The dataset contains information from the first initial trial of the AusPlots Fauna Protocol conducted at Calperum Station, Renmark, South Australia. Selected proposed methodologies and fauna survey techniques were trialled for logistical purposes. After the field trials, the proposed methodologies and techniques were refined. The dataset contains species information on fauna species captures, observations, and specimen collections from the April-May 2015 field trials. The data can be used to review the outcomes of the survey methodologies, presence data of the species recorded, morphological details of the animals recorded, and relate field data to the whole specimen and tissue specimens collected. The Enhancing Long-term Surveillance Monitoring Across Australia Programme will enhance the breadth and depth of Australia's terrestrial ecosystem condition monitoring and reporting at national and regional scales through building on the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN) AusPlots Facility. Specifically, this will be achieved by increasing the range and type of AusPlots field sites and monitoring, and through providing guidelines, protocols manuals or standards that will enhance environmental data quality.
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We at TERN acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians throughout Australia, New Zealand and all nations. We honour their profound connections to land, water, biodiversity and culture and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
Purpose
AusPlots is a plot-based surveillance monitoring program, undertaking baseline assessments of ecosystems across the country. The aim of AusPlots is to establish and maintain a national network of plots that enables consistent ecological assessment and ongoing monitoring. The AusPlots network collects a range of field data for integration with other existing data sources and current knowledge. AusPlots is one of a suite of capabilities delivered through Australia's Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN), a part of the National Collaborative Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS). As a whole, TERN delivers the critical research infrastructure, national and international networks of scientists, environmental managers and stakeholders that is needed to improve understanding and management of Australia's ecosystems.
Lineage
AusPlots Fauna Survey Protocols: This field trial is a key component of the project. Once reviewed and updated a manual will be available on the AusPlots website: https://linkeddata.tern.org.au/viewer/ausplots/id/http://linked.data.gov.au/def/ausplots-cv/3ee6feb4-20aa-4dd8-9f15-48bbbebbac7a. In summary, pitfall, funnel and Elliott trapping was conducted for 5-6 consecutive nights. Pitfalls consisted of 20 L buckets, buried flush to ground level, in a 3 lines of 7 pits in an array, with each line having a single continuous 90-100 m drift fence. All traps were checked morning and night, and captures recorded to species level and some morphological measurements taken. Some individuals were kept for museum whole specimens, whilst others a small tissue sample was taken prior to release. Samples are available from South Australian Museum.
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