Some Aspects of Ecological Research in Semi-Arid Australia

Abstract

The Australian continent, with its vast area of semi-arid land has developed a xerophytic flora which, though unique in some respects, is similar to the floras in other areas of the world which experience a similar climate. Perhaps the most outstanding and exceptional superficial feature of the vegetation is the presence even in very dry areas (mean annual rainfall of 8 inches) of woody shrubs or even trees. Yet in many respects the flora is similar to that of the dry areas of other continents. Genera which occur elsewhere and which may be mentioned here because they feature in the discussion that follows are Acacia, Atriplex and Kochia.