Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Figure 4.15:
Tessellated Gecko - a species of reptile often associated with native grasses. (Photo by Damian
Michael)
woodlands are no different in this regard. It is increasingly clear, however, that
exotic ground cover can have significant negative effects on plant and animal
diversity. For example, species like the Eastern Yellow Robin are less likely to occur
in areas dominated by exotic grasses. Conversely, woodland remnants surrounded
by paddocks with predominantly native grass cover are significantly more likely to
be occupied by bird species like the Diamond Firetail.
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Native grass cover also has
an important positive effect on reptile diversity
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and is one of the kinds of
vegetation assets on a farm that contributes significantly to overall bird diversity at
the property level.
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Threats to native grasses and their management
The ecological integrity of native pastures can be negatively affected by
overgrazing as well as some of the practices typically linked with traditional
grazing regimes like the application of chemical
fertilisers. One of the best ways to restore native
pastures is to alter grazing regimes and adopt more
environmentally sensitive ones like rotational
grazing or cell grazing. Native grasses and other
kinds of native plants often found in native pastures
(e.g. forbs) are sensitive to the high levels of nitrogen
created through repeated fertiliser application. One
Having some areas of native
grass or native pasture on a
farm can provide significant
benefits for farm wildlife. Native
pastures are also likely to
survive droughts better and can
recover quickly after wildfire
