Evolution and Biogeography of the Australian Flora

16 important questions on Evolution and Biogeography of the Australian Flora

What regions were connected to Australia as part of Gondwana?

Australia was part of a supercontinent with SOUTH AMERICA, AFRICA, ANTARCTICA, INDIA, NEW ZEALAND.

How long ago did Australia split from Antarctica?

The separation from Antarctica occurred approximately 45 MILLION YEARS AGO.

What dominated the climate during the Cretaceous-Early Tertiary period?

The climate was warm and wet, with rainforests dominating the landscape.
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What happened to the rainforests during the Miocene period?

There was cooling and drying, leading to contraction of rainforests and rise of sclerophyll vegetation.

What adaptations do fire-adapted plants have?

Fire-adapted plants feature EPICORMIC BUDS, LIGNOTUBERS, and SEROTINY.

How does Eucalyptus adapt to fire?

Eucalyptus has oil-rich leaves and epicormic buds that resprout after burning.

Why are sclerophyll plants dominant in Australia?

Sclerophylls thrive due to ancient, nutrient-poor soils where rainforest species cannot survive.

What is the evolutionary fate of Nothofagus?

Nothofagus is now restricted to cool, wet refuges in specific regions.

What does palynology study?

Palynology focuses on studying fossil pollen preserved in sediments.

What are some reasons for high endemism in Australian flora?

High endemism results from long isolation, unique soils, climate extremes, and limited migration.

How are Australian soils characterized?

Australian soils are among the oldest and most nutrient-poor in the world.

What defines the tropical climate zone in Australia?

The tropical north features monsoonal summer rainfall and rainforests.

What are the Elders' medicinal uses for Eucalyptus?

Eucalyptus is used for medicinal oils and its wood is made into tools.

What is an endemic species?

An endemic species is found only in one place.

What triggers serotiny in plants?

Serotiny is when seed release is triggered by fire.

What is the role of xerophytes?

Xerophytes are plants adapted to dry conditions.

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