Rainforest Research Project #5
Genetic Footprints of Rainforest Trees
 Elaeocarpus Fruit & Leaf |
In 1995, Robert detected a decline in the rainforest tree, Elaeocarpus, at Rocky Creek on the edge of the Nightcap Range. He was concerned by the loss of many of the larger, older trees. This research hopes to provide some answers to this and other current conservation issues through a combined look at local genetics, demographics and ecology. Genetics play a crucial role in conservation. Among other things, the team hopes to shed light on the level of genetic variation within and between Elaeocarpus populations. The findings will feed into local recovery plans for threatened species.
"Collection of leaf and other material for genetic analysis of a range of rainforest species in association with Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney. This includes studies of Elaeocarpus sp Rocky Creek, Elaeocarpus williamsianus, and a number of other species. This will result in a series of published papers and integration of these results with the demographic and ecological research already undertaken by Robert Kooyman.
More Information
- Rainforest Research #1 - The Private Life of the Peach Myrtle
- Rainforest Research #2 - Walking with Rainforests
- Rainforest Research #3 - Discovery of the Nightcap Oak
- Rainforest Research #4 - Vital Science for Big Scrub Landcarers
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