PhD scholar

Dryland salinity, biodiversity and soil degradation in woodlands of eastern Australia:

Quantification using biotic and abiotic indicators - with applications for NRM.

E-mail: glen.bann@anu.edu.au

Dryland salinity and the loss of biodiversity are among the most severe environmental challenges facing Australia. They are both high priorities on the political agenda. Yet there is surprisingly little research investigating the interaction of these two phenomena, particularly regarding terrestrial species.

My research investigates interactions between dryland salinity, regolith and terrestrial biodiversity in yellow box and red gum grassy woodlands. As the problem is multifaceted and complex, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach was used to identify important processes within the system. Survey methods including both biotic and abiotic indicators will be used to identify relationships. These include vertebrate, invertebrate and flora surveys, soil and plant analyses, 'Landscape Function Analysis', 'Habitat Hectares', piezometers and the use of EM38 and EM31 instruments. This information will be useful for management activities.

Results to date indicate that in these upland landscapes, dryland salinity;

1. is very localised and is not expanding at a dramatic rate as currently promoted,
2. is caused by soil degradation processes subsequent to over-grazing, clearing and conventional cropping practices,
3. does not necessarily adversely affect terrestrial biodiversity in these woodlands as endemic fauna and flora species appear relatively salt-tolerant.
4. can be mitigated and remediated with native species after appropriate soil treatment and stock management