The ecology, function and conservation of a foundation plant species (Triodia scariosa) in agricultural landscapes

This thesis examines the ecology of a foundation species of spinifex grass (Triodia scariosa) in an agricultural landscape. The attenuation of temperature was a leading functional mechanism for use of this grass by lizards. Proximity to reserves was an important driver of spinifex occurrence, and spinifex was negatively associated with high nutrients and compact soils, which are often higher in linear remnants. The use of fire helped to promote germination but killed adult plants. Timing management actions to favourable weather events may help mitigate slow population decline in the study region.