2018 Honours Projects - Department of Ecology, Environment & Evolution, and the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre - La Trobe University
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Department of Ecology, Environment & Evolution, and the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre 2018 Honours Projects EEE4HNA/B/X Kylie Robert (Melbourne), Adele Harvey (Melbourne) & Aleicia Holland (Albury-Wodonga)
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Research Groups
Name Research area E-mail
Prof. Andrew Bennett Landscape ecology A.Bennett@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE/ARI Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/landscape-ecology
Prof. Nick Bond Aquatic ecology, management and policy N.Bond@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/directors/Bond.asp
A/Prof. Paul Brown Aquatic ecology P.Brown@klatrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/mildura/2014115153296.asp
Prof. Michael Clarke Fire & Avian ecology M.Clarke@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/fire-ecology
Prof. Ben Gawne Aquatic Ecology B.Gawne@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Gawne.asp
Dr Susan Gehrig Plant Ecophysiology S.Gehrig@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Mildura) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/mildura/Gehrig.asp
A/Prof. Heloise Gibb Insect ecology H.Gibb@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/insect-ecology
Dr Peter Green Community ecology P.Green@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/conservation-biology
Dr Adela Harvey Coralline algae: taxonomy & ecology A.Harvey@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/marine-taxonomy-ecology
Dr Susan Hoebee Plant reproduction, ecological & conservation genetics S.Hoebee@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/plant-conservation-genetics
Dr Aleicia Holland Aquatic ecology/ecotoxicology A.Holland2@lattrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Albury Wodonga) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/school-life-sciences/about/our-
staff/profile?uname=A2Holland
A/Prof. Susan Lawler Conservation ecology & evolutionary genetics S.Lawler@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Albury Wodonga) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=SHLawler
Dr John Lesku Sleep ecophysiology J.Lesku@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/sleep-ecophysiology
A/Prof. Alan Lill Avian behavioural ecology, ecophysiology & urban A.Lill@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) ecology
http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=ALill
September 2017 Page 2 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Richard Loyn Ecology of Forests, Fire, Rural & Urban Landscapes R.Loyn@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) (associated with the fire ecology and landscape ecology
groups, see their websites for further details)
Dr Paul McInerney Aquatic Ecology P.McInerney@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/mcinerney.asp
Dr John Morgan Plant ecology J.Morgan@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/plant-ecology
http://morganvegdynamics.blogspot.com.au/
Dr Nick Murphy Molecular ecology & evolution N.Murphy@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/molecular-ecology-evolution
Dr Daryl Nielsen Aquatic ecology D.Nielsen@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Nielsen.asp
Dr Warren Paul Environmental & statistical modelling W.Paul@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=WLPaul
Dr Richard Peters Animal behavior R.Peters@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/animal-behaviour
http://richard.eriophora.com.au/
Dr Amina Price Aquatic Animal Ecology A.Price@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/price.asp
Dr Gavin Rees Microbial Ecology G.Rees@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Rees.asp
Dr Kylie Robert Reproductive ecology & Conservation biology K.Robert@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/reproductive-ecology
http://robertlab.com
Dr Alexei Rowles Invertebrate ecology A.Rowles@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Albury Wodonga) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=ARowles
Dr Michael Shackleton Molecular taxonomy M.Shackleton@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Shackleton.asp
A/Prof. Ewen Silvester Alpine ecology E.Silvester@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Albury Wodonga) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=EJSilvester
A/Prof. Martin Insect-Plant interactions M.Steinbauer@latrobe.edu.au
Steinbauer http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
(DEEE Bundoora) evolution/research/specialisations/insect-plant-interactions
Dr Rick Stoffels Fish Biology R.Stoffels@latrobe.edu.au
(MDFRC Albury Wodonga) http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Stoffels.asp
September 2017 Page 3 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
A/Prof. John Webb Environmental geoscience John.Webb@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/research/specialisations/environmental-geoscience
Adj. Prof. Mike Molecular evolution in Australian marsupials M.Westerman@latrobe.edu.au
Westerman http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
(DEEE Bundoora) evolution/research/specialisations/marsupial-evolutionary-genetics
Dr Patricia Woolley Dasyurid marsupials P.Woolley@latrobe.edu.au
(DEEE Bundoora) http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-
evolution/staff/profile?uname=PAWoolley
September 2017 Page 4 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects Overview – what is Honours? The Honours year is very different from earlier years of study at university. As an honours student, you work mostly on your own, with assistance and encouragement from your supervisor. The aim of the honours year is to provide students with the knowledge and technical skills required for your future participation in both the scientific and general communities. Honours gives students far greater opportunity to show initiative, and to follow their own lines of interest, than is possible in basic undergraduate course work. In addition, there is often opportunity to become proficient in the use of sophisticated equipment and techniques, experience which is rarely possible to gain in the classroom. Graduates that have completed the honours year are often favoured over those with a basic degree in selection for jobs. Employers prefer applicants who can show evidence of ability to plan an investigation, work independently on it, and persevere until it is completed, all within time constraints. An Honours year is also a requirement for entry into graduate research programs, such as a PhD, and a career in research. Attendance | Honours is a full-time job (unless you are enrolled part-time). Students are expected to inform their supervisor and the Honours Coordinator if they are unable to attend through illness. In general, students are not expected to take holidays. Any proposed absences should be discussed with your supervisor and an 'application for absence' form completed. Departmental Seminars | Students are required to attend all departmental seminars. If off campus for field work students are expected to submit an apology to the seminar coordinator. Entrance requirements Entrance into honours requires a minimum average grade of 70 in third year subjects relevant to the study area and a willing supervisor. The supervisor agreement form (see appendix 1) needs to be signed by your supervisor and uploaded with your enrolment application Where can I do Honours? Students undertake their Honours projects under the close direction of an academic supervisor. Academic supervisors are available in the Department of Ecology, Environment and Evolution (DEEE; Bundoora and Albury-Wodonga campuses), and in the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC; Albury- Wodonga and Mildura campuses). The MDFRC is a partnership between La Trobe University and CSIRO, and there are very close ties between DEEE and MDFRC. In addition, we also work with colleagues at the Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research (ARI), part of the Victorian Government’s Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning located in Heidelberg. Several projects have ARI staff nominated as co-supervisors. How to find a project & supervisor Students wishing to undertake honours are encouraged to contact a potential supervisor from the department in your area of interest (do this early to avoid disappointment). This booklet provides information on the research areas of potential supervisors and any specific projects being offered in 2018. Not all potential supervisors have specific projects listed and you may contact them with your own ideas in their research area. September 2017 Page 5 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects Course structure The course commences in the beginning of either semester 1 or semester 2 (mid-year starters) and runs for 38 weeks. The course is centred around a research project, on a topic agreed upon with a supervisor. The tasks to be completed during the honours year are: LITERATURE REVIEW A literature review (3,000 words) relating to your research project. Due: Week 4 Assessment Value: 10% PROJECT PLAN A project plan of approximately 2,500 words is to be submitted to your supervisor. It will not be graded, but must be improved if it is unsatisfactory. Due: Week 4 Assessment Value: Not graded INTRODUCTORY SEMINAR A short introductory seminar (10 minutes talk, 5 minutes discussion), outlining the plan of your research project in the context of current knowledge in the field, is to be given five weeks after commencement. Questions from the audience will be noted by the supervisor and discussed with student. A synopsis of the project (about 200 words) must be submitted one-week prior to the seminar date. Due: Week 5 Assessment Value: Not graded GRANT PROPOSAL A grant proposal (less than 2,500 words) relating to your research project is to be written. This may draw on elements of the literature review and project plant and must also include a budget. Due: Week 6 Assessment Value: 10% FINAL SEMINAR Students will present a longer seminar (15 minutes talk, 5 minutes discussion) on their project. Students must incorporate their results and conclusions into a revised synopsis one week prior to the seminar date. Due: Week 34 Assessment Value: 10% THESIS A thesis (max. 12,000 words) is to be submitted for assessment by the end of week 38. Due: Week 38 Assessment Value: 70% September 2017 Page 6 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
2018 Projects – based at Bundoora
Prof. Andrew Bennett – Landscape ecology (DEEE/ARI, Bundoora)
A.Bennett@latrobe.edu.au
Below is a brief description of an honours project on offer in 2018 in the Landscape ecology group.
Potential supervisors within the group include Prof. Andrew Bennett, Dr Greg Holland, Dr Luke Collins. We
are happy to discuss and develop other project ideas with prospective students.
Project 1: Understanding the effect of precipitation and fire severity on ecosystem response to fires
Supervisors: Luke Collins, Nick Murphy, Heloise Gibb, Steve Leonard
Email: L.Collins2@latrobe.edu.au
Tolerable fire intervals (TFIs) are the primary tool used for ecological fire management prescriptions across
south eastern Australia. TFIs define the amount of time required between fires so that undesirable changes
to ecosystems characteristics are avoided. These intervals are largely based on the time to maturity (lower
interval) and senescence (upper interval) of key fire sensitive plant species, which are assumed to reflect
the requirements of other organisms. In their current state, TFIs are largely static across both space and
time. However, the response of plant and animal communities will be dependent upon the severity of fires
defining the start and end of the inter-fire interval. Furthermore, the rate of post fire ecosystem recovery
will be dependent upon precipitation regimes following a fire, with drought conditions likely to hinder
recovery. There is currently little quantitative evidence examining the sensitivity of TFIs to variation in fire
severity and precipitation. This presents a major gap in knowledge, considering that climate change is
projected to reduce precipitation and increase the frequency of high severity wildfire across south-eastern
Australia over the next century.
Honours project(s) will focus on the effects of fire severity and/or drought on ecosystem response to fire.
The ecosystem parameters examined could include plant communities, animal communities (e.g.
invertebrates) or carbon stocks, depending on the student’s area of interest.
Please contact Luke (l.collins3@latrobe.edu.au), Nick (n.murphy@latrobe.edu.au) Heloise
(h.gibb@latrobe.edu.au) or Steve (s.leonard@latrobe.edu.au) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project.
September 2017 Page 7 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Prof. Michael Clarke – Fire & Avian ecology
M.Clarke@latrobe.edu.au
The Fire and Avian Ecology Group is currently undertaking several major projects addressing questions
related to the role of fire in ecosystems, and how best to use fire for conservation management. We work
in a range of ecosystems, including forests and mallee woodland. Our work generally has an applied focus,
and we often work in collaboration with land management agencies (e.g. DELWP, Parks Victoria).
There is scope to include honours projects within our broader projects. We are happy to discuss and
develop project ideas with prospective students.
Honours supervision within our group will be undertaken by Dr Angie Haslem, Dr Steve Leonard and/or Dr
Simon Watson (supervisor(s) will depend on the project), with strategic input from Prof Mike Clarke.
For further information contact Dr Steve Leonard s.leonard@latrobe.edu.au
In addition, we are offering the following projects in 2018:
1. Net effects of digging mammals on flora and vegetation in arid Australia
Supervisors: Steve Leonard, Heloise Gibb
Large-scale re-introductions of locally extinct digging mammal assemblages have been implemented at a
number of arid zone sites, with the aim of conserving mammal species and restoring ecosystem function.
Digging mammals increase nutrient cycling and water infiltration, and create niches for seed germination.
Some are also herbivores. The net effect of these potentially positive and negative effects on plants and the
implications for plant community composition remain poorly understood. This project will examine these
issues at Scotia Sanctuary in south-west NSW. It follows on from work carried out in 2011. The project will
involve a comparison of flora and vegetation in plots open to and protected from mammals, as well as
examining change in the vegetation since the initial survey.
Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record, an interest in vegetation
ecology and an aptitude for field work in remote areas. Applicants should have a manual driving licence or
be willing to obtain one before the project commences. A mid-year start would be best for this project.
2. Influence of large wildfires and fuel management activities on the distribution of Greater Gliders
in north east Victoria
Supervisors: Steve Leonard, Sarah Kelly (DELWP)
This project will examine the effects of bushfires and planned burning on Greater Gliders (Petauroides
volans). The project will be carried out in partnership with staff from the Department of Environment. Land,
Water and Planning. The results of the study will directly inform conservation management of greater
gliders and fire management with their range.
September 2017 Page 8 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr Heloise Gibb – Insect ecology
H.Gibb@latrobe.edu.au
Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Insect ecology group.
1. Understanding the trophic ecology of insectivorous threatened mammals and its impact on
invertebrates
Supervised by: Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb
The current rate of species extinctions, driven by a range of anthropogenic forces, is so extensive that it is
commonly described as the “sixth mass extinction”. Species abundances may also decline so dramatically
that species become “ecologically extinct”, i.e., too rare to continue to play important ecological roles.
Extinctions and ‘ecological extinctions’ of Australian mammals following European colonisation have been
extensive, with the loss of 22 species since 1788 and declines in many others. Many threatened mammals
consume insects and the demise of these species is likely to have had significant effects on invertebrate
biodiversity and function. However, no studies of the diets of omnivorous species such as the burrowing
bettong (Bettongia lesueur), brush-tailed bettong (Bettongia penicillata) and bilby (Macrotis lagotis) have
identified invertebrates beyond the ordinal level. The ecological roles of invertebrates are unique at much
finer taxonomic levels, so this level of resolution does not allow us to determine important traits of the
invertebrates consumed, such as microhabitat use, abundance, seasonality, trophic position, reproductive
capacity, or size or provide any insights into the effects of the loss of mammal species on food webs. This
study will use DNA analysis of mammal scats, combined with sampling of invertebrates and measurement
of mammal digging activity in different microhabitats to ask: 1) Which species do threatened mammals
eat?; and 2) do threatened mammals select prey based on ecological or morphological traits? If so, which
traits are favoured? This novel study will generate fundamental new insights into the consequences of
ecological extinctions of mammals for their prey and improve our ability to maintain sustainable
populations of mammals in predator-free reintroduction reserves.
Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record, an interest in community
ecology, mammals and invertebrates and an aptitude for genetics lab work. The project could start in
February or July 2018. Please contact Nick (n.murphy@latrobe.edu.au) or Heloise by email
(h.gibb@latrobe.edu.au) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project.
2. Global and local-scale determinants of beta diversity in ant assemblages
Supervised by: Heloise Gibb & Simon Watson
The diversity of species in an assemblage is described using the concepts of alpha, beta and gamma
diversity. Alpha diversity describes the number of species in a site, while gamma diversity describes the
number of species across a region. In contrast, beta diversity describes the turnover in species among sites.
Beta diversity underpins much of conservation theory and practice: for example, it indicates the increase in
numbers of species conserved if new locations are added to the reserve system. A range of environmental
factors may be associated with differences in beta diversity, including factors operating at local or regional
scales, e.g., dispersal barriers, soil heterogeneity and local disturbances; and those operating at global
scales, e.g., climate. The Global Ants Database (GAD), a result of collaboration between La Trobe
September 2017 Page 9 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects researchers and a global network of myrmecologists, contains a unique dataset on assemblage composition from over 2000 local ant assemblages. This study uses the GAD to ask: What are the local and global determinants of beta diversity in ant assemblages? The project will investigate different measures of beta diversity, as well as the newly proposed metric: zeta diversity. Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record and an interest macroecology, conservation and community ecology. An aptitude for mathematics or statistics and GIS experience is also desirable. Preferred start date is February 2018. Please contact Heloise or Simon by email (h.gibb@latrobe.edu.au; s.watson@latrobe.edu.au) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project. September 2017 Page 10 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr Pete Green – Community Ecology
P.Green@latrobe.edu.au
I am open to ideas for Honours projects – please come and chat.
1. Suppression and growth in the understory rainforest plants in Queensland
A widely recognised feature of the dynamics of rainforests is the phenomenon of suppression. The
rainforest canopy is so dense that typically, 1-3% of light incident above the canopy makes it through to
ground level. This presents obvious challenges for plant metabolism, and most understory seedlings and
saplings exist barely above the point of compensation. Gains die to photosynthesis barely outpace losses
due to respiration and herbivory, with the consequence that most plants are suppressed and grow very
slowly in the shade.
Recent analyses of decades-long records of height growth for plants on two plots in Queensland indicate
the median age of 2 m tall saplings may be between 100 and 200 years old, depending on the species. Part
of the reason for these great ages is suppression and we will investigate cross-species variation in rates of
photosynthesis and respiration, but physical damage is probably also important. Anecdotal observations
indicate a very high proportion of stems have been broken and resprouted in the past, probably further
delaying the growth of these stems. We will conduct surveys to determine the frequency of this kind of
damage, and its consequences for growth. Lastly, we will use the long-term records of height growth of
tagged plants, together with the mapped positions of these plants and local measurements of canopy
openness to determine is there spatial variation in understory light environments, and if this translates to
‘hot’ and ‘cold’ spots for plant growth.
This project is best suited for a mid-year start
September 2017 Page 11 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects Dr Susan Hoebee - Plant reproduction, ecological & conservation genetics S.Hoebee@latrobe.edu.au Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Plant reproduction, ecological and conservation genetics lab. Pollination and genetic studies on rare grevilleas are continuing themes in my group. Despite some phylogenetic and population genetic studies undertaken for the holly-leaved grevilleas, two ‘local’ species are yet to be studied in any great detail. I’d be keen to have students work on each of the following projects: 1. One and the same but different: quantifying genetic diversity and structure of Grevillea montis- cole populations. Feb or, more ideally, a mid-year start. Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Elizabeth James (Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria). Grevillea montis-cole is divided into two subspecies that are restricted to two adjacent mountain tops in Victoria: Mt. Cole and Mt. Langi Ghiran. Morphologically, the subspecies differ in terms of their pistil length but, somewhat surprisingly, phylogenetic research has suggested that they are more closely related to other species than to one another. Using available molecular markers the student will assess gene flow between the two subspecies, as well as overall population genetic structure. The results will inform both taxonomic treatment and conservation strategies for the species as a whole. Depending upon when the project is undertaken this could run as a purely lab-based project (Feb start) or involve some field work (mid-year start). 2. Pollination, genetic diversity and structure of Grevillea bedggoodiana populations. Feb or, more ideally, a mid-year start. Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Elizabeth James (Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria). Grevillea bedggoodiana is a prostrate species restricted to the Enfield State Forest, Victoria. It is hypothesised that, like its congeneric taxon G. obtecta, G. bedggoodiana employs a dual specialisation system that involves both birds and marsupial mammals, as diurnal and nocturnal pollinators respectively. Floral visitors will be assessed using camera trapping and it may be possible to complement this with Elliot- trapping to assess pollen loads on mammals active in the area during flowering. In order to augment genetic datasets from related species, it would be ideal to determine gene flow and structure between September 2017 Page 12 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects populations using available genetic markers. Together, the results will inform conservation strategies for the species. Depending upon when the project is undertaken this could run as a purely lab-based project (Feb start; genetics only) or involve some field work (mid-year start; pollination and genetics). Two other projects that fit under research themes of my lab group, include: 3. Understanding drivers of poor reproductive output in small populations of Banksia spinulosa from the Dandenong Ranges. February start. Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Annette Muir (Arthur Rylah Institute) Observations of small populations of Banksia spinulosa in the Dandenong Ranges over several years have revealed that almost all plants are producing little to no infructescences (cones) although the plants are over 30 years old and produce numerous inflorescences. Minimal seed production makes the taxon vulnerable to local extinction in the event of fire, because plants are killed by fire and do not have soil- stored seed. There are several reasons that could underpin this poor reproductive output including: resource or pollinator limitation, disrupted male or female function, self-incompatibility, mate limitation and/or inbreeding. A comparative approach using nearby fertile populations will be employed to tease apart which of these factors may be responsible for poor output in the reproductively challenged populations. This project is best suited to a part-time study load owing to the delay between pollination and seed production; however, some aspects could be investigated in a standard honours program. 4. A needle in a haystack: looking for signals of self-incompatibility loci in RNA-seq data. Either February or July start. Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Anthony Gendall (APSS, La Trobe University) About 50% of angiosperms are self-incompatible. This is a strategy theorised to have evolved in plants to avoid negative fitness effects frequently associated with mating among relatives (inbreeding). This would be a purely bioinformatic-based project working to unravel signals of self-incompatibility from RNA- sequencing data. Two contrasting datasets have been generated: one from the Brassicaceae (known to have sporophytic control of self-incompatibility), the other is from a family where molecular control of SI is unknown. Contact: Dr Susan Hoebee BS1, 409 | 9479 2274 | s.hoebee@latrobe.edu.au September 2017 Page 13 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr John Lesku – Sleep ecophysiology
J.Lesku@latrobe.edu.au
Sleep Ecophysiology Group
Birds and mammals have two basic types of sleep, called rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM
sleep. In mammals, brain temperature is lower during non-REM sleep and increases to wake-like levels in
REM sleep. These relationships gave rise to early hypotheses for the function of non-REM and REM sleep,
namely cooling and warming the brain, respectively. Whether these ideas apply also to birds is
unclear. Using pigeons and/or chickens, the successful Honours candidate will determine the relationship
between brain temperature and brain state in birds.
https://leskulab.org/
September 2017 Page 14 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects Dr Alan Lill - Avian behavioural ecology, ecophysiology & urban ecology A.Lill@latrobe.edu.au Research areas 1. Urban colonization by native birds, especially ravens and exotic Common mynas 2. Erythrocyte parameters as condition and health indicators in birds Possible Honours projects for 2018: 1. Anti-predator vigilance in urban Little Ravens Understanding the factors and processes that facilitate urban colonization and persistence by native animals is a crucial element in effectively managing the conservation of urban native biodiversity. Surveillance for predators (vigilance) is time-consuming and costly, but it is a vital for many birds. There has been much polarized debate about whether or not the urban environment is relatively predator-free for native bird species that successfully colonize cities. At one extreme it is argued that cities are low-risk, safe refuges from predators in which predator surveillance can be advantageously relaxed; this trend can potentially be enhanced by necessary habituation to a high volume of harmless human traffic. An antithetical view is that because of the high density of humans and their pets (dogs, cats), cities are actually more predator-rich than rural environments. These conflicting perspectives can be teased apart by examining how vigilance and other related anti-predator behaviours vary across urban- rural gradients. This project will address this question in a successful ‘urban adapter’ species, the native Little Raven, by comparing vigilance and other anti-predator behaviours of free-living individuals in Melbourne and other Victorian cities with that of conspecifics in rural Victoria during the non-breeding season. References: Vines, A. and Lill, A. (2015). Boldness and urban dwelling in little ravens. Wildlife Research 42, 590-597. McCleery, R.A. (2009). Changes in fox squirrel anti-predator behaviors across the urban–rural gradient. Landscape Ecology 24, 483-493. September 2017 Page 15 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
2. Factors facilitating urban living in the native Pacific Black Duck
The Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa is a native duck species that has colonized many cities and towns,
including Melbourne. It mostly feeds on water by dabbling,
filtering and ‘upending’ and nests in tree hollows or on the
ground. However, its ecology in the urban environment
requires more investigation to understand how it has been
able to exploit cities so successfully. This project will examine
the extent to which: (a) the species appears to be “pre-
adapted” to the urban environment, (b) its urban life depends
on innovative adjustment, and (c) interspecific competition is
likely to influence its urban persistence. The Black Duck’s
ecology is quite different from that of the Wood Duck, which is the subject of a 2017 honours urban
ecology project that I am supervising, and so it will ultimately be possible to make some very interesting
comparisons.
References:
Lowry, H. and Lill, A. (2007). Ecological factors facilitating city-dwelling in Red-rumped parrots. Wildlife
Research 34, 624-631. [a very different species, but paper demonstrates the approach that can be taken]
I am also willing to discuss other possible honours projects in avian urban ecology for 2018.
September 2017 Page 16 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects Dr Richard Loyn - Ecology of Forests, Fire, Rural & Urban Landscapes R.Loyn@latrobe.edu.au 1. Effects of habitat and connectivity on bird or mammal communities The diversity and abundance of fauna species is affected by site-level habitat characteristics and also by the distribution and connectivity of habitat in the broader landscape. These relationships have been investigated in forest and rural landscapes but much more needs to be learned. In rural and urban environments, two despotic native bird species (Noisy Miner and Bell Miner) may have profound negative effects on numbers of small birds, and these effects may be greatest where habitat is fragmented. Projects can be devised to examine these relationships in contrasting habitat mosaics in the suburbs of Melbourne and surrounding farmland and forest, or elsewhere. Background data on birds are available from some potential sites to provide historical context. Collaborator: Dr Merilyn Grey September 2017 Page 17 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr John Morgan – Plant ecology
J.Morgan@latrobe.edu.au
In 2018, the focus of Honours projects in the Plant Ecology Lab will firmly be on factors that affect species
distributions & abundance (change in climate, fire regimes, competitors) and the plant population dynamics
that underpin these processes. One of the key research questions in my Lab is: how do C4 grasses shape
ecosystems via their effects on fire regimes & competitive interactions, and how do plants species in
ecosystems respond to ecosystem drivers over decadal timescales. These questions have important
implications for how we view ecosystem change, and management to maintain biodiversity. Below are
some ideas for projects. I am happy to discuss other projects with students whose broad interests align
with the types of research I undertake. Website: http://morganvegdynamics.blogspot.com.au/
Project 1: How fire regimes can shift a biome. In the tropical savanna of northern Australia, fire regimes
shape the structure and function of ecosystems. But what exactly is the mechanism and are feedback loops
involved? One clear pathway is that fire affects savanna “receptivity” to establishment by Sorghum intrans
(an annual native C4 grass that establishes & persists under high light environments; it seems not to like
growing much under eucalypt canopies). This alone, however, is probably only half the story. With an
increase in Sorghum (dominance and extent), this species likely changes the fire regime by increasing the
intensity of fire, further promoting this species over woody plants (by negatively affecting mid-storey and
overstorey woody plant cover and light interception). It may also affect the distribution of other grass
species because of a) competitive effects and b) fire intensity effects. This simple (and oft-quoted) feedback
is poorly documented in the literature but can be directly tested in one of Australia’s few long-term fire
regimes experiments. At the Territory Wildlife Park (Darwin), CSIRO and Charles Darwin University have
been investigating how fire regime (1, 2, 3, 5 yr burn frequency vs. unburnt controls) affects biota, starting
from a little burnt tropical ecosystem. The experiment has been going for 15 yrs. Early studies (after just 4
yrs of the experimental implementation) hint that Sorghum was increasing and woody plants were in
decline, but it was too early to determine whether fire could switch the system from woody to grassy. In
this study, we will build on previous work and ask: what is the current extent of Sorghum and how does fire
regime affect this relationship? How is Sorghum cover related to woody plant cover (i.e. competition by
canopy and mid-storey species for light)? How is grass diversity distributed in relation to fire regime, and
Sorghum dominance? How does Sorghum affect properties of fire such as intensity? We will re-survey the
plots to model changes in dominance over time (ecological tipping points versus linear trend change) and
how Sorghum affects fuel dynamics and fire behaviour. Spatial patterns of Sorghum versus woody (and
other grass) plant cover will be investigated, possibly using transplant experiments. The project involves a
month of field work in Darwin. Co-supervised with Dr Warren Paul (LTU – AW), Dr Anna Richards (CSIRO)
and Dr Dick Williams (CDU).
Note: Project 1a. I may also have a project on faunal responses to fire in the Territory Wildlife Park.
Arthropods found in fire-adapted habitats have specific traits and dispersal strategies to deal with frequent
fires. For example, they seek refugia during fires where temperatures may be lower. Refugia are areas
adjacent to or within a burn area that enhance arthropod survival during a fire, facilitate persistence of
individuals, or allow for post-fire recovery. These may include insulated underground burrows, fire-
resistant termite mounds, or patches of unburned vegetation. Dispersal is another obvious response to fire
for arthropods, and as a result, winged orders have higher survivorship than less-mobile taxa. A couple of
years ago I observed, ahead of an experimental fire, insects, lizards and even frogs moving up the trunk of a
tree. They were clearly trying to get away from the flame zone. What warning signals are they cueing into?
September 2017 Page 18 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects This project will quantify movement patterns up and down tree trunks, before and after fire in frequently burned tropical savanna. Depending on what we find, we will try and unravel the sensory cues that lead to this fire-scape behaviour. Co-supervised with Dr Alan Andersen (CDU). Project 2: Re-introducing fire into long unburnt grassy ecosystems– accelerated recovery of the ecosystem, or stasis? Many grasslands and grassy woodlands are now rarely burnt, although it is likely that patch burning once played an important role in the structure and function of these ecosystems. Fire exclusion has led to tree recruitment, woody plant encraochment and loss of diversity. Land managers are increasingly re-introducing fire to long unburned landscapes to promote diversity, but what changes occur when fire is re-introduced to ecosystems when it has been long absent? Are trees resilient to fire (or does it depend on their size)? Do species appear that haven’t been seen for a while, presumably re-appearing from dormant soil stored seed? Do some species disappear, having initially profited from the absence of fire? In this project, we will test ideas about re-introduction of fire to landscapes where much benefit might be derived from such activities. Grassy ecosystems in western Victoria are much restricted (due to agriculture and, increasingly, timber plantations) and need sympathetic management to maintain their natural values. Re–introducing frequent fire to long unburnt grasslands is seen as a desirable management activity – it should serve to open up opportunities for seed regeneration and species coexistence. However, there are almost no examples where this has been tested, at least in good quality vegetation. In this study, we will burn long unburnt grasslands and ask whether often reported reductions in species richness due to the cessation of frequent fire can be spontaneously reversed by the return of fire. Additionally, will the abundance of currently sparse species be improved? How will exotic species respond to a change in disturbance regime? What about trees that have established in the inter-fire period? The student will work closely with the CFA, who will be responsible for conducting the trial burns, to design and implement the burning experiment. Project 3: Banksia decline in coastal grassy woodlands: encroaching shrubs and the water balance. Coastal grassy woodlands have declined across much of their range. One main reason for decline has been an increase in woody plants (like Coast Tea-tree, CTT) in the decades where fire has been excluded from the ecosystem. Here, CTT shrubs have established and infilled between trees, largely causing the elimination of the ground flora. This process is now well-documented. What still mystifies ecologists is the long-term decline of overstorey trees like Coast Banksia (Banksia integrifolia, Proteaceae), a foundation species of grassy woodlands that can achieve i) enormous size, ii) store vast amounts of carbon, iii) provide abundant floral resources for nectivores and iv) important nesting sites via hollows. The decline of Coast Banksia in places like Yanakie Isthmus and Oberon Bay at Wilsons Promontory National Park has been a slow, drawn out process, with canopy loss and health the most obvious sign of ill-health. Some studies have tried to understand why trees are in decline – and to date, the answer has largely eluded researchers. We know that it’s not a) mineral nutrition imbalances, b) root pathogens or c) disease. In this study, we will explore the hypothesis that encroaching CTT shrubs have reduced water availability to Coast Banksia, and that Coast Banksia surrounded by dense CTT are under more water stress than trees in the absence of encroaching CTT. This study will be the first to determine if water stress could account for loss of canopy and necrotic foliage and, ultimately, to tree mortality in what is a water-limited ecosystem (due to deep, well-drained calcareous sands). We will examine soil water balance in areas with and without encroaching CTT to determine how shrubs dry soils. We will investigate the rooting depth profiles of Coast Banksia and CTT. Using an ecophysiological approach, we will examine tree stress (particularly over summer) in a September 2017 Page 19 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects natural experiment by quantifying leaf water potential, leaf gas exchange parameters (net photosynthetic rate and stomatal conductance) and chlorophyll fluorescence in areas with and without dense CTT. In a BACI experiment, we will remove encroaching CTT shrubs around Banksia and / or use supplementary watering to see if this changes the plant stress profile of Coast Banksia trees. Co-supervised with Dr Pete Green. September 2017 Page 20 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr Nick Murphy – Molecular ecology & evolution
N.Murphy@latrobe.edu.au
Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Molecular ecology &
evolution group.
Supervisors: Dr Nick Murphy & Dr Katherine Harrisson
E-mail: n.murphy@latrobe.edu.au, k.harrisson@latrobe.edu.au
Research Field: Ecological/conservation genetics and aquatic ecology.
Research outline:
Genetic tools provide the opportunity to vastly enhance our understanding of biodiversity and ecological
processes. Our research interests are in harnessing technological advances in DNA sequencing and studying
basic biology and life history to describe and document biodiversity, understand both the ecological
processes responsible for species distributions and the response of species to environmental change. Our
research projects are rooted in both evolutionary and ecological theory, however the results are aimed at
improving management decisions for conservation. Students undertaking field-based projects need to be
independent, whilst genetics-based projects require both competent lab skills, and more importantly, a
willingness to learn complex bioinformatics skills.
Potential Projects 2018
1. Genetics for the conservation of Australian freshwater fishes (Supervised by Katherine Harrisson and
Nick Murphy)
There are a number of ongoing and new project ideas in this area, and many of these projects have a strong
applied focus and involve collaboration and supervision with researchers at the Arthur Rylah Institute for
Environmental Research. Projects can include any combination of field collection and basic biology,
population genetics/genomics and biodiversity modelling. Examples of possible projects include:
Applying genomic tools to understand the spatial scale of population processes (e.g. recruitment,
dispersal) and metapopulation dynamics for Victorian native freshwater fish species. E.g. What is the
scale of population connectivity across the distribution of fish species? Where are key source and sink
populations, at-risk populations, and adaptively important populations? What are the relative contributions
of stocking, immigration and within-site recruitment to populations?
Assessing the effects of river flow conditions and barriers for connectivity and recruitment of native
freshwater fish populations (Co supervised by Zeb Tonkin, Arthur Rylah Institute). Understanding the links
between river flow and the health of native freshwater fish populations is critical for efficient and effective
delivery of environmental water (eWater). This project will use field, otolith and genetic data to look at
responses fish populations to flow events to inform more efficient and effective eWater delivery. E.g. What
is the appropriate spatial scale for eWater delivery? What are priority rivers for eWater delivery? How
should flows be delivered (volume and timing)?
There are many other possibilities, so please come chat if you are interested
2. The evolutionary implications of fire (Supervised by Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb)
September 2017 Page 21 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects We know fire creates an incredibly strong selection environment, with adaptations in plants extremely well-studied. However, we know little about how animals adapt to fire. It’s often considered that long-term habitat stability is ideal for conserving biodiversity, however as populations in stable environments have evolved experiencing little change, the impact of even a small shift in conditions may have a drastic impact on population fitness. At the other extreme, it is well recognized that populations that experience high- magnitude change may experience large population bottlenecks. This project will investigate the impact of fire on the adaptive potential of populations, asking a simple question: does past fire mean a population is better adapted to cope with future fire? Using genetics, physiology and/or behaviour you will examine soil arthropods to investigate if populations previously impacted by fire have evolved traits that enable them to better tolerate a post fire environment? 3. Subterranean biology – predicting the presence of stygofauna in Victoria. (Supervised by Nick Murphy) Recent preliminary studies have found obligate macro and micro-crustaceans (stygofauna) living in Victorian aquifers. Unsurprisingly, very little is known about the presence of life in Victorian groundwater systems, and even less about how these species exists. Using groundwater databases, you will identify the most likely locations for stygofauna and sample observation bores in these regions. Using microscopic techniques and DNA extracted from the water (environmental DNA) you will characterise the stygofauna along with the microbial systems which support these species. This project is highly likely to discover new species in places where most people don’t even realise life exists. 4. Understanding the trophic ecology of insectivorous threatened mammals and its impact on invertebrates – (Supervised by Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb) Many of Australia’s threatened mammals such as the burrowing bettong (Bettongia lesueur), brush-tailed bettong (Bettongia penicillata) and bilby (Macrotis lagotis consume insects and the demise of these species has had significant effects on invertebrate biodiversity and function. However, no studies of the diets of omnivorous species) have identified invertebrates beyond the ordinal level. The ecological roles of invertebrates are unique at much finer taxonomic levels, so this level of resolution does not allow us to determine important traits, such as microhabitat use, abundance, seasonality, trophic position, reproductive capacity, or size or provide any insights into the effects of the loss of mammal species on food webs. This study will use DNA analysis of mammal scats, combined with sampling of invertebrates and measurement of mammal digging activity in different microhabitats to ask: 1) Which species do threatened mammals eat?; and 2) do threatened mammals select prey based on ecological or morphological traits? If so, which traits are favoured? This novel study will generate fundamental new insights into the consequences of ecological extinctions of mammals for their prey and improve our ability to maintain sustainable populations of mammals in predator-free reintroduction reserves. 5. Freshwater conservation biology (Supervised by Nick Murphy, Katherine Harrisson and Tarmo Raadik, Arthur Rylah Institute) There are a number of potential conservation biology that can be co-supervised by Tarmo Raadik at Arthur Rylah Institute. Ideas include, investigating freshwater mussel (Velesunio/Hyridella) distribution, host specificity and connectivity in the Yarra River basin. Euastacus spiny crayfish connectivity, population structure and hybridisation in southern Victoria. Conservation ecology of the rare stonefly Thaumatoperla robusta. Investigating the diversity and distributions of endangered burrowing crayfish using environmental DNA September 2017 Page 22 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects In addition, I have potential projects studying the evolution and ecology of alpine freshwater invertebrates, the evolutionary and ecological constraints on the recolonization of locally extinct populations, desert spring population genetics and evolution, or discuss your project ideas with me. September 2017 Page 23 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr Richard Peters – Animal behaviour
R.Peters@latrobe.edu.au
Dr Richard Peters + Dr Jose Ramos
Research in the ABG covers broad interests in animal behaviour, with a focus on the evolution of signals in
the light of sensory system function and evolutionary processes. Much of our work has focused on the
movement-based signals produced by Australian agamid lizards. These signals are often produced during
territorial displays, and vary in structure and complexity between species and populations.
Potential honours projects:
1. Jacky dragon (Amphibolurus muricatus) displays through ontogeny. Is signalling behaviour inherited
or learnt?
2. Signalling variation in allopatric populations of the Peninsula dragon (Ctenophorus fionni). Do
differences in morphology translate to differences in signalling behaviour?
3. The influence of sympatry in the displays of two closely related species, the Tawny dragon
(Ctenophorus decresii) and the Red barred dragon (Ctenophorus vadnappa). How is signal efficacy
maintained while species recognition traits are also preserved?
September 2017 Page 24 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
Dr Kylie Robert – Reproductive ecology & Conservation
biology K.Robert@latrobe.edu.au
The research of the group is broadly focused around ecological and evolutionary physiology of
reproduction. We are particularly interested in viviparity, maternal/paternal effects on offspring
phenotypes, sex allocation and the physiological and endocrinological basis for the variation in life
history. Research in the group includes how environmental factors (e.g. temperature, humidity, pollutants)
and/or parental factors (e.g. diet, body condition, behaviour) shape maternal/paternal allocation strategies.
The group uses a multidiscipline approach to question orientated research utilising a diverse range of taxa,
including but not limited to reptiles, birds, bats and marsupials.
The group also has an applied focus to conservation biology with research on endangered species and the
impacts of anthropogenic disturbance on species (in particular the role of artificial light at night or light
pollution).
See the website for further information: http://robertlab.com
We are happy to discuss project ideas with students that complement our research areas.
Supervisors: Dr Kylie Robert & Dr Amy Edwards
E-mail: K.Robert@latrobe.edu.au, A.Edwards@latrobe.edu.au
1. Morphometry of the testis and seminiferous tubules of the Tammar Wallaby
Dr Amy Edwards
Body and testicular morphometric parameters are very
important in reproduction. The investigation into
testicular morphophysiology and body biometry allows
us to understand aspects of the reproductive biology of
different species, including physiological and
behavioural patterns. This work is essential for
advancements in protocols for assisted reproduction
and captive breeding works in Australian marsupials.
Seminiferous tubules (ST) are the most abundant
components of the testicular parenchyma, and
September 2017 Page 25 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects increases in measurements of ST are directly related to spermatogenic activity. Spermatogenesis starts with the spermatogonia (germ cells) that line the walls of the ST, after moving through the differentiation process, they end in the lumen as highly specialised, and motile sperm. 30 pairs of Tammar Wallaby testes have been collected from Kangaroo Island and await histology and microscopy analysis by the successful honours student. September 2017 Page 26 of 41
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
A. Prof. Martin Steinbauer – Insect-Plant interactions
M.Steinbauer@latrobe.edu.au
Dr Martin Steinbauer (Reader/Associate Professor)
Insect-Plant Interactions Lab │ 2018 Honours Projects │
1. The breeding system of Coastal tea tree (Myrtaceae) in relation to invasiveness
The breeding system of plants is a key life history trait linked to competitiveness
and invasiveness. ‘Selfing’ (self-compatibility or apomixis) has been suggested to
be a trait common to invasive weeds, i.e. Baker’s law. Coastal tea tree
(Leptospermum laevigatum) is a native Australian species which has been widely
used for dune stabilisation in both Australia and in South Africa. The species has
become an invasive weed in South Africa and has also invaded non-coastal
habitats in Australia. Unfortunately, the breeding system of the plant is unknown
making it difficult to assess the role of self-compatibility to the success of this
plant in new habitats.
Our lab is collaborating with colleagues in South Africa to investigate the potential for the biological control
of this plant using native Australian insect herbivores. This project will use manipulative field experiments
to assess whether the plant can produce seeds by apomixis. In addition, you will document the taxa of
insect visiting flowers to identify potential pollinators and flower galling species.
Collaborators: Ms Renae Forbes
2. Birds, psyllids and eucalypt dieback: the role of a despotic bird species (Bell Miner) in complex
ecological interactions in foothill forests
Bell Miners have been shown to promote eucalypt dieback
locally by excluding other insectivorous birds and thereby
generating locally high populations of psyllid insects. This
issue has been of economic concern especially in NSW
where it is known as BMAD (Bell Miner Associated Dieback).
However, Bell Miners are not the only cause of dieback in
these forests, and more needs to be learned about the
effects of climate and landscape modification on the
outcomes of these interactions. Near Melbourne, Bell
Miners have tended to increase during droughts and
decrease rapidly in periods of higher rainfall. This project
will use historical information to examine these trends. It will involve fieldwork to assess the status of Bell
Miners, other birds, psyllids and tree dieback in sites where fieldwork was conducted 30 years ago. The
previous fieldwork involved some experiments where Bell Miners were removed from selected sites.
Follow-up information would be valuable in assessing the longer-term efficacy of those removal
September 2017 Page 27 of 41DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
experiments. The project will compare tree health and psyllid abundance in previous removal sites with the
tree health and psyllid abundance in previous control sites.
You will be provided with historical data and help with locating previous field sites, which are mostly in
foothill forests east of Melbourne including the Dandenong Ranges. You will be offered instruction in field
techniques for assessing abundance of birds and psyllids and indices of dieback.
Collaborator: Dr Richard Loyn
3. Hypersensitive responses of Gossia (Myrtaceae) species to galling cecid flies
The young leaves of some plants are highly sensitive to signals
which indicate the presence of the eggs of insect herbivores.
These plants elicit rapid, localised cell death around the point
of leaf injury thereby killing the egg but also a small area of
lamina. These ‘hypersensitive responses’ (HRs) result in the
appearance of numerous, often perfectly circular holes in
affected leaves – a phenomenon which has been termed
‘misleading herbivory’.
Gossia is a small genus of unusual trees found mainly on metalliferous soils in New Caledonia and eastern
Australia. Gossia grayi is endemic to the wet tropics of Queensland and is a hyperaccummulator of Mn
which can be heavily galled by the larvae of an undescribed species of cecidomyiid fly (Diptera:
Cecidomyiidae) but only if eggs are laid into leaves that have presumably passed a certain stage of
development. This study will define the developmental stage at which leaves are capable of initiating HRs
to fly oviposition and document the timing and progress of cell necrosis and abscission around eggs. The
project will contrast HRs on young leaves with gall formation on leaves insensitive to fly oviposition.
Collaborators: Dr Denise Fernando & Dr Peter Green
4. Floral evolution in response to pollination by Bumblebees
Bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) were accidentally introduced into
southeastern Tasmania from New Zealand sometime during the early
1990s. Since this time, the insect has spread widely across the State
and is highly polylectic on native and exotic plant species; it also has
the potential to be an effective competitor of native bees and exotic
honey bees. Consequently, the spread of bumblebees represents a
novel selective pressure in ecosystems whose plants are adapted to
bird and/or native bee pollinators.
This project will investigate the effect of this novel agent of selection
September 2017 Page 28 of 41You can also read
