Spatial and Size-Class Patterns in a Central Australian Spinifex Grassland

Abstract

The spatial and size-class patterns in a central Australian stand of Triodia basedowii Pritzel near the Hermannsburg Aboriginal Mission are described. Cover values of two subsampling areas averaged 574 m² ha^-1 and 433 m² ha^-1, relatively low in comparison with spinifex stands reported elsewhere in Australia. Densities for the two sites were 16 11 1 and 18 333 plants ha^-1 respectively. Size-class structure of both study areas fitted the expected negative exponential curve but the smallest size-class numbers were less than expected, indicating that loss of small individuals could be occurring. Spacing patterns also suggested the presence of intraspecific interference.