Ecological Traits of the Eucalyptus L'hérit Subgenera Monocalyptus and Symphyomyrtus

Abstract

The genus Eucalyptus L'Hérit. dominates most of the forests and woodlands of Australia. Many stands consist of intimate mixtures of species from different subgenera. The ecological traits of the two largest subgenera, Symphyomyrtus and Monocalyptus, are reviewed. Consistent differences in herbivore and parasite damage to leaves; in water relations; in tolerance to waterlogging, flooding, salinity and frost; in nutrient usage; in response to Phytophthora cinnamorni; and in early growth patterns are described. These can be summarised as differences in leaf chemistry; in root morphology, chemistry and activity; and in early growth rates. It is suggested that the differences in the ecological traits, and especially in the early growth rate, may help explain the coexistence of closely related species of similar habits in eucalypt communities.