| Fauna Of Australia |
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The arrival of people (Aborigines) to Australia about 50 000 years ago, a bridge from Asia and European settlers in 1788, had a significant impact on the Australian fauna. Arrivals from Asia, brought with them dogs (dingo), which run wild and undermined the original equilibrium between the species living here. The effects of the first human invasion previously uninhabited continent fog enveloped by the slowly cleared prehistoric archeology, ethnography and paleontology. Europeans introduced alien species, often competing with native. Agricultural development has caused the destruction of the original background which led to the extinction of many species. Now protects the original ecosystems and native species through protective legislation and the establishment of National Parks. Reasons for differences The fact that the fauna of Australia has developed independently decided by several factors. Contributed to this event, both geological and climatic conditions. In the distant past the Australian continent was the southern part of the supercontinent Gondwana, which also consisted of South America, Africa, India and Antarctica. About 140 million years ago, Gondwana began to disintegrate the individual continents we know today. Around 50 million years ago, Australia separated from Antarctica and drifted for a long time until the traveler indoaustralijskiej collision of tectonic plates in Asia in the Miocene epoch (23-5,3 million years ago). During this period fauna of Australia was isolated from the rest of the fauna of the world, such as Australian marsupials are able to develop themselves not vulnerable to competition of species from other continents. In the Miocene, probably through Malaya to Australia, first arrived in Asia a few animals (rodents). Wallace Line which is a hypothetical line separating zoogeograficzne regions of Asia and Oceania, coincides with the eastern boundary of the geological area that in the Pleistocene, when sea level was much lower, and the land was one of the Malay Peninsula. In turn, similar to the line, which determines the extent of Pleistocene Australia is a land line Lydekker (named after an English geologist, naturalist and zoogeografa Richard Lydekker. Since it overlaps with the western range of the continental shelf of Australia (200 m isobath). These limits prevented the formation of connections land by species that have limited the transition from one page to another (with the exception of birds and bats), which explains the difference in zoological these areas. With the formation in the middle Oligocene (about 15 million years ago) okołobiegunowego current maritime Australian climate became increasingly dry, causing the extinction of many species, then, niepotrafiących adapt too quickly to changing conditions of life [1]. Mammals Australia has a rich history of fossil mammals, as well as the enormous diversity of living species of mammals. Extinct Australian mammals are fairly well understood thanks to the numerous and often preserved in fossil remains of good condition. Australia is the only continent where there are marsupials. The fossil record shows that monotremes have been present here since the Early Cretaceous (145-99 million years ago) [2], and marsupials and placental mammals appeared in the Eocene, (56-34 million years ago) [3], when the first modern mammals. And while marsupials and placental mammals coexisted here in the Eocene, only marsupials survived to our times. Placental mammals appeared again in Australia in the Miocene, when Australia was closer to Indonesia. From this period in the material are found the fossil remains of bats and rodents. Marsupials have evolved and filled similar niches in many cases, being physically similar to their placental counterparts in Eurasia and North America, where placentals occupy similar ecological niches. Convergent development of such a phenomenon is called convergent evolution of converged, or [4]. For example, standing up in the hierarchy of food Marsupial wolf predator is strikingly similar to canids like wolf. koala and toed a similar lead and seemed sluggish arboreal lifestyle. Petauridae and squirrels of the genus Pteromys have similar adaptations to arboreal life. Mrówkożerowate marsupials and anteaters are animals owadożernymi. Monotremes Monotremes (Monotremata) represent the government's most primitive mammals, which are characterized by a unique method of reproduction: They jajorodne, that lay eggs instead of giving birth live young, as they do marsupials and placental mammals. This feature makes them similar to reptiles. Other reptilian characteristics is the presence of bone steak and the raven, the consequence is to place the limbs from the sides of the body and Gadzi gait. These features are in other mammals do not occur. By contrast, the characteristics of conforming them to the other mammals that have mammary glands, and the presence of three stałocieplność ankle aids. Two of the five known living species of monotreme occur in Australia. These are the platypus and kolczatka. Platypus is one of the strangest creatures in the animal kingdom. By amphibious lifestyle is similar to a duck bill, though covered with soft leather, flat and wide tail, and pływną membrane between the toes of all extremities, making it a good swimmer. As the only mammals have a spike jadowy (found only in males) placed on both hind ankles, probably used in the battle for territory and females. Sting is not dangerous to human life, but causes severe pain and swelling that may persist for several months, and for smaller animals (eg dogs) platypus venom is deadly. On the bow to the receptors, which captures the impact of power of other animals, which are used for finding and catching the victim, because while diving has her eyes closed. When the skin platypus was first presented by Joseph Banks English naturalists in the late nineteenth century were convinced that it must be manually created a hoax [5]. kolczatka (Tachyglossus aculeatus) Pin is generated from transformed hair spikes, has a long snout rurowaty (on the bone) ended the mouth a little. Language very long (up to 18 cm) covered with sticky saliva, which stick insects. He can pull and pull him into her mouth about 100 times per minute when you catch the termites. The prey is crushed between the horn-rimmed growths in the mouth. Paws is a strong, prepared to dig in the ground, the males spurs on their hind legs to defend itself. If necessary, can swim. Its primary sense is smell [citation needed]. Marsupial Australia could be called the land of marsupials, which have mastered most of the communities here, and that at least since the beginning of the Tertiary differentiate into new specialized forms. Marsupials (Marsupialia) are characterized by the presence of bags, which are raising young. As the most primitive of prey is considered Dasyuridae (Dasyuridae), in which the bag is the least developed. Tasmanian Devil is the largest living carnivorous marsupials Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) Red-necked Wallaby (Macropus rufogrisseus) Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) Predatory marsupials living today belong to three families: the already mentioned Dasyuridae (50 species), mole baggy (Notoryctidae) with two species and the Numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus), which is the only surviving member mrówkożerowatych (Myrmecobiidae). Thylacine (Thylacinus cynocephalus) belonging to the family of wolves baggy (Thylacinidae) was the largest of the carnivorous marsupials, but is now being considered as a species extinct since last specimen in captivity lived until 1936. Currently, the largest surviving carnivorous marsupials is the Tasmanian devil, which is the size of a small dog, and although able to hunt, mostly feeds on carrion. On the continent of Australia became extinct about 600 years ago, and now lives only in Tasmania. The type Quoll Eastern Quoll includes species that are nocturnal predators with dark hair in a bright spot the size of a cat sometimes referred to as kunami workowatymi. Other Dasyuridae are small animals the size of mice having a weight of less than 100 g. The two species of mole workowatego very similar to the mole, leading a similar lifestyle and feeding it earthworms and other invertebrates. Both inhabit the south-western part of Australia. Peramelidae (Peramelidae) called borsukami workowatymi are omnivorous. In Australia, there is none and 7 species are not numerous. They are small animals, which is notable characteristics, ie elongate tapering snout, large upright ears and long thin tail. Their evolutionary beginning is unclear, because they have characteristics of both predatory and herbivorous marsupials. Their representative is wielkouch little rabbit who is an animal endowed with disproportionately large ears, to facilitate cooling of the body. During the day hides against heat in their long-dug underground dens. Feeds after nightfall on termitach and larwach beetles. Herbivorous marsupials belong to the order dwuprzodozębowców (Diprotodontia), which is divided into two suborders: wombatokształtne and Phalangerida. Wombatokształtnych belong to three species wombatowatych (Vombatidae) and koala (Phascolarctos cinereus), which is perhaps best known marsupials because of similarities to the teddy bear. He lives in eastern Australia - alone or in small groups consisting of males and females. Spends most of his life on the eucalyptus trees, feeding on the leaves of about 120 species. A time when the prey is not devoted to sleep. Descends to earth just to go to another tree. It must do, not because of the lack of tree leaves already but because eucalyptus leaves are becoming periodically releasing poisonous prussic acid. Dispenses with drinking while drawing moisture from the leaves and the juice contained therein. Wombaty feed on the ground eating grass, sedges and roots. Like rodents using the front teeth and powerful claws to dig extensive systems of cavities. Are usually active at dusk and at night. The suborder Phalangerida fall palanki oposami also called Australian, lotopałanki, opossums and kangaroos dwarf. Opossums are a diverse group of arboreal marsupials sizes weighing 7 g Cercartetus lepidus family oposów dwarf (Burramyidae) to the size of a cat and Psudocheirus peregrinus Common Ringtail kuzu (Trichosurus vulpecula). Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) and a species of Petaurus norfolcensis marsupials, which mastered the gliding movement between the eucalyptus trees in the east of Australia. Gliding opossums have a membrane called patagiums that break between the fifth finger of the front limbs and hind limb first finger. Thanks to them, they can climb up the order of tens of meters. Kangaroos are divided into three families: Hypsiprymnodontidae, whose sole representative is the musky torebnik (Hypsiprymnodon moschatus), Potoroidae (Potoroidae) and kangaroos. Kangaroos environment pervaded all areas of land with the exception of the Alpine type in the high mountains. This group includes kangaroos and Wallabia. Most kangaroos have large hind legs closed long narrow feet with four toes and powerfully muscled tails they use to prop up during the two-legged gait, and transfers energy during jumping. Short front legs have five separate fingers. The smallest is the musky torebnik and also the only species czworonożnym, while the largest red kangaroo (Macropus rufus) can reach about 2 m in height and weight to 85 kg. In Australia, the phenomenon of convergence has occurred as an independent evolutionary process leading to the assimilation of the marsupials are not closely related to them bearing mammals from other continents, inhabiting a similar environment. The equivalent of placental mammals including marsupials australiskich Placental Mammals Australian native placental mammals belong to two orders: bats (Chiroptera) represented by 6 families and rodents (Rodentia) with 1 family Muridae (Muridae). Bats and rodents, relatively recently arrived in Australia. Bats are present in the fossil layers from 15 million years and probably came from Asia. Live here only 2 types of endemic bats, although he resides in Australia 7% of all species of bats. Rodents first arrived in Australia about 5-10 million years ago and form a group called today. "old endemics". Probably arrived here by accident (eg, logs of trees) are progressively moving to another island of the Malay Archipelago, and evolved to live out 14 types of dispersed throughout the continent. About a million years ago, the ancestor of rat reached Australia via New Guinea and evolved there for 7 species of the genus Rattus, described the umbrella of 'new endemics'. Dingo, the first placental mammal introduced by man With the settlement has been introduced to Australia and many other representatives of the placental mammals, which then formed a secondary feral populations. The first animal was introduced by man dingo dog. Fossil evidence indicates that this was about 5000 years ago [6]. When Europeans began to settle in Australia and imported intentionally released into the wild animal species from different regions of the world, such as mackerel November (Vulpes vulpes), brown hare (Lepus europaeus), domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Some species of domesticated animals from the same time, escaped and re-run wild, for example, domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus), daniel (Dama dama), red deer (Cervus elaphus), Sambar (Cervus unicolor), javanese sambar (Cervus timorensis) , aksis deer (Axis axis), Thai red deer (Axis porcinus), domestic horse (Equus caballus), donkey (Equus asinus), domestic pig (Sus scrofa domestica), domestic goat (Kri hircus), water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) , garna (Antilope cervicapra) and dromedary (Camelus dromedarius). Only three species of placental mammals have been accidentally przywleczone: Domestic mouse (Mus musculus) Rat (Rattus rattus) and the migratory rat (Rattus norvegicus). In the coastal waters of the lives of 46 marine mammals cetaceans (Cetacea). Most of them are cosmopolitan species occurring in all oceans of the world. The suborder fiszbinowców (Mysticeti) 9 species live among them a huge Humpback whale, and the suborder toothed (Odontoceti) live 37 species, including all six types of family collapses dziobogłowych (Ziphiidae) and 21 species of oceanic dolphins (Delphinidae), in that described for the first time in 2005 (Orcaella heinsohni). Some of them are temporary dwelling for all waters around the continent, such as plowing (Orcinus orca), and some are present only in the warmer northern waters, such as dolphin krótkogłowy (Orcaella brevirostris). Dugong (Dugong dugon), the sole representative of the family diugoni (Dugongidae) is a species threatened with extinction. Living in the water north-eastern and north-western Australia, and particularly the Torres Strait. It can grow to 3 meters in length and weigh up to 400 kg. It feeds on sea grass in coastal zones. Destruction of sea grass meadows are a threat to this species. Ten species of seals and sea lions belong to Pinnipeds (Pinnipedia) live on the southern coast of Australia and Australian territories subantarktycznych. One of them is living on the southern coast of Australia, Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) belonging to the family uchatkowatych (Otariidae). Although this species is subject to strict protection is currently living there, only about 12 000 individuals due to hunting for them since the European colonization. Birds Throughout Australia and surrounding territories live more than 800 species of birds. About 350 of them are Australian endemics Ecozone, which consists of Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand and the islands of the southwest Pacific. The oldest fossil remains of the ancestors of the local birds have been found in late Oligocene sediments. Australian land birds belong to 58 families of which 12 are endemic. Endemic families are: non-volatile strusiopodobne emu (3 species) and kazuary (3 species in the Australian Southern Cassowary 1) and Megapode (12 species), zmierzchniki (7 species), Lyrebird (2 species only in Australia: lirogon lirogon wonderful and modest) krzakówki (2 Australian species only: in this krzakówka rubiginosa), dysentery, Honeyeater, Artamidae, graliny (4 species in this gralina Jackdaw (Grallina cyanoleuca) and gralina Minnow (Grallina bruijni), the apostle of Australia (Struthidea cinerea) and skałowron (Corcorax melanorhamphos ), Bowerbird (17 species), birds of paradise (44 species). Emu (Dromaiidae) and kazuary (Casuariidae) belong to the same order kazuarowych (Casuariformes) and characterized by their large size, lack of brisket, wings, and a reduction in the ability to run fast. Their chicks are zagniazdownikami. Emus live in herds on open space and kazuary are usually loners living in the forests of defending its territory and have a bone tumor on the skull-shaped helmet. Megapode (Megapodidae) characterized by the fact that it is not incubated their eggs, and use their incubation warmth of the sun or heat emitted during the fermentation of rotting plants and leaves mainly. Birds should be active after dusk zmroczników family (Podargidae), and one of the largest of its representatives is zmrocznik Australian (Podargus strigoides), also called the Australian Frogmouth because of the exceptional width of the beak and mouth. Maluridae (Malurinae) in the subfamily: pokrzewkowatych (Sylviidae) is a bird with an average body length of 12 cm with a long tail, which usually persist erect over the back. In Australia and New Guinea have the largest number of species of the family miodojadów (Meliphagidae), which play an important role in the pollination of the original Australian flora (ornitogamia). Characteristic of such species is the Noisy Friarbird (Philaemon corniculatus) resembling the appearance of a small eagle. By contrast, one of the best singers are srokacz gray (Cracticus torquatus) with a family srokaczy (Cracticidae), whose melodious voice seems to male and female, even in flight. Bowerbird (Ptilonorhynchidae) are close relatives of birds Paradise. Males construct buildings like platforms, gazebos or alleys where tokują. By contrast, birds of paradise (Paradiseidae) stand out the most ornate bird feathers in the entire world. Australia is called Land of Parrots (Psittacidae), because of their numerous presence in the particular sub-cockatoos (Kakatoeinae), which increase the crest on its head and lory (Trichoglossinae). Great flocks form popular in the domestic breeding Budgies (Melopsittacus undulatus), belonging to the subfamily of parrots appropriate (Psittacinae) that the freedom to greenish color. Also, kingfishers (Alcedinidae) are richly represented in this greatest of all the family kukabura Kookaburra (Dacelo novaeguineae) reaching about 43 cm in length, belonging to the forest zimorodków who live away from water. Cape Barren Goose (Cereopsis novaehollandiae) In northern Australia and southern New Guinea live Anatidae species (Anatidae) which is the sole representative of the subfamily bezpłetwców (Anseranatinae) goose Plover (Anseranas semipalmata), which is the only place in the Anseriformes (Anseriformes) has great finger directed towards the rear so you can sit stably on a branch. With the subfamily gęsiowatych (Anserinae) is a common bird of the black swan (Cygnus atratus), and the Bass Strait islands resides kapodziób (Cereopsis novaehollandiae), a short, blunt beak with the upper part of the green, who does not like water. Commonest birds of Australia to be owned by a family wikłaczy (Ploceidae), which builds the nest with grasses contained Zeberka (Poephila guttata). Approximately 200 species of seabirds live near the Australian coast, including many leading an itinerant lifestyle. Australian continent is the final stop migration of migratory waterbirds, which arrive here from the Far East of Russia and Alaska through Southeast Asia to Australia and New Zealand. Around two million birds travel this route to and from Australia each year. And a very large sea bird is a common Australian pelican (Pelecanus conspicillatus), which can be found in most waterways in Australia. Pingwinek small (Eudyptula minor) is the only species of the family of penguins (Sphenisciformes), which is reproduced on the mainland of Australia. Reptiles Australia climate conducive ciepłolubnym reptiles (Reptilia). There are representatives of 3 rows: Turtles (Testudines), crocodiles (Crocodilia) and Serpentes (Squamata) consisting of lizards and snakes. Australian coast is visited by 6 species of marine turtles in the family, including 5 sea turtles (Cheloniidae): Flatback turtle (Flatback depressa), green turtle (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill turtle (Eretmocherys imbricata), olive green turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) and the sole representative of the family, leathery turtle (Dermochelyidae) Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). All of these are protected in Australian waters. In freshwater live 29 species of Australian freshwater turtles belonging to 8 types of family wężoszyjnych turtles (Chelidae). Typical inhabitants of Australia and New Guinea are the turtles of the family of turtles dwupazurzastych (Carettochelyidae). Their representative is Carettochelys insculpta, which has a fleshy snout, covered with leather armor and płetwiaste legs. Currently, Australia and Antarctica are the only continents where there is any species of land tortoise. Crocodiles In Australia, there are two species of crocodiles appropriate: rosary crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and Freshwater Crocodile (Crocodylus johnstoni). The first one is the largest living crocodile species, and also the largest living reptile. He likes to stay in salt or brackish water, such as the estuary to the sea and Przymorskich bagniskach. Reaches up to 7 m in length and weigh up to 1,000 kg. It is very dangerous for humans, which attacks whenever the occasion arise, not only near the water but on dry land. In the dry season it happens that is encountered on the high seas, which explains its wide range of prevalence from eastern India to northern Australia. By contrast, Australian crocodiles reside normally in the fresh waters of northern Australia (Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland) and are not considered dangerous to humans. His life environment are freshwater swamps, rivers, bays and tranquil pools filled with water after passing the remainder of the rainy season, during which up to flooding, and the pass, the water remains in the depressions of land. Lizards and snakes Lizards are most strongly represented in Australia is. Lizards living here belong to five families. Geckos (Gekkonidae) are represented by 114 species in 18 genera, except Tasmania, where there is no. Tanglefoot (Pygopodidae) are endemic Australian family Ecozone characterized wężowatym slim body and vestigial hind limbs in the form of short płatkowatych teenagers covered with scales. Belong to the family of 34 species in eight types and only one species does not occur in Australia. Agama (Agamidae), represented by the family of lizards, 66 species in 13 types. Monitor lizards (Varanidae) counted 26 species there. The largest of them, a huge waran (Varanus giganteus), can reach up to 2 m in length. Skinks (Scincidae) counts 389 species of small lizards in 38 types, which together represent approximately 50% of all Australian lizards, including such characteristic species as the giant skink (Tiliqua scincoides) and Tiliqua rugosa (Trachydosaurus rugosus). Australian snakes belong to 7 families, and Australia is the only continent where venomous snakes are more than niejadowitych. Most venomous species are the Australian Inland (Oxyuranus scutellatus), Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus), tiger snake (Notechis scutatus), zdradnica lethal (Acanthopis antarcticus) family of Snake (Elapidae). Of the approximately 200 species of Snake 86 occurs only in Australia. Thirty-three species of marine snakes from the family of sea snakes (Hydrophiidae) living marine waters of northern Australia, and their venom is several times stronger than the Indian cobra venom. Of the 3 species of marine snakes from the family of snakes papillary (Acrochordidae) 2 occur in Australian waters. Living here, only 11 species of snakes of the world's most significant snake family appropriate (Colubridae) involving more than 60% of all snakes of the world. None are endemic species and it is assumed they came from Asia relatively recently. Live there 15 species of the family dusicieli (Boidae) subfamily of pythons (Pythoninae) and 31 species ślepuchowatych (Typhlopidae), which have small eyes covered with a skin and lead underground night life mostly feeding on ants and termites.  Amphibians Cluster of amphibians (Amphibia) in Australia is represented only by the government bezogonowych amphibians (Anura). Continent has four family home, and one species of frogs, toads, deliberately introduced in 1935. Aga toad (Bufo marinus) was introduced as a biological weapon against pests of sugar cane crops. As it soon turned the local pests were unavailable to her as staying in the upper parts of the cane toad to which she could not reach. Quickly left the dry and inhospitable fields and reed itself become a plague. Having no natural enemies except for one hose resistant to venom found in her skin began to displace native frogs, eat the honey bees coming out of a hive. Became so large that it became a frequent visitor to backyards of households where even the dogs will give her my food than to expose the contact with the poisonous skin. It is the largest of the toads, and can grow to 25 cm in length, although usually not more than 18 cm and its natural area of occurrence is the area of the Americas from southern North America to Patagonia in South America. Family of Australian frogs (Myobatrachidae) ranks among the frogs, the Southern has 120 species and 21 genera. Distinctive color representative of this group are two subspecies of Corroboree frogs are two endangered southern (P. corroboree) and northern (P. pengilleyi). Wood frog family Hylidae are present in areas of high rain precipitation in the north and the east coast and there is the 77 species belonging to 3 genera. Microhylidae frogs counted 18 species and two types, and their presence is limited to rainforests. This family is the smallest frog (Cophixalus exiguus). There is a solitary species belonging to the largest family Ranidae frogs (Ranidae), Australian (Rana daemeli), living in rainforests in the north Queensland. Commonest frogs belong to the genus (Limnodynastes). Western bog frog (Limnodynastes dorsalis), grows up to 9 cm, a day spent buried in the ground at night into the water and swimming prey. It is divided into several subspecies in the east., West. Australia and Tasmania. Tasmańska bog frog (Limnodynastes Tasmanian), grows up to 5 cm in length, by night and terrestrial lifestyles. Occurs in eastern and south-eastern Australia and in Tasmania. Chirping Frog (Crinia signifera), males can grow to about 2.5 cm and the females are slightly larger. Owes its name godowemu male voice, which confusingly similar to a chirp of an insect. Is common in the southern areas Austarlii, resident or Tasmania and New Guinea. Frog gęborodna (Rheobatrachus silus), which is characterized by an unusual method of reproduction. The female swallows the eggs deposited by them after they have been fertilized by the male, and all development occurs in the stomach until the transformation of female larvae on young frogs. Then the emetic reflex of female throws them out. Occurs in Australia. Catholic frog (Notaden bennetti), similar appearance to the toads, owes its name located in the middle of the back of a large spot in the shape of the cross. Reaches a length of 4 cm and maintained daily lifestyle. Alerted Nadym body and carries up to the upright legs. Occurs in southeastern Australia. Frog watery (Cyclorana platycephala), grows up to 7 cm, and live in dry desert areas. This is possible thanks to the way of collecting water during the rainy season in the subcutaneous lymph bags and bladder. With such a supply of drought during the burrows into the ground. Occurs in the central desert of Australia Fish How to calculate the waters of Australia, home to more than 4 400 species of fish of which 90% are endemic. In this number only 170 species are typically freshwater fish. One reason for such poor inland fish fauna may be a relatively small number of rivers and water reservoirs on the mainland. Freshwater species Two families of freshwater fish are very archaic: rogozębowate (Ceratodontidae) and kostnojęzykowe (Osteoglossidae). Rogoząb (Neoceratodus forsteri) is considered the most primitive species podgromady dwudysznych (Dipnoi), dating from the time before Australia separated from Gondwana. Lepidogalaxias salamandroides live in the south-west Western Australia and is one of the smallest freshwater fish, measuring about 7 cm in length. In the dry season, when the container dries przeczekuje the hole dug in the mud. Other families probably dating back to the Gondwana: Retropinnidae (Retropinnidae) galaksowate (Galaxiidae) and Temperate perch (Percichthyidae). The remaining 70% of Australian freshwater fish species are derived from marine species of fish living in tropical parts Indopacyfiku which secondarily adapted to freshwater life environment. These are freshwater Lamprey (Cephalaspidomorphi), Clupeidae (Clupeidae), Eeltail catfish (Plotosidae), (Melanotaeniidae) and about 50 species of the family eleotrowate (Eleotridae), for example Oxyeleotris lineolatus and several species of tęczankowatych (Melanotaniidae), including cultured in aquariums tęczanka higher ( Melanotaenia nigrans) and tęczanka less (Melanotaenia maccullochi). Native freshwater fish caught on bait are: Lates calcarifer, Maccullochella peelii peelii and Macquarie ambigua. Two species of freshwater shark was discovered in the Northern Territory, and both are vulnerable to extinction. A number of exotic freshwater fish species such as brown trout (Salmo trutta m. fario), trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and czawycza (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), fish of the genus Perca that is, perch, carp (Cyprinus carpio) and Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) were introduced into Australian waters intentionally caused by humans and is highly detrimental effects on native fish fauna. Mosquitofish are particularly aggressive species that brooked no presence of other fish, the fins and biting contributed to the extinction of several small native fish species. The introduction of trout had a negative impact for a number of native upland species (Maccullochella macquariensis), Australian bass (Macquarie australasica). The introduction of carp caused przetrzebienie aquatic plants because native species are not żerowały at the bottom and tore plants. Marine species A sea horse species (Phyllopteryx taeniolatus) occurs in the waters of southern Australia. Pensetnik pomarańczowopręgi (Copperband butterflyfish) Orectolobus maculatus is the largest of sharks wąsatych, reaching the length of 3,2 m. Most species of Australian fish live marine waters flowing around the continent from all sides. Some families are more familiar: murenowate (Muraenidae), hajdukowate (Holocentridae) also called szorstnikami, igliczniowate (Syngnathidae) with the types of pipefish (Syngnathus) and pławikoniki (Hippocampinae) called konikami sea, in which fertilized eggs in the process of incubation in a bag formed with a male the ventral fins. Pławikonik Australian (Phyllopteryx eques) has the highest degree of mimetyzmu all pławikoników. Its color and zielonawobrunatna frondosa and filamentous outgrowths skin perfectly imitate Plechý and algae. Live there 80 species of the family strzępielowatych (Serranidae), among them the largest of the whole assemblage of skeletal fish (Osteichthyes) living on a coral reef big seabass (Epinephelus lanceolatus), which can reach 2.7 m in length and weigh up to 400 kg. Carangidae (Lichia amia) from 50 species of fish with a metallic silver laterally flattened body and fish snappers (Lutjanidae), with big mouths are popular species poławianymi the fishing industry. Great Barrier Reef is full of a huge variety of fish for small and medium size represented by approximately 1500 species. There are like fish in the family Pomacentridae (Pomacentridae), Chaetodontidae (Chaetodontidae), pomakantowatych (Pomacanthidae), gobies (Gobiidae), apogonowatych (Apogonidae), wargaczowatych (Labridae), rogatnicowatych (Balistidae) pokolcowatych (Acanthuridae). There are also a number of venomous fish, contact with which humans can be fatal. Of these families skorpenowatych (Scorpaenoidae), and among them, recognized as one of the most venomous fish in the world Lionfish (Synanceia verrucosa) and skrzydlica fire (Pterois volitans), kolcobrzuchowatych (Tetraodontidae). In addition, there live 11 species ogończy (Dasyatidae) with a venomous barb on their tails. Barracudas (Sphyraena) are among the largest fish on the reef, however, threaten to eat their poison ciguatera toxin, which paralyzes the muscles. Sharks inhabit all coastal waters of Australia. There are 166 species there, including 30 species of sharks (Carcharhinidae), 32 rekinkowatych (Scyliorhinids), 6 sharks wąsatych (Orectolobidae) and 40 koleniowatych (Squalidae). There are also there, 3 species of the family rogatkowatych (Heterodontidae). In 2004 there were 12 shark attacks on humans in Australia, two of which ended in the death of people. Only 3 species are a significant threat to the people: Bull shark (Carcharhinus leucas), tiger shark (Galeocerdo Cuvier) and the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias). Several popular beaches in Queensland and New South Wales separates from the special shark nets, which had reduced the population of sharks, both dangerous and harmless, which are often drawn into a no. Fishing for sharks also have significantly reduced their numbers in Australian waters, so that several species are now endangered. Megamouth shark, planktonożernego third known species of shark, which was discovered in 1976. In 1988 was found on a beach in Perth, which might suggest the presence of this rare and audited by the end of the species in Australian coastal waters. Number of species of animals living in Australia is estimated at 200 000, including about 96% are invertebrates. So far, many of these small animals is poorly known. It is estimated 90% of the insects and molluscs are considered endemic. Invertebrates occupy all of the existing ecological niches and are an important part of all ecosystems. Decompose organic matter, pollinate plants and flowers are used in the food chain of larger animals. Insects The largest group of invertebrates are insects, which represent 75% of all known species of Australian animals. The largest group of insects is the Government of beetles, which are described here 28 200 species. Next in terms of number of 20 816 species of butterflies is the government with ćmami. Hymenoptera count 12 781 species, which consists of ants, bees and wasps. Flies, which are the flies and mosquitoes, count 7 786 species. Równoskrzydłe bugs (Homoptera) (bugs, aphids, cicadas ...) represents 5 650 species. Orthoptera (Orthoptera) (grasshoppers, crickets, szarańczaki) are 2 827 species. Inadvertently introduced invasive species, which cause significant environmental change: A European wasp, red fire ants (Solenopsis invicta) from South America, yellow ants (Anoplolepis gracilipes) and wild honey bees, which compete with native bees. Entomologists discovered in 1977 in South Australia Nothomyrmecia macrops ant, which is the most primitive known ant in the world. This is a fairly large yellow ant-like wasp with bulging black eyes and long mandibles similar to toothed blades. It is characterized by very simple social organization and activity at lower temperatures than most ants. Arachnid In Australia, a variety of live mites (Arachnida), including 135 species of spiders (Aranea). Among them is a particularly virulent atraks (Atrax robustus). In Australia, there is also commonly known as the black widow, Latrodectus hasselti, whose venom is not life-threatening, adult, healthy, not allergic to any of the components of venom people. In addition, thousands of species of mites in a row of smaller (Acarina). Also, eight species zaleszczotków (Pseudoscorpionida) and nine species of scorpions (Scorpionida). Oligochaeta They live there two family home on land skąposzczetów (Oligochaeta): Enchytraeidae and Megascolecidae, which includes the world's largest earthworm Australian (Megascolides australis) live only in Gippsland in Victoria, and its record length can claim up to 3.7 m in length. Many more families have skąposzczetów of aquatic mode of life than the family land. Crustaceans Freshwater crustaceans Parastacidae from a large family, are represented by 124 species of freshwater crayfish. Among the Australian species is both the smallest and the largest cancer world. The smallest is Tenuibranchiurus glypticus, which does not exceed 30 mm in length, and the world's largest cancer living in Tasamnii Astacopsis gouldi, which can reach 76 cm in length and weigh 4.5 kilograms. To be kind of Cherax destructor and Cherax common Cherax tenuimanus and Australian cancer czerwonoszczypcy Cherax quadricarinatus. Engaeus species of the genus, commonly known as land crabs, because more time than they spend on the water, dug jamkach, also found in Australia. In Australia, seven species of live freshwater crabs of the genus Austrothelphusa. Crabs hide in burrows at the edge of water and can stop their pits, so as to survive for several years during the drought. Freshwater mountain shrimp Allanaspides hickmani resides only Tasmania and is a very special group of the original, similar species found in fossil deposits from the period about 200 million years ago. Marine invertebrates Ukwiał great (Heteractis magnifica) is home to błazenka okoniowego (Amphiprion ocellaris) on the Great Barrier Reef. Crown of thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) Marine snail belonging to the cones (Conus textile) Area where there is a huge variety of marine invertebrates is the Great Barrier Reef. For this variety consists of, inter alia: sponge (Porifera), which is żebropławy bezparzydełkowce (Ctenophora) and Cnidaria (Cnidaria) in the Anemones (Scyphozoa) that is popular jellyfish, corals (ANTHOZOA), including the government anemone (Actiniaria). Echinoderms (Echinodermata), including urchins (Echinoidea), starfish (Asteroidea), Brittle Stars (Ophiuroidea), cucumbers (HOLOTHUROIDEA), brachiopods (Brachiopoda). Molluscs (Mollusca), including snails (Gastropoda), squid (Teuthoidea), octopus (Octopoda), oysters (Ostreidae), mussels (Bivalvia) and Chiton (Polyplacophora). Some invertebrates are very venomous jellyfish such as the sea wasp (Chironex fleckeri), contact with which may be fatal after a few minutes, the octopus rodzju Hapalochlaena, which have a poison called Tetrodotoxin, so powerful that it kills predators hunting them, and ten species of cones (Conidae), snails, poisonous thorn prick which can result in death due to respiratory problems. Crown of thorns starfish (Acanthaster planci) feeding on mostly polyps usually occur on the reef at low density. However, if you multiply too much can lead to its destruction. Other marine invertebrates, which may pose a threat to the existence of such reefs are home jeżowiec purple (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus) and jeżowiec white, which in the absence of natural enemies multiply in abundance and are able to convert underwater meadows in the bare rocks. Introduced alien species such as mussels chance (Musculista senhousia), New Zealand (Perna canaliculus), South American (Mytilopsis sallei) and północnopacacyficzny (Asterias amurensis) displace native mussels. Marine crustaceans in Australian waters are represented by seven clusters. Best known of these is the cluster pancerzowców (Malacostraca), which includes edible species. The warm waters of northern Australia, many species of crustaceans of the order dziesięcionogów (Decapoda), including crabs, false crabs (Anomura), hermit crabs, lobsters and prawns. Torboraki (Peracarida) in the obunogie crustaceans (Amphipoda) and równonogi (Isopoda) occur in greater diversity in the colder waters of southern Australia. Less well known is gomady Remipedia (Remipedia) Cephalocarida (Cephalocarida) Branchiopoda (Branchiopoda), Maxillopoda (Balanus, copepods and splewki (Branchiura)) and ostracods (Ostracoda). Tasmanian species live tasmańskiego huge cancer (Pseudocarcinus gigas), which is the second largest of cancer of the world, living in deep water, and weighing up to 13 kg. Also lives there, not having lobster claws Western rock lobster (Panulirus cygnus) Human impact Since the beginning of its colonization of Australia EXISTING man used animals as a source of food, leather, sport. Aborigines also used in a wide range of Australian fauna, but it is believed that their effect on the depletion of the species is much smaller than the impact of European settlers. The natives used fire regularly to prevent vegetation and to facilitate hunting and to change the flora of the area and thereby attract animals which would prey like kangaroos. Such a modification of the environment could impoverish the fauna of some species of which lacked the conditions for life. It is believed that the fate of the great non-volatile non-volatile bird birds of the genus Genyornis, who could not adapt to the impoverished diet. Man kolonizował Australia twice and each time nature bear heavy losses. It would seem that the Aborigines lived in harmony with the environment were not able to shake that I would find balance in nature. However, nothing could be more misguided, since they had brought the dogs to run wild again. Before them, many species of animals could not be defended. Today we do not know how many of them died due to sudden ingress of placental predator hunting herds. Marsupials do not have time to develop evolutionary ways of defending against them. During the British colonization of the continent of Australia brought many new species. Some of them found good conditions for development (eg, rabbits) and zaburzyła ecosystem. Several species such as wolf become extinct Marsupial which live in symbiosis Tasmanian devil (eat the carrion left by wolves). No carcasses meant that the search for food Tasmanian devil went to human settlements and became cumbersome neighbor. Harassed by an unknown disease is in danger of extinction. The protection of a koala bear zaskutkowało so much population growth in some areas, that begins to miss the food. Wild rabbits in the number of 24 were imported from Europe in 1859 by a farmer who lived in Victoria as a wild game. As soon multiplied to such an extent that it became a scourge to protect against a fence that was built odgradzający most populated eastern part of Australia. It was only in 1950 after having been brought there from Brazil discovered the virus causing the disease attacking rabbits perished Myxomatosis five hundred million units which accounted for 99.8% of the population. However, those who survived turned out to be resistant to disease, and again began to multiply excessively. Between 90. brought calicivirus disease that killed millions again. Part proved resilient, and in a few years the problem persists All this has resulted in recent years, a very restrictive policy of the Australian authorities, which totally prohibits the importation of live animals is not occurring on the continent. Fossil giants On the basis of paleontological excavations and research found that in the past, the animals lived in Australia far exceeding the size of the existing species. During the Miocene, lived in Australia a large flightless bird Bullockornis, which grew to 2.5 height and 250 kg body weight. It is estimated about 40 thousand more. lived here years ago, a huge species of the family waranów (Varanidae). This giant lizard Megalania (Megalania prisca - although currently it is suggested that this animal might, as today's monitor lizards, Varanus belong to type) was able to gain body length 4.5 - 6 m and weight 400 - 600 kg. Its achievement could be diprotodon (Diprotodon optatum), the largest known marsupial in the history of life on earth, which reached up to 2 m in height at the withers, over 3 m in length with body weight to 3000 kg, and therefore equal in size to a large hipopotamowi. It is believed that he lead a similar lifestyle as their well-preserved skeletons discovered in Australian salt lake clays. Even in historical times, there lived relatives kangaroo bobcat much larger than it increases the types of Palorcheste and Procoptodon. A few thousand years ago became extinct arboreal marsupial similar to a lion's skull and scissor-like shears, which was called a lion workowatym (Thylacoleo carnifex). Still lived in the Pleistocene Australia also of great tortoises of the genus Meiolania, reaching even 2.5 m in length. Their characteristic was similar to the horns of spines on the head and tail spikes protected [7] [8]. Protection Many Australian species are protected by state legislation. Except that now no need of such protection are the red kangaroos because they are threatened with extinction, and are doing very well using the example of sheep troughs in places where previously a lack of water there are no numbers. Federal Law on Environment Protection and Biodiversity 1999 (EPBC Act) was enacted to make the commitment of Australia as a signatory to the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992. This Act protects all native Australian fauna, and provides rapid detection and protection of endangered species. In every state and territory there is a statutory obligation to draw up a list of endangered species. Currently, 380 species are classified as endangered or threatened under the EPBC Act. Other species are protected under state and territory legislation. The creation of a complete directory of all the species within Australia has been taken to protect the Australian fauna and its biodiversity. In 1973, the federal government established Australian Biological Resources Science (ARBs), which coordinate research in taxonomy, identification, classification and distribution of flora and fauna. ARBs remains free online database katalogujące described many of the Australian flora and fauna. sand shark (Carcharias taurus) has reached a critical state of danger on the Australian east coast. Australia is a member of the International Whaling Commission (IWC - International Whaling Commission) and is strongly opposed to commercial catches of cetaceans. In Australian waters, all the species are protected. Australia is a signatory to CITES (Convention of International Trade of Endangered Species - Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Protected areas established in each state and territory to protect and preserve the unique ecosystems of the continent. These areas include national parks and other reserves, as well as 64 wetlands registered under the Ramsar Convention (Ramsar Convention on Wetlands) and 16 UNESCO World Heritage Place. In 2002, 10.8% (774,619.51 km ²), of the total land area of Australia was within the protected areas. Marine areas are also excreted in the protected areas to preserve biodiversity occurring there. In 2002, these areas cover about 7% (646.000 km ²), of the maritime borders of Australia. Great Barrier Reef is turned into a great park Marynistyczny, who is under federal and state legislation. Several of the fishing areas of Australia have already been depleted, and set allowances yields order to maintain the population of many marine species. Report on the state of the environment in 2001 prepared by independent researchers commissioned by the federal government, reported that it worsened since the previous report in 1996. Particularly highlighted the need for greater protection of wildlife, and pointed out that many processes such as salinity, changing hydrological conditions, sterile land, fragmentation of ecosystems and the problems arising due to the invasion of alien species is a major problem for biodiversity conservation in Australia. |
