Preview

PDF 1988_Brothers_M...pdf | Download (337kB) Available under University of Tasmania Standard License. | Preview

Abstract

The flora and fauna of Macquarie Island, in the subantarctic, have been experiencing a gradual but sure deterioration since the introduction of alien species. The greatest single achievement in attempts to stop this has been success with controlling the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The actual impact of rabbit control on other introduced species causing ecological damage has far exceeded expectations. Plant communities diminished by 100 years of rabbit grazing are re-establishing rapidly. Because of the success with controlling rahbit numbers, total elimination of feral cats (Felis catus) and wekas (Gallirallus australis) can be achieved, with the major potential benefit being the recovery of some seabird populations which are all but extinct on the main island. However, unless the effort given to these and other management problems discussed can be maintained until completion, the progress made will be rapidly lost and greater ecological problems could result.

Item Type:	Article
Authors/Creators:	Brothers, N and Copson, GR
Keywords:	Royal Society of Tasmania, RST, Van Diemens Land, natural history, science, ecology, taxonomy, botany, zoology, geology, geography, papers & proceedings, Australia, UTAS Library
Journal or Publication Title:	Papers and Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
ISSN:	0080-4703
DOI / ID Number:	https://doi.org/10.26749/rstpp.122.1.129
Collections:	Royal Society Collection > Papers & Proceedings of the Royal Society of Tasmania
Additional Information:	Copyright Royal Society of Tasmania
Item Statistics:	View statistics for this item

Actions (login required)

Item Control Page