bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Considerations of the Biological Significance of Some Volatile Constituents of Grape (Vitis spp)
Authors: Hardie WJ , Obrien TP
Published: December 2005

The intensity and diversity of volatile constituents in the fruit of grape (Vitis spp.)
cultivars assume importance to humans as sources of aroma and flavour of wine. These
volatile constituents include hydrocarbons, esters, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols and
compounds of miscellaneous structure (Schreier 1979). Their determination has been
based invariably on juice expressed by maceration of the fruit or its parts and usually
by chromatographic analysis of headspace or solvent extracts. Many of these constituents
are common to most cultivars, and many are probably the products of hydrolytic
andlor oxidative reactions resulting from the disruption of the internal
compartmentation of the plant cells. For example, six carbon aldehydes form readily
from unsaturated fatty acids under such conditions (Schreier 1979).
While some of the volatile constituents of grape juice can therefore be considered
products of cellular disorganisation, others are clearly products under genetic control,
particularly those compounds associated with specific cultivars. In other biotic systems
compounds of this latter group are now known to have important functions not associated
directly with primary metabolism and have thus become known as secondary
metabolites. Their adaptive value seems to rest with a role in ecological interactions with
other plants, animals andlor the physical environment.
Disparate Style Lengths Contribute to Isolation of Species in Rhododendron
Authors: Williams EG , Rouse JL
Published: December 2005

For a group of closely related Rhododendron species in section Vireya, it is shown that success of
interspecific pollinations is significantly dependent on male/female style length ratio (SLR), and apparently
independent of whether both species belong to the same taxonomic subsection. Crosses with
SLR < 0.2 or SLR > 6 were unsuccessful, with the probability of success increasing as SLR approached
1.0. When SLR was < 0.2 pollen tubes of the shorter-styled species were unable to reach the ovary.
When SLR was > 5-6, pollen tubes of the longer-styled species penetrated deeply into the ovary but were
rarely observed to enter ovules. Disparate style lengths are therefore a major incongruity factor among
Vireya rhododendrons, and may contribute to species isolation.
Floret Opening in Banksia menziesii R.Br.; The Importance of Nectarivorous Birds
Authors: Ramsey MW
Published: December 2005

The rates and causes of floret opening in Banksia menziesii were examined in banksia woodland near
Perth, Western Australia. On average, 40-60 florets opened per 24 h but this rate was highly variable
over the flowering of individual inflorescences. The ages of inflorescences did not greatly influence the
rate of floret opening, although fewer florets opened towards the end of flowering. Floret opening
occurred predominantly during the day. The numbers of florets opening were similar in wet and dry
weather conditions. Florets opened mainly in response to foraging by nectarivorous birds
(Meliphagidae) but not honey bees. This would result in more effective pollen transfer to potential avian
vectors which may enhance reproductive success.
The Population Biology of a Smut Fungus, Ustilago spinificis Ludw. II. Isozyme Polymorphism and Geographic Differentiation
Authors: Andrews R , Kirby GC , Adams M
Published: December 2005

Isozyme variation was surveyed at 17 loci in 39 strains of Ustilago spinificis collected from all regions
of the species range from Western Australia to New Zealand. Only two polymorphisms were observed,
one restricted to eastern Victoria and the other more widespread. Heterozygosity (0.03) was low in the
species. There was no evidence that geographically isolated populations of this species were genetically
differentiated to any significant extent.
The Morphology and Taxonomic Position of Tasmannia glaucifolia (Winteraceae), a New Australian Species
Authors: Sampson FB , Williams JB , Woodland PS
Published: December 2005

Tasmannia glaucifolia J . B. Williams, sp. nov., which occurs at altitudes of 1250-1530 m on basalt derived
soils near Point Lookout and Barrington Tops, N.S.W., differs from all other Australian species
of the genus in possessing a papillate lower epidermis and distinctive cuticular striations on the upper
epidermis of the leaf as well as having mostly apetalous flowers. Comparisons made with other Australian
species on leaf anatomy, floral morphology and pollen sculpture, and observations of putative
natural hybrids of T. glaucifolia and T. stipitata (Vickery) A. C. Smith, are used to assess relationships.
The Survival and Population Response to Frequent Fires of Two Woody Resprouters Banksia serrata and Isopogon anemonifolius
Authors: Bradstock RA , Myerscough PJ
Published: December 2005

Plants of B. serrata and I. Anemonifolius resprout after fire, although the species differ in morphology
(single-stemmed small tree, multistemmed low shrub respectively). If fires occur before newly established plants are fire-tolerant, populations will decline. The age of first fire tolerance was found to be
lower in B. serrata (6 years) than in I. Anemonifolius (about 13 years). Rates of survival between and
during fires were measured in the field along with rates of stem regrowth in fire-tolerant B. serrata
juveniles. These results were used to predict rates of population decline under repeated fires sufficiently
closely spaced to prevent the survival of newly established genets.
In both species, juveniles were more prone to death than adults in fires and high-intensity fires caused
most deaths. In B. serrata, adult stems (>2.0 cm d.b.h.) are mostly fire-tolerant, but fires less than 10
years apart can prevent many juveniles which survive from reaching adulthood. This restriction is less
likely in I. Anemonifolius. As a result stands of B. serrata may decline more rapidly than
I. Anemonifolius under 5-year fire cycles. I. Anemonifolius populations, however, may be more prone
to decline when the interval between fires is slightly longer (e.g. 10 years) because lignotubers in young
juveniles develop at a slower rate than in B. serrata. Extinction or substantial depletions of adult
numbers may be approached in stands of either species after 50 years under some repeated 5- or 10-year
fire cycles. The rate of such declines will depend directly on the structure of populations (proportions
of adults and juveniles).
Declines in populations of these resprouters may be likely under current fire regimes within the
Sydney region of New South Wales, although these species are more likely to persist through long runs
of frequent fire (<lo year interval) than some cohabiting species of obligate seeders.
Distribution and Impact of Armillaria luteobubalina in the Eucalyptus marginata Forest of South-Western Australia
Authors: Shearer BL , Tippett JT
Published: December 2005

Armillaria luteobubalina is a widespread primary pathogen in the Eucalyptus marginata forest of south-western Australia. Over 200 infection centres were identified during the 5-year period between 1981 and
1985. The fungus sporulated during June and July, usually from roots but sometimes from stems (e.g.
E. calophylla). Armillaria luteobubalina basidiomes were found originating from roots of 34 plant
species, with greatest incidence on roots of E. marginata. Root systems were excavated and patterns of
A . Luteobubalina invasion recorded. Rhizomorphs were not found and fungal spread between hosts was
via root to root contacts, Variation in host species' susceptibility to the fungus was reflected in different
patterns of xylem compartmentalisation and variable amounts of cambial damage. The degree of resistance expressed at the collar or lower stem determined the fate of individuals of the various species. Lack
of resistance in Eucalyptus wandoo to tangential spread of A. luteobubalina often resulted in death by
the time columns of decay had advanced into the lower stem or butt. Banksia grandis, E. calophylla,
E. gomphocephala, and E. marginata resisted to varying degrees. Inverted V-shaped lesions, often mis-
taken for fire scars, were evidence of the ability of E. gomphocephala and E. marginata individuals to
resist tangential spread and prevent girdling of stems. In stems of E. calophylla, lesions did not have
a definite V shape, decay penetrated deeper and the fungus persisted longer than in those of
E. marginata. Host mortality following infection was greater in the intermediate- and low-rainfall zones
of the eastern E. marginata forest than in the high-rainfall zone to the west.
Preliminary Biogeographic Analysis of the Northern Territory Vascular Flora
Authors: Bowman DMJ , Wilson BA , Dunlop CR
Published: December 2005

The Northern Territory vascular flora is composed of 190 families, 979 genera and 3411 species; 5.2%
of the species are naturalised exotics. The native flora is equally dominated by Pan-tropic and Australasian
genera (23%), followed by Old World Tropic (16%), Indomalaysian (14%) and Cosmopolitan
(13%) genera. The northernmost and southernmost 5° latitude of the Northern Territory were cornpared.
These environmental extremes have fewer taxa in large families and genera, and the northern
section has many more families and genera with few taxa than the southern end of the Northern
Territory. The majority of the genera from both extremes have tropical affinities. Analysis of three
published schemes that subjectively regionalised the Northern Territory showed that all the schemes are
imperfect, as some of the within-scheme regions were found to have statistically similar generic composition.
Objective classification of the generic composition of 0.5 x 0.5° grid cells and the specific
composition of 1.0 x 1.5° grid cells, based on Northern Territory herbarium records, produced largely
coherent spatial groups with ecological reality.
Comparison of these two classifications with existing regionalisations revealed that Barlow's scheme
best approximates them, although it is not detailed enough in the area north of 15°S. latitude and does
separate the MacDonnell Ranges from the surrounding lowlands in central Australia. Comparison of
the species classification with two objective regionalisations based on the recorded species distributions
in two widespread genera (Acacia and Eucalyptus) revealed that the latter forms regions of a very
general nature. One feature common to classifications based upon 1 : 250 000 map sheets is the floristic
dichotomy at 17-18°S. The analyses presented here are preliminary because of the variable and incomplete
collecting that has occurred throughout the Northern Territory. Accurate regionalisations can
follow only after much more systematic fieldwork and collecting. This will be achieved by the current
integrated Northern Territory vegetation mapping program.
Extrafloral Nectaries and Pollination of Acacia pycnantha Benth by Birds
Authors: Vanstone VA , Paton DC
Published: December 2005

Acacia pycnantha secreted extrafloral nectar during winter. This coincided with flowering and not with
herbivore damage to phyllodes. Phyllodes with axillary racemes or phyllodes towards the tips of
branches were more likely to have nectar secretions than phyllodes without axillary racemes or away
from the tips of branches. Although most phyllodes were damaged by herbivores to some extent, this
damage had occurred prior to the secretion of extrafloral nectar in winter. Further damage to phyllodes
was negligible during winter.
A variety of birds, including silvereyes and several species of honeyeaters and thornbills, consumed
extrafloral nectar and in the process brushed against inflorescences. The activity of these birds in Acacia
pycnantha, relative to their use of other plants, increased during the period of nectar secretion. When
birds were excluded from flowering branches by mesh, pod production was significantly reduced. Natural
rates of pod production were low and variable. These observations and results strengthen the role
of birds as pollinators of Acacia pycnantha and we argue that these extrafloral secretions aid pollination
and not reduction in herbivore damage in Acacia pycnantha.
Fire and the Vegetation Composition and Structure of Sub-Tropical Heathlands in Southeastern Queensland
Authors: McFarland DC
Published: December 2005

Six heathland sites were studied in Cooloola National Park, south-eastern Queensland. Vegetation
composition (species present and numbers) and structure (plant density, cover, height and vertical foliage
density) were examined at each site with respect to time since last fire (0.5-10.5 years) and the two
recognised microhabitat types (dry and wet). No significant change in species numbers or composition
was detected in sites more than 1 year after fire, although the changing physical status (density and cover)
of some plants could give the impression of species being 'lost' or 'gained' over time. On the basis of
the structural attributes of the heathlands, and the maintenance of several obligate seed regenerator
species, a minimum fire-free interval of 8 or 10 years is suggested for subtropical heathlands. Results
from this study are compared with data collected from other Australian heathlands. In composition and
structure, the temporal responses to fire in the Cooloola heathlands are similar to those in southern
heathlands, albeit occurring at a possibly faster rate.
Dawn Water Potential and Root Depth of Trees and Understorey Species in Southwestern Australia
Authors: Crombie DS , Tippett JT , Hill TC
Published: December 2005

Water relations of selected tree and understorey species in the jarrah forest of south-western Australia
were studied during summer drought and the results related to root morphology. Seasonal patterns of
predawn water potential (Ψp) differed between species according to root depth and between sites according
to average annual rainfall. Dawn water potentials fell most rapidly and by the greatest amount in
plants with the shallowest roots. Dawn water potentials of medium and deep rooted species were not
consistently different. Separation of Ψp between sites of different annual rainfall was less marked than
was separation by root depth. Changes in Ψp, were consistent with a top-to-bottom drying of the soil
profiles. We suggest that measurements of Ψp of plants of appropriate root depth can be used to
monitor the drying of soils as an alternative to more expensive mechanical and electrical methods.
Seasonal Growth and Mortality of the Pitchers of the Albany Pitcher Plant, Cephalotus follicularis Labill
Authors: Clarke SA
Published: December 2005

Growth, size and mortality of pitchers, and volume of their fluid contents were examined in the endemic
Albany pitcher plant Cephalotus follicularis in relation to exposure, and age of the pitchers, and the
time of year. C. follicularis had its growth season in spring and summer, between late October and
February. Mortality was greatest in 'Year 2 or Older' pitchers, and greater in exposed pitchers in both
age classes. The highest mortality was recorded between December and February. The pitchers opened
when growth had finished, and their size was independent of age and year. There was no difference in
size between sheltered localities, but one exposed locality had pitchers that were significantly larger than
those of other localities. The pitchers contained fluid during development while the lid was closed which
suggested that, initially, the fluid was a plant secretion. There was a significant difference in fluid
volumes between shaded and exposed pitchers in late summer but these differences did not exist in spring
following the winter rains.
Polyploid Distribution and Seed Dormancy in Relation to Provenance Rainfall in the Digitaria milanjiana Complex
Authors: Hacker JB
Published: December 2005

Chromosome numbers were counted in 72 accessions in the Digitaria milanjiana complex and 2 of D. macroblephara from contrasting climates in Africa; 18 were diploids, 38 tetraploids, and 18 hexaploids. Higher polyploids were mostly from lower rainfall provenances. Diploids were mostly accessions which had been attributed to other species in pre-1982 classifications but which are now considered to be synonyms of D. milanjiana. Some 29 accessions, including diploids, tetraploids and hexaploids from low-rainfall and high-rainfall provenances at equatorial or near-tropical latitudes were grown and seed was harvested on 2 occasions (Jan. and Mar. 1987). Seed was treated at alternating temp. of 30/25°C or constant 60°C for 0, 2, 6, 10 or 16 weeks and then germinated. Percentage germination increased over time for all accessions, from 1% at harvest to 26% at 16 weeks. Germination was markedly lower in accessions from low-rainfall (14%) than high-rainfall (33% at 16 weeks) provenances. Similarly, percentage germination was lower in hexaploids (16%) than tetraploids (26%) and lower in tetraploids than diploids (38% at 16 weeks). High temp. treatment increased germination percentage but the effect was only marked in accessions with comparatively high levels of germination at low temperatures.
Percentage dormancy (estimations based on live but ungerminated seed after germination treatment
following 16 weeks at 60°C) was significantly and negatively correlated with rainfall of provenance.
It was concluded that seed dormancy in D. milanjiana is related both to polyploidy and rainfall of
provenance and that genetic adaptation to arid regions has been associated with polyploidisation and
increasing dormancy.
Chemical Characteristics of the Proteoid Root Mat of Banksia integrifolia L
Authors: Grierson PF , Attiwill PM
Published: December 2005

The proteoid roots of Banksia integrifolia are concentrated in the surface soil, forming a dense mat
beneath the litter layer. Water extracts of the proteoid root mat contained a significantly greater amount
of hydrogen ions, reductants and an unidentified chelating agent, than water extracts of soil beneath
the root mat, of the litter layer and of soil from beyond the proteoid root zone. The results are discussed
in relation to previously reported production of organic chelates by plants causing solubilisation of soil
phosphates. It is suggested the proteoid roots of B. integrifolia chemically modify the soil environment
thereby enhancing nutrient uptake.
Ecological Traits of the Eucalyptus L'hérit Subgenera Monocalyptus and Symphyomyrtus
Authors: Noble IR
Published: December 2005

The genus Eucalyptus L'Hérit. dominates most of the forests and woodlands of Australia. Many stands
consist of intimate mixtures of species from different subgenera. The ecological traits of the two largest
subgenera, Symphyomyrtus and Monocalyptus, are reviewed. Consistent differences in herbivore and
parasite damage to leaves; in water relations; in tolerance to waterlogging, flooding, salinity and frost;
in nutrient usage; in response to Phytophthora cinnamorni; and in early growth patterns are described.
These can be summarised as differences in leaf chemistry; in root morphology, chemistry and activity;
and in early growth rates. It is suggested that the differences in the ecological traits, and especially in
the early growth rate, may help explain the coexistence of closely related species of similar habits in
eucalypt communities.
The Growth and Development of Caltha introloba F. Muell. II. The Regulation of Germination, Growth and Photosynthesis by Temperature
Authors: Wardlow IF , Moncur MW , Totterdell CJ
Published: December 2005

The germination of seeds of Caltha introloba F. Muell. on water was very slow with a lag time of 40-60
days. The optimum temperature for germination varied from 22-27°C and germination was very poor
in the range from 0-15°C. Stratification of seeds at low temperature (1-2°C) for a period of 4 months,
or treatment of the seeds with 3 × 10-4M GA3, more than halved the lag time for germination and
considerably enhanced both the rate of germination and the extent of germination under low tempera-
ture (0-15°C) conditions. It was concluded that C. introloba seed shed in the summer is unlikely to
germinate in the short alpine herb field areas until after snow melt in the following spring.
The optimum temperature for both growth and photosynthesis was approximately 15°C, which is
close to the mean maximum temperatures for the summer months. Active photosynthesis however was
observed at 0°C and therefore could occur throughout the year, except when the plants are covered by
snow.
Two important features in the establishment and growth of C. introloba appear to be the develop-
ment of a deeply penetrating tap root system and the accumulation of carbohydrate reserves in the leaves
and crown tissue.
Vegetation Damage Caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi on Disturbed Sites in Temperate Rain-Forest in Western Tasmania
Authors: Podger FD , Brown MJ
Published: December 2005

Phytophthora cinnamomi has been isolated directly from 558 diseased plants among 39 species including
1 fern, 4 graminoids and 34 woody dicotyledons, all indigenous to the cool temperate rainforest of
Tasmania. Pathogenicity has been proved by greenhouse tests (20 spp.) and by field inoculation at two
localities (19 spp.). Of the 142 species in the rainforest flora, 69 were rated for the susceptibility of field
populations; 30% were highly susceptible and less than 5% highly resistant. High proportions of susceptible
species occurred in Epacridaceae, Eucryphiaceae and Proteaceae.
All 93 isolates tested were the common A2 mating type. The fungus was constantly associated with
disease at 47 survey localities. Diseased plants were widely but patchily distributed along exposed road
and track edges within unburned rainforest and in recently burned rainforest. The fungus was not
recovered from samples taken beneath healthy roadside regeneration, beneath undisturbed rainforest or
above 900 m elevation.
The disease has the characteristics of attack by a recent invader and appears to be dependent upon
disturbance which elevates soil temperatures above 15°C, the lower threshold for infection by
P. cinnamomi. Post-fire recovery of forest canopy is expected to allow re-establishment from external
sources of seed of those susceptible species which are both efficiently dispersed and tolerant of shade.
Species lacking such characteristics are at risk of local elimination but no single rainforest species
appears to be under threat of extinction from this pathogen.
Comparative Pathogenicity of Fourteen Australian Isolates of Phytophthora cinnamomi Determined on Transplants of Tasmanian Temperate Heathland
Authors: Podger FD
Published: December 2005

Peat cores containing mature plants of 21 native species were transplanted from heathland in south-
western Tasmania to a greenhouse and inoculated individually with 14 Australian isolates of
Phytophthora cinnamomi. The isolates, which had been obtained from 10 different species of host
plants and from 14 localities widely distributed across the continent, included three of the four isotypes
of the fungus known to occur in Australia. Abnormal coloration, root-rot and death occurred in 9 of
the 11 species of dicotyledons present; in a single plant of one species of the 11 monocotyledons but
in neither of the two ferns. Of the nine species of dicotyledons in which disease occurred, five species
were highly susceptible.
Comparisons of the relative pathogenicity of isolates, based on the response of the five highly
susceptible species, showed no evidence of strong differences in pathogenicity between groups of isolates,
whether these groups were based on isotype of the fungus, climate at the source of the isolates or
taxonomic affinity of the host plants from which they were originally isolated.
Ovule and Female Gametophyte Development in Fertile and Sterile Safflower Plants (Carthamus tinctorius L.)
Authors: Carapetian J , Rupert EA
Published: December 2005

Development of safflower ovules and female gametophytes was compared in fertile and genetically sterile
F2 and backcross segregants from the cross between 'US-10' and '57-147' genotypes. Fertile plants
formed normal anatropous ovules with eight-nucleate embryo sacs, typical of the angiosperms. One
week before anthesis, the eight-nucleate embryo sac is well developed and undergoes rapid elongation
and expansion during the 24 h prior to anthesis, accompanied by a doubling in length of the florets.
Sterile plants also formed normal ovules, but apparently with a delayed initiation of meiosis which was
subsequently arrested at Metaphase I. Embryo sacs did not form in sterile florets except for rare
observations of uninucleate embryo sacs which began to degenerate before anthesis. The integumentary
tapetum which normally developed upon completion of meiosis in fertile plants, was well developed
during Prophase I of megasporogenesis in sterile plants. This observation suggests that cell
differentiation and development of this nutritive jacket is basically controlled by the age of the ovules
rather than initiated by appearance of the functional megaspore. Failure of both female and male
gametogenesis seems to result from interaction of three independently segregating genes.
Xeromorphic Leaves of Hakea suaveolens R. Br. IV. Ontogeny, Structure and Function of the Sclereids
Authors: Heide-Jorgensen HS
Published: December 2005

Osteosclereids in the leaves of Hakea suaveolens are investigated from a developmental, structural and
functional point of view. The sclereid initial cell is located outermost in a boundary parenchyma comprising
1-3 cell layers next to the palisade tissue. Boundary parenchyma cells, including sclereid initial
cells, are the first cells to accumulate starch. Acid phosphatase was localised during development of
sclereids and palisade cells. The outer ramifications of the sclereid form a pseudohypodermis, and the
inner ramifications penetrate 1-3 cell layers inwards, making contact with specialised cells (tracheoids)
of the vein endings and with fibres. The sclereids do not become lignified in the outer ramifications,
and they remain alive as long as the leaf itself. Water pathways were localised by addition of the
fluorochrome berberine sulfate to the transpiration stream. It is concluded that, besides giving mechanical
strength, the sclereids are also important as vein extensions and that, like bundle sheath extensions,
they conduct water to the epidermis and directly to both palisade layers. The percentage of the
cross-sectional leaf area occupied by lignified water-conducting cells, including sclereids, is higher than
in many other cylindrical, xeromorphic leaves. There are about 200 sclereids per square millimetre of
palisade tissue in sun leaves, but the number falls in shade leaves and after fertilisation with nitrate and
phosphate.
Regenerative Succession of Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena smithii in Riparian Warm Temperate Rain-Forest in Victoria, in Relation to Light and Nutrient Regimes
Authors: Melick DR
Published: December 2005

Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena smithii often form a dominant association in riparian warm temperate
rainforest communities in Victoria. The photosynthetic and morphological responses of seedlings of
these species to varied light regimes, and the growth responses of seedlings in different nutrient regimes
were examined in the laboratory. Acmena smithii was the most shade tolerant, having the lowest light
compensation points, dark respiration rates and greater increases in leaf area ratio under low light
conditions. Tristaniopsis laurina consistently demonstrated greater maximum rates of leaf photosynthesis
at higher photon flux densities. In response to increased nutrients, T. laurina seedlings showed
a marked increase in growth and a decrease in root/shoot ratios, while A. smithii demonstrated relatively
small growth increases and showed an increase in root/shoot ratios. These results are discussed
in relation to the ecological status of these species within the rainforest communities.
Stackhousia tryonii Bailey: a Nickel-Accumulating Serpentine-Endemic Species of Central Queensland.
Authors: Batianoff GN , Reeves RD , Specht RL
Published: December 2005

Stackhousia tryonii Bailey, which appears to be endemic to the serpentinite soils of the Port Curtis
district, central Queensland, is a hyper-accumulator of nickel. Concentrations of this element reach
1-20% of the dry weight of the leaves and 0.1-1% in other parts of the plant. This is the first discovery
of such behaviour in a plant from eastern Australia. S. tryonii is easily distinguishable from the Queensland
occurrences of a related species, S. monogyna Labill., by its smaller inflorescences and muchbranched,
tufted, slender stems and distinctive sparsely tuberculate seed coat. S. monogyna shows no
abnormal nickel accumulation. Detailed diagnostic comparative descriptions of S. tryonii and
S. monogyna are provided, and notes are given on the ecology and distribution of the two species.
Isozyme Variation in Australian and South-African Populations of Emex australis Steinh
Authors: Panetta FD
Published: December 2005

Isozyme variation was surveyed at 25 loci in 65 Australian (colonial) and 21 South African (native)
populations of Emex australis. Only one polymorphism, restricted in distribution to the eastern States,
was observed in Australia. Three additional polymorphisms were detected in South African populations,
but most (16) South African populations were indistinguishable from the Australian ones. Thus,
the relative uniformity of colonial populations of E. australis reflects the low level of isozyme variation
in many populations within its native range.
The Breeding Systems of Stylidium graminifolium and Stylidium productum (Stylidiaceae)
Authors: Willis AJ , Ash JE
Published: December 2005

The breeding systems of Stylidiurn grarninifolium and S. producturn (= S. grarninifoliurn var.
caulescens) were studied by observing the phenology of individual flowers and inflorescences, and relating
the data to a series of pollination experiments within and between the species. Inter-specific pollinations
yielded similar levels of seed-set to crosses within the species indicating a close relationship
between the taxa. Self-pollination of either species is uncommon; however, when it occurs, the majority
of selfed ovules are aborted post-zygotically, probably by a system of recessive lethals, as there is no
indication of an incompatibility system. It is concluded that the breeding systems of S. grarninifoliurn
and S. productum, two of the few eastern Australian species, are similar to those of many Stylidiurn
species from the south-west, casting doubt upon hypotheses that the breeding system has led to high
rates of speciation in the south-west.
A Glasshouse Evaluation of 'critical' N and P Concentrations and N:P Ratios in Various Plant Parts of Six Eucalypt Species
Authors: Olsen JK , Bell LC
Published: December 2005

The nutritional response of Eucalyptus citriodora, E. cloeziana, E. crebra, E. orgadophila, E. papuana
and E. tessellaris to N (0-200 kg N ha-1 as NH4NOs) and P (0-120 kg P ha-1 as Ca(H2PO4.H20) was
investigated using a sandy clay loam as the growth medium.
Sensitivity indices were employed as a means of identifying the ability of plant parts to reflect the
greatest changes in N and P concentrations per unit increase in relative yield. The most sensitive plant
parts for N were the three youngest mature leaf blades and undeveloped leaf blades, whereas stems plus
petioles had the best ability to reflect changes in P concentration. Old leaf blades and stems plus petioles
were the most sensitive parts for N : P ratio.
For the three youngest mature leaf blades, the ranges for 'critical' (90% relative yield at the highest
applied rates of N or P) N concentration, P concentration and N : P ratio were > 1.3-> 1.8%,
0.07-> 0.21% and 4-10 respectively. The large capacity of the eucalypts studied to respond to applied
N and P , especially together, was a major limitation in deriving definitive critical N and P concentrations
and N : P ratios.
Woody Clumps and Clumpwoods
Authors: Lacey CJ , Johnston RD
Published: December 2005

Only the terms tree and shrub have been widely recognised for major growth forms of woody gymnosperms
and dicotyledons, However many multi-stemmed woody plants do not conform to the definition
of either category. For these plants it is here proposed that the term woody clump be used and that
communities dominated by woody clumps be referred to as clumpwoods.
Woody clumps are formed as a result of loss of apical dominance of a single stem and its replacement
by several or many stems from tissue at or below ground level. Loss of apical dominance may be a
genetically determined trait which is expressed early in the life of the plant or it may be a consequence
of death, debilitation or physical damage to a mature mainstem.
The stems of woody clumps may arise from morphologically unspecialised stem bases or from
lignotubers, burls, rhizomes, branch and main stem layers, splitting and segmentation of shoot-root axes
or root suckering. Woody clumps may remain as undivided individuals, with varying degrees of surface
spread, or may divide by death or decay of connecting tissue to form clones. Large, undivided clumps
could be called 'pre-clones'. Woody clumps are found in most major plant formations from the arctic
to tropical regions and from deserts to swamplands.
With a few notable exceptions such as North American aspens, the woody clump growth form has
been ignored in ecological studies. We suggest in this paper that the recognition of a special term for
this distinctive growth form would result in a clearer appreciation of its significance in natural and
cultivated plant assemblages. Some of the genetic, ecological and management implications of woody
clumps are discussed.
Relative Drought Resistance of Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena smithii From Riparian Warm Temperate Rainforest in Victoria
Authors: Melick DR
Published: December 2005

The drought tolerances of the warm temperate rainforest species Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena
smithii were examined. Using pressure bomb techniques the tissue water relations of hardened juvenile
and adult material were measured. T. laurina showed relatively little physiological drought tolerance
in either the juvenile or adult plants, whereas A. smithii showed an increase in physiological drought
tolerance in adult plants. Direct observations of droughted hardened 9-month-old seedlings revealed a
relatively high leaf conductance in T. laurina seedlings with wilting becoming generalised after 9 days
of droughting. All T. laurina plants rehydrated after 15 days of drought survived albeit with significant
leaf abscission, but only 2 of the 5 plants rehydrated after 20 days of drought recovered and these were
defoliated. Stomatal resistances were higher in droughted A. smithii seedlings and wilting did not
become generalised until after 14 days of droughting. All A. smithii plants recovered when rehydrated
after 20 days of droughting with little or no sign of leaf abscission. Leaves of T. laurina and A. smithii
became scorched when subjected to temperatures of 50°C and 60°C respectively. The extent to which
these differences delimit the distribution of these species in the relatively dry warm temperate rainforest
communities of Gippsland in Victoria is discussed.
Flood Resistance of Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena smithii From Riparian Warm Temperate Rain-Forest in Victoria
Authors: Melick DR
Published: December 2005

The responses of seedlings of Tristaniopsis laurina and Acmena smithii, two important tree species in
riparian warm temperate rainforest communities in Victoria, are investigated in relation to flood disturbances.
Freshly germinated A. smithii seedlings had died within 5 weeks of complete waterlogging
in the greenhouse, and although the young T. laurina seedlings survived waterlogging for 14 weeks, their
growth rate was curtailed. Nine-month-old seedlings of both species were found to be relatively tolerant
to waterlogging, forming aerenchymatous surface roots after 40 days of flooding. Neither species
suffered leaf abscission or demonstrated any other signs of water stress commonly associated with flood
intolerant species. In experiments to determine the resilience of these species to physical flood damage,
both species also demonstrated a capacity to regenerate vegetatively following the removal of above
ground parts in young seedlings. The heartwood of T. laurina was found to be more decay resistant
than that of other species in the field including that of A. smithii. The significance of these results are
discussed in relation to other factors examined in earlier papers adding to the understanding of the
ecological status of these species within the riparian rainforest communities.
Unilateral Cross-Incompatibility in Eucalyptus: the Case of Hybridisation Between E. globulus and E. nitens
Authors: Gore PL , Potts BM , Volker PW , Megalos J
Published: December 2005

The growth of E. globulus and E. nitens pollen tubes in styles of E. globulus was examined in order to
elucidate the site of the unilateral barrier to hybridisation. Pollen tubes of E. nitens failed to grow the
full length of the larger E. globulus style. E. globulus pollen tubes grew an average of 1.4 mm per day
for the first 4 days, compared with 0.8 mm per day for pollen tubes of E. nitens. From days 4 to 14,
the growth of E. nitens pollen tubes slowed to an average of 0.2 mm per day and virtually no growth
occurred after day 14. In contrast, E. globulus pollen tubes grew through the style and into the ovary
between days 5 and 14. By day 28, at about the time of style abscission, E. nitens tubes had grown only
6 mm, well short of the full length of the E. globulus style (9-10 mm). A similar difference in growth
was obtained in vitro where E. nitens pollen tubes were significantly shorter than those of E. globulus.
A comparison also including E. ovata, E. urnigera and E. gunnii indicated a significant correlation
between style length and in vitro pollen tube length. It is argued that the unilateral cross-incompatibility
between E. globulus and E. nitens is due to a structural barrier arising from an inherent limit to pollen
tube growth which is associated with pistil size.
Occurrence of Giant Antipodals in the Female Gametophytes of Australian Bossiaeeae, Indigofereae and Mirbelieae (Leguminosae)
Authors: Cameron BG , Prakash N
Published: December 2005

A survey of the female gametophyte development in 62 Australian species of subfamily Papilionoideae
showed that giant antipodal cells were found in all species of Bossiaea, Goodia and Platylobium of the
tribe Bossiaeeae; in all species of Burtonia, Daviesia, Gompholobium, Sphaerolobium and Viminaria
of the tribe Mirbelieae; and in Indigofera australis of the tribe Indigofereae.
The giant antipodals were deeply staining, usually had large nuclei with prominent nucleoli and
persisted well after fertilisation. The giant antipodals appeared to have a nutritive function in the female
gametophyte as they develop at the expense of the nucellus.
The occurrence of giant antipodals is of taxonomic significance in the tribes Mirbelieae and
Bossiaeeae. This evidence supports the separation of the 'Templetonia group' (Templetonia, Hovea,
Lamprolobium) from the other genera in the Bossiaeeae (Bossiaea, Goodia and Platylobiurn or the
'Bossiaea group'). The suggestion is also made to reassess the relationships and composition of the
tribes Mirbelieae and Bossiaeeae based on the presence of giant antipodal cells. This would result in
the tribe Bossiaeeae consisting of the genera Burtonia, Daviesia, Gompholobium, Sphaerolobium and
Viminaria and the members of the 'Bossiaea group', Bossiaea, Goodia and Platylobium.
Sclerophylly and Foliar Nutrient Status of Mediterranean-Climate Plant Communities in Southern Australia
Authors: Specht RL , Rundel PW
Published: December 2005

An increase (percentage dry weight) in both lignin and cellulose (with a greater proportion of cellulose
than lignin being formed) is associated with a decrease in the concentration of phosphorus (and of other
related elements) per unit dry weight in the leaves of sunlit overstorey species, of both sclerophyll and
savannah communities in the mediterranean climate of southern Australia. Simultaneously, crude protein
decreases. Leaves become increasingly sclerophyllous (with a higher Sclerophyll Index), with lower
crude protein (cytoplasm) per unit dry weight; thicker leaves with lower leaf specific area result.
The degree of sclerophylly per unit foliar phosphorus content is a little higher in understorey species
which are partially shaded by the overstorey canopy.
Comparative Morphology, Anatomy, Phenology and Reproductive Biology of Alexgeorgea Spp (Restionaceae) From South-Western Western Australia
Authors: Meney KA , Pate JS , Dixon KW
Published: December 2005

Morphological features of Alexgeorgea nitens, A. subterranea and a recently named new species,
A. ganopoda, are described. All are markedly rhizomatous and clonal, with spaced aerial culms and
sand-binding roots. A. ganopoda develops nodal and internodal apogeotropic roots. Male plants bear
spikelets aerially, female plants sessile underground inflorescences at a maximum intensity of one flower
per season's rhizome segment. Fruiting is geocarpic and seeds are extremely large for Restionaceae, e.g.
605 mg dry weight per seed in A. ganopoda, 190 in A. nitens, 162 in A. subterranea. Germination occurs
while fruits are still attached to rhizomes. Germination is hypogeal, remotive in A. nitens and
A. subterranea, admotive in A. ganopoda. Graminoid seedling leaves are formed in A. nitens and
A. subterranea but not in A. ganopoda. Anatomy of culm, root and rhizome conforms generally to that
of other Restionaceae.
Xeromorphic features are exhibited by the two dry habitat species A. nitens and A. subterranea.
Roots, rhizomes and culm bases of A. ganopoda carry interconnected cortical investments of
aerenchyma, apparently as an adaptation to seasonally waterlogged habitats. Species-specific anatomical
differences include the tissue architecture of culms, vascular bundle numbers in rhizome internodes and
seedling leaf anatomy. Starch reserves are prominent throughout A. nitens, less so in A. subterranea
and absent from A. ganopoda. Seed dry matter contains 57-59% starch. Male and female
A. subterranea and male A. nitens reproduce annually. Female A. nitens flower very occasionally,
mostly without setting seed. One known population of A. ganopoda is male and female fertile, the other
almost entirely sterile. A. subterranea flowers in spring coincident with peak vegetative growth,
A. nitens in autumn before the season's onset of growth. The reproductive phenology of A. ganopoda
is unclear. The large-seededness, geocarpy and in situ germination of Alexgeorgea spp. represent an
unusual form of clone replacement, resulting in establishment of seedlings within the wake of the
advancing parent clone. The implications of this system are discussed.
The Breeding System, Genetic Diversity and Pollen Sterility in Eucalyptus pulverulenta, a Rare Species With Small Disjunct Populations
Authors: Peters GB , Lonie JS , Moran GF
Published: December 2005

There are eight known populations of E. pulverulenta, which has a disjunct distribution in south-eastern Australia. Levels of genetic variation were studied in four populations of about 5000 plants in all. Of a total of 16 allozyme loci examined eight were polymorphic, but the level of polymorphism was generally low. Within populations there was a mean 1.42 alleles per locus. Both the total species and mean population genetic diversities were low for a tree species (0.10 and 0.07 respectively), while the between-population genetic diversity was high at 30%. These data are consistent with the effects expected of genetic drift. Population structure may thus have been critical in determining levels of genetic diversity throughout the species' range. Analysis of half-sib arrays in three populations showed that the mean outcrossing rate (t) was 70%, comparable to values from other Eucalyptus species. The mean level of inbreeding (Wright's F) was 0.19, although both F and t varied considerably between populations. Significant levels of pollen sterility have been reported in this species, and data presented here show that this trait extends through much of the species' range. Overall, these data suggest that neither its disjunct population structure nor its tendency to male sterility caused the species' detectable level of outcrossing to differ markedly from levels reported in other eucalypt species. However, it remains possible that pollen sterility may have had some effect in at least one population. Strategies for conservation of this rare species are also considered.
Survival and Growth of Seedlings of Coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum): Effects of Shade, Mycorrhizas and a Companion Plant
Authors: Mcgee PA
Published: December 2005

In an exploratory experiment, seedlings of coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum D. Don, Cunoniaceae) were grown for 6 weeks in a glasshouse in pots in the presence or absence of the following: (1) inoculum of Glomus mosseae (Nicol. & Gerd.) Gerd. & Trappe; (2) a companion plant (Trifolium pratense L.); (3) phosphate added to the soil; and (4) shade. Mycorrhizal seedlings of coachwood were lighter than non-mycorrhizal seedlings when grown in full sun. In shade, mycorrhizal seedlings of coachwood tended to be heavier when grown with a companion plant than without. Size of seedlings was not related to phosphate nutrition. It is suggested that mycorrhizal interconnections between plants may be involved in significant movement of organic carbon to and from coachwood seedlings.
Distributional ecology of Gymnostoma australianum (Casuarinaceae), a putative palaeoendemic of Australian wet tropic forests
Authors: Prider Jane N. , Christophel David C.
Published: December 2005

The small, tropical Australian rainforest tree
Gymnostoma australianum (L. Johnson) is presently only
known from five sites in the environs of Thornton Peak, in north-eastern
Queensland. Aggregated populations of these trees occur in open sites along
rocky stream banks at various altitudes from sea level to 1200 m, and amongst
granite outcrops and fern fields at high altitudes. Trees are tolerant of
shallow, acidic soils but do not occur where light is limiting. The population
of trees occurring on a mid-stream island in Noah Creek form monospecific
stands on the central rocky portion of the island. This population is subject
to moderate levels of disturbance during flooding. Lost individuals are likely
to be replaced by conspecifics as seedling growth under adults is plentiful.
Although disturbance enables current populations to persist, the species does
not appear to be a coloniser of disturbed habitats.
Gymnostoma australianum is more accurately described as
a habitat specialist, occurring in marginal, low nutrient sites within various
types of rain forest. These sites are narrow in range both geographically and
ecologically. This restricts the expansion of current populations and has
probably influenced population expansion in the past. Therefore, the
hypothesis that the species, or its ancestor, was a recent immigrant from
northern tropical Malesian forests was rejected. The current distribution of
the species is more likely to represent the persistence and expansion of trees
from local refugia.