Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
effect on some rock-dwelling species by shading basking sites and foraging areas.
Tree plantings on or around rocky outcrops should incorporate the following
design principles.
Plant density and spacing patterns
. Trees should be planted at a density of
20-30 per hectare to reflect the natural spacing patterns in grassy woodlands.
●
Plant species composition
. Granite outcrops often support a diverse range of
shrub species of different sizes. Therefore, plantings should incorporate species
that vary in height and composition. Plantings also should support species that
occur naturally on rocky outcrops including Quandong, Sandalwood,
Kurrajong and Native Pine (
Callitris
spp.). Plantings also should contain native
grasses. Kangaroo grass seed mulch can be an effective way of restoring swards
of native grass. The ground may need to be prepared (e.g. spraying herbicide)
before the mulch is applied.
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Planting aspect
. Reptiles are usually more common on the sunniest parts of
rock outcrops. If an outcrop is dome-shaped or conical, then this will be the
eastern, northern and western aspects. Plantings established on the southern
side of a rock outcrop will be less likely to shade important basking sites.
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Figure 5.16:
Three-toed Skink. (Photo by Damian Michael)
