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2018 Honours Projects E E E 4 H N A / B / X
Department of Ecology, Environment & Evolution, and the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre
K y l i e R o b e r t ( M e l b o u r n e ) , A d e l e H a r v e y ( M e l b o u r n e ) & A l e i c i a H o l l a n d ( A l b u r y - W o d o n g a )
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
September 2017 Page 2 of 41
Research Groups
Name Research area E-mail
Prof. Andrew Bennett (DEEE/ARI Bundoora)
Landscape ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/landscape-ecology
Prof. Nick Bond (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic ecology, management and policy http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/directors/Bond.asp
A/Prof. Paul Brown (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/mildura/2014115153296.asp
Prof. Michael Clarke (DEEE Bundoora)
Fire & Avian ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/fire-ecology
Prof. Ben Gawne (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic Ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Gawne.asp
Dr Susan Gehrig (MDFRC Mildura)
Plant Ecophysiology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/mildura/Gehrig.asp
A/Prof. Heloise Gibb (DEEE Bundoora)
Insect ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/insect-ecology
Dr Peter Green (DEEE Bundoora)
Community ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/conservation-biology
Dr Adela Harvey (DEEE Bundoora)
Coralline algae: taxonomy & ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/marine-taxonomy-ecology
Dr Susan Hoebee (DEEE Bundoora)
Plant reproduction, ecological & conservation genetics http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/plant-conservation-genetics
Dr Aleicia Holland (DEEE Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic ecology/ecotoxicology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/school-life-sciences/about/our-staff/profile?uname=A2Holland
A/Prof. Susan Lawler (DEEE Albury Wodonga)
Conservation ecology & evolutionary genetics http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=SHLawler
Dr John Lesku (DEEE Bundoora)
Sleep ecophysiology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/sleep-ecophysiology
A/Prof. Alan Lill (DEEE Bundoora)
Avian behavioural ecology, ecophysiology & urban ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=ALill
DEEE & MDFRC 2018 Honours Projects
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Richard Loyn (DEEE Bundoora)
Ecology of Forests, Fire, Rural & Urban Landscapes (associated with the fire ecology and landscape ecology groups, see their websites for further details)
Dr Paul McInerney (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic Ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/mcinerney.asp
Dr John Morgan (DEEE Bundoora)
Plant ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/plant-ecology http://morganvegdynamics.blogspot.com.au/
Dr Nick Murphy (DEEE Bundoora)
Molecular ecology & evolution http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/molecular-ecology-evolution
Dr Daryl Nielsen (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Nielsen.asp
Dr Warren Paul (DEEE Bundoora)
Environmental & statistical modelling http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=WLPaul
Dr Richard Peters (DEEE Bundoora)
Animal behavior http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/animal-behaviour http://richard.eriophora.com.au/
Dr Amina Price (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Aquatic Animal Ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/price.asp
Dr Gavin Rees (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Microbial Ecology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Rees.asp
Dr Kylie Robert (DEEE Bundoora)
Reproductive ecology & Conservation biology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/reproductive-ecology http://robertlab.com
Dr Alexei Rowles (DEEE Albury Wodonga)
Invertebrate ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=ARowles
Dr Michael Shackleton (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Molecular taxonomy http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Shackleton.asp
A/Prof. Ewen Silvester (DEEE Albury Wodonga)
Alpine ecology http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=EJSilvester
A/Prof. Martin Steinbauer (DEEE Bundoora)
Insect-Plant interactions http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/insect-plant-interactions
Dr Rick Stoffels (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
Fish Biology http://www.mdfrc.org.au/staff/wodonga/Stoffels.asp
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A/Prof. John Webb (DEEE Bundoora)
Environmental geoscience http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/environmental-geoscience
Adj. Prof. Mike Westerman (DEEE Bundoora)
Molecular evolution in Australian marsupials http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/research/specialisations/marsupial-evolutionary-genetics
Dr Patricia Woolley (DEEE Bundoora)
Dasyurid marsupials http://www.latrobe.edu.au/ecology-environment-evolution/staff/profile?uname=PAWoolley
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Overview – what is Honours?
The Honours year is very different from earlier years of study at university. As an honours student, you
work mostly on your own, with assistance and encouragement from your supervisor. The aim of the
honours year is to provide students with the knowledge and technical skills required for your future
participation in both the scientific and general communities. Honours gives students far greater
opportunity to show initiative, and to follow their own lines of interest, than is possible in basic
undergraduate course work. In addition, there is often opportunity to become proficient in the use of
sophisticated equipment and techniques, experience which is rarely possible to gain in the classroom.
Graduates that have completed the honours year are often favoured over those with a basic degree in
selection for jobs. Employers prefer applicants who can show evidence of ability to plan an investigation,
work independently on it, and persevere until it is completed, all within time constraints. An Honours year
is also a requirement for entry into graduate research programs, such as a PhD, and a career in research.
Attendance | Honours is a full-time job (unless you are enrolled part-time). Students are expected to
inform their supervisor and the Honours Coordinator if they are unable to attend through illness. In
general, students are not expected to take holidays. Any proposed absences should be discussed with your
supervisor and an 'application for absence' form completed.
Departmental Seminars | Students are required to attend all departmental seminars. If off campus for
field work students are expected to submit an apology to the seminar coordinator.
Entrance requirements
Entrance into honours requires a minimum average grade of 70 in third year subjects relevant to the study
area and a willing supervisor. The supervisor agreement form (see appendix 1) needs to be signed by your
supervisor and uploaded with your enrolment application
Where can I do Honours?
Students undertake their Honours projects under the close direction of an academic supervisor. Academic
supervisors are available in the Department of Ecology, Environment and Evolution (DEEE; Bundoora and
Albury-Wodonga campuses), and in the Murray-Darling Freshwater Research Centre (MDFRC; Albury-
Wodonga and Mildura campuses). The MDFRC is a partnership between La Trobe University and CSIRO,
and there are very close ties between DEEE and MDFRC. In addition, we also work with colleagues at the
Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research (ARI), part of the Victorian Government’s Department of
Environment, Land, Water and Planning located in Heidelberg. Several projects have ARI staff nominated
as co-supervisors.
How to find a project & supervisor
Students wishing to undertake honours are encouraged to contact a potential supervisor from the
department in your area of interest (do this early to avoid disappointment). This booklet provides
information on the research areas of potential supervisors and any specific projects being offered in 2018.
Not all potential supervisors have specific projects listed and you may contact them with your own ideas in
their research area.
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Course structure
The course commences in the beginning of either semester 1 or semester 2 (mid-year starters) and runs for
38 weeks. The course is centred around a research project, on a topic agreed upon with a supervisor. The
tasks to be completed during the honours year are:
LITERATURE REVIEW
A literature review (3,000 words) relating to your research project.
Due: Week 4 Assessment Value: 10%
PROJECT PLAN
A project plan of approximately 2,500 words is to be submitted to your supervisor. It will not be graded, but
must be improved if it is unsatisfactory.
Due: Week 4 Assessment Value: Not graded
INTRODUCTORY SEMINAR
A short introductory seminar (10 minutes talk, 5 minutes discussion), outlining the plan of your research
project in the context of current knowledge in the field, is to be given five weeks after commencement.
Questions from the audience will be noted by the supervisor and discussed with student. A synopsis of the
project (about 200 words) must be submitted one-week prior to the seminar date.
Due: Week 5 Assessment Value: Not graded
GRANT PROPOSAL
A grant proposal (less than 2,500 words) relating to your research project is to be written. This may draw
on elements of the literature review and project plant and must also include a budget.
Due: Week 6 Assessment Value: 10%
FINAL SEMINAR
Students will present a longer seminar (15 minutes talk, 5 minutes discussion) on their project. Students
must incorporate their results and conclusions into a revised synopsis one week prior to the seminar date.
Due: Week 34 Assessment Value: 10%
THESIS
A thesis (max. 12,000 words) is to be submitted for assessment by the end of week 38.
Due: Week 38 Assessment Value: 70%
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2018 Projects – based at Bundoora
Prof. Andrew Bennett – Landscape ecology (DEEE/ARI, Bundoora)
Below is a brief description of an honours project on offer in 2018 in the Landscape ecology group.
Potential supervisors within the group include Prof. Andrew Bennett, Dr Greg Holland, Dr Luke Collins. We
are happy to discuss and develop other project ideas with prospective students.
Project 1: Understanding the effect of precipitation and fire severity on ecosystem response to fires
Supervisors: Luke Collins, Nick Murphy, Heloise Gibb, Steve Leonard
Email: [email protected]
Tolerable fire intervals (TFIs) are the primary tool used for ecological fire management prescriptions across
south eastern Australia. TFIs define the amount of time required between fires so that undesirable changes
to ecosystems characteristics are avoided. These intervals are largely based on the time to maturity (lower
interval) and senescence (upper interval) of key fire sensitive plant species, which are assumed to reflect
the requirements of other organisms. In their current state, TFIs are largely static across both space and
time. However, the response of plant and animal communities will be dependent upon the severity of fires
defining the start and end of the inter-fire interval. Furthermore, the rate of post fire ecosystem recovery
will be dependent upon precipitation regimes following a fire, with drought conditions likely to hinder
recovery. There is currently little quantitative evidence examining the sensitivity of TFIs to variation in fire
severity and precipitation. This presents a major gap in knowledge, considering that climate change is
projected to reduce precipitation and increase the frequency of high severity wildfire across south-eastern
Australia over the next century.
Honours project(s) will focus on the effects of fire severity and/or drought on ecosystem response to fire.
The ecosystem parameters examined could include plant communities, animal communities (e.g.
invertebrates) or carbon stocks, depending on the student’s area of interest.
Please contact Luke ([email protected]), Nick ([email protected]) Heloise
([email protected]) or Steve ([email protected]) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project.
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Prof. Michael Clarke – Fire & Avian ecology
The Fire and Avian Ecology Group is currently undertaking several major projects addressing questions
related to the role of fire in ecosystems, and how best to use fire for conservation management. We work
in a range of ecosystems, including forests and mallee woodland. Our work generally has an applied focus,
and we often work in collaboration with land management agencies (e.g. DELWP, Parks Victoria).
There is scope to include honours projects within our broader projects. We are happy to discuss and
develop project ideas with prospective students.
Honours supervision within our group will be undertaken by Dr Angie Haslem, Dr Steve Leonard and/or Dr
Simon Watson (supervisor(s) will depend on the project), with strategic input from Prof Mike Clarke.
For further information contact Dr Steve Leonard [email protected]
In addition, we are offering the following projects in 2018:
1. Net effects of digging mammals on flora and vegetation in arid Australia
Supervisors: Steve Leonard, Heloise Gibb
Large-scale re-introductions of locally extinct digging mammal assemblages have been implemented at a
number of arid zone sites, with the aim of conserving mammal species and restoring ecosystem function.
Digging mammals increase nutrient cycling and water infiltration, and create niches for seed germination.
Some are also herbivores. The net effect of these potentially positive and negative effects on plants and the
implications for plant community composition remain poorly understood. This project will examine these
issues at Scotia Sanctuary in south-west NSW. It follows on from work carried out in 2011. The project will
involve a comparison of flora and vegetation in plots open to and protected from mammals, as well as
examining change in the vegetation since the initial survey.
Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record, an interest in vegetation
ecology and an aptitude for field work in remote areas. Applicants should have a manual driving licence or
be willing to obtain one before the project commences. A mid-year start would be best for this project.
2. Influence of large wildfires and fuel management activities on the distribution of Greater Gliders
in north east Victoria
Supervisors: Steve Leonard, Sarah Kelly (DELWP)
This project will examine the effects of bushfires and planned burning on Greater Gliders (Petauroides
volans). The project will be carried out in partnership with staff from the Department of Environment. Land,
Water and Planning. The results of the study will directly inform conservation management of greater
gliders and fire management with their range.
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Dr Heloise Gibb – Insect ecology
Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Insect ecology group.
1. Understanding the trophic ecology of insectivorous threatened mammals and its impact on
invertebrates
Supervised by: Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb
The current rate of species extinctions, driven by a range of anthropogenic forces, is so extensive that it is
commonly described as the “sixth mass extinction”. Species abundances may also decline so dramatically
that species become “ecologically extinct”, i.e., too rare to continue to play important ecological roles.
Extinctions and ‘ecological extinctions’ of Australian mammals following European colonisation have been
extensive, with the loss of 22 species since 1788 and declines in many others. Many threatened mammals
consume insects and the demise of these species is likely to have had significant effects on invertebrate
biodiversity and function. However, no studies of the diets of omnivorous species such as the burrowing
bettong (Bettongia lesueur), brush-tailed bettong (Bettongia penicillata) and bilby (Macrotis lagotis) have
identified invertebrates beyond the ordinal level. The ecological roles of invertebrates are unique at much
finer taxonomic levels, so this level of resolution does not allow us to determine important traits of the
invertebrates consumed, such as microhabitat use, abundance, seasonality, trophic position, reproductive
capacity, or size or provide any insights into the effects of the loss of mammal species on food webs. This
study will use DNA analysis of mammal scats, combined with sampling of invertebrates and measurement
of mammal digging activity in different microhabitats to ask: 1) Which species do threatened mammals
eat?; and 2) do threatened mammals select prey based on ecological or morphological traits? If so, which
traits are favoured? This novel study will generate fundamental new insights into the consequences of
ecological extinctions of mammals for their prey and improve our ability to maintain sustainable
populations of mammals in predator-free reintroduction reserves.
Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record, an interest in community
ecology, mammals and invertebrates and an aptitude for genetics lab work. The project could start in
February or July 2018. Please contact Nick ([email protected]) or Heloise by email
([email protected]) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project.
2. Global and local-scale determinants of beta diversity in ant assemblages
Supervised by: Heloise Gibb & Simon Watson
The diversity of species in an assemblage is described using the concepts of alpha, beta and gamma
diversity. Alpha diversity describes the number of species in a site, while gamma diversity describes the
number of species across a region. In contrast, beta diversity describes the turnover in species among sites.
Beta diversity underpins much of conservation theory and practice: for example, it indicates the increase in
numbers of species conserved if new locations are added to the reserve system. A range of environmental
factors may be associated with differences in beta diversity, including factors operating at local or regional
scales, e.g., dispersal barriers, soil heterogeneity and local disturbances; and those operating at global
scales, e.g., climate. The Global Ants Database (GAD), a result of collaboration between La Trobe
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researchers and a global network of myrmecologists, contains a unique dataset on assemblage composition
from over 2000 local ant assemblages. This study uses the GAD to ask: What are the local and global
determinants of beta diversity in ant assemblages? The project will investigate different measures of beta
diversity, as well as the newly proposed metric: zeta diversity.
Students applying for this project should have a strong undergraduate record and an interest
macroecology, conservation and community ecology. An aptitude for mathematics or statistics and GIS
experience is also desirable. Preferred start date is February 2018. Please contact Heloise or Simon by
email ([email protected]; [email protected]) to arrange a meeting to discuss the project.
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Dr Pete Green – Community Ecology
I am open to ideas for Honours projects – please come and chat.
1. Suppression and growth in the understory rainforest plants in Queensland
A widely recognised feature of the dynamics of rainforests is the phenomenon of suppression. The
rainforest canopy is so dense that typically, 1-3% of light incident above the canopy makes it through to
ground level. This presents obvious challenges for plant metabolism, and most understory seedlings and
saplings exist barely above the point of compensation. Gains die to photosynthesis barely outpace losses
due to respiration and herbivory, with the consequence that most plants are suppressed and grow very
slowly in the shade.
Recent analyses of decades-long records of height growth for plants on two plots in Queensland indicate
the median age of 2 m tall saplings may be between 100 and 200 years old, depending on the species. Part
of the reason for these great ages is suppression and we will investigate cross-species variation in rates of
photosynthesis and respiration, but physical damage is probably also important. Anecdotal observations
indicate a very high proportion of stems have been broken and resprouted in the past, probably further
delaying the growth of these stems. We will conduct surveys to determine the frequency of this kind of
damage, and its consequences for growth. Lastly, we will use the long-term records of height growth of
tagged plants, together with the mapped positions of these plants and local measurements of canopy
openness to determine is there spatial variation in understory light environments, and if this translates to
‘hot’ and ‘cold’ spots for plant growth.
This project is best suited for a mid-year start
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Dr Susan Hoebee - Plant reproduction, ecological &
conservation genetics [email protected]
Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Plant reproduction,
ecological and conservation genetics lab.
Pollination and genetic studies on rare grevilleas are continuing themes in my group. Despite some
phylogenetic and population genetic studies undertaken for the holly-leaved grevilleas, two ‘local’ species
are yet to be studied in any great detail. I’d be keen to have students work on each of the following
projects:
1. One and the same but different: quantifying genetic diversity and structure of Grevillea montis-
cole populations.
Feb or, more ideally, a mid-year start.
Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Elizabeth James (Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria).
Grevillea montis-cole is divided into two subspecies that are restricted to two adjacent mountain tops in
Victoria: Mt. Cole and Mt. Langi Ghiran. Morphologically, the subspecies differ in terms of their pistil length
but, somewhat surprisingly, phylogenetic research has suggested that they are more closely related to
other species than to one another. Using available molecular markers the student will assess gene flow
between the two subspecies, as well as overall population genetic structure. The results will inform both
taxonomic treatment and conservation strategies for the species as a whole.
Depending upon when the project is undertaken this could run as a purely lab-based project (Feb start) or
involve some field work (mid-year start).
2. Pollination, genetic diversity and structure of Grevillea bedggoodiana populations.
Feb or, more ideally, a mid-year start.
Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Elizabeth James (Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria).
Grevillea bedggoodiana is a prostrate species restricted to the Enfield State Forest, Victoria. It is
hypothesised that, like its congeneric taxon G. obtecta, G. bedggoodiana employs a dual specialisation
system that involves both birds and marsupial mammals, as diurnal and nocturnal pollinators respectively.
Floral visitors will be assessed using camera trapping and it may be possible to complement this with Elliot-
trapping to assess pollen loads on mammals active in the area during flowering. In order to augment
genetic datasets from related species, it would be ideal to determine gene flow and structure between
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populations using available genetic markers. Together, the results will inform conservation strategies for
the species.
Depending upon when the project is undertaken this could run as a purely lab-based project (Feb start;
genetics only) or involve some field work (mid-year start; pollination and genetics).
Two other projects that fit under research themes of my lab group, include:
3. Understanding drivers of poor reproductive output in small populations of Banksia spinulosa
from the Dandenong Ranges.
February start.
Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Annette Muir (Arthur Rylah Institute)
Observations of small populations of Banksia spinulosa in the Dandenong Ranges over several years have
revealed that almost all plants are producing little to no infructescences (cones) although the plants are
over 30 years old and produce numerous inflorescences. Minimal seed production makes the taxon
vulnerable to local extinction in the event of fire, because plants are killed by fire and do not have soil-
stored seed. There are several reasons that could underpin this poor reproductive output including:
resource or pollinator limitation, disrupted male or female function, self-incompatibility, mate limitation
and/or inbreeding. A comparative approach using nearby fertile populations will be employed to tease
apart which of these factors may be responsible for poor output in the reproductively challenged
populations.
This project is best suited to a part-time study load owing to the delay between pollination and seed
production; however, some aspects could be investigated in a standard honours program.
4. A needle in a haystack: looking for signals of self-incompatibility loci in RNA-seq data.
Either February or July start.
Co-supervision: Dr Susan Hoebee & Dr Anthony Gendall (APSS, La Trobe University)
About 50% of angiosperms are self-incompatible. This is a strategy theorised to have evolved in plants to
avoid negative fitness effects frequently associated with mating among relatives (inbreeding). This would
be a purely bioinformatic-based project working to unravel signals of self-incompatibility from RNA-
sequencing data. Two contrasting datasets have been generated: one from the Brassicaceae (known to
have sporophytic control of self-incompatibility), the other is from a family where molecular control of SI is
unknown.
Contact: Dr Susan Hoebee
BS1, 409 | 9479 2274 | [email protected]
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Dr John Lesku – Sleep ecophysiology
Sleep Ecophysiology Group
Birds and mammals have two basic types of sleep, called rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM
sleep. In mammals, brain temperature is lower during non-REM sleep and increases to wake-like levels in
REM sleep. These relationships gave rise to early hypotheses for the function of non-REM and REM sleep,
namely cooling and warming the brain, respectively. Whether these ideas apply also to birds is
unclear. Using pigeons and/or chickens, the successful Honours candidate will determine the relationship
between brain temperature and brain state in birds.
https://leskulab.org/
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Dr Alan Lill - Avian behavioural ecology, ecophysiology &
urban ecology [email protected]
Research areas
1. Urban colonization by native birds, especially ravens and exotic Common mynas
2. Erythrocyte parameters as condition and health indicators in birds
Possible Honours projects for 2018:
1. Anti-predator vigilance in urban Little Ravens
Understanding the factors and processes that facilitate urban colonization and persistence by native
animals is a crucial element in effectively managing the conservation of urban native biodiversity.
Surveillance for predators (vigilance) is time-consuming and costly, but it is a vital for many birds. There has
been much polarized debate about whether or not the urban environment is relatively predator-free for
native bird species that successfully colonize cities. At one extreme it is argued that cities are low-risk, safe
refuges from predators in which predator surveillance can be advantageously relaxed; this trend can
potentially be enhanced by necessary habituation to a high volume of harmless human traffic. An
antithetical view is that because of the high density of humans and their pets (dogs, cats), cities are actually
more predator-rich than rural environments. These conflicting perspectives can be teased apart by
examining how vigilance and other related anti-predator behaviours vary across urban- rural gradients.
This project will address this question in a successful ‘urban adapter’ species, the native Little Raven, by
comparing vigilance and other anti-predator behaviours of free-living individuals in Melbourne and other
Victorian cities with that of conspecifics in rural Victoria during the non-breeding season.
References:
Vines, A. and Lill, A. (2015). Boldness and urban dwelling in little ravens. Wildlife Research 42, 590-597.
McCleery, R.A. (2009). Changes in fox squirrel anti-predator behaviors across the urban–rural
gradient. Landscape Ecology 24, 483-493.
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2. Factors facilitating urban living in the native Pacific Black Duck The Pacific Black Duck Anas superciliosa is a native duck species that has colonized many cities and towns,
including Melbourne. It mostly feeds on water by dabbling,
filtering and ‘upending’ and nests in tree hollows or on the
ground. However, its ecology in the urban environment
requires more investigation to understand how it has been
able to exploit cities so successfully. This project will examine
the extent to which: (a) the species appears to be “pre-
adapted” to the urban environment, (b) its urban life depends
on innovative adjustment, and (c) interspecific competition is
likely to influence its urban persistence. The Black Duck’s
ecology is quite different from that of the Wood Duck, which is the subject of a 2017 honours urban
ecology project that I am supervising, and so it will ultimately be possible to make some very interesting
comparisons.
References:
Lowry, H. and Lill, A. (2007). Ecological factors facilitating city-dwelling in Red-rumped parrots. Wildlife
Research 34, 624-631. [a very different species, but paper demonstrates the approach that can be taken]
I am also willing to discuss other possible honours projects in avian urban ecology for 2018.
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Dr Richard Loyn - Ecology of Forests, Fire, Rural & Urban
Landscapes [email protected]
1. Effects of habitat and connectivity on bird or mammal communities
The diversity and abundance of fauna species is affected by site-level habitat characteristics and also by the
distribution and connectivity of habitat in the broader landscape. These relationships have been
investigated in forest and rural landscapes but much more needs to be learned. In rural and urban
environments, two despotic native bird species (Noisy Miner and Bell Miner) may have profound negative
effects on numbers of small birds, and these effects may be greatest where habitat is fragmented. Projects
can be devised to examine these relationships in contrasting habitat mosaics in the suburbs of Melbourne
and surrounding farmland and forest, or elsewhere. Background data on birds are available from some
potential sites to provide historical context.
Collaborator: Dr Merilyn Grey
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Dr John Morgan – Plant ecology
In 2018, the focus of Honours projects in the Plant Ecology Lab will firmly be on factors that affect species
distributions & abundance (change in climate, fire regimes, competitors) and the plant population dynamics
that underpin these processes. One of the key research questions in my Lab is: how do C4 grasses shape
ecosystems via their effects on fire regimes & competitive interactions, and how do plants species in
ecosystems respond to ecosystem drivers over decadal timescales. These questions have important
implications for how we view ecosystem change, and management to maintain biodiversity. Below are
some ideas for projects. I am happy to discuss other projects with students whose broad interests align
with the types of research I undertake. Website: http://morganvegdynamics.blogspot.com.au/
Project 1: How fire regimes can shift a biome. In the tropical savanna of northern Australia, fire regimes
shape the structure and function of ecosystems. But what exactly is the mechanism and are feedback loops
involved? One clear pathway is that fire affects savanna “receptivity” to establishment by Sorghum intrans
(an annual native C4 grass that establishes & persists under high light environments; it seems not to like
growing much under eucalypt canopies). This alone, however, is probably only half the story. With an
increase in Sorghum (dominance and extent), this species likely changes the fire regime by increasing the
intensity of fire, further promoting this species over woody plants (by negatively affecting mid-storey and
overstorey woody plant cover and light interception). It may also affect the distribution of other grass
species because of a) competitive effects and b) fire intensity effects. This simple (and oft-quoted) feedback
is poorly documented in the literature but can be directly tested in one of Australia’s few long-term fire
regimes experiments. At the Territory Wildlife Park (Darwin), CSIRO and Charles Darwin University have
been investigating how fire regime (1, 2, 3, 5 yr burn frequency vs. unburnt controls) affects biota, starting
from a little burnt tropical ecosystem. The experiment has been going for 15 yrs. Early studies (after just 4
yrs of the experimental implementation) hint that Sorghum was increasing and woody plants were in
decline, but it was too early to determine whether fire could switch the system from woody to grassy. In
this study, we will build on previous work and ask: what is the current extent of Sorghum and how does fire
regime affect this relationship? How is Sorghum cover related to woody plant cover (i.e. competition by
canopy and mid-storey species for light)? How is grass diversity distributed in relation to fire regime, and
Sorghum dominance? How does Sorghum affect properties of fire such as intensity? We will re-survey the
plots to model changes in dominance over time (ecological tipping points versus linear trend change) and
how Sorghum affects fuel dynamics and fire behaviour. Spatial patterns of Sorghum versus woody (and
other grass) plant cover will be investigated, possibly using transplant experiments. The project involves a
month of field work in Darwin. Co-supervised with Dr Warren Paul (LTU – AW), Dr Anna Richards (CSIRO)
and Dr Dick Williams (CDU).
Note: Project 1a. I may also have a project on faunal responses to fire in the Territory Wildlife Park.
Arthropods found in fire-adapted habitats have specific traits and dispersal strategies to deal with frequent
fires. For example, they seek refugia during fires where temperatures may be lower. Refugia are areas
adjacent to or within a burn area that enhance arthropod survival during a fire, facilitate persistence of
individuals, or allow for post-fire recovery. These may include insulated underground burrows, fire-
resistant termite mounds, or patches of unburned vegetation. Dispersal is another obvious response to fire
for arthropods, and as a result, winged orders have higher survivorship than less-mobile taxa. A couple of
years ago I observed, ahead of an experimental fire, insects, lizards and even frogs moving up the trunk of a
tree. They were clearly trying to get away from the flame zone. What warning signals are they cueing into?
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This project will quantify movement patterns up and down tree trunks, before and after fire in frequently
burned tropical savanna. Depending on what we find, we will try and unravel the sensory cues that lead to
this fire-scape behaviour. Co-supervised with Dr Alan Andersen (CDU).
Project 2: Re-introducing fire into long unburnt grassy ecosystems– accelerated recovery of the
ecosystem, or stasis? Many grasslands and grassy woodlands are now rarely burnt, although it is likely that
patch burning once played an important role in the structure and function of these ecosystems. Fire
exclusion has led to tree recruitment, woody plant encraochment and loss of diversity. Land managers are
increasingly re-introducing fire to long unburned landscapes to promote diversity, but what changes occur
when fire is re-introduced to ecosystems when it has been long absent? Are trees resilient to fire (or does
it depend on their size)? Do species appear that haven’t been seen for a while, presumably re-appearing
from dormant soil stored seed? Do some species disappear, having initially profited from the absence of
fire? In this project, we will test ideas about re-introduction of fire to landscapes where much benefit
might be derived from such activities. Grassy ecosystems in western Victoria are much restricted (due to
agriculture and, increasingly, timber plantations) and need sympathetic management to maintain their
natural values. Re–introducing frequent fire to long unburnt grasslands is seen as a desirable management
activity – it should serve to open up opportunities for seed regeneration and species coexistence. However,
there are almost no examples where this has been tested, at least in good quality vegetation. In this study,
we will burn long unburnt grasslands and ask whether often reported reductions in species richness due to
the cessation of frequent fire can be spontaneously reversed by the return of fire. Additionally, will the
abundance of currently sparse species be improved? How will exotic species respond to a change in
disturbance regime? What about trees that have established in the inter-fire period? The student will work
closely with the CFA, who will be responsible for conducting the trial burns, to design and implement the
burning experiment.
Project 3: Banksia decline in coastal grassy woodlands: encroaching shrubs and the water balance.
Coastal grassy woodlands have declined across much of their range. One main reason for decline has been
an increase in woody plants (like Coast Tea-tree, CTT) in the decades where fire has been excluded from the
ecosystem. Here, CTT shrubs have established and infilled between trees, largely causing the elimination of
the ground flora. This process is now well-documented. What still mystifies ecologists is the long-term
decline of overstorey trees like Coast Banksia (Banksia integrifolia, Proteaceae), a foundation species of
grassy woodlands that can achieve i) enormous size, ii) store vast amounts of carbon, iii) provide abundant
floral resources for nectivores and iv) important nesting sites via hollows. The decline of Coast Banksia in
places like Yanakie Isthmus and Oberon Bay at Wilsons Promontory National Park has been a slow, drawn
out process, with canopy loss and health the most obvious sign of ill-health. Some studies have tried to
understand why trees are in decline – and to date, the answer has largely eluded researchers. We know
that it’s not a) mineral nutrition imbalances, b) root pathogens or c) disease. In this study, we will explore
the hypothesis that encroaching CTT shrubs have reduced water availability to Coast Banksia, and that
Coast Banksia surrounded by dense CTT are under more water stress than trees in the absence of
encroaching CTT. This study will be the first to determine if water stress could account for loss of canopy
and necrotic foliage and, ultimately, to tree mortality in what is a water-limited ecosystem (due to deep,
well-drained calcareous sands). We will examine soil water balance in areas with and without encroaching
CTT to determine how shrubs dry soils. We will investigate the rooting depth profiles of Coast Banksia and
CTT. Using an ecophysiological approach, we will examine tree stress (particularly over summer) in a
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natural experiment by quantifying leaf water potential, leaf gas exchange parameters (net photosynthetic
rate and stomatal conductance) and chlorophyll fluorescence in areas with and without dense CTT. In a
BACI experiment, we will remove encroaching CTT shrubs around Banksia and / or use supplementary
watering to see if this changes the plant stress profile of Coast Banksia trees. Co-supervised with Dr Pete
Green.
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Dr Nick Murphy – Molecular ecology & evolution
Below are brief descriptions of various honours projects on offer for 2018 in the Molecular ecology &
evolution group.
Supervisors: Dr Nick Murphy & Dr Katherine Harrisson
E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]
Research Field: Ecological/conservation genetics and aquatic ecology.
Research outline:
Genetic tools provide the opportunity to vastly enhance our understanding of biodiversity and ecological
processes. Our research interests are in harnessing technological advances in DNA sequencing and studying
basic biology and life history to describe and document biodiversity, understand both the ecological
processes responsible for species distributions and the response of species to environmental change. Our
research projects are rooted in both evolutionary and ecological theory, however the results are aimed at
improving management decisions for conservation. Students undertaking field-based projects need to be
independent, whilst genetics-based projects require both competent lab skills, and more importantly, a
willingness to learn complex bioinformatics skills.
Potential Projects 2018
1. Genetics for the conservation of Australian freshwater fishes (Supervised by Katherine Harrisson and
Nick Murphy)
There are a number of ongoing and new project ideas in this area, and many of these projects have a strong
applied focus and involve collaboration and supervision with researchers at the Arthur Rylah Institute for
Environmental Research. Projects can include any combination of field collection and basic biology,
population genetics/genomics and biodiversity modelling. Examples of possible projects include:
Applying genomic tools to understand the spatial scale of population processes (e.g. recruitment,
dispersal) and metapopulation dynamics for Victorian native freshwater fish species. E.g. What is the
scale of population connectivity across the distribution of fish species? Where are key source and sink
populations, at-risk populations, and adaptively important populations? What are the relative contributions
of stocking, immigration and within-site recruitment to populations?
Assessing the effects of river flow conditions and barriers for connectivity and recruitment of native
freshwater fish populations (Co supervised by Zeb Tonkin, Arthur Rylah Institute). Understanding the links
between river flow and the health of native freshwater fish populations is critical for efficient and effective
delivery of environmental water (eWater). This project will use field, otolith and genetic data to look at
responses fish populations to flow events to inform more efficient and effective eWater delivery. E.g. What
is the appropriate spatial scale for eWater delivery? What are priority rivers for eWater delivery? How
should flows be delivered (volume and timing)?
There are many other possibilities, so please come chat if you are interested
2. The evolutionary implications of fire (Supervised by Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb)
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We know fire creates an incredibly strong selection environment, with adaptations in plants extremely
well-studied. However, we know little about how animals adapt to fire. It’s often considered that long-term
habitat stability is ideal for conserving biodiversity, however as populations in stable environments have
evolved experiencing little change, the impact of even a small shift in conditions may have a drastic impact
on population fitness. At the other extreme, it is well recognized that populations that experience high-
magnitude change may experience large population bottlenecks. This project will investigate the impact of
fire on the adaptive potential of populations, asking a simple question: does past fire mean a population is
better adapted to cope with future fire? Using genetics, physiology and/or behaviour you will examine soil
arthropods to investigate if populations previously impacted by fire have evolved traits that enable them to
better tolerate a post fire environment?
3. Subterranean biology – predicting the presence of stygofauna in Victoria. (Supervised by Nick Murphy)
Recent preliminary studies have found obligate macro and micro-crustaceans (stygofauna) living in
Victorian aquifers. Unsurprisingly, very little is known about the presence of life in Victorian groundwater
systems, and even less about how these species exists. Using groundwater databases, you will identify the
most likely locations for stygofauna and sample observation bores in these regions. Using microscopic
techniques and DNA extracted from the water (environmental DNA) you will characterise the stygofauna
along with the microbial systems which support these species. This project is highly likely to discover new
species in places where most people don’t even realise life exists.
4. Understanding the trophic ecology of insectivorous threatened mammals and its impact on
invertebrates – (Supervised by Nick Murphy and Heloise Gibb)
Many of Australia’s threatened mammals such as the burrowing bettong (Bettongia lesueur), brush-tailed
bettong (Bettongia penicillata) and bilby (Macrotis lagotis consume insects and the demise of these species
has had significant effects on invertebrate biodiversity and function. However, no studies of the diets of
omnivorous species) have identified invertebrates beyond the ordinal level. The ecological roles of
invertebrates are unique at much finer taxonomic levels, so this level of resolution does not allow us to
determine important traits, such as microhabitat use, abundance, seasonality, trophic position,
reproductive capacity, or size or provide any insights into the effects of the loss of mammal species on food
webs. This study will use DNA analysis of mammal scats, combined with sampling of invertebrates and
measurement of mammal digging activity in different microhabitats to ask: 1) Which species do threatened
mammals eat?; and 2) do threatened mammals select prey based on ecological or morphological traits? If
so, which traits are favoured? This novel study will generate fundamental new insights into the
consequences of ecological extinctions of mammals for their prey and improve our ability to maintain
sustainable populations of mammals in predator-free reintroduction reserves.
5. Freshwater conservation biology (Supervised by Nick Murphy, Katherine Harrisson and Tarmo Raadik,
Arthur Rylah Institute)
There are a number of potential conservation biology that can be co-supervised by Tarmo Raadik at Arthur
Rylah Institute. Ideas include, investigating freshwater mussel (Velesunio/Hyridella) distribution, host
specificity and connectivity in the Yarra River basin. Euastacus spiny crayfish connectivity, population
structure and hybridisation in southern Victoria. Conservation ecology of the rare stonefly Thaumatoperla
robusta. Investigating the diversity and distributions of endangered burrowing crayfish using environmental
DNA
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In addition, I have potential projects studying the evolution and ecology of alpine freshwater invertebrates,
the evolutionary and ecological constraints on the recolonization of locally extinct populations, desert
spring population genetics and evolution, or discuss your project ideas with me.
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Dr Richard Peters – Animal behaviour
Dr Richard Peters + Dr Jose Ramos
Research in the ABG covers broad interests in animal behaviour, with a focus on the evolution of signals in
the light of sensory system function and evolutionary processes. Much of our work has focused on the
movement-based signals produced by Australian agamid lizards. These signals are often produced during
territorial displays, and vary in structure and complexity between species and populations.
Potential honours projects:
1. Jacky dragon (Amphibolurus muricatus) displays through ontogeny. Is signalling behaviour inherited
or learnt?
2. Signalling variation in allopatric populations of the Peninsula dragon (Ctenophorus fionni). Do
differences in morphology translate to differences in signalling behaviour?
3. The influence of sympatry in the displays of two closely related species, the Tawny dragon
(Ctenophorus decresii) and the Red barred dragon (Ctenophorus vadnappa). How is signal efficacy
maintained while species recognition traits are also preserved?
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Dr Kylie Robert – Reproductive ecology & Conservation
biology [email protected]
The research of the group is broadly focused around ecological and evolutionary physiology of
reproduction. We are particularly interested in viviparity, maternal/paternal effects on offspring
phenotypes, sex allocation and the physiological and endocrinological basis for the variation in life
history. Research in the group includes how environmental factors (e.g. temperature, humidity, pollutants)
and/or parental factors (e.g. diet, body condition, behaviour) shape maternal/paternal allocation strategies.
The group uses a multidiscipline approach to question orientated research utilising a diverse range of taxa,
including but not limited to reptiles, birds, bats and marsupials.
The group also has an applied focus to conservation biology with research on endangered species and the
impacts of anthropogenic disturbance on species (in particular the role of artificial light at night or light
pollution).
See the website for further information: http://robertlab.com
We are happy to discuss project ideas with students that complement our research areas.
Supervisors: Dr Kylie Robert & Dr Amy Edwards
E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]
1. Morphometry of the testis and seminiferous tubules of the Tammar Wallaby
Dr Amy Edwards
Body and testicular morphometric parameters are very
important in reproduction. The investigation into
testicular morphophysiology and body biometry allows
us to understand aspects of the reproductive biology of
different species, including physiological and
behavioural patterns. This work is essential for
advancements in protocols for assisted reproduction
and captive breeding works in Australian marsupials.
Seminiferous tubules (ST) are the most abundant
components of the testicular parenchyma, and
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increases in measurements of ST are directly related to spermatogenic activity. Spermatogenesis starts
with the spermatogonia (germ cells) that line the walls of the ST, after moving through the differentiation
process, they end in the lumen as highly specialised, and motile sperm.
30 pairs of Tammar Wallaby testes have been collected from Kangaroo Island and await histology and
microscopy analysis by the successful honours student.
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A. Prof. Martin Steinbauer – Insect-Plant interactions
Dr Martin Steinbauer (Reader/Associate Professor)
Insect-Plant Interactions Lab │ 2018 Honours Projects │
1. The breeding system of Coastal tea tree (Myrtaceae) in relation to invasiveness
The breeding system of plants is a key life history trait linked to competitiveness
and invasiveness. ‘Selfing’ (self-compatibility or apomixis) has been suggested to
be a trait common to invasive weeds, i.e. Baker’s law. Coastal tea tree
(Leptospermum laevigatum) is a native Australian species which has been widely
used for dune stabilisation in both Australia and in South Africa. The species has
become an invasive weed in South Africa and has also invaded non-coastal
habitats in Australia. Unfortunately, the breeding system of the plant is unknown
making it difficult to assess the role of self-compatibility to the success of this
plant in new habitats.
Our lab is collaborating with colleagues in South Africa to investigate the potential for the biological control
of this plant using native Australian insect herbivores. This project will use manipulative field experiments
to assess whether the plant can produce seeds by apomixis. In addition, you will document the taxa of
insect visiting flowers to identify potential pollinators and flower galling species.
Collaborators: Ms Renae Forbes
2. Birds, psyllids and eucalypt dieback: the role of a despotic bird species (Bell Miner) in complex
ecological interactions in foothill forests
Bell Miners have been shown to promote eucalypt dieback
locally by excluding other insectivorous birds and thereby
generating locally high populations of psyllid insects. This
issue has been of economic concern especially in NSW
where it is known as BMAD (Bell Miner Associated Dieback).
However, Bell Miners are not the only cause of dieback in
these forests, and more needs to be learned about the
effects of climate and landscape modification on the
outcomes of these interactions. Near Melbourne, Bell
Miners have tended to increase during droughts and
decrease rapidly in periods of higher rainfall. This project
will use historical information to examine these trends. It will involve fieldwork to assess the status of Bell
Miners, other birds, psyllids and tree dieback in sites where fieldwork was conducted 30 years ago. The
previous fieldwork involved some experiments where Bell Miners were removed from selected sites.
Follow-up information would be valuable in assessing the longer-term efficacy of those removal
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experiments. The project will compare tree health and psyllid abundance in previous removal sites with the
tree health and psyllid abundance in previous control sites.
You will be provided with historical data and help with locating previous field sites, which are mostly in
foothill forests east of Melbourne including the Dandenong Ranges. You will be offered instruction in field
techniques for assessing abundance of birds and psyllids and indices of dieback.
Collaborator: Dr Richard Loyn
3. Hypersensitive responses of Gossia (Myrtaceae) species to galling cecid flies
The young leaves of some plants are highly sensitive to signals
which indicate the presence of the eggs of insect herbivores.
These plants elicit rapid, localised cell death around the point
of leaf injury thereby killing the egg but also a small area of
lamina. These ‘hypersensitive responses’ (HRs) result in the
appearance of numerous, often perfectly circular holes in
affected leaves – a phenomenon which has been termed
‘misleading herbivory’.
Gossia is a small genus of unusual trees found mainly on metalliferous soils in New Caledonia and eastern
Australia. Gossia grayi is endemic to the wet tropics of Queensland and is a hyperaccummulator of Mn
which can be heavily galled by the larvae of an undescribed species of cecidomyiid fly (Diptera:
Cecidomyiidae) but only if eggs are laid into leaves that have presumably passed a certain stage of
development. This study will define the developmental stage at which leaves are capable of initiating HRs
to fly oviposition and document the timing and progress of cell necrosis and abscission around eggs. The
project will contrast HRs on young leaves with gall formation on leaves insensitive to fly oviposition.
Collaborators: Dr Denise Fernando & Dr Peter Green
4. Floral evolution in response to pollination by Bumblebees
Bumblebees (Bombus terrestris) were accidentally introduced into
southeastern Tasmania from New Zealand sometime during the early
1990s. Since this time, the insect has spread widely across the State
and is highly polylectic on native and exotic plant species; it also has
the potential to be an effective competitor of native bees and exotic
honey bees. Consequently, the spread of bumblebees represents a
novel selective pressure in ecosystems whose plants are adapted to
bird and/or native bee pollinators.
This project will investigate the effect of this novel agent of selection
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on the floral traits of one or more species of annual plant. You will measure a range of floral traits linked to
pollinator attraction of plants from locations where there has been constant exposure to Bumblebees
through to locations where they have not become established.
Collaborators: Dr Andrew Hingston (University of Tasmania) & Prof. Florian Schiestl (University of Zürich)
Dr Patricia Woolley – Dasyurid biology
1. Seasonal changes in the diet of the Julia Creek dunnart, Sminthopsis douglasi (Marsupialia: Dasyuridae)
Co-supervised by Pat Woolley and Tim New
The Julia Creek dunnart (Sminthopsis douglasi) is a small dasyurid
marsupial with a very restricted distribution on the Mitchell grass
downs in north western Queensland, Australia. It is currently listed by
the IUCN as 'Near Threatened'. This project will build on an earlier
study, utilising additional scat samples collected from dunnarts trapped
on two adjoining 20.25 hectare grids on a property near Julia Creek,
with an emphasis on investigation of seasonal changes in diet.
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2018 Projects – based at Albury-
Wodonga and Mildura
Prof. Nick Bond (MDFRC Albury Wodonga) [email protected]
1. Quantifying productivity and fish growth rates across different habitats.
Many fish species have a short critical period after hatching when appropriate food densities must be
available to allow survival. With increasing pressure on water–managers to use limited volumes of water
wisely for the environment, environmental water is increasingly being used to manipulate water levels in
channels and in wetlands to support fish recruitment. This project will investigate what habitats need to be
inundated to maximise zooplankton production and associated productivity to support of fish-recruitment.
This will quantify the relationship between flow and zooplankton emergence from channels, perennial
wetlands and intermittent wetlands sediments. Without this information, river managers will be unable to
ensure there is sufficient larval fish–food to support recruitment following spawning under differing
environmental flows.
Dr Paul Brown (MDFRC AW)
1. Waterbird piscivory
Many Australian waterbird species consume wetland fish as a large component of their diet, including bird
species in decline. Much data exists on species composition and size structure of the fish available as prey
for waterbirds; yet little is known of the species composition and size composition of these fish in the diets
of Australian waterbirds. Consequently it is difficult to predict how changes in fish community composition,
size structure or species abundance may affect waterbirds.
Elements of the project might include:
Reviewing the literature on Australian waterbird diets, looking at species composition and the proportion of diet that is fish
Review the existing data on wetland fish species-composition and size-frequencies
Review existing data on the relative nutritional value of different fish species
Collect data on gape dimensions of a range of waterbird species to determine potential prey dimensions
Using existing data on size composition of wetland fish communities to match prey availability to potential predation capabilities of various waterbird species
Co-supervisor: Heather McGinness, CSIRO, [email protected]
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Dr Susan Gehrig (MDFRC Mildura)
1. Validating the extent of Lignum shrubland distribution in the Lower Murray floodplains
Lignum (Duma florulenta) is regarded as the most ecologically significant floodplain shrub of Australia.
Lignum can form dense thickets, which are structurally dominant components in shrublands and swamps
throughout the Murray–Darling and Lake Eyre basins. Lignum communities provide shelter for fish and
aquatic invertebrates during inundation and breeding habitat for many colonially nesting waterbirds. Water
regime has a very strong influence on Lignum growth and reproduction. Lignum plants can persist in an
inactive, dormant state for long periods, actively growing again when conditions became favourable during
flooding or heavy rainfall. However, the likelihood of successful regeneration from dormancy becomes
highly variable if flood frequencies decline and dry periods become extended. Evidence from field surveys
conducted through programs such as The Living Murray (TLM) and the Murray-Darling Basin Environmental
Water Knowledge and Research (MDB EWKR) projects indicate that many Lignum dominated communities
in the Lower Murray are in poor condition. Since a decline in Lignum communities has critical implications
for the provision of habitat and other ecosystem functions, this project aims to use remote, satellite and/or
aerial imagery to verify if there have been marked spatial and temporal changes in the extent of Lignum
communities.
Lignum shrubland sites on Lindsay Island floodplain (VIC) that were flooded in summer 2016, but had still not regenerated by autumn 2017 (Photos: F. Freestone, 21st March 2017).
2. Seed viability of the floodplain shrub, Lignum (Duma florulenta), across the Murray-Darling Basin
Lignum (Duma florulenta) is the most characteristic and ecologically important floodplain shrub of
Australia, but knowledge of Lignum biology and ecology remains limited. Lignum has the ability to
reproduce both vegetatively (rhizomes, layering and stem fragmentation) and sexually (through seed
production), but it is uncertain if Lignum forms a persistent soil seedbank. Seedling establishment is
variable across the Murray-Darling Basin, where seedlings have rarely been observed on the Lower Murray
floodplain, but there are reports of abundant seedlings following the recession of floodwaters in the
Northern Murray-Darling Basin. Given the variability in observed seedling establishment across the Murray-
Darling Basin, this project aims to compare the viability and germination potential of seed collected from
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different geographic locations/provenances across the Basin, to improve our understanding of the
sustainability of Lignum communities.
Flowering Lignum plants (Photo: Mark Henderson)
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Dr Aleicia Holland (DEEE Albury Wodonga)
1. Does pre-exposure to natural environmental stressors enable freshwater organisms to exist in
fluctuating environments?
Not all stress may be stressful. The word stress usually generates negative images of adverse effects based
on ones’ daily experiences. However, there is a growing body of evidence within the biological realm
showing that exposure to environmental stressors such as dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and
temperature, beyond optimum range, may actually increase organism’s ability to cope with fluctuating
environments and increase their Darwinian fitness. Within this research theme we will explore the
relationships between previous exposure to environmental stressors and ecological fitness of aquatic
organisms such as fish, invertebrates and algae. We will use a multi-disciplinary approach to address this
question by combining chemical, ecotoxicological, physiological and molecular methods.
2. Algal community dynamics within the Murray Darling Basin
Dr Aleicia Holland & Assoc. Prof. Ewen Silvester
Algal blooms are increasing in prevalence globally, with tropical algal species extending their range into
more temperate waters. The determination of appropriate cell numbers of algal species is essential in
determining whether a bloom is occurring, likely to occur or currently poses no threat to water resources.
Classical methods of counting algal cells are often labour intensive and expertise driven. Flow cytometry
and or the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) may provide quick methods in assessing phytoplankton
dynamics, however, their use in monitoring changes in algal abundance and composition within freshwater
systems is still in its infancy. Changes in the amount of algal pigments (chlorophyll a and phycocyanin) and
their relative ratios are also common methods used to indicate changes in algal abundance and increases in
potentially toxic cyanobacteria. This project aims to compare flow cytometry cell counts and pigment
analysis alongside eDNA methods to classical cell counts and pigment analysis methods (LC-MS, acetone
chlorophyll a extractions) to look at changes in algal abundance, community structure and pigment
composition and concentrations.
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3. The link between dissolved organic carbon (DOC) characteristics and algal blooms.
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) cost the global economy billions of dollars annually and are a major concern to
human health, the health of the environment and the economy. Our understanding of what triggers such
blooms and their associated toxicity is limited. Recently the formation of harmful algal blooms was linked
to increased inputs of organic carbon (DOC) into waterways. DOC may also be utilised by some species of
harmful algal species as a direct food source, stimulating growth and leading to the proliferation of these
algae. Direct effects are likely to be related to the type of DOC present with differences in the bioavailability
of terrestrially derived, highly aromatic DOC of a high molecular weight compared with autochthonous
derived DOC, less aromatic and of a lower molecular weight likely. Our current understanding of the role of
DOC in bloom formation is currently lacking. This is of great concern given that DOC concentrations and
quality within freshwaters have been predicted to change in the future due to climate change and HAB are
increasing in prevalence. Therefore, this project proposes to explore the role of DOC in harmful algal bloom
formation and toxicity within the Murray Darling Basin by conducting both field and laboratory trials.
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Dr Paul McInerney (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
1. Exploration of symbiotic interactions between River Redgums and mycorrhizal fungi on
floodplains
Many plants rely on associations with other organisms, and mycorrhizal fungi associations are one common
example. These associations are symbiotic relationships that promote the uptake of nutrients by the host
plant, while in return fungi receive bioavailable carbon. Eucalyptus camaldulensis (River Redgum) is an
iconic Australian tree that inhabits floodplains across Australia. The condition of River Redgum forests is
important to floodplain managers, and environmental flows are delivered to floodplains to improve River
Redgum health. While Eucalyptus spp. are known to form mycorrhizal associations, there is little detailed
information specific to River Redgums – e.g. extent of mycorrhizal associations, how different flooding
regimes might influence these associations or whether associations may differ with different tree life
stages. This project will use a combination of field assessments, through to next generation DNA
sequencing techniques to disentangle these questions. The overall project can incorporate Hons and PhD
studies.
2. Waterbird food requirements.
This activity seeks to improve our understanding of the food resources or energy required to support
waterbird recruitment by undertaking investigations into the feeding frequency and energy requirements
of colonial–nesting waterbirds. The data and model outputs will be used to inform managers how to use
environmental water at their sites to maximise energy production for bird breeding success. This project
will be linked to the Murray–Darling Basin Environmental Water Knowledge and Research project.
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Dr Daryl Nielsen (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
1. Ecology of rainfilled wetlands.
Although temporary, rain–filled wetlands are relatively common in many Mediterranean climatic regions of
Europe, North America, Africa and Australia, most research in all these regions has focused on floodplain
wetlands that derive water predominantly from rivers. Rainfilled wetlands are typically small (<10 hectare)
and retain water for only short periods of time. Within the Murray–Darling Basin rainfilled wetlands are
relatively common, but little is known about their ecology and their role in maintaining biodiversity within
the landscape. These wetlands are threatened by changes in climate that result in increased frequency and
duration of drought due to higher evaporation and decreased rainfall increasing the period in which they
are dry. While the flora and fauna of many wetlands are adapted to variability, environmental degradation
and long-term shifts in climate will pose a considerable risk to some biotic communities.
2. Dormant eggs and/or seeds — Is dispersal effective in floodplain environments?
The ability of dormant seeds of plants and eggs of invertebrates to disperse is seen as important in
maintaining diversity within riverine–floodplain networks. However, even though the potential for seeds
and eggs to disperse is high, effective dispersal may below particularly in floodplain environments where
dispersal may be impeded by the physical complexity of the surrounding habitat. This project test the
hypothesis that for plants and invertebrates that rely on passive dispersal effective dispersal is low resulting
in differences in communities between wetlands in close association to each other.
3. Climate change impacts on the survivorship of dormant seeds and/or eggs.
The increase in temperature as predicted in the future climate studies will result in a change of timing,
fitness and recruitment success. The reduction in recruitment success may result in a loss of dormant eggs
and seeds as a result of temperatures exceeding a species thermal threshold result in changes in species
assemblages, distributions and potential extinctions. This project will investigate the impact of changing soil
temperature species assemblages.
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Dr Gavin Rees (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
1. Environmental controls on nitrogen cycling in alpine headwater streams.
Headwater streams in alpine environments are a major source of nitrogen to lowland rivers, lakes and
wetlands, and likely have an important role in maintaining water quality in these environments. The forms
(speciation) and concentrations of nitrogen in stream waters are largely controlled by assimilation or
transformation processes mediated by microorganisms. While the fundamental nutrient transformation
pathways are well understood, there is very little understanding of environmental drivers and the links to
the microbiological communities. This is particularly the case for alpine streams in Australia where virtually
no research has been conducted on microbiological N–transformation processes. This project will use
metagenomic approaches to examine the community structure of the nitrifying organisms in the sediments
of alpine streams and associated peatlands. We will measure a wide range of sediment and water quality
variables at the same sites, and using multivariate statistical approaches, determine which variables play a
major role in structuring the microbial communities. These results will also allow us to start predicting the
role of catchment-scale process in driving microbial structure and function in streams, and the effects on
exported nitrogen.
2. Floods, chemical cues and fish movement.
Research at the MDFRC has shown that the magnitude of lateral movements by river–floodplain fishes may
be greater during natural connection events than during managed ones (e.g. opening of a regulator).
Similar differential responses by fish to natural and managed floods have been reported in the northern
MDB by Queensland Fisheries. The causal mechanisms underlying the responses to natural versus managed
flooding are not understood, but may be due to managed flows not delivering appropriate chemical cues
that activate fish movement onto the floodplain. This project will involve field and laboratory experiments
that examine various types of flooding events (natural/artificial) and how these floods affect the quality
and quantity of potential cues for fish movement. This is the first project in a research theme that tackles
potential mechanisms that may differentiate fish response to natural versus managed flows and would
comprise an interesting mix of fish ecology and environmental chemistry. The final design of the project will
be developed strongly in conjunction with a successful candidate.
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September 2017 Page 38 of 41
Assoc. Prof. Ewen Silvester (DEEE Albury Wodonga) [email protected]
1. Hydrology and DOC in alpine peatlands during extreme events.
Alpine and sub-alpine peatlands are the source of many headwater streams in the Australian Alps, and
likely have an important role in controlling the chemical composition of these streams. Our previous work
has shown that peatlands strongly regulate (buffer) stream composition under storm flow conditions, with
the major perturbation being the export of a dissolved organic carbon (DOC) ‘pulse’. This DOC pulse is likely
important in the provisioning of energy for downstream processes, and also the delivery of chemical cues
for stream biota. This project will combine a hydrology and chemistry to understand the relative
contributions of rain water, groundwater and peatland storage water in the storm pulse (using isotopic
tracers) and the characteristics of the DOC exported. In particular we are interested in understanding the
biogeochemical processes that occur within the peat profile, and the mobilisation of organic molecules with
changes in peatland water table. As part of this work we will look at closely spaced storm events and how
this affects the characteristics of DOC exported. Climate change predictions for the Australian Alps are for
more frequent and intense storm events; this work will provide invaluable information about the likely
impacts of climate change on stream composition. [Note: this project involves working in alpine
environments under challenging conditions]
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Dr Rick Stoffels (MDFRC Albury Wodonga)
1. What do Australian fish get out of accessing floodplain habitats?
A critical question in Australian river management—and indeed river management around the world—is:
how does allocating water to floodplains affect the mean fitness of aquatic animal populations? Dominant
theoretical frameworks of freshwater science contend that many fishes of river–floodplain ecosystems
have evolved dependencies on floodplain access, but anecdotal evidence indicates that there is much
uncertainty concerning the role floodplain habitats play in the population dynamics of freshwater fishes.
The MDFRC is offering a PhD project focused on deciphering the significance of floodplain habitats to fish
populations of the Murray–Darling Basin. This project will involve melding field and laboratory studies to
compare and contrast the relative effects of floodplain and channel habitats on individual- and population–
level fitness.
2. Can we predict how floodplain fish communities will respond to flooding using functional traits?
Aquatic habitats on floodplains comprise a complex, dynamic network. The flooding regime drives an ever–
changing sequence of floodplain habitat states defined by such things as the degree of connectivity among
wetlands and wetland water quality (water temperature, dissolved oxygen levels, etc.). The overarching
aim of this PhD project would be to determine whether we can predict how flooding regime affects habitat
properties and, in turn, fish community composition. Broadly, the project would have three key
components: (1) extensive logging and modelling of how hydrology, climate (rainfall and air temperature)
and geomorphology (wetland morphometry) affect water temperature and dissolved oxygen dynamics of
aquatic habitats; (2) laboratory experiments to estimate the parameters of models that describe how fish
performance is affected by water quality; (3) predictions of how flooding regime and climate might affect
fish community composition on floodplains.
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September 2017 Page 40 of 41
Appendix 1 | Supervisor agreement form
Honours Supervisor Acknowledgement Form
College of Science, Health and Engineering
Department of Ecology, Environment & Evolution
Student ID:
Student Name:
Title of proposed Research thesis topic:
Course Name: (select subject name code as required)
Ecology, Environment & Evolution (EEE4HNA, HNB) - (A is the first semester of enrolment irrespective of which semester you start and B is the second semester of enrolment)
Ecology, Environment & Evolution – Part-time (EEE4HNX)
I agree to supervise ________________________________________________ during his/her Honours year.
□ I have appended a copy of the student’s undergraduate transcript*, showing the 3rd year WAM
□ I have listed the four 3rd year subjects most relevant to the proposed Honours project, and calculated the
average:
Subject Mark
1.
2.
3.
4.
Average
Supervisor Name Supervisor Signature
Date
*Request this from the student
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September 2017 Page 41 of 41
