Embedded Files
Leaf litter
Leaf litter
In a terrestrial ecosystem leaf litter provides nutrients to the ecosystem, helps retain moisture, provides homes for terrestrial animals and promotes bushfires for regeneration.
Slope
Slope
The slope of the ground will affect drainage which will then affect soil moisture and depth of soil. Where the topography is flat conditions tend to be swampy. Alternatively, on steeper slopes the soil tends to be drier and shallower.
Soil pH
Soil pH
pH refers to potential hydrogen and is a measure of how acid or alkaline a substance is. Soil acidity or alkalinity is important because it influences how easily plants can take up nutrients from the soil.
Soil chlorides
Soil chlorides
If chlorides appear in the environment it has a devastating impact on an ecosystem. Rising ground water is a common cause of dry land salinity. Plants such as casuarinas can tolerate high salt levels.
Soil organic matter
Soil organic matter
Organic matter is an important part of soils physical, chemical and biological factors. Organic matter comprises all living soil organisms and all the remains of previous living organisms.
Canopy density
Canopy density
The canopy level of a forest or woodland serves multiple purposes. It is an important habitat zone, provides protection from storm events, controls available light to lower storeys and dictates the local microclimatic conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Light intensity
Light intensity
Light is needed for photosynthesis. If the tree canopy is open (such as in the woodland around Longneck Lagoon) there is enough light to allow shrubs, grasses and an understorey of trees.
Shrub density
Shrub density
Shrub density measurements give an indication of the height and density of low to mid-level plants in the ecosystem.
Soil texture
Soil texture
Soils are a combination of sand and clay and the percentages of each will determine the soil name. Soil texture is important in determining which plants grow in a particular area as it influences the retention of soil moisture and the availability of nutrients.
Soil compaction
Soil compaction
Soil compaction at Longneck Lagoon EEC is most commonly caused by repeated foot traffic in an area. Soil compaction results in decreased water absorption by the soil and can restrict the ability of plants to grow.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse