Fire is a common phenomenon in the Australian landscape and affects flora and fauna communities, including orchids and their mycorrhizal fungi. Information on the effect of natural and simulated fires on native habitats will be invaluable for conservation strategies and land management.

This comparative study will determine whether controlled fires are beneficial or detrimental to orchid mycorrhizal fungi across a wide range of stem-collar colonised orchid species. Information on the isolatability and effectiveness of the mycorrhizal fungi will be important for assessing the effects of fire on the survival and regeneration of native orchid populations. Results from this project will provide a platform for further postgraduate studies on the longer term effects of fire in the Australian landscape and pave the way for other environmental related projects.

Related links :
http://www.victorianaturally.org.au/page.php?nameIdentifier=flowerpowerallyouneedisalittlelove