Seed dispersal by Emus on the New South Wales north-east coast

The Emu Dromaius novaehollandiae is no longer common in the north-east coas tal region of New South Wales and its habitat is increasingly being fragmen ted by development. From a pilot study using Emu faecal droppings collected at Main Camp it is established that viable seeds are dispersed by Emus in the region. It is suggested that this viable seed dispersal combined with t he possible extensive range of plant species dispersed indicates Emus may p lay an important, yet overlooked role in the maintenance of the recorded hi gh regional biodiversity. The Emu's ability to transport many large seeds o ver long distances could prove an important link between fragments of remna nt vegetation by helping to maintain the genetic mix in plant communities.