Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
Box 6.4.
Environmental wetting of Black Box and Red Gum
Australian rivers and creeks are characterised by enormous variation in levels of
stream flow. In fact, stream flows are more variable in this country than anywhere
else on the planet. Large numbers of native species are well adapted to flooding and
drying cycles. Therefore, major environmental problems can arise when flooding
and drying regimes are altered. Native vegetation can die and its associated biodi-
versity is lost when areas are either permanently inundated or deprived of intermit-
tent flood water. This has occurred in extensive areas of Black Box and River Red
Gum woodland in southern New South Wales and northern Victoria. As part of
efforts to address this problem, management programs have commenced to rein-
state natural wetting and drying cycles in areas like the lower Murray Catchment in
southern New South Wales. These management efforts are a key part of maintaining
woodland tree health, stimulating tree regeneration and enhancing the condition of
areas of natural wetlands.
for breeding by native animals (e.g. frogs), as well as for perching, calling and
foraging by birds. For example, the cover of native reeds like Cumbungi around the
margins of farm dams provides habitat for the Australian Reed-warbler (see Box
6.5), as well as protecting it from potential predators.
Figure 6.10:
The native Spotted Marsh Frog commonly uses farm dams for breeding. (Photo by Damian
Michael)
