THREATS TO MONSOON RAIN-FOREST HABITAT IN NORTHERN AUSTRALIA - THE CASE OF PTYCHOSPERMA-BLEESERI BURRET (ARECACEAE)

Rainforest patches in the Australian wet-dry tropics occur as habitat islands. Recent studies show that many patches are severely damaged by feral animals, weed invasion and contemporary fire regimes. This pape r documents the status of an endangered palm species, Ptychosperma ble eseri, which occurs within a narrow geographical range in seven rainfo rest patches. Results of multivariate statistical analysis of quadrats with and without P. bleeseri show that the species does not appear to occupy all suitable habitat available at either a regional scale or w ithin single rainforest patches. Evidence, based on demographic survey s, is presented for the current decline of P. bleeseri populations and possible causes for this decline are discussed; in particular, the im pacts of wildfire and feral animal activity. Recommendations for a rec overy plan for P. bleeseri are discussed, and include fencing, fire pr otection and public education.