An evaluation of post-fire reptile populations in the Matakana Mallee

There is a general lack of baseline data on the distribution and abundance of reptiles in the Matakana Mallee system, with research into the potential impacts of fire on reptile populations listed as a priority. This project aimed to identify the effects of fire on reptile populations in remnant mallee vegetation by examining the diversity and abundance of reptiles surveyed under recently-burned and long term fire-free conditions. An improved understanding of fauna in post-fire environments has been flagged as essential research by NPWS and will aid in the development of effective management strategies for this area.

Aquatic macroinvertebrate communities in Australian rice fields

Maintenance of invertebrate diversity within agricultural environments can enhance a number of agronomically important processes, such as nutrient cycling and biological pest control. However, few Australian studies have been undertaken which specifically address the effects of commercial crop management regimes on agroecosystem biodiversity. In this study, we compared aquatic macroinvertebrate communities within Australian rice agroecosystems cultivated under three commercial management regimes. In general, greater biodiversity existed within communities that developed under organic management regimes than under conventional regimes

Assessing remediation in a degraded reach of Umbango Creek, NSW

Since European settlement, many rivers in Australia have experienced significant geomorphic and ecological change due to the modification of flow regimes and catchment landuse. Current Australian restoration guidelines place a low priority on the rehabilitation of highly degraded stream reaches, however, this does not address their high incidence in rural catchments such as the Murrumbidgee . Our project monitored remediation works that were undertaken to stabilise severely eroded reaches of Umbango Creek in southern NSW . The results demonstrate that remediation works have the potential to improve vegetation cover and assist in stabilising stream banks.

Comparing riparian condition in the Goulburn Broken Catchment, Vic

Interviews of landholders and ecological condition assessments were undertaken on privately managed river frontages. Despite substantial effort in this catchment to improve riparian condition, the riparian zones sampled were generally in poor condition. Landholder and scientist assessments showed a significant positive correlation. The capacity of this simple assessment tool to differentiate varying levels of riparian zone degradation demonstrates the potential utility of mailed, self-assessment surveys to inform management and the allocation of resources for restoration efforts.

Measuring benefits of environmental water allocations: turtles in a fragmented landscape

River regulation has significantly altered many Australian wetlands causing decreases in biodiversity. To re-establish a more natural hydrological regime and improve habitat for native flora and fauna environmental water allocations (EWA) are being applied to wetlands throughout the Murray-Darling Basin. However, little research is available on the effects of EWAs on wetland health. This study will use turtles as an indicator species to assess the ecological benefits of EWA's. Turtle growth and movement patterns will provide vital knowledge on the links between EWA's and improvements to wetland quality and biodiversity.

Post-release survival of captive-bred malleefowl in western NSW

Biodiversity loss, through the decline of Australian fauna, has been significant in the last 200 years, particularly in relation to our unique bird species. The malleefowl, Leipoa ocellata , is one of Australia 's most unique bird species and is one of only a few bird species in the world known to incubate their eggs in mounds. The malleefowl is also threatened with extinction as a result of habitat loss and predation by cats and foxes. Given the seriousness of the malleefowls' decline, a captive breeding program has been established at Western Plains Zoo to supply chicks for release into Nature Reserves. This project assessed the survivorship and movement patterns of radio-tracked, captive-bred malleefowl in areas that have been subject to fox baiting.

CV

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