Climate change impacts WA biodiversity – The Science Show

In Australia’s south-west, temperatures have been rising since the mid-1970s. And there is less rain. A one-degree rise in average temperature at Perth airport has seen a doubling of days with temperatures above 40 degrees. Firefighters report earlier fires and longer fires and hotter fires. These fast-changing conditions have their effects on biodiversity. Ecologist Joe Fontaine from Murdoch University is studying the effects on local flora. He reports a species of Banksia producing half its normal amount of seed, meaning it is on the road to extinction.

Guest
Joe Fontaine
Lecturer, Environmental Science
Murdoch University
Perth WA

Presenter
Robyn Williams

Producer
David Fisher