Fresh Science

Adelaide researchers have developed tools to identify high-risk invasive species and work out where they are likely to come from. “When invasive species such as agricultural pests enter Australia, they can cause substantial damage to both our economy and environment”, says Dr Robert Cope, who co-authored the research.

A soil cover that’s sprayed onto soil around crops has been found to reduce water loss from evaporation by up to 76 per cent in the lab. “I hope to help farmers increase their crop yield. The soil cover can be sprayed directly onto soil, forming a barrier to reduce the amount of water lost…

Peering inside the body of tadpoles to understand the impacts of elemental contaminants Human activities, such as mining and agriculture, release a large number and amount of heavy metals and other toxic elements that can harm wildlife into our waterways. Chantal Lanctot’s (Griffith University) research looks at how these contaminants accumulate in and impact native frogs.…

Genetics can be used to shape plants underground so they absorb water better Recent discoveries by a University of Queensland agricultural scientist provide the basis for custom designing plant roots. Her discovery is already being used by plant breeders to develop drought-resistant sorghum crops.