bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recolonization of regenerating open forest by terrestrial lizards following sand mining
Authors: TWIGG LAURIE E. , FOX BARRY J.
Published: July 2006

The terrestrial lizard fauna of a regenerating mining path situated in open forest on coastal sand dunes was surveyed by pitfall trapping. The regeneration age of the series of chronosequence plots used ranged from 3.9 to 15.9 years. No lizards were recorded on plots less than 5.9 years old. Only four species of lizard were regularly found on the mining path. The skink Ctenotus robustus was the first colonizer and attained peak abundance and biomass after 9 years’ regeneration. Amphibolurus muricatus and Ctenotus taeniolatus were less abundant than C. robustus and did not appear on the mining path until 9 to 11 years’ regeneration. The abundance of C. taeniolatus continued to increase up to the oldest age class (16 years). Linear multiple regression analysis showed that sparse patchy vegetation in the 0–1 m layer and the amount of live shrub cover jointly accounted for 72% of the variance in abundance and 68% of variance in biomass for C. robustus. Fifty percent of the variance in C. taeniolatus abundance was explained by the proportion of plant species endemic to forest, regeneration age and the patchiness in understorey vegetation height. However, 67% of C. taeniolatus biomass was accounted for by plant species richness, plant species diversity, and the proportion of endemic forest and heath plant species. Some lizard species recorded from the surrounding forest were not found on the mining path. Lizards appear to recolonize revegetated areas more slowly than some other animal groups; this ‘sensitivity’ implies that they can act as important ‘indicator species’ of successful regeneration in disturbed areas. The non‐linear response with time of some habitat variables makes it difficult to predict the time required for the complete rehabilitation of the mining path; however, it seems likely that a period well in excess of 20 years may be necessary before the lizard fauna on the mining path reaches premined levels.
The ecology of Lagarostrobos franklinii (Hook.f.) Quinn (Podocarpaceae) in Tasmania. 1. Distribution, floristics and environmental correlates
Authors: GIBSON N. , DAVIES J. , BROWN M.J.
Published: July 2006

A state‐wide survey of the endemic Tasmanian podocarp Lagarostrobos franklinii (Huon pine) resulted in the recognition of four major community types largely restricted to the river systems of western and southern Tasmania. Continuous variation was found between most of these communities. The floristic variability was found to be correlated with temperature, rainfall and geological gradients. It is suggested that the restricted nature of Huon pine distribution in Tasmania is associated with a slow terrestrial dispersal rate rather than a narrow fundamental niche. There is some evidence to suggest that the species has been further restricted by fire.
Decomposition of eucalypt litter on rehabilitated bauxite mines
Authors: WARD S. C. , MAJER J. D. , O'CONNELL A. M.
Published: July 2006

The initiation of nutrient cycling is important in developing a self‐sustaining ecosystem, where inputs of fertilizer are not required, on rehabilitated open‐cut mines. The loss of dry weight, surface area and nutrients from senescent jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) leaves enclosed in litterbags for 18 months were measured on 27 rehabilitated bauxite mines and in two jarrah forests on the Darling Plateau in Western Australia. Respiration and acetylene reduction by the litter were also determined. Linear trends were found between litter decomposition on rehabilitated mines and understorey cover density, litter cover and a measure of the effect of the revegetation on soil moisture. During decomposition, N was retained relative to litter dry weight and, in most cases, amounts of N increased. Losses of Ca and S were correlated with dry weight losses. Sodium, Cl, Mg and K were lost from the litter by leaching. Rehabilitation techniques, including sowing a legume understorey and replacement of the topsoil, should favour the development of nutrient cycling on mined areas.
The nutrient capital of indigenous Sorghum species and other understorey components of Savannas in north‐western Australia
Authors: COOK G. D. , ANDREW M. H.
Published: July 2006

Indigenous Sorghum species dominate the understorey of the savannas of tropical northwestern Australia. The nutrient capital of these grasses was investigated and the consequences for nutrient cycling, the effects of fire, and herbivory were discussed.

The macronutrient concentrations in two annual species, S. intrans and S. stipoideum indicated that their growth was nutrient limited. The breakdown of litter may provide up to one quarter of the N yield of S. intrans, hence losses of N due to dry season fires, which consume this litter, may reduce grass growth. However, this effect was not apparent after one fire. From the first sampling, approximately 60 days after germination, until maturity, the herbage of S. intrans and S. stipoideum contained insufficient N and P to maintain the liveweight of cattle. Translocation to the inflorescence during seed set left the herbage grossly deficient for livestock maintenance during the dry season. The relative lack of large native herbivores is consistent with this poor herbage quality.

Nutrient concentrations in the seeds of nine Sorghum species (including two perennials) were measured. The concentrations were relatively high, which accounts for the importance of the seeds of the indigenous Sorghum species for granivorous rodents, birds, and ants. Macro‐nutrient concentrations were similar in both annual and perennial species.
Coevolution of mistletoes and frugivorous birds?*
Authors: REID NICK
Published: July 2006

Small frugivorous birds that feed largely on the fruits of stem‐parasitic mistletoes have independently evolved in various parts of the world. Local populations of mistletoes may be dispersed almost exclusively by these birds. Four attributes of mistletoe dispersal systems may have enhanced the evolution of reciprocal dependence between mistletoes and specialized dispersers:

(1) Safe sites for mistletoe seeds (i.e. the young branches of a compatible host) are precisely defined in space and time.

(2) The viscidity of mistletoe seeds induces smaller dispersers to deposit seeds in safe sites.

(3) Frugivores differ markedly in the efficiency with which they disperse mistletoe seeds to safe sites.

(4) Relatively large viscid fruits and adaptive fruiting displays exclude or deter most members of the potential disperser guild.

Some birds have anatomical adaptations as a result of dietary specialization on mistletoe fruit, and some mistletoes have fruiting displays that target specialized birds or a narrow disperser spectrum. Coevolution between guilds of mistletoes and specialized dispersers is therefore probable. The uncoupled selective pressures that might have driven their coevolution are the mistletoes’ provision of fruit crops that are unavailable to more generalized frugivores, in return for seed dispersal to the small stems most suitable for infection. As in other mutualistic seed dispersal systems, phylogenetic, ecological and life history factors constrain the evolution of monophyletic interdependence, resulting in varying degrees and patterns of reciprocal specificity between mistletoes and dispersers.
Characteristics and abundance of vertebrate‐dispersed fruits in temperate wet sclerophyll forest in southeastern Australia
Authors: FRENCH KRISTINE
Published: July 2006

The diversity, abundance and display characteristics of plants producing fleshy fruits were recorded in wet sclerophyll forest near Melbourne, Victoria. Fruit characteristics and nutrient content were recorded for 14 species of fruits occurring in the forest and these characteristics compared with similar studies in north temperate and tropical regions. Plants producing fleshy fruits were confined to understorey layers and comprised 13.5% of the native vascular flora. Most species displayed fruits conspicuously by ripening brightly coloured fruits synchronously in large displays. Annual fruit production at three sites ranged from 6.98 to 37.01 kg/ha. Fruit mass, seed number and size were variable but the proportion of pulp per fruit remained remarkably consistent between species. Most fruit pulp contained high quantities of soluble carbohydrates and little lipid or protein. Fruits from wet sclerophyll forest did not differ from fruits from other geographic areas in eight characteristics measured. Although taxonomically distinct, the species in wet sclerophyll forest were not significantly different from other temperate fruits, suggesting that fruit characteristics are under the influence of factors other than phylogeny.
Predicting patterns of post‐fire germination in 35 eastern Australian Fabaceae
Authors: AULD TONY D. , O'CONNELL MICHAEL A.
Published: July 2006

Germination in 35 species from 15 legume genera of southeastern Australia was promoted by a heat treatment which broke the seed coatcaused dormancy. Once the critical temperature was reached, most seeds had their dormancy broken, independent of the duration of heating. Species fell into three classes according to whether their dormancy was broken by a temperature of 40, 60 or 80°C.

Highest germination in all species was achieved by heating in the temperature range 80–100°C, although long durations (120 min) at 100°C caused seed death in several species. At 120°C, seeds of most species were killed at all but one minute's duration. A proportion of seeds from 7 species (Acacia myrtifolia, Pultenaea daphnoides, P. incurvata, P. linophylla, P. polifolia, Dillwynia floribunda and Sphaerolobium vimineurn) was not killed at 120°C and had their dormancy broken. This proportion varied markedly and resultant germination levels were significantly less than those at 80 and 100°C, except in S. vimineum.

Between‐site variations in the 4 species tested (A. myrtifolia, A. suaveolens, A. terminalis and A. ulicifolia) were small. These variations concerned: (i) the minimum temperature required to break seed dormancy in 2 species: 60°C in one population of A. myrtifolia and A. suaveolens, and 80°C in the other; and (ii) the intensity of the germination response.

Duration of heating was less important than temperature as a determinant of germination. Ordination techniques revealed that results from one duration across temperatures were comparable with data from multiple durations. This has significant applications in studying rare species, where seed may be in short supply.

Predicted germination levels after a moderate intensity fire should far exceed those after a low intensity fire. Little germination was predicted for many species after a low intensity fire and for one species, A. elongata, no germination was predicted. The potential role of indicator species in relation to the maintenance of species in a community is suggested.
Effects of salt spray and sand burial on Spinifex sericeus R. Br.
Authors: MAZE K. M. , WHALLEY R. D. B.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Spinifex sericeus, a common coastal sand dune grass, typically exhibits decreased vigour in the more stabilized section of the dunes when compared with the active foredune. These differences in vigour appear to be related to different environmental conditions across the dunes such as sand burial and salt spray deposition, both generally decreasing with distance inland. An experiment following the fate of foliar and root applications of 22Na indicated that it may be taken up by the roots or the foliage and then translocated throughout the whole plant, and perhaps even extruded by the roots. Salt spray appeared to have a positive effect on the growth of S. sericeus when applied in conjunction with N and P but had no effect when N and P were not added. Adding acid‐washed or non acid‐washed foredune sand also resulted in a positive growth response. The results of these experiments indicate that the vigorous growth of S. sericeus on the dynamic sections of the foredunes is due to a stimulation of growth caused by sand deposition.
Canopy damage to native vegetation on the central coast of New South Wales: Current status and detection of future changes
Authors: MORRIS E. C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Canopy damage to coastal native vegetation was surveyed at Norah, Wybung and Wamberal Heads and at Little Beach on the central New South Wales coast in 1987. This preceded the commissioning of an ocean sewerage outfall at Norah Head in 1988, but postdated the commissioning of other outfalls in the region. Damage to the canopy of shrub species was assessed at the whole‐plant level using a visual score. The method of scoring for canopy damage was tested for repeatability between observers; the average deviation between means was 5%, and the maximum deviation was 10% of the value of the mean. Mean per cent canopy damage scored for shrubs of various species at these sites ranged from negligible to very heavy. Comparison between sites and aspects was limited to Banksia integrifolia. Stands of this species on the southern side of Norah and Wybung Heads had approximately double the canopy damage of those on the northern side; this difference was significant. To confirm the patterns of damage seen at the whole‐canopy level, the fate of tagged shoots of B. integrifolia was followed for 4 months. These shoots were also more damaged on the southern side than on the northern side of the two headlands. Analysis of wind speed and direction at Norah Head showed that the southern side of the headland received substantially more strong winds (>21 km h−1) than the northern side. Airborne salt spray is known to be carried mainly in winds above this speed. In cases where 20 or more individuals of a species were found at a site, mathematical models relating the canopy damage of each plant to wind exposure, distance from the sea, and slope were investigated. Of 15 such cases, 13 significant models were found, with exposure being the major significant factor in accounting for variation in the data. Distance from the sea was only significant twice, and slope not at all. The pattern of damage, and its relationship to wind speed, direction, and exposure, are consistent with salt‐spray being the major cause of leaf and shoot death at these sites. The sample sizes necessary to detect future changes of given magnitude to canopy damage were calculated.
Does grazing reduce survival of indigenous perennial grasses of the semi‐arid woodlands of western New South Wales?
Authors: GRICE A. C. , Barchia I.
Published: July 2006

AbstractExclosures were used to examine the impact of grazing upon the mortality patterns of populations of six indigenous grass species. The experiment compared unfenced areas with areas from which either sheep only or sheep, rabbits and kangaroos were excluded. There were large interspecific differences in mortality patterns, withStipa nitidaandAristida brownianahaving relatively high mortality rates andEragrostis eriopodahaving relatively low mortality rates. Grazing‐induced mortality was observed in treatment areas that were grazed by sheep, rabbits and kangaroos and in areas grazed only by rabbits and kangaroos. The short‐livedS. nitidaappears less likely to suffer grazing‐induced mortality than species of intermediate longevity such asMonachather paradoxa. These observations help explain the decline in endemic perennial grasses that has taken place in the vegetation of western New South Wales since European settlement. Management of these rangelands to encourage these grasses must consider total grazing pressure and not simply the impact of livestock.
Establishment of ectomycorrhizae on the roots of two species of Eucalyptus from fungal spores contained in the faeces of the long‐nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus)
Authors: CLARIDGE A. W. , Tanton M. T. , SEEBECK J. H. , Cork S. J. , CUNNINGHAM R. B.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The long‐nosed potoroo (Potorous tridactylus), a medium‐sized, ground‐dwelling marsupial, inhabits the foothills and coastal forests of southeastern mainland Australia. Faecal analysis confirmed the mycophagous habit of P. tridactylus at a eucalypt forest site in East Gippsland, Victoria; in one month, the spores of 33 different fungi were identified. The majority of species (27) were hypogeal or subhypogeal gasteromycetes that form ectomycorrhizae with forest trees and shrubs, and included the widespread and common Mesophellia pachytrix. The possible role of mycophagy in establishment of eucalypt‐fungal mycorrhizae was investigated in several ways. Fungal spores were viable after passage through the gut of P. tridactylus; application of spore‐bearing faeces to seedlings of Eucalyptus sieberi and Eucalyptus globoidea grown in sterile soil produced ectomycorrhizae. Spores of M. pachythrix were among the most common spores in these faeces and some of the resulting ectomycorrhizae were of the type expected from M. pachythrix. In contrast, direct application of M. pachythrix spores from sporocarp tissue to seedlings produced no ectomycorrhizae. Ectomycorrhizae also were established on seedlings grown in unsterilized forest soil, indicating that soil‐borne spores had been conditioned, either by passage through the gut of a mammal or some other means, for reaction with the roots of eucalypts. Addition of faeces improved root and shoot growth of seedlings, although we could not determine whether this was primarily due to the formation of ectomycorrhizae, the addition of nutrients in the faeces, or a combination of both. Potorous tridactylus may enhance the re‐establishment of mycorrhizal colonies in logged and/or burned forest sites by dispersing in its faeces, the spores of mycorrhizal fungi from sporocarps consumed within the disturbed area, as well as spores from sporocarps eaten in adjacent undisturbed habitat. In performing this function, P. tridactylus may also aid in the recovery of regenerating silvertop ash‐stringybark forests.
Temporal trends in plant species composition on mined sand dunes in Myall Lakes National Park, Australia
Authors: BUCKNEY R. T. , Morrison D. A.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The floristic composition of the vegetation of mined and unmined sand dunes at Bridge Hill, in Myall Lakes National Park, was studied from 1982–90 inclusive. Data from mined sites ranging in age from 2–15 years post mining, with replication of time since mining in both time and space, were incorporated in the study. The mined part of the Bridge Hill dune is very different in plant species composition compared with either the dune prior to mining or to the adjacent unmined dunes. The mined dune also displays a temporal development of species composition over the period 2–15 years post mining, the dominant trend being a reduction in similarity to that of the dune prior to mining. Mining resulted in significant increases in the abundance of six introduced species, and in significant differences in the abundance of 49% of the native species. Species richness and diversity increased during the period 2–15 years post mining, and a significant component of this could be attributed to the presence of the introduced species.
Consistently outstanding recruitment of five species of fish to a seagrass bed in Botany Bay, NSW
Authors: MCNEILL S. E. , Worthington D. G. , FERRELL D. J. , Bell J. D.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Variability in abundance of fish associated with beds of the seagrass Zostera capricorni was documented at 16 sites in NSW. Samples were collected from each site by seine net every 3 months for 2.5 years. One site had significantly greater abundances of recruits of five species of economically important fish during all three recruitment seasons. This site was within a small, constructed harbour in Botany Bay. Between June and March of each year abundances of five species (Acanthopagrus australis, Rhabdosargus sarba, Girella tricuspidata, Achoerodus viridis and Meuschenia trachylepis) were up to 73 times greater than abundances at the other 15 sites. However, at other times during the year, there was no significant difference between this site and the 15 others. Understanding the processes that contribute to the success of this modified site as a recruitment sink should aid in increasing the potential of other areas as fish nursery habitat, and contribute to the management and productivity of fish populations.
Fluctuations in the distributions and abundances of species in sublittoral kelp forests in New South Wales
Authors: KENNELLY S. J. , Underwood A. J.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Assemblages of macro‐ and microscopic species were sampled in two sublittoral kelp forests at each of four locations on the coast of central New South Wales. Assemblages were variable from site to site, both within and among locations. A quantified description of these habitats revealed complex patchiness at all spatial scales examined (among locations, between forests within each location and at scales of metres within forests). In addition, temporal changes in fauna and flora were variable from site to site. Of 38 taxa which showed detectable fluctuations in abundances, 26 showed trends unique to any particular forest and 11 showed consistent patterns in both forests within a location. Only juvenile kelp (Ecklonia radiata) showed similar fluctuations in abundance in both forests in most locations. Thus, the structure and dynamics of these systems vary and do not conform to predictions of simple models about processes in habitats dominated by one or a few large organisms. We conclude that when kelp forests are described using quantitative data at several spatially replicated scales, few general conclusions can be made about the structure of these assemblages. The implications of these results for studies of the effects of human and natural perturbations on these systems is discussed.
Palaeoecological analysis of an isolated stand of Nothofagus cunninghamii (Hook.) Oerst. in eastern Tasmania
Authors: HARLE K. J. , KERSHAW A. P. , MACPHAIL M. K. , NEYLAND M. G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Pollen analysis of the sediments of a small bog, supporting a stand of cool temperate rainforest in southeastern Tasmania, was undertaken in order to examine the history of the stand dominant, Nothofagus cunninghamii, presently growing outside its predicted climatic range. The pollen record covers at least the last 9000 years and reveals changes in the bog and in the surrounding vegetation, although pollen percentages of N. cunninghamii are sufficiently high to indicate that the species could have had a local presence throughout the recorded period. It is likely that this N. cunninghamii stand is relictual, surviving not only Holocene climates, but also the cool dry conditions of the last glacial period. This ability to survive changing and sometimes very unfavourable climates leads to the conclusion that great caution must be exercised in using present climates alone to predict the potential distribution of N. cunninghamii.
Pollen as a marker for migration of Helicoverpa armigera and H. punctigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) from western Queensland
Authors: GREGG P. C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Pollen carried on the probosces of Helicoverpa punctigera (Wallengren) and H. armigera (Hübner) trapped in western Queensland and in cropping areas of eastern Australia in September 1989 and 1990 was identified by scanning electron microscopy. Ninety‐five per cent of moths carried pollen. A total of 19 morphological pollen species’, representing 14 plant families, was found. Up to six pollen species were found on individual moths, and 61% carried more than one. Pollen from plants unsuitable for larval survival was common. Pollen loads generally reflected the abundance of locally flowering plants, but there were exceptions which suggested migration. Pollen of Ptilotus (Amaranthaceae), Velleia (Goodeniaceae) and Eremophila (Myoporaceae), and the Asteraceae (Tubuliflorae) were found on moths trapped in the east. These plants either did not occur in the areas where the moths were caught, or did not flower there at the time the moths were caught. However, they were abundant in possible source areas such as western Queensland. Among moths caught in eastern regions, 30% of H. punctigera and 18% of H. armigera carried pollen from such plants. The value and limitations of moth‐borne pollen as a marker for migration are discussed.
Germination and seedling development of two mistletoes,Amyema preissiiandLysiana exocarpi: Host specificity and mistletoe‐host compatibility
Authors: VAN ZHAOGUI
Published: July 2006

AbstractPotential hosts had no effect on seed germination of the mistletoes,Amyema preissiiandLysiana exocarpi, but affected seedling holdfast formation and leaf emergence. ForA. preissii, formation of the holdfast and emergence of leaves occurred most rapidly in seedlings on its usual host,Acacia nyssophylla. Among the six species inoculated withL. exocarpiseeds, formation of the holdfast was quickest onA. nyssophyllaandMyoporum platycarpum(usual hosts). Emergence of leaves was quickest in seedlings onA. nyssophylla, and on two non‐hosts,Eucalyptus oleosaandExocarpos aphyllus. For both mistletoe species, seedling mortality was high during the first 3 months, with considerable variation among different host species. After 6 months, little or no mortality was recorded on seedlings growing on their usual hosts. In contrast, seedlings on non‐host species suffered continuing mortality and none survived the study period, except for 13% of theL. exocarpiseedlings, which persisted onGeijera linearifoliain a moribund state.

The growth of seedlings on host and non‐host species varied markedly. After 35 and 47 months, the average length of the longest shoot of two cohorts ofA. preissiiseedlings was 22 and 75 cm, respectively. After 47 months, the average length of the longest shoot ofL. exocarpiseedlings onA. nyssophylla, H. oleifoliumandM. platycarpumwas 57, 38 and 41 cm, respectively. For both mistletoe species, a proportion of individuals on host species flowered and subsequently set fruits within 3 years. In comparison, none of the plants sown on the non‐host species grew beyond seedling stage. The inability ofA. preissiiandL. exocarpito establish on non‐host species was attributed to mistletoe‐host incompatibility.
The implications of palaeontological evidence for theories of ecological communities and species richness
Authors: WALTER G. H. , PATERSON H. E. H.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Palaeontological evidence raises several questions that relate to current explanations of ecological communities, to the classification of communities and to interpretations of species richness. The first question relates to the stability of species detected in the fossil record. Coupled with that is the issue of incidental association of species on the same trophic level through differential effects of climatic change on the different species. Such observations are seen to support the ‘individualistic’ concept of communities. Recent statements about this concept leave unresolved questions about the acquisition of adaptation, and about the place of adaptation theory in theories of ecological communities and interpretations of ‘regional species richness’. At issue is whether there is justification for continuing to classify communities as a basis for understanding them. There is good reason to reject this approach for one in which questions about communities and ‘local’ and ‘regional’ species richness are replaced by more specific and basic questions about the relationship between adaptation, distribution and abundance, and ecological interactions. Some recent efforts to incorporate species theory into community theory fail because their basis remains the flawed concept of ‘local community’.
Mycophagy among Australian mammals
Authors: CLARIDGE A. W. , MAY T. W.
Published: July 2006

AbstractThis review provides a synthesis, from published and unpublished sources, of records of mycophagy (fungus‐feeding) by Australian mammals. Mycophagy is shown to be widespread among Australian mammals, paralleling the previously well‐documented situation in North America. Mycophagy appears to be most prevalent within the Potoroidae (rat‐kangaroo family) but has also been recorded for a variety of other mammals. Information is presented on the classification, morphology and ecology of the fungi consumed, on the nutritional benefits (or otherwise) of mycophagy, and on the role of mammals in spore dispersal. Fungi whose sporocarps are hypogeal (truffles, false‐truffles and sporocarpic Endogonaceae) and which enter into mycorrhizal relationships with plants predominate among the species recorded in mammal diets.
Survival of serotinous seedbanks during bushfires: Comparative studies of Hakea species from southeastern Australia
Authors: BRADSTOCK R. A. , GILL A. M. , HASTINGS S. M. , MOORE P. H. R.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The study assessed the survival, during bushfires, of seedbanks of six serotinous Hakea species found in the Sydney region of southeastern Australia. The survival of seeds was examined when fruits were heated in a muffle furnace at ambient temperatures ranging from 200–800°C for 1 min. For each species, fruit weight and dimensions of fruit walls were measured to characterize insulation. A field experiment was performed to examine the survival of the serotinous seedbank of Hakea dactyloides in a bushfire. Ambient and internal fruit temperatures were recorded during the fire. The viability of seeds from fruits exposed to the fire was tested and compared with an unburnt sample.

Viability of seeds within fruits exposed in the furnace varied according to species. Seeds of large fruited species such as Hakea constablei and Hakea propinqua survived, whereas those of the small fruited species Hakea teretifolia and H. dactyloides suffered significant mortality. The threshold temperature for death in four species was linearly related to the thickness of lower and lateral fruit walls, and to dry weight of fruits.

Internal and external temperatures of fruits decreased with increasing height on experimental H. dactyloides plants in the field. High levels of mortality (relative to the unburnt control) corresponded with fire temperature maxima greater than 400°C (external) and greater than 60°C (internal). In general, these temperatures occur when shrub crowns burn. A high risk of death for H. dactyloides, H. teretifolia and H. sericea seeds will result because fruits of these species have thin walls.
Ecology of the corticolous lichens on Pinus radiata at five sites of increasing age near Linton, Victoria, Australia
Authors: GRIFFIN M. , CONRAN J. G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Thirteen lichen species were studied on trunk segments of Pinus radiata D.Don between 1.0 and 1.5m above‐ground from five plantings of known, different ages near Linton, Victoria. Significant frequency and size‐class differences were found for most species between sites. These parameters generally increased up to 32 years, and then either declined or showed evidence of recolonization by small thallus size‐classes in some species. Nevertheless, only relict populations for any species were present at 52 years. Most species had no aspect preferences; only three species had a significant majority of their thalli on the western trunk face. Site‐species association frequency analyses clustered, as pairs, the 11 and 52, and 16 and 39 year old sites. These site patterns were correlated with a number of environmental factors as well as species abundance at the sites, but there is also a possible response by the community to bark shedding, seen after 32 years, with a return to earlier colonization states in the system. This cyclic pattern is similar to a competitive hierarchy succession, although due to accelerating chronic disturbance (bark shedding) the system may be subject to secondary succession and, ultimately, to severe degradation.
Survival of kelp adjacent to areas grazed by sea urchins in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: ANDREW N. L.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The sea urchin Centrostephanus rodgersii grazes areas of reef free of large brown algae (the barrens habitat). Survival of the kelp Ecklonia radiata adjacent to patches of barrens habitat was compared to that in the centre of kelp forests (centre) and edges of forests not adjacent to patches of barrens habitat (ungrazed). Estimates of rates of instantaneous mortality for tagged plants, as described by the slope of a negative exponential model (± 95% CI) were: barrens, 0.078 ± 0.004; centre, 0.051 ± 0.004 and ungrazed edge, 0.065 ± 0.007. Survival of plants was greatest in the middle of forests and least on the margins of patches of barrens habitat. A significant proportion of mortality in the barrens and centre positions was caused by herbivorous fish. When these plants were excluded from analysis there were no significant differences in survival between the barrens and ungrazed positions. It is concluded that C. rodgersii has little impact on the abundance of Ecklonia outside sharply defined boundaries.
Dynamics and population structure of Acacia victoriae Benth.
Authors: GRICE A. C. , WESTOBY MARK , TORPY CATHY
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The indigenous arid zone shrub Acacia victoriae grows rapidly and is relatively shortlived. The relationship between population structure, growth and mortality was examined by annual monitoring of over 1200 plants at twenty sites from 1978 to 1981. Sites were reassessed in 1992. Plants of similar size varied greatly in growth rate. Annual mortality ranged up to 16%. Of 752 plants alive in 1981, 206 (27%) survived until 1992. A transition matrix model, based on growth and mortality over the 3 year period, predicted a size‐class frequency distribution after 12 years that was significantly different from the one observed in 1992. The proportion of large plants present in 1992 was higher than predicted. The model's prediction that a large proportion of plants would remain in the lower size‐classes was reliable. We concluded that size is not a good indicator of age and that it is unreliable to identify cohorts of this species by examining size‐class frequency distributions.
Light climate as a factor in the morphological variation of Atherosperma moschatum in a Tasmanian forest
Authors: OLESEN T.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
The growth of saplings of Atherosperma moschatum within a Tasmanian forest during 1987/88 was negatively correlated with canopy closure. The dry weights and specific leaf weights of new leaves were also negatively correlated with canopy closure, but leaf areas showed a maximum at an intermediate canopy closure. Leaf chlorophyll concentration was positively correlated with canopy closure. Internode length was not correlated with canopy closure, but the ratio of leaf dry weight to internode length was negatively correlated with canopy closure. These results indicate that the load of photosynthetically active radiation may be a major determinant of the variation in plant development.
The rapid and long‐lasting growth of grasses following small falls of rain on stony downs in the arid interior of Australia
Authors: HUNTER D. M. , MELVILLE M. D.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Stony downs consist of grassy areas that alternate with areas that have a substantial stone cover. The stone‐covered areas are impermeable, and most rain falling on them runs off, substantially increasing the effective rainfall in adjacent grassy areas. As a result, 20–25 mm of rain on stony downs wetted the soil around the grass to a depth of 140–170 mm and allowed sustained grass response. This is much less than the 35–40 mm of rain required for the same response on red clay or grey clay plains.

Grasses respond very rapidly after rain. Some have green shoots the day after rain, and all have responded by the second day. Ephemerals dry off in 4–6 weeks, but most tussock grasses still have some green foliage 8–10 weeks after rain. Deeper rooted tussock grasses remain green for so long because most of the moisture that reaches deeper roots after rain remains there. Most moisture loss is through the soil surface and is recognizable as a drying front that descends through the soil profile. Soil above the drying front is nearly air dry (<5% moisture) while soil below the front has substantial moisture (14–16%). By about a month after rain in summer, the drying front is at a depth of about 80–120 mm. This is near the tips of the roots of ephemeral grasses and the ephemerals then dry off rapidly. Only the tips of the leaves of deep rooted grasses like Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp.) dry off. Their leaves continue to remain mostly green during most of the second month after rain and they do not dry off completely until the third month when the drying front reaches the bottom of the main root system.
Postdispersal survivorship of north Queensland rainforest seeds and fruits: Effects of forest, habitat and species
Authors: OSUNKOYA OLUSEGUN O.
Published: July 2006

AbstractDiaspore (seed and/or fruit) survivorship of 12 species of North Queensland rainforest trees was monitored over a 4 week period in two rainforests on the Atherton Tableland, north Queensland, Australia, with replicated sites in forest interiors, canopy gaps, forest edges and adjacent pastures. General linear modelling was used to estimate the relative importance of forest site, habitat, species and diaspore type on survival.

The probability of survival varied significantly among species, between habitat, forest and diaspore types. Survival averaged 41.2% at day 28, was greater in one forest (Curtain Fig, 56.1%) than the other (Lamins Hill, 25.3%) and was apparently inversely related to the abundance of rodents. In both forests, survival declined in the order: pasture ≥ forest edge ≥ forest interior = canopy gap. A lack of significant difference between the forest interior and canopy gap is consistent with findings in other rainforest sites within Australia, but contrasts with most results from other continents. The study also indicated that diaspore weight was an important intrinsic variable affecting survival, the predators (mostly rodents) taking small to moderately large diaspores rather than the very large ones.
Small‐ and broad‐scale patterns of distribution of the upper‐shore littorinid Nodilittorina pyramidalis in New South Wales
Authors: CHAPMAN M. G.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
mall‐scale (within‐shore) and broad‐scale (among‐shore) patterns of distribution, abundance and size structure of Nodilittorina pyramidalis were measured on a number of shores in New South Wales. This species showed significant patchiness in distribution and size structure. The mean density and mean shell length of snails differed among patches of shore only a few metres apart, among different heights on the shore and from shore to shore. Differences in densities appeared to be strongly correlated to the distribution of particular microhabitats, especially cracks, crevices and pits within the rock surface. This relationship and the presence or absence of these microhabitats appeared to determine the patterns of distribution of this species within and among different shores. The sizes of snails were not correlated with densities of Nodilittorina nor with the coexisting species, Littorina unifasciata, in the populations examined. Processes influencing the distribution and abundance of Nodilittorina were not investigated, but the patterns of distribution found on these shores suggest that recruitment was limited to areas of topographic complexity, ft also seems likely that limited dispersal by the adult snails retain them within restricted patches on the shore.
The role of ecotoxicity testing in assessing water quality
Authors: CHAPMAN J. C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Ecotoxicology provides a basis for making decisions on the likely impact of a chemical or effluent on the aquatic environment. It encompasses laboratory ecotoxicity tests of various types to explore relationships between exposure and effect under controlled laboratory conditions, through to studies of the effects of chemicals or effluents under a variety of ecological conditions in complex field ecosystems. This paper will focus on the value of laboratory ecotoxicity tests as a tool in assessing water quality. Laboratory tests are valuable (i) in deriving and assessing water quality criteria, (ii) for screening and ranking chemicals and predicting their hazard and risk, (iii) for establishing dilution levels of chemicals or effluents prior to discharge into water bodies, (iv) in determining cause‐effect relationships in post‐impact studies, and (v) for establishing and validating field bioindicators. Both the advantages and deficiencies of using ecotoxicological testing for these purposes are illustrated from research with pesticides, metals and sediments. Use of a combination of both laboratory‐ and field‐based ecotoxicology studies is important to gain a full understanding of the effects of chemicals at the ecosystem level.
Selection of a suitable cladoceran species for toxicity testing in turbid waters
Authors: ANDERSON‐CARNAHAN LINDA , FOSTER SHARYN , THOMAS MARTIN , KORTH WOLFGANG , BOWMER KATHLEEN H.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Two Australian cladocerans, Moina australiensis Sars and a species of Ceriodaphnia, were evaluated as possible biological indicator organisms to assess the toxicity of irrigation supply and drainage water of the Murrumbidgee and Coleambally Irrigation Areas. M. australiensis, being large (∼2000 μm) and orange, was initially chosen to overcome visibility problems in highly turbid Australian inland waters. However, the organism responded erratically in culture. Mortality was high and neonate production was unpredictable when cultured under recommended United States Environmental Protection Agency protocols. Attempts to improve culture performance by optimizing food (quality and quantity), water (control source, hardness, volume) and temperature were only marginally successful. Similar difficulties were not evident when Ceriodaphnia sp. was used as the test organism. Although Ceriodaphnia sp. is small (∼1000 μm), grey and more difficult to see in turbid water its responses were more predictable and reliable than those of M. australiensis. Results of initial trials comparing the two organisms suggest that Ceriodaphnia sp. was a better test organism and more suited to local requirements.
Rapid assessment of rivers using macroinvertebrates: A procedure based on habitat‐specific sampling, family level identification and a biotic index
Authors: CHESSMAN BRUCE C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
This paper describes a simple and inexpensive procedure for the rapid biological assessment of water quality in rivers and streams in eastern Australia. The procedure involves the standardized collection of samples of 100 macroinvertebrates from defined habitat types within a water body. Specimens are identified to family level only and a biotic index is calculated. Proposed future testing and evaluation are described, and the limitations of the rapid approach are discussed.
Effects of fire frequency on plant species composition of sandstone communities in the Sydney region: Inter‐fire interval and time‐since‐fire
Authors: MORRISON DAVID A. , CARY GEOFFREY J. , PENGELLY STUART M. , ROSS DAVID G. , MULLINS BRUCE J. , THOMAS COLLETTE R. , ANDERSON TIMOTHY S.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
Fire frequency is the number of fires experienced by a particular community within a given time period. This concept can potentially be resolved into a number of interacting variables, including: time since the most recent fire, the length of the inter‐fire intervals, and the variability of the length of the inter‐fire intervals. We estimated the effects of these three variables on the floristic composition of 65 samples from dry sclerophyll vegetation with different fire histories in Brisbane Water, Ku‐ring‐gai Chase and Royal National Parks near Sydney.

Our analyses suggest that fire frequency may account for about 60% of the floristic variation among our samples. They confirm the hypothesis that the recent (<30 years) fire frequency produces effects on floristic composition of fire‐prone communities that can recognizably be attributed both to the time since the most recent fire and to the length of the intervals between fires. These effects are equal in magnitude but are different in the nature of the floristic variation they are associated with. Increasing time‐since‐fire is associated with a decline in the evenness of fire‐tolerant species, indicating that fewer of these species come to dominate the community in the prolonged absence of fire. Herbs and small shrubs decrease in abundance, while larger shrubs increase in abundance. Inter‐fire intervals of decreasing length are associated with a decrease in the evenness of the fire‐sensitive species, particularly those large Proteaceae shrubs that often dominate the community biomass in dry sclerophyll shrublands of southeastern Australia.

Furthermore, the variation associated with inter‐fire intervals is not necessarily solely related to the shortest inter‐fire interval, but is related to combinations of inter‐fire intervals through time. Thus, increasing variability of the length of the inter‐fire intervals is associated with an increase in the species richness of both fire‐sensitive and fire‐tolerant species, implying that it may be variation of the inter‐fire intervals through time that is primarily responsible for maintaining the presence of a wide variety of plant species in a particular community. Our results also suggest that the floristic variation associated with different inter‐fire intervals decreases with increasing time‐since‐fire.
2nd World Congress of Herpetology
Authors: JEHLE ROBERT , HÖDL WALTER , THONKE AMELI
Published: July 2006

Abstract
During a long‐term study of the amphibian fauna on an artificial island near Vienna (Austria), one isolated site was completely encircled with a permanent drift fence and pitfall traps. Eleven amphibian species occurred at the study site. For the Common Spadefoot Toad (Pelobates fuscus) and for the Danube Crested Newt (Triturus dobrogicus). individuals could be recognized by photographing the highly variable dorsal/ventral patterns. Daily patrols of the drift fence, for 6 years since 1986, enabled us to monitor the demography and dynamics of these two species. For T. dobrogicus, the adult part of the censused population decreased from 207 to 87 individuals during the first 2 years of investigation and then remained stable. Pelobates fuscus showed a constant decrease over 6 years, from 626 to 62 individuals. Juveniles were produced annually; a massive increase in this age class was observed for both species during the period of investigation. Triturus dobrogicus showed higher adult survival than P. fuscus. The constancy of several population parameters of both species may reflect the stability of the cultured parkland habitat in which the study site is located.