P. Barrow et al., THREATS TO MONSOON RAIN-FOREST HABITAT IN NORTHERN AUSTRALIA - THE CASE OF PTYCHOSPERMA-BLEESERI BURRET (ARECACEAE), Australian journal of ecology, 18(4), 1993, pp. 463-471
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.