Chapple Projects

Project offering: Honours

Project title: Conservation and ecology of threatened Australian squamate reptiles

Background:  Squamate reptiles are the dominant terrestrial vertebrate group in Australia, comprising ~1,065 species. Approximately 13% of species are known, or believed, to be threatened, and many more species are Data Deficient. Potential projects are available examining the conservation of these threatened or poorly known squamate species, or investigating the threatening processes that impact these species. The projects will involve fieldwork, often in other states such as Western Australia, Northern Territory, or Queensland. Some projects, depending on the activity season of the species, will require a February start, whereas others will require a July start.

Project Aims:  Improve the conservation status and knowledge of Australian squamate reptiles

Techniques:  The project will involve field-based studies of threatened or Data Deficient Australian squamate reptile species.

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Project offering: BIO3990

Project title: Improving the conservation, and conservation management, of Australian squamate reptiles.

Background: Squamate reptiles are the dominant terrestrial vertebrate group in Australia, comprising ~1,065 species. However, very little is known about the distribution, ecology and biology of most species, and reptile species are often overlooked or neglected by conservation managers and conservation legislation. A range of projects are available to investigate key aspects of reptile conservation and management in Australia, with the aim to inform and improve conservation management practices. Projects could commence in either Semester 1, or Semester 2.

Project Aims: Improve the conservation management of Australian squamate reptiles

Techniques: The project will involve desktop and/or computer-based investigations of a key conservation issue impacting Australian squamate reptiles