The connectivity of pore theory - does it influence microbial community composition and function? Climate change scenarios indicate that Australia will be directly affected by an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Soil microbial activity is responsible for a large proportion of such emissions; therefore it is important that we understand how such changing climate patterns are likely to influence key microbial populations in soil, particularly those involved in the production of greenhouse ga ....The connectivity of pore theory - does it influence microbial community composition and function? Climate change scenarios indicate that Australia will be directly affected by an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Soil microbial activity is responsible for a large proportion of such emissions; therefore it is important that we understand how such changing climate patterns are likely to influence key microbial populations in soil, particularly those involved in the production of greenhouse gases. This research interfaces two disciplines, earth and biological sciences, and will establish a new international collaboration that will ensure Australia is at the forefront of a rapidly developing research field.Read moreRead less
A multidisciplinary research program to assess limiting factors and predict impacts of climate change for endangered Australian orchids. Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity. Australian sexually deceptive orchids are dependent on obligate and specialised interactions with pollinators and fungi. Consequently, they may face a high risk of extinction if climate change uncouples these interactions. Thus orchids provide an important bio-indicator of change. The tools and expertis ....A multidisciplinary research program to assess limiting factors and predict impacts of climate change for endangered Australian orchids. Climate change poses a significant threat to biodiversity. Australian sexually deceptive orchids are dependent on obligate and specialised interactions with pollinators and fungi. Consequently, they may face a high risk of extinction if climate change uncouples these interactions. Thus orchids provide an important bio-indicator of change. The tools and expertise developed will contribute directly to the conservation of endangered Australian orchids, and will take into account the risks of climate change. The project will contribute to the priority research goals of sustainable use of Australia's biodiversity as well as responding to climate change and variability. The project will also provide high quality, cross-disciplinary training.Read moreRead less