Survey/Project Number: |
832
Total No. of Sites:
29
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Survey/Project Name: |
IMPACTS OF FIRE ON ORCHID POLLINATION-Mount Lofty Block |
Abstract: |
This project combines traditional plant and insect ecology with advanced molecular techniques to ascertain the effects of fire
management on terrestrial orchids and their pollinators in fragmented landscapes of South Australia. Although fire can
promote the flowering of many species of terrestrial orchids, the effect of fire on the reproductive output and hence longterm
population viability of these orchids is unknown. In particular, orchids that depend on specific pollinators may be more
susceptible to disturbance regimes. The aims of this project are : To assess the effect of fire on the reproductive output of
threatened orchid populations in the Mount Lofty Region, taking into account the impacts of pollination, grazing, seed viability
and seedling establishment. To assess the response of several species of orchids with contrasting pollination biology to fire
management regimes. To assess how populations of generalist and specialist insect pollinators respond to fire regimes. To
develop rapid molecular techniques to identify orchid pollinators and pollinia. |
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Start Date: |
01/06/2012
End Date: 31/05/2016
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Survey Type: |
Other |
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Study Area Description: |
Exact locations have not been finalised and will be subject to locations of prescribed burns. All sites will be within the Mount
Lofty Region, and are located on DEWNR reserves, SA Water and Forestry SA land. |