Why investigate savanna and arid ecology with RIEL?
Why investigate savanna and arid ecology with RIEL?
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North Australia hosts the largest intact tropical savanna in the world
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70 per cent of Australia is arid or semi-arid and yet many ecosystems here aren’t well understood
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Savanna and arid regions have outstanding ecological, economic and cultural values
Savanna and arid ecology
RIEL strives to make a real-world impact. We collaborate and engage with a wide range of research and industry partners to ensure that we contribute to the knowledge and sustainable management of unique savanna and arid ecosystems.
This work includes:
- Assessing the ecosystem responses to changes in fire frequency, climate and land use change;
- Quantifying and modelling carbon and water cycles in north Australian ecosystems;
- Researching environmental impacts and behavioural adaptations of invasive and feral animal and plant species;
- Examining the impacts of deforestation on greenhouse gas emissions and water resources in northern Australia;
- Investigating the restoration of ecosystems and ecosystem services following mining;
- Studying physiological adaptations of amphibians and reptiles to savanna and arid environments;
- Developing innovative methodologies to evaluate climate change impacts on turtle breeding in the Amazon;
- Implementing a world first program for a savanna burning carbon industry in Northern Australia;
- Understanding the role of biodiversity hotspots and refuge ‘islands’ in a ‘sea’ of savanna;
- Leveraging space technology and big data analytics for mapping and monitoring essential biodiversity variables.
Interested in savanna and arid ecology?
Interested in savanna and arid ecology?