Vegetation of Australian Riverine Landscapes: Biology, Ecology and Management

Description

Vegetation communities in Australia's riverine landscapes are ecologically, economically and culturally significant. They are also among the most threatened ecosystems on the continent and have been dramatically altered as a result of human activities and climate change. Vegetation of Australian Riverine Landscapes brings together, for the first time, the results of the substantial amount of research that has been conducted over the last few decades into the biology, ecology and management of these important plant communities in Australia. The book is divided into four sections. The first section provides context with respect to the spatial and temporal dimensions of riverine landscapes in Australia. The second section examines key groups of riverine plants, while the third section provides an overview of riverine vegetation in five major regions of Australia, including patterns, significant threats and management. The final section explores critical issues associated with the conservation and management of riverine plants and vegetation, including water management, salinity, fire and restoration. Vegetation of Australian Riverine Landscapes highlights the incredible diversity and dynamic nature of riverine vegetation across Australia, and will be an excellent reference for researchers, academics and environmental consultants.

Dr Samantha Capon is a researcher at the Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, USA. She has over 15 years' experience researching the ecology and management of riparian, floodplain and wetland vegetation in inland Australia. Her research explores the diversity and dynamics of these ecological systems and informs their conservation and restoration. Cassandra James is a Senior Research Scientist and Vegetation Ecologist with the Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research at James Cook University, Australia. Her research focuses on understanding the effects of natural and man-made factors on vegetation of riverine ecosystems. Michael Reid is a Senior Lecturer in Physical Geography at the University of New England, USA. His research focuses on understanding pattern and process in floodplain and river ecosystems and includes floodplain vegetation dynamics, palaeoecology, food web ecology and ecohydrology.