Overview of Tasmania's offshore islands and their role in nature conservation

Sally L. Bryant*, Stephen Harris

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    2 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    Since the 1970s, knowledge of Tasmania's offshore islands has expanded greatly due to an increase in systematic and regional surveys, the continuation of several long-term monitoring programs and the improved delivery of pest management and translocation programs. However, many islands remain data-poor especially for invertebrate fauna, and non-vascular flora, and information sources are dispersed across numerous platforms. While more than 90% of Tasmania's offshore islands are statutory reserves, many are impacted by a range of disturbances, particularly invasive species with no decision-making framework in place to prioritise their management. This paper synthesises the significant contribution offshore islands make to Tasmania's land-based natural assets and identifies gaps and deficiencies hampering their protection. A continuing focus on detailed gap-filling surveys aided by partnership restoration programs and collaborative national forums must be strengthened if we are to capitalise on the conservation benefits islands provide in the face of rapidly changing environmental conditions and pressure for future use.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)83-106
    Number of pages24
    JournalPapers and Proceedings - Royal Society of Tasmania
    Volume154
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2020

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Overview of Tasmania's offshore islands and their role in nature conservation'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this