Reproduction has vital consequences for the viability of wildlife populations and the survival of species. Humans have had a profound impact on the natural world and some of this is impact comes from influencing the reproductive status of different species. The exposure of wildlife to factors such as chemical pollutants, climate change and the introduction of invasive species can profoundly affect their ability to reproduce.
Reproduction has vital consequences for the viability of wildlife populations and the survival of species. Humans have had a profound impact on the natural world and some of this is impact comes from influencing the reproductive status of different species. The exposure of wildlife to factors such as chemical pollutants, climate change and the introduction of invasive species can profoundly affect their ability to reproduce.
Importantly, organisms do not exist in isolation but are connected to each other within complex ecological communities. Changes that impact one species can cascade well beyond their initial disturbance to influence the way in which different organisms interact. In so doing, human-mediated changes that disturb even one species can influence the health of entire ecosystems.
Research in wildlife reproduction is critical to preserving and managing Australia’s unique natural heritage. Australia is listed as one of the world’s few megadiverse hotspots, and is home to a diverse and unique array of wildlife not found anywhere else on the planet. Unfortunately, Australia also has one of the world’s worst extinction records.
An understanding of reproduction biology is essential to identify and manage current and emerging environmental hazards. Recent research carried out in Australia has shown how exposure to chemicals used in the livestock industry can affect the reproductive anatomy, physiology and behaviour of exposed wildlife. Other research led by Australian scientists has shown that a commonly used medicine, fluoxetine (also known as Prozac), is excreted by humans and eventually makes its way into our aquatic systems where it has a dramatic effect on the mating habits of fish. These are just a few examples of how humans can produce change that has dire consequences for wildlife population viability and environmental health.
Catching Lipholis montana by George MadaniA good understanding of reproductive biology is also important to minimise the risk of population declines and species extinctions through wildlife management and captive breeding programs.
For example, research in reproduction has helped save the mountain pygmy possum from the brink of extinction through the introduction of virile males from a nearby population. Reproductive technology also has the capacity to save endangered species.
Fish lab Steve MortonThe ability to manipulate reproduction, for example by assisted reproduction, also provides opportunities to save and preserve many of our threatened native fauna, including some of Australia’s most endangered frog species. Research in reproduction also centres on developing methods to control invasive species, such as mice, rabbits and cane toads.
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Lord Howe Island gecko by David Chapple -
Lord Howe Island stick insects by Bob Wong
