bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixed structural face-centered cubic and body-centered cubic orders in near stoichiometric Fe2MnGa alloys
Authors: Kudryavtsev Y. V. , Perekos A. E. , Uvarov N. V. , Kolchiba M. R. , Synoradzki K. , Dubowik J.
Published: May 2016

Magnetic and transport properties of near stoichiometric metastable FexMnyGaz alloys (46 ≤ x ≤ 52, 17 ≤ y ≤ 25, 26 ≤ z ≤ 30) with face-centered cubic (FCC), body-centered cubic (BCC), and two-phase (FCC + BCC) structures are investigated. The experimental results are analyzed in terms of first-principles calculations of stoichiometric Fe2MnGa alloy with the L21, L12, and the tetragonally distorted L21 structural orderings. It is shown that the pure BCC and FCC phases have distinct magnetic and transport properties. Two-phase Fe2MnGa alloys have magnetic and transport properties typical of the mixed BCC and FCC phases. Among the investigated alloys, Fe46Mn24Ga30 has a martensitic transformation accompanied with significant changes of its magnetic and transport properties.
Application of a Halbach magnetic array for long-range cell and particle separations in biological samples
Authors: Kang Joo H. , Driscoll Harry , Super Michael , Ingber Donald E.
Published: May 2016

Here, we describe a versatile application of a planar Halbach permanent magnet array for an efficient long-range magnetic separation of living cells and microparticles over distances up to 30 mm. A Halbach array was constructed from rectangular bar magnets using 3D-printed holders and compared to a conventional alternating array of identical magnets. We theoretically predicted the superiority of the Halbach array for a long-range magnetic separation and then experimentally validated that the Halbach configuration outperforms the alternating array for isolating magnetic microparticles or microparticle-bound bacterial cells at longer distances. Magnetophoretic velocities (ymag) of magnetic particles (7.9 μm diameter) induced by the Halbach array in a microfluidic device were significantly higher and extended over a larger area than those induced by the alternating magnet array (ymag = 178 versus 0 μm/s at 10 mm, respectively). When applied to 50 ml tubes (∼30 mm diameter), the Halbach array removed >95% of Staphylococcus aureus bacterial cells bound with 1 μm magnetic particles compared to ∼70% removed using the alternating array. In addition, the Halbach array enabled manipulation of 1 μm magnetic beads in a deep 96-well plate for ELISA applications, which was not possible with the conventional magnet arrays. Our analysis demonstrates the utility of the Halbach array for the future design of devices for high-throughput magnetic separations of cells, molecules, and toxins.
Interaction of nanosecond ultraviolet laser pulses with reactive dusty plasma
Authors: van de Wetering F. M. J. H. , Oosterbeek W. , Beckers J. , Nijdam S. , Gibert T. , Mikikian M. , Rabat H. , Kovačević E. , Berndt J.
Published: May 2016

Even though UV laser pulses that irradiate a gas discharge are small compared to the plasma volume (≲3%) and plasma-on time (≲6 × 10−6%), they are found to dramatically change the discharge characteristics on a global scale. The reactive argon–acetylene plasma allows the growth of nanoparticles with diameters up to 1 μm, which are formed inside the discharge volume due to spontaneous polymerization reactions. It is found that the laser pulses predominantly accelerate and enhance the coagulation phase and are able to suppress the formation of a dust void.
Photo-modulation of the spin Hall conductivity of mono-layer transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Sengupta Parijat , Bellotti Enrico
Published: May 2016

We report on a possible optical tuning of the spin Hall conductivity in mono-layer transition metal dichalcogenides. Light beams of frequencies much higher than the energy scale of the system (the off-resonant condition) do not excite electrons but rearrange the band structure. The rearrangement is quantitatively established using the Floquet formalism. For such a system of mono-layer transition metal dichalcogenides, the spin Hall conductivity (calculated with the Kubo expression in presence of disorder) exhibits a drop at higher frequencies and lower intensities. Finally, we compare the spin Hall conductivity of the higher spin-orbit coupled WSe2 to MoS2; the spin Hall conductivity of WSe2 was found to be larger.
Exotic d magnetism in partial hydrogenated silicene
Authors: Ju Weiwei , Li Tongwei , Hou Zhiwei , Wang Hui , Cui Hongling , Li Xiaohong
Published: May 2016

The intriguing d0 magnetic properties of partially hydrogenated silicene are investigated via first-principles calculations. H atoms are assembled along the diagonal line of 4 × 4 supercell. The magnetism can be engineered through transforming the adsorption sites of H atoms. With odd number of H atoms, the systems demonstrate stable magnetism, and the total magnetic moment of each system is 1 μB. No magnetism is found in those systems with equal number of H atoms for sublattice A and sublattice B. Molecular dynamics simulations show the configurations and magnetism of the systems are stable at room temperature. Our work motivates promising applications for silicene in spintronics device.
Collective motion of self-propelled particles with density-dependent switching effect
Authors: Chen Qiu-shi , Ma Yu-qiang
Published: May 2016

We study the effect of density-dependent angular response on large scale collective motion, that particles are more likely to switch their moving direction within lower local density region. We show that the presence of density-dependent angular response leads to three typical phases: polar liquid, micro-phase separation and disordered gas states. In our model, the transition between micro-phase separation and disordered gas is discontinuous. Giant number fluctuation is observed in polar liquid phase with statistically homogeneous order. In the micro-phase separation parameter space, high order and high density bands dominate the dynamics. We also compare our results with Vicsek model and show that the density-dependent directional switching response can stabilize the band state to very low noise condition. This band stripe could recruit almost all the particles in the system, which greatly enhances the coherence of the system. Our results could be helpful for understanding extremely coherent motion in nature and also would have practical implications for designing novel self-organization pattern.
Degradation and corresponding failure mechanism for GaN-based LEDs
Authors: Fu Jiajia , Zhao Lixia , Cao Haicheng , Sun Xuejiao , Sun Baojuan , Wang Junxi , Li Jinmin
Published: May 2016

The degradation behaviors of high power GaN-based vertical blue LEDs on Si substrates were measured using in-situ accelerated life test. The results show that the dominant failure mechanism would be different during the operation. Besides that, the corresponding associated failure mechanisms were investigated systematically by using different analysis technologies, such as Scan Electron Microscopy, Reflectivity spectroscopy, Transient Thermal Analysis, Raman Spectra, etc. It is shown that initially, the failure modes were mainly originated from the semiconductor die and interconnect, while afterwards, the following serious deterioration of the radiant fluxes was attributed to the package. The interface material and quality, such as die attach and frame, play an important role in determining the thermal performance and reliability. In addition, the heating effect during the operation will also release the compressive strain in the chip. These findings will help to improve the reliability of GaN-based LEDs, especially for the LEDs with vertical structure.
Effects of magnetic barriers on transport and magnetoresistance in a two-dimensional electronic device
Authors: He H. L. , Zhang X. W. , Wang Z. P. , Dai B. , Ren Y.
Published: May 2016

We study theoretically the giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect of 2-dimensional electron system (2DES) by the transfer matrix method. To produce the inhomogeneous magnetic field, two magnetic strips are pre-deposited on the surface of 2DES. In our work, we fix the magnetization M in one magnetic strip and adjust the tilting angle θ of magnetization in the other. The result shows that the electronic transmission and conductance vary significantly for different θ. The minimum conductance can be obtained at θ = π which corresponds to the magnetization anti-parallel alignment. The magnetoresistance ratio (MRR) calculation also indicates we would get the maximum in that case. Furthermore, we consider the magnetization M dependence of MRR in this work. When M increases, MRR peaks get higher and broader and more numbers of peaks can be observed. These results offer an alternative to get a tunable GMR device which can be controlled by adjusting the magnetization M and the magnetized angle θ.
Moving beyond the rhetoric of patient input in health technology assessment deliberations
Authors: Wortley Sally , Wale Janet , Grainger David , Murphy Peter
Published: May 2016

At a health system level, the importance of patient and public input into healthcare decision making is well recognised. Patient and public involvement not only provides a mechanism to legitimise decisions, but also contributes to improved translation of these decisions into practice, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes. Recent reviews in the health technology assessment space have identified the need for, and increased use of, patient input through systematic methodologies. Yet, what does this mean in practical terms? This paper outlines both short- and longer-term options for strengthening patient input into health technology assessment deliberations. This is particularly important given the planned reforms in this area and the commitment to public consultation as part of the reform process.
Carbon sources for aquatic food webs of riverine and lacustrine tropical waterholes with variable groundwater influence
Authors: Pettit N. E. , Warfe D. M. , Close P. G. , Pusey B. J. , Dobbs R. , Davies C. , Valdez D. , Davies P. M.
Published: May 2016

Food web studies integrate ecological information and provide understanding of ecosystem function. Aquatic ecosystems of the Kimberley region (north-western Australia) have high conservation significance as hotspots for maintaining local and regional biodiversity. This study investigated the influence of waterhole type and persistence on the strength of consumer reliance on local energy resources for aquatic food webs. Changes in water isotopic composition indicated groundwater inputs were enough to overcome evaporative losses in some waterholes. Other waterholes had varying levels of isotope enrichment suggesting insufficient groundwater input to ‘compensate’ for evaporative loss. C and N isotope analysis indicated considerable overlap among energy sources in waterholes between macrophytes and periphyton but gradient analysis indicated that periphyton is a major carbon source for aquatic consumers. Groundwater-fed waterholes appeared to have higher quality food sources (indicated by lower C:N ratios), but there was minimal evidence that direct groundwater contributions were related to food web processes. Nonetheless, in a region where groundwater is influential in maintaining aquatic habitats, future development of groundwater reserves will likely affect the ecological and cultural value of freshwater wetlands by either reducing their permanence or size or indirectly through possible alteration to the role of periphyton in supporting the food web.
Impact of Dugong grazing and turtle cropping on tropical seagrass communities
Authors: Aragones Lemnuel , Marsh Helene
Published: May 2016

The impact of grazing by two megaherbivores, the Dugong Dugong dugon and the Green Turtle Chelonia mydas on the community structure of intertidal seagrasses was investigated experimentally over two time frames (shorterterm: 1?4 months; longer-term: 10 and 13 months), at three levels of grazing intensity (leaf cropping, light grazing, intensive grazing), at two seagrass meadows in tropical Queensland, Australia: (1) a mixed species bed of Zostera capricorni, Halophila ovalis, Halodule uninervis, Cymodocea rotundata and Cymodocea serrulata, and (2) a monospecific bed of Halodule uninervis, From the perspective of the megaherbivores, grazing improved the structure and dynamics of the tropical seagrass communities by altering their biomass, volume of detritus, net aboveground biomass productivity and the species composition of the mixed-species bed, Recovery from grazing disturbance occurred after several months to a year.
Swallowing the bait: is recreational fishing in Australia ecologically sustainable?
Authors: P. McPhee D. , Leadbitter D. , A. Skilleter G.
Published: May 2016

Recreational fishing is a growing component of the total fishery harvest in many countries, but the impacts of this sector on aquatic resources are often ignored in the management of aquatic systems. Recreational fishing is open-access, and in many inshore regions, the recreational harvest exceeds the commercial harvest. The environmental impacts from recreational angling can be both ecologically significant and broad in scope and include: the removal of a considerable biomass of a wide variety of species; discarded by-catch; possible trophic cascades through the removal of higher order carnivores; impacts on habitat through bait harvesting; impacts of introduced and translocated species to support angling fisheries; direct impacts on sea-birds, marine mammals and reptiles; and angler generated pollution. Management, for several reasons, has largely ignored these environmental impacts from recreational fishing. Recreational fishing impacts are cumulative, whereas there is a tendency for consideration of impacts in isolation. Recreational fishing lobbyists have generally been successful in focusing public and political attention on other impacts such as commercial fishing, and recreational fishing has tended not to come under close scrutiny from conservation and environmental groups. Without changes to the monitoring and management of recreational fisheries that incorporate the broad ecological impacts from the activity, it may not be ecologically sustainable in the long term and Australia will not meet its international obligations of protecting aquatic biodiversity. The definition of property rights and appropriate measures to prevent or manage large scale marine restocking are two emerging issues that also need to be addressed.
A test of monitoring methodology for the conservation management of birds
Authors: A. Tierney D. , K. Morris A.
Published: May 2016

We report on a programme to integrate monitoring for birds into conservation management and planning by local government. Bird surveys were used to develop a monitoring protocol for birds in woodlands/forests of north Wyong. Regional vegetation units have distinct bird assemblages when surveyed with adequate temporal and spatial replication. Multivariate analyses revealed a different bird assemblage structure in some locations, suggesting that assemblage decline could be monitored through time. Attributes necessary to successfully monitor bird conservation are discussed. We conclude that the success of a conservation management plan in conserving birds within the north Wyong area can be determined with appropriate monitoring.
A Zoological Revolution
Authors: R. Fulton Graham
Published: May 2016

THIS book asserts the 'revolution' of using Australia's native fauna to assist in its own survival. The 'revolution' promotes and debates keeping kangaroos as pets and eating them for dinner. It seems we can have our cake and eat it too. The "revolution" primarily aims to open up the debate and critically assess ideas such as native pets and promoting sustainable kangaroo harvesting. The book is a collection of papers presented at a symposium held at the Australian Museum, which explored the range and potential value, as well as the ethical and social implications of these controversial concepts. The authors are mostly luminaries in their fields who greatly advance the 'revolution with their professionalism, personalities and impassioned yet objective arguments. The 'brightest' of the luminaries are discussed below.
The Threatened and Non-Threatened Native Vertebrate Fauna of New South Wales: Status and Ecological Attributes
Authors: R. Fulton Graham
Published: May 2016

THIS monograph presents the status of all mammal, bird, reptile and frog species in NSW and compares ecological attributes at the familial level. It has been compiled by a diverse array of experts including the authors. The monograph identifies the status of each species and provides their ecological attributes from which patterns of decline (or increase) may be determined. It provides the first official list of vertebrate fauna in NSW and gives scores for each variable affecting species status, which explain the reasons for their inclusion or exclusion in the Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995). The most significant function of the monograph is the establishment of baseline data for future studies. In addition, the report identifies the magnitude of problems faced, provides new material, ideas and direction for conservation programs.
Opportunities for the future
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

IN the last issue, David Paton wrote about water rationing in Australia's largest cities and lost opportunities. The opportunities Australia passed by were those which would have avoided the need for water rationing, protected the continent's river systems from degradation, conserved continental biodiversity and contributed importantly to achieving an ecologically sustainable economy. Had Australians been prepared to work together, the opportunities missed could have been taken up at no great cost to either society or individuals. Indeed, the environmental and social benefits generated would have more than compensated for any imagined losses in productivity and income.
Low abundances and diversities of benthic faunas of shallow, coastal sediments in the Solomon Islands and their implications for assessing environmental impacts of logging
Authors: J. Morrisey D. , G. Cole R. , Bell J. , Lane I. , B. Read G.
Published: May 2016

The diversity and abundance of benthic organisms were examined in relation to logging impacts in Western Province, Solomon Islands. Organisms occupying sediments offshore from the mouths of logged and unlogged streams in two areas were sampled at three depths during a single survey. Overall abundances of organisms were low, and patterns varied between areas. At Kolombangara, ANOVA showed that numbers of molluscs and crustaceans were higher at mouths of rivers with unlogged catchments than with logged catchments, but numbers of individuals, taxa, and polychaetes differed among river mouths within treatments. At Vangunu, numbers of taxa varied inconsistently among depths in the different logging treatments, whereas numbers of individuals were greater at river mouths of unlogged than logged catchments. Multivariate analyses (MDS, ANOSIM) showed differences among river mouths within treatments but not among treatments. In general, there were indications of logging impacts but the effects were not consistent across taxa. Because of this inconsistency, the low abundance and diversity of animals, and the relatively high cost of processing samples, benthic macrofaunal variables were not considered to be cost-effective measurement variables for longer term monitoring of the effects of run-off from logging operations on inshore marine habitats at these study sites.
Southern Right Whale Eubalaena australis sightings on the Australian coast and the increasing potential for entanglement
Authors: Allen Simon , Bejder Lars
Published: May 2016

Southern Right Whales Eubalaena australis are an endangered species that have been recovering from unsustainable whaling practices and, despite being reported along the east and west coasts of Australia, they have not been duly accounted for in recent risk assessments for marine development. This review of the last decade of sightings highlights northerly movements into temperate and sub-tropical waters, indicates that fatal entanglement has occurred and points toward an increasing likelihood of interactions between migrating whales and inshore marine development. Given that entanglements and vessel strike are preventing the recovery of North Atlantic Right Whales Eubalaena glacialis, we recommend a precautionary approach to risk assessment around Australia and the formation of a national animal entanglement committee with both a pre-emptive role in assessing coastal development applications and a reactive role in the event of entanglement.
Implications of phylogeography and population genetics for subspecies taxonomy of Grey (Pacific Black) Duck Anas superciliosa and its conservation in New Zealand
Authors: M. Rhymer Judith , J. Williams Murray , T. Kingsford Richard
Published: May 2016

Subspecies delineations may not reflect actual intraspecific diversity; an issue that becomes important when conservation of populations and/or subspecies that face severe declines is involved. The Grey Duck in New Zealand is considered a separate subspecies Anas superciliosa superciliosa from the Pacific Black Duck A. s. rogersi of Australia, even though poorly differentiated morphologically. Because the New Zealand and Australian populations of A. superciliosa are considered taxonomically distinct, the decline of New Zealand's Grey Duck and its hybridization with the introduced Mallard A. platyrhynchos has led to assignment of "endangered" conservation status. Taxonomic distinction and absence of periodic gene flow between the Australian and New Zealand populations are crucial for acceptance of this status. We used phylogeographic analysis of mitochondrial DNA control region sequences to determine whether haplotypes representing current subspecies are unique or are more consistent with populations in the two countries being considered the same subspecies. Two highly divergent genetic lineages of Grey Duck occur in New Zealand. One lineage (Group I) is found only in New Zealand primarily on North Island, while the other (Group II), occurs in populations throughout New Zealand and Australia. The split between Group I and II lineages is on the order of that found between some avian species. Even though subspecific designations of A. s. superciliosa and A. s. rogersi do not hold up based on molecular data, we identify a need for Grey Duck in New Zealand to be conserved to maintain the historical diversity within the species.
On being hopeful
Authors: F. Recher Harry
Published: May 2016

I have to admit that writing this editorial has been especially difficult. There are a number of reasons for the difficulty, but foremost was my feeling that I needed to be positive and uplifting, offering hope for environmental sanity and biodiversity conservation. Unfortunately, I found this very limiting and every effort at writing seemed to sink into another diatribe of ?gloom and doom?. I hope it is just me and not a true reflection of the State of the Environment in the Pacific. After all, there is much to be thankful for.
Floristics and structure of the mossy cloud forest of Mt Gower summit, Lord Howe Island
Authors: Harris Rebecca , Cassis Gerasimos , Auld Tony , Hutton Ian
Published: May 2016

The summit of Mt Gower, Lord Howe Island (31 �33'S, 159�05'E), is a small area of 27 ha supporting mossy cloud forest. This study describes patterns in the floristic composition and structure of the vegetation of the summit, in relation to a range of environmental variables. A total of 42 vascular plant species was recorded, 86% of which are endemic to Lord Howe Island, and 17% of which are found only on the summit and upper slopes of Mt Gower and adjacent Mt Lidgbird. A complete species list for Mt Gower Is presented, including species from the present survey and all previously recorded species. The composition of the vegetation differed in gullies and on ridges, reflecting differences in substrate rockiness and soil moisture, and was also influenced by the number of bird burrows and aspect. The summit of Mt Gower is of high conservation significance, due to the restrIcted distribution of the habitat type it represents, its relatively undisturbed state and high levels of endemism. Potential threats to the summit vegetation include the impacts of climate change, seed predation by introduced rats, and the introduction of weed species and exotic pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi.
Intraspecific variation in detection of bird-habitat relationships: declining birds in southern Australian woodlands
Authors: Maron Martine , Lill Alan
Published: May 2016

An understanding of the responses of declining bird species to habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation is essential for their conservation. However, species' relationships with particular threatening processes may vary in different systems, and long-term variability in bird communities and differences in sampling protocols may cause different real or apparent habitat relationships to be detected in the same system at different times. We investigated temporal variation in detection of relationships between habitat remnant size, isolation and degradation and the presence of several bird species that are known to be declining in southern Australia. Habitat relationships detected for these species were compared with a) those detected for the same species in the same remnants in surveys undertaken seven years previously, and b) those reported from other fragmented, southern Australian systems. Most of the relationships displayed by the study species in other landscapes were not apparent in this system, and there were temporal differences in the detected landscape and habitat relationships of several species. These findings indicate that the effects of habitat fragmentation can appear to vary in their impact on a species among landscapes, as well as through time, which complicates considerably the task of conservation managers. Correlative relationships between species' presence and habitat characteristics can be misleading if the mechanisms through which the habitat factors influence species are not understood.
Predator or disperser? A test of indigenous fruit preference of alien rats (Rattus rattus) on Nishi-jima (Ogasawara Islands)
Authors: Abe Tetsuto
Published: May 2016

The Black Rat Rattus rattus has invaded many of the Ogasawara Islands, including Nishi-jima. To evaluate the effects of this alien rat on fruits in Nishi-jima, I set out 1 772 fruits of five indigenous tree species and tracked them for two months by locating attached long-labelled lines. The rats consumed more than 95% of the small Neolitsea sericea var. aurata and Livistona boninensis fruits. For larger fruits, rats consumed 48.3% of Pandanus boninensis, 11.2% of Terminalia catappa, and 64.4% of Ochrosia nakaiana. Larger fruits were carried further than small fruits, however, the ratio of survival to frugivory decreased with increasing distance carried in all species. The role of Rattus rattus as seed disperser is limited, and its fruglvory impact is more serious for trees producing small fruits.
The Planners view of Conservation
Authors: G. McLean Ian
Published: May 2016

I recently joined the world of Planning. It was a strategic move, linked to a desire for new professional experiences and the opportunity to contribute to conservation issues at a grass roots level.
Population responses of small and medium sized mammals to fox control at Jervis Bay, southeastern Australia
Authors: Dexter Nick , Meek Paul , Moore Steve , Hudson Matt , Richardson Holly
Published: May 2016

At Jervis Bay, strategic pest programmes to control the Red Fox Vulpes vulpes have been in place on the Beecroft Weapons Range (BWR) Beecroft Peninsula, New South Wales since 1995 and Booderee National Park (BNP) Bherwerre Peninsula, Jervis Bay Territory since 1999. As an integral component of the BWR plan, monitoring terrestrial and arboreal mammals has been carried out and demonstrated a significant increase in the abundance of Common Ringtail Possum Pseudochelrus peregrinus, Long-nosed Bandicoot Perameles nasuta, and Bush Rat Rattus fuscipes. There was no significant change in the abundance of Brown Antechinus Antechinus stuartii, Sugar Glider Petaurus breviceps or Black Rat (R. raltus). At BNP changes in population abundance of mammals were not monitored, but a comparison of the abundance of terrestrial mammals between the fox baited BNP and the adjacent un-baited Jervis Bay National Park (JBNP) showed Long-nosed Bandicoots, Bush Rat and Brown Antechinus to be in higher abundance in BNP than JBNP. Scat analysis further supported this finding (Roberts et aI, 2006), We assert that these combined findings are evidence that terrestrial native fauna have responded positively to continued fox control on both peninsulas, thus proving that measuring prey responses are a positive measure of success for strategic pest control programmes.
Impact of the newly arrived seed-predating beetle Specularius impressithorax (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) in Hawai?i
Authors: Medeiros A.C. , Vonallmen E. , Fukada M. , Samuelson A. , Lau T.
Published: May 2016

Prior to 2001, seed predation was virtually absent in the endemic Wiliwili Erythrina sandwicensis (Fabaceae: Degener), dominant tree species of lower-elevation Hawaiian dryland forests. The African bruchine chrysomelid Specularius impressithorax (Pic) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) was first detected in Hawai?i in 2001 and became established on all main islands within the next two years. The mode of entry for this invasive Erythrina seed predator into Hawai?i is unknown, but likely occurred with the importation of trinket jewelry from Africa containing characteristically brightly-colored Erythrina seeds. The initial establishment of this insect likely occurred on a non-native host, the widely cultivated coral tree E. variegata. Within three years of its first record, S. impressithorax accounted for 77.4% mean seed crop loss in 12 populations of Wiliwili on six main Hawaiian islands. Specularius impressithorax, dispersed through international commerce and established via E. variegata, has become a threat to a unique Hawaiian forest type and may threaten other Erythrina, especially New World representatives.
Identification and characterization of floristic groups in dry forests relicts of a West Coast region of New Caledonia
Authors: Jaffré Tanguy , Rigault Frédéric , Munzinger Jérôme
Published: May 2016

We describe the floristic composition of dry forest relicts on the west coast of New Caledonia. Using multivariate techniques, four floristic groups were defined from 71 floristic samples. The large proportion of species with rain forest affinities in all floristic groups shows similarities with the ?dry? rainforest of Australia. The two more open and disturbed groups have the highest proportion of species associated with dry areas, the strongest level of endemism and more ?most threatened? species. The two more closed groups have the highest proportion of rain forest species, but are slightly less original and have fewer threatened species. This raises the question of the exact relation of the dry forest still present in the study area to mesic forest, which has not yet been studied separately from dense humid forest in New Caledonia. The influence of the local micro-climatic conditions on the distribution of floristic groups appears critical. A good knowledge of these conditions is necessary for a sound delimitation of new protected areas, and for the implementation of protective and restorative measures appropriate to each vegetation category.
Thirty years later, should we be more concerned for the ongoing invasion of Mozambique Tilapia in Australia?
Authors: G. Doupé Robert , W. Burrows Damien
Published: May 2016

Exotic speCies complicate the management of native biological diversity and their ecosystems, because their effects are pervasive and varied (Cox 2004). For example, they can be beneficial and integral components of global agricultural economies (Sax et al, 2007), but when unmanaged and by definition invasive, they can negatively change important variables such as the genetics and population size of individual species, the diversity and structure of ecological communities, disturbance regimes and biogeochemical cycling (Vitousek 1990).
Towards restoration of Hawaiian tropical dry forests: the Kaupulehu outplanting programme
Authors: Cordell Susan , McClellan Moana , Yarber Carter Yvonne , J. Hadway Lisa
Published: May 2016

Hawaiian tropical dry forests contain diverse assemblages of woody canopy species, including many endemic and endangered species that warrant conservation attention before completely disappearing. Today, tropical dry forests in Hawaii are not viable ecosystems. Poor land use practices, fragmentation, non-native plant invasions, and inadequate native vegetation regeneration are all factors that have contributed to their endangerment. Only an ambitious restoration programme that includes non-native ungulate exclusion, weed control, fire management, and the outplanting of seeds and seedlings will be sufficient to enhance Hawaiian tropical dry forests. We selected a 25 ha preserve within the Kaupulehu Dry Forest Preserve, located in North Kona on the Island of Hawaii, to test dry forest restoration strategies. In 1997, the preserve was fenced and all non-native ungulates were removed. Altogether, 4892 outplants were planted from 1999?2006. In 2007, we surveyed all of the outplants. The survey found 1487 live plants, 3357 dead, and 48 plants missing. This equates to an overall survival rate of 30%. Survival by vegetation type indicated that vines had the highest rate of survival (63%) followed by trees (34%). Herbs had the lowest rate of survival (12%). Twelve of a total of 35 species that were outplanted in the Kaupulehu Dry Forest Preserve accounted for more than 90% of the total surviving plants species, while five federally listed species represent almost 60% of the total. The outplanting of dry forest species into the Kaupulehu Dry Forest Preserve considerably increased the population of many federally listed endangered species. However, the high mortality of many common and important plant species of tropical dry systems highlights the importance of an outplanting programme that emphasizes ecosystem sustainability rather that species success. In equal measure, the successes and failures of the Kaupulehu outplanting project have enhanced our ability to begin to restore this unique and endangered ecosystem.
The breeding biology of the Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus banksii naso Gould in south-western Australia. II. Breeding behaviour and diet
Authors: Johnstone R E , Kirby T , Sarti K
Published: May 2016

Little is known of the breeding behaviour of the Forest Red-tailed Black Cockatoo Calyptorhynchus banksii naso
(FRTBC), a large, iconic forest cockatoo, endemic to the south-west corner of Western Australia, currently listed as
Vulnerable under the State Western Australian Wildlife Conservation Act and under the Commonwealth Environment
Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. In this paper, we provide details of breeding behaviour of FRTBC based
on observations throughout the year over 17 years, together with observations of diet and feeding behaviour over the
same period.
FRTBC are monogamous hollow-nesters. Breeding was recorded in all months, with peaks in autumn-winter (April–
June) and spring (August–October), with few records in January and February. Breeding also varied between years,
with little breeding in 1999, 2001 and 2008, but many observations in 2006 and 2009. Breeding occurred at times of
fruiting of either of the principal feed trees, Jarrah Eucalyptus marginata or Marri Corymbia calophylla, so it does not
depend solely on one or the other of these species.
Courtship displays were noted at all times of the day, from before dawn at roost sites to dusk. In total, 205 breeding
events were recorded, of which 69 (93%) of 72 nests had breeding confirmed on a second visit. Use of particular nest
hollows varied considerably, with some used only once and some up to seven times. Only one egg is laid, which the
female incubates for 29 to 31 days, before a nestling hatches weighing between 27 and 32 g. The female remains in
the hollow during incubation and only leaves for a short period in the evening to be fed by the male, usually at dusk.
The chicks are brooded for up to 10 days, after which the female leaves the nest between dawn and dusk. Pairs of
birds appear to recognise each other by calls, not responding to calls by others in the area. Chicks only respond
when the parent is heard. Chicks are fully feathered at 48 days. Fledgling success was estimated at 60%. Juveniles
remain dependent on the adults 18 months to 2 years. Thirty-seven chicks were banded between 1997 and 2011.
Juvenile-immature birds moved on average less than 3 km from their natal tree and older birds were observed moving
up to 19 km. This suggests that FRTBC are generally sedentary.
Immature birds took up to three times as long as their parents to open Jarrah or Marri nuts and eat the seeds. In
recent years there has been an interesting change in foraging behaviour of birds in the northern Darling Range (adjacent
to the Perth metropolitan area) with the FRTBC discovering and using a new food source, the introduced Cape Lilac
Melia azedarach, and this species is of growing importance as food in the Perth region. In combination, the data on
breeding biology and diet highlight the importance of identifying recruitment rates and food availability in managing
populations of FRTBC.
Public attitude towards conservation in New Zealand and awareness of threatened species.
Authors: Seabrook-Davidson Mark N. H. , Brunton Dianne H.
Published: May 2016

A survey was conducted amongst a sample (n = 3 000) of the New Zealand public to gauge their perception of
government spending on conservation. The survey also obtained an understanding of the level of awareness the public
has of New Zealand threatened species. Respondents ranked eight areas of government spending, namely health,
education, superannuation, law and order, defence, conservation of native species, primary industry research &
development and tourism. From a response rate of n = 131 (4.5%), health and education were ranked the highest,
followed by law and order with conservation in fourth position. Except for conservation of native species, these rankings
by respondents closely aligned with priorities of average annual government spending. Awareness was the highest for
endemic species such as kiwi Apteryx spp, Hector’s dolphin Cephalorhynchus hectori, kokako Callaeas cinerea cinerea,
kakapo Strigops habroptilus, takahe Porphyrio mantelli, Maui’s dolphin Cephalorhynchus hectori maui and tuatara
Sphenodon punctatus. The awareness for these prominent species may suggest that the Department of Conservation
is achieving some success in its advocacy role to increase the public’s awareness of species threatened with extinction.
With awareness of threatened species and the moderate ranking given to conservation expenditure, it is evident there
is a level of public support for expenditure on protection of biodiversity and natural heritage.
Biological diversity of micro-organisms: an Australian perspective
Authors: M. Roper Margaret
Published: May 2016

Micro-organisms (bacteria, archaeas, fungi, protozoa, algae and viruses) occur in all environments and are interrelated with all other life forms. Micro-organisms are largely responsible for maintaining ecosystem function. They are extremely important in biological control mechanisms and in the transformations of food, energy and chemicals, including the mineralization of nutrients. Despite their importance, our understanding of the role and diversity of micro-organisms is very limited largely because of our inability to culture more than a few per cent of them. Molecular techniques being developed should result in the identification of many new micro-organisms. Notwithstanding our limited knowledge it is essential to evaluate the threats to microbial diversity and to attempt to minimize losses. Micro-organisms and microbial diversity risk being lost due to environmental causes such as pollution (by sewage, oil, organic compounds, pesticides and heavy metals), habitat loss (e.g. pH and salinity changes, and flooding), overexploitation (e.g., in agriculture, forestry and fisheries), species introductions and global changes. Micro-organisms that are particularly vulnerable to extinction, be it on a local or global scale, are those with a limited distribution, in specific habitats or those in habitats subject to widespread stress. Accompanying the loss of microbial diversity is the potential for losses of ecosystem function. A number of measures are needed to conserve microbial diversity. It is necessary to improve identification and measurement in terms of taxonomy, genetics and function. Ex situ collections are a means of securing micro-organisms for use and study by man. Where populations are poorly understood in situ conservation in protected habitats is the only option. Systems of indices and bioindicators need to be developed to monitor changes in microbial communities in such habitats. In order to co-ordinate conservation efforts it is essential to develop a global network of information. This can best be done through national and international policies being developed to conserve biological diversity.
A framework for the improved management of threatened species based on Population Viability Analysis (PVA)
Authors: P. Possingham H. , B. Lindenmayer D. , W. Norton T.
Published: May 2016

Considerable funding and effort is dedicated to the conservation and recovery of threatened species in Australia. We describe a series of five iterative steps that will improve the effectiveness of programmes for threatened species management. These steps are best integrated using Population Viability Analysis (PVA) in an approach to management where the key stages are completed concurrently. In this way management actions for the conservation of threatened species can be regularly assessed and upgraded as more information and improved computer simulation models become available.
Recent contraction of wet sclerophyll forest in the wet tropics of Queensland due to invasion by rainforest
Authors: N. Harrington G. , D. Sanderson K.
Published: May 2016

Vegetation maps were prepared from aerial photographs taken in 1943?45 and 1991?92 of three, widely separated areas of sclerophyll forest adjacent to the western edge of rainforest on granitic soils in north Queensland. Nine types of sclerophyll communities could be discerned from aerial photos and characterized by field measurement. Two types of Wet Sclerophyll Forest (WSFa and b) were separated on the species of tree composing the tallest stratum and these were subdivided according to whether the ground layer was dominated by grass or young rainforest. A related type showed large, residual Eucalyptus grandis emergent from mature rainforest. Closed canopy sclerophyll forest with no emergents (SF), sclerophyll woodland and Acaciaforest were also discerned. WSF was defined as having more than 30 per cent of the closed crown cover contributed by trees more than 35 m tall. During the 50-year study period rainforest invaded 70 per cent of WSFa (tallest stratum dominated by E. grandis), which principally occurs as a narrow strip along the rainforest margin, and 57 per cent of the adjacent WSFb (tallest stratum composed of mixed species). Grass would be quickly excluded from invaded areas and thereafter they would only burn under extreme atmospheric conditions. Because sclerophyll trees are unable to regenerate in shade and usually require fire to provide the appropriate conditions, a long-term transition to rainforest may ensue. The final stages of this transition were observed in areas that exhibited full-stature rainforest with large, relictual E. grandis emergents in 1943, but had disappeared by 1992. The initial cause of this vegetation transition is a fire-free period of sufficient length for rainforest tree seedlings to establish and suppress the grass layer. It is not known whether these vegetation changes represent a trend, possibly caused by a change a century ago from fire management by Aboriginal people to management for the cattle industry, or whether it is a temporary phase in the fire-induced, dynamic relationship between rainforest and sclerophyll vegetation. The current loss of WSF probably endangers the survival of a range of genetically endemic biota. Most groups are poorly known but the marsupial Yellowbellied Glider Petaurus australis reginae is totally dependent upon WSF and a number of vertebrates would probably go locally extinct if WSF is replaced by rainforest. WSF is the wettest part of the sclerophyll communities and probably acts as a refuge in times of unusual aridity. To maintain the WSF habitat, fire management is clearly indicated, but the intensity of fire required to reverse the advance of rainforest may be socially unacceptable to instigate or impossible to control if it occurs by accident.
The decline, response to fire, status and management of the Eastern Bristlebird
Authors: Baker Jack
Published: May 2016

The Eastern Bristlebird Dasyornis brachypterus is a threatened passerine, endemic to southeastern Australia. It is a cryptic, ground dwelling, semi-flightless inhabitant of dense, fire-prone vegetation and is usually only detected by its calls. The disjunct distribution suggests that they were once more numerous and their population continuous from southern Queensland to western Victoria. Their decline has been documented in historic and recent times. Habitat loss, nest desertion and fire have been implicated in the decline and extinction of local populations. Strongholds for the species are Barren Grounds Nature Reserve and Bherwerre Peninsula, 100 and 150 km south of Sydney respectively. At Barren Grounds, in the absence of recent fire, there were significant increases in the population between 1992 and 1996. There was a trend of increasing Eastern Bristlebird density with increasing fire-age of habitat and average density plateauing at two birds per 5 ha, 10 years after fire. At Nadgee, a coastal Nature Reserve on the New South Wales/Victorian border, the population appears to be recovering very slowly from severe wildfires in 1972 and 1980. At the beginning of 1996 there were less than 2 000 individual Eastern Bristlebirds occupying an area of approximately 100 km2. For the management of Eastern Bristlebirds, habitat manipulation using prescribed fire should not be undertaken unless site-specific population monitoring data demonstrate that it would be beneficial. Concentrations of Eastern Bristlebirds and potential fire refuges should be protected from unplanned fire. For prescription burns, potential escape routes need to be planned for Eastern Bristlebirds. The threatened status should be changed from Vulnerable to Endangered.