Floristics and biodiversity research in Australia: the 21st century

Abstract

Australian botany has reached the point where the vascular flora of this country is relatively well documented; we have sound basic information on what species are present, and where they occur (geographically and ecologically). The real challenge facing plant systematists now is to grasp the inspiring opportunities that exist in the areas of floristics and biodiversity research. The time has come to capitalise on the enormous existing knowledge base. This includes ‘mobilising’ the data we have and promoting potential usage by making clients aware of the quality and nature of the information. Australia has the international-level expertise and the institutional mechanisms to make this happen. We need to build political goodwill within State and Commonwealth agencies to develop strong national linkages. This would enhance the accessibility and applicability of existing baseline datasets, e.g. specimen and taxon databases should be transparently interchangeable and readily available to all potential clients. Although our basic floristic knowledge is good, our understanding of phylogenetic, evolutionary and biogeographic patterns of major Australian plant groups is lacking. Such analyses will ensure accurate predictions and advice on conservation and exploitation of elements of the flora. Future research should concentrate on understanding the processes operating at the genetic and species level in order to answer critical questions about ecosystem functioning. Modern technology will be utilised, particularly in information systems and molecular techniques. Systematists have a clear obligation under the National Biodiversity Strategy to contribute information essential to conservation of biodiversity and to land-use decision making.