An estimate of change in a sub-population of Lomatia tasmanica (Proteaceae) between 1993 and 2008

Abstract

A decline in ramet (plant stem) numbers was observed within a sub-population of Lomatia tasnumira WM. Curtis between 1993 and 2008. The mortality was mainly among the small ramets. This resulted in a shift from population dominated in density by recent suckers and young ramets to one dominated by more mature ramets. There was possibly an increased survival rate among ramets cut for genetic sampling in 1993 compared with those that were not pruned. lt is suspected that a combination of reduced rainfall and declining light availability has resulted in an increased mortality among young ramets. Although this species is entirely reserved within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area it is still vulnerable to random events and climate change and its status as critically endangered remains appropriate.