PhD Scholar
Dryland salinity, biodiversity and geodiversity in box/gum grassy woodlands of south-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 endemic species are paramount concerns, yet there is surprisingly little research investigating the interaction of these two phenomena, particularly regarding terrestrial species. That which has been performed contains many (invalid) assumptions.

My research will investigate the interaction between dryland salinity, regolith and terrestrial biodiversity in yellow box & red gum grassy woodlands (Endangered Ecological Community). As the problem is multifaceted and complex, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach is 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. Results will be useful for targeting priority areas for mitigation, remediation and remnant retention activities, using endemic perennial vegetation and farm forestry initiatives.

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

1) is very localised and not expanding at a dramatic rate as currently promoted,

2) is predominantly caused by (surface) soil degradation processes subsequent to stock over-grazing, clearing and conventional cropping practices (i.e. it is a top down process rather than bottom up process as currently promoted),

3) does not necessarily adversely affect terrestrial biodiversity in these woodlands (as currently promoted) as endemic fauna and flora species are relatively salt-tolerant (as can be expected ? southern Australia is very salty, and natural).

4) can be mitigated and remediated with native species after appropriate soil works, treatment and stock management