) include estimates of mean leaf longevity and also suggest that the floral and vegetative cycles are coordinated.
Cultural conditions influencing Basidium formation in the Ceratobasidiaceae
Authors: Murray DIL
Published: December 2005

Adequate aeration of cultures was shown to be essential for basidium formation in isolates of several species belonging in the Ceratobasidiaceae. Moreover, fruiting was strongly influenced by the physical characteristics of three commercially available brands of petri dish that differed in their capacity to permit atmospheric exchange between the interior of the dish and the external environment. Dextrose-yeast extract agar, on which fungi were grown before transferring to sporulation media, was found to be a suitable primary substrate for eight of 10 species tested but basidium formation in most isolates was critically affected by the composition of the sporulation medium and by the volume of incculum transferred. The significance of these findings is considered in relation to the potential of existing methods to give reproducible leve!s of basidium fcrmation in different laboratories.
Network Analysis of Northern Queensland Tropical Rainforests
Authors: Williams WT , Tracey JG
Published: December 2005

The graph theory of a 'two-neighbour network' is explained, and its potential advantages for the elucidation of complex ecological systems are outlined. The method is used for the analysis of a difficult set of 146 tropical rain forest sites, defined by the presence or absence of 740 tree species, in the humid tropics of N. Queensland. It is shown that the results greatly clarify a complex ecological problem, and that they are in unexpectedly good agreement with a preexisting intuitive classification.
A direct derivation of Miller's formula for average foliage density
Authors: Gates DJ , Westcott M
Published: December 2005

A direct, geometrical derivation of Miller's formula for average foliage density is provided. It does
not require his solution of an integral equation.
Germination of Clematis microphylla Seeds Following Weathering and Other Treatments
Authors: Lush WM , Kaye PE , Groves RH
Published: December 2005

Germination of Clematis microphyiia seeds was quicker following pericarp removal or if exposed
previously to a cycle of wetting and drying. Germination was also quicker following field weathering
of seeds; this effect is attributed to pericarp decay and to embryo development during intermittent
wet periods. Addition of gibberellic acid or nitrate advanced germination only slightly. Treatments
which resulted in the most rapid germination of the first seeds did not necessarily advance germination
of whole populations.
We interpret the ability of C. microphylla seeds to withstand desiccation at advanced stages of
germination without reverting to their state before imbibition as an adaptive feature which both
provides a timing mechanism for germination and may also hasten seedling establishment.
Effets of Sulfur Dioxide on Three Eucalyptus Species
Authors: Murray F
Published: December 2005

Eucalyptus punctata, E. moluccana and E. crebra were exposed continuously to low concentrations
of sulfur dioxide, up to 10.1 pphm, for durations of up to 40 days in open-top fumigation chambers.
Foliar injury and accelerated leaf senescence were found in E. punctata but no symptoms of visible
injury were detected in E. moluccana or E. crebra. Sulfur dioxide exposure significantly depressed
leaf chlorophyll concentrations in E. crebra and exposure to 4.3 pphm sulfur dioxide significantly
depressed total chlorophyll concentrations in E. moluccana. Sulfur dioxide had no significant effect
on leaf chlorophyll in E. punctata. Exposure to sulfur dioxide significantly increased leaf sulfur
concentrations in all three species, with the exception of the exposure of E. punctata to 3.8 pphm
sulfur dioxide which did not result in foliar sulfur accumulation. Sulfur dioxide had no significant
effects on tree growth parameters in E. moluccana or E. crebra.
Although all three Eucalyptus species were sensitive to continuous exposure to low concentrations
of sulfur dioxide, the response is species-dependent.
Linear Functionals of the Foliage Angle Distribution as Tools to Study the Structure of Plant Canopies
Authors: Anderssen RS , Jackett DR , Jupp DLB
Published: December 2005

In 1967, Miller showed how average foliage density could be computed from contact frequency data. It formalized mathematically the idea posed earlier by Warren Wilson of estimating the leaf area index as a linear combination of measured values of the contact frequency. Recently, it has been shown that Miller's result is a special case of a general transformation that allows linear functionals defined on the (generally unknown) foliage angle distribution (foliage angle functionals) to be evaluated as linear functionals defined on the (measured) contact frequency (contact frequency functionals). This result has important consequences for the use of foliage angle functionals in the study of the structure of plant canopies. For example, it allows Warren Wilson's idea to be extended to the evaluation of such functionals, and thereby simplifies greatly their actual evaluation. In this paper, we first motivate and review the use of foliage angle functionals in the study of plant canopies; then we introduce new functionals (the segmented foliage density and the moments); and finally, we use numerical experimentation with synthetic data to illustrate the advantages of having formulas for the foliage angle functionals of interest that are defined explicitly in terms of the (measured) contact frequency.
Acetylene Reduction in an Avicennia marina Community in Southern Australia
Authors: Van Der Valk AG , Attiwill PM
Published: December 2005

Rates of C2H2 reduction associated with decomposing leaf litter of Avicennia marina (white mangrove) reached 469 nmol C2H4 g-1 h-1 in air after 21 days of decomposition. Maximum rates of C2H2 reduction measured in sea water were 328 nmol C2H4 g-1 h-1 for leaf litter confined in mesh bags and 352 nmol C2H4 g-1 h-1 for unconfined leaf litter; the rates in sea water were always, and often substantially, lower than rates in air. Rates of decomposition and C2H2 reduction were less in leaf litter confined in mesh bags than in unconfined litter. Decomposing dead fibrous roots and live roots showed average rates of C2H2 reduction in interstitial water of only 9.3 and 3.5 nmol C2H4 g-1 h-1, respectively. During decomposition of leaf litter, the concentration of nitrogen increased; 41-64% of this increase was estimated to be the direct result of N2 fixation. No change in nitrogen concentrations occurred in decomposing dead roots or in live roots. N2 fixation associated with decomposing leaf litter and dead roots, and with live roots and surficial sediments, is thought to supply about 40% of the nitrogen required annually by the Avicennia marina trees. This estimate is relatively low in comparison with data for other marine wetlands, and it follows from the low rates of C2H2 reduction associated with
the root system and the sediments.
Role of Acacia Spp. In Nutrient Balance and Cycling in Regenerating Eucalyptus regnans F. Muell. Forests. I. Temporal Changes in Biomass and Nutrient Content
Authors: Adams MA , Attiwill PM
Published: December 2005

Following severe fire in high-rainfall Eucalyptus regnans forests, several Acacia species may germinate in large numbers. Large amounts of nitrogen, calcium, magnesium and potassium are immobilized in the Acacia biomass, much of which is returned to the soil after canopy closure. Within 3 years of a regeneration burn, 280 kg N ha-1 was in the above-ground Acacia biomass and litter layer. The relative abundance of nitrogen in Acacia spp. is a result of N fixation. The probable rate of N fixation appears significant in relation to losses of nitrogen associated with slash-burning. It is concluded that the Acacia spp. may be important in the secondary succession through nutrient conservation, replacement and redistribution.
Role of Acacia Spp. In Nutrient Balance and Cycling in Regenerating Eucalyptus regnans F. Muell. Forests. II. Field Studies of Acetylene Reduction
Authors: Adams MA , Attiwill PM
Published: December 2005

Rates of C2H2 reduction by nodules of Acacia dealbata growing in 2-year-old Eucalyptus regnans regeneration were determined at monthly intervals for 1 year under field conditions. Intact soil cores containing roots and nodules showed maximum values of 7.1 μmol h-1 g-1 fresh weight of nodules with a mean value of 4.4 μmol h-1 g-1 fresh weight. Nodule mass was clearly related to climatic conditions, being greatest when both temperature and moisture levels were favourable, and was probably depressed during the sampling period by the prevailing severe drought. From the measured rates of C2H2 reduction, estimated N2 fixation was 12-32 kg ha-1 year-1. Rates of N2 fixation as high as this confirm the role of acacias as fast-growing pioneer species important in maintaining the nitrogen pool of the forest ecosystem.
Ascosphaera osmophila Sp. Nov., An Australian Spore Cyst Fungus
Authors: Skou JP , King J
Published: December 2005

Ascosphaera osmophila sp. nov. is described. Septa occur often close together and remain intact when
the mycelium disintegrates. A fairly good production of mature spore cysts occurs only on media
containing 10% sugar or more. A. osmophila lives in association with the mason bee, Chalicodoma
mystaceana, and with leafcutter bees, Megachile spp., in Queensland.
The ecology and leaf dynamics of the seagrass Thalassodendron ciliatum (Forsk,) den Hartog
Authors: Johnstone IM
Published: December 2005

Thalassodendron ciliatum is recorded for the first time from the Papua New Guinea mainland. Net leaf productivity (3 and 6 day data) for three T. ciliatum populations (Red Sea, Torres Strait and the Papuan coastal lagoon) was remarkably similar, ranging from 1.70 to 1.78 cm2 per shoot per day. The leaf area index of a monospecific T. ciliatum meadow was more than four times greater than that of a mixed-species meadow containing T. ciliatum as one component.
Vegetation Dynamics in a Grazed Mulga Shrubland Community. I. The Mid-Storey Shrubs
Authors: Hacker RB
Published: December 2005

The dynamics of the major mid-storey shrub species in a grazed mulga shrubland community were
studied on a senes of sites in the arid winter rainfall zone of Western Australia Of the major specles
present, Eremophila leucophylla decreased with increasing grazing pressure while Maireana planifolia and Eremophila sp. declined after a temporary increase. All three species are strongly aggregated around
old plant remains and under the canopies of existing trees and tall shrubs Their aggregation in this
microenvironment results from enhanced seedling survival. Common preference for this restricted
part of the total space apparently leads to an exclusion type of Interspecific competition and to species
populations that are segregated relatwe to one another The importance of this microenvironment,
and the apparent nature of interspecific competition within it, suggest that a stable state may develop
under moderate levels of grazing in this community. The dynamics of the community are unlikely
to be explained satisfactonly by traditional Clementsian concepts Rather, they would appear to be
more consistent with the concept of alternative stable states. Any beneficial influence of management
on community composition, from a pastoral point of view, is thus likely to be limited to dlscrete
opportunities under specific seasonal conditions.
Patterns of Variation in Eucalyptus sideroxylon A. Cunn. Ex. Woolls. I. Variation in Adult Morphology
Authors: Bramwells HW , Whiffin T
Published: December 2005

Eucalyptus sideroxylon, a woodland tree occumng in an arc from central and southern Victoria to
south-eastem Queensland, is currently divided into subsp. slderoxylon to the north, and subsp. tricarpa
to the south. Thirty populations were sampled throughout the range of the species and studied for
adult leaf and fruit characters. There were found to be very marked and highly significant morphological
differences between the two subspecies, more especially in the fruit characters. Within subsp.
sideroxylon there was a general distinction between the inland populations and the more coastal
populations, while within subsp. trlcarpa there was similarly a general differentiation of the coastal
populations from the northern and north-central Victorian populations. The extent and general pattern
of these various differences are documented as a prelude to further studies.
The study of plant phylogeny using amino acid sequences of Ribulose-1,5-Bisphosphate Carboxylase. III. Addition of Malvaceae and Ranunculaceae to the phylogenetic tree
Authors: Martin PG , Dowd JM
Published: December 2005

The N-terminal sequences (40 amino acids) are given for the small subunit (SSU) of ribulose
bisphosphate carboxylase from three species of Ranunculaceae and three species of Malvaceae. Methods
are given for integrating these into a previously published phylogenetic tree for eight families. The
two new familial nodes that have been derived group closely with each other and with equivalent
nodes of Asteraceae and Caprifoliaceae. There appears to be considerably more variation in
Ranunculaceae than in Malvaceae and possible reasons for this are discussed.
The Study of Plant Phylogeny Using Amino Acid Sequences of Ribulose-1,5-Bisphosphate Carboxylase. IV. Proteaceae and Fagaceae and the Rate of Evolution of the Small Subunit
Authors: Martin PG , Dowd JM
Published: December 2005

N-terminal, 40 amino acid sequences of ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase small subunit (SSU) are
given for four species of Proteaceae, six of Fagaceae including four from Nothofagus, and seven from
Solanaceae including six new sequences from Nicotiana. Phylogenetic trees, regarded as tentative since
only one protein is involved, are given for each of the three groups and approximate positions of
the families in the angiosperm tree are indicated. An example of the destabilizing of a hitherto invariant
site is given. Working from the 'molecular evolutionary clock' hypothesis, and deriving time from
plate tectonics, the data from both Proteaceae and Nothofagus lead to rates of evolution of SSU of
one non-silent nucleotide substitution per 9 My. This agrees with an early Cretaceous origin of the
angiosperms. A test is proposed to distinguish distributions that are the result of 'vicariance
biogeography' from those due to 'dispersal biogeography'. It is concluded that distribution of Nicotiana
is most likely due to dispersal.
The Occurrence and Nature of Lignotubers in Notelaea longifolia and Elaeocarpus reticulatus
Authors: Lacey CJ , Jahnke R
Published: December 2005

A newly discovered form of lignotuber is described for Notelaea longifolia and Elaeocarpus reticulatus. The populations were studied in a Eucalyptus open-forest subject to fires but both species also occur in rainforest communities. The lignotubers start as two swellings at the cotyledonary node and occasionally at several succeeding nodes. Usually only one swelling develops and forms an elongated, unbranched and positively geotropic lignotuber. .Adventitious roots are developed by the seedling lignotuber and these replace the primary root system at an early age. Downward growth of the lignotuber is initiated by expanding buds, one of which becomes apical. The lignotuber exhibits sympodial growth. Elongation of the lignotuber is due to increased cambial activity at the lignotuber apex. The xylem proximal to the apical bud consists of a core of parenchyma cells forming uniseriate or multiseriate rays and of irregularly arranged vessels. Fibres are lacking. As secondary thickening of the lignotuber proceeds, the cambium produces ray parenchyma and files of vessels alternating with fibres. The xylem of Notelaea lignotubers does not have an easily discernible sapwood-heartwood zonation. Both old and young parenchyma cells store starch, although their cell walls have bordered pits and are apparently lignified. The relationship between the age of parenchyma cells and the functions of starch storage, mobilization and replacement is unknown. The lignotubers of Notelaea and Elaeocarpus differ from Eucalyptus lignotubers in that they: (1) usually develop from only one of the paired swellings of a cotyledonary node; (2) do not fuse with the stem or root; (3) produce adventitious roots that replace the primary root at an early age; (4) grow sympodially; and (5) have an elongated form due to the greater activity of the cambium at the lignotuber apex than at the flanks.
The Wood Anatomy of Leptospermum Forst. (Myrtaceae)
Authors: Johnson CT
Published: December 2005

The wood anatomy of 13 species of Leptospermum is described. Ontogenetic changes in vessel length are also, examined. The taxonomic significance of the wood anatomy, particularly in relation to Bentham's classification of Leptospermum, is discussed. The classification of Leptospermum as mesomorphic on the basis of Carlquist's indices is considered incorrect as its narrow, short and numerous vessels indicate it to be xeromorphic.
Field Resistance in Three Native Monocotyledon Species That Colonize Indigenous Sclerophyll Forest After Invasion by Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Phillips D , Weste G
Published: December 2005

Lepidosperma laterale (Cyperaceae), Gahnia radula (Cyperaceae) and Poa sieberana (Poaceae) colonize
bare ground of dry sclerophyll forest after disease due to P. cinnamomi. To determine their resistance,
plants grown in divided root boxes were inoculated with 150-200 zoospores of the pathogen.
Infected roots ceased growth. In the small necrotic lesions produced, the pathogen remained viable
and capable of providing a source of inoculum for disease extension. Fungal growth was usually limited
to the lesion but in some cases a few hyphae were observed in adjacent tissue. Away from the lesion
there was a rapid reduction of fungal material and of the associated cellular disintegration. Rates of
root production and root growth were not stimulated by infection but uninfected lateral roots replaced
the root tip in some plants; in others, a new root tip emerged from the necrotic zone, enabling the
plant to outgrow the fungal attack.
Growth Rate and Long-Term Population Dynamics of Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata Donn ex Sm.) Regeneration in Western Australian Forest
Authors: Abbott I , Loneragan O
Published: December 2005

Five of the six stages in the regeneration of jarrah (seedling, lignotuberous seedling, seedling coppice,
ground coppice and sapling) were studied in detail. Survival of seedlings is variable but usually low,
and growth into the ground coppice stage usually takes 15-20 years. Growth into the sapling stage
is arrested until there is substantial reduction in intraspecific competition. Lignotuberous seedlings,
seedling coppice and ground coppice growing in ashbeds show faster rates of growth in length of the
long axis of the lignotuber and length of the tallest shoot. Logging and prescribed (low-intensity) fires
are associated with development of more seedling coppice and growth of ground coppice into saplings
and poles than is fire alone.