annotated-bibliography-literature-condition ... - South West NRM

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY OF LITERATURE 

ON 

THE CONDITION OF QUEENSLAND STREAMS AND RIVERS 

Angela H. Arthington 

Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, Griffith University 

Nathan Queensland 41 1 1 

Report to the Water Resources Commission 

Brisbane, Queensland 

June 1992

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

1.0 SCOPE AND METHODS 

2.0 ANNOTATED BDBLIOGRAPHY 

3.0 STREAM AND RIVER RESEARCH IN PROGRESS 

3.1 CENTRE FOR CATCHMENT AND IN-STREAM RESEARCH 

3.1.1 Stream Invertebrate Studies 

3.1.2 Fish Community Studies 

3.2 AUSTRALIAN FOR TROPICAL FRESHWATER RESEARCH 

3.2.1 Project Outlines 

3.2.2 Publications in Progress 

4.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

11.0 SCOPE AND METHODS 

The fist objective of this annotated bibliography is to provide the Water 

Resources Commission with a summary of what is known about the condition of 

Queensland streams and rivers, including physical habitat characteristics, riparian 

vegetation, infomation on fish, algae, aquatic plants and invertebrates, water quality, 

and impacts of land use, flow regulation, other disturbances and introduced biota. 

Section 2 of the bibliography provides the usual details of the publication and an 

abstract for each published item, thesis or technical report. Where the original sighted 

item has lacked an abstract, a brief summary has been written. In some cases, the 

original item has not become available during the time available and no abstract is 

provided. Literature of a strictly taxonomic nature is generally not included. A 

bibliography of major taxonomic publications concerning the freshwater systems of 

the Brisbane region is provided in Arthington, Griffiths and Hailstone (1 990). 

The second objective of this bibliography is to provide the Water Resources 

Commission with a summary of research papers in press and research projects in 

progress within the Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, Griffith 

University, Brisbane and the Australian Centre for Tropical Freshwater Research, 

James Cook University, Townsville. Papers in press, in review and in progress 

related to stream condition are included in Section 3 of the bibliography. Other 

studies in progress within state agencies have not been included at this time, but may 

include various investigations underway in relation to the Queensland Integrated 

Catchment Management Strategy (e. g. the Johnstone River Pilot Study and the QDPI 

Review of the Downstream Effects of Agriculture). These are not readily accessible at 

this time but could be added to a regularly updated version of the bibliography. 

The majority of the information included in the annotated bibliography was 

accessed through STREAMLINE, which was searched by stream or river name and 

subject area. Other data bases which do not source information by river name could 

not be searched within the time frame of this project. It is considered unlikely that 

major ecological studies of Queensland streams and rivers have been overlooked but 

internal reports and environmental impact studies not entered into STREAMLINE 

will have been missed. Further investigation of these sources may be warranted but 

should await comment on the coverage of this bibliography.

2.0 ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY 

Allen, G. R. and D. F. Hoese (1980). A collection of fishes from the Jardine River, 

Cape York Peninsula, Australia. Journal of the Roval Societv of Western 

Australia 63: 53-62. 

Abstract 

Collections of freshwater fishes were obtained by the authors from the Jardine 

River at the northern tip of Cape York Peninsula on two expeditions during 

1978 and 1979. An annotated checklist is presented which includes 30 

species belonging to 24 genera and 16 families. The fish fauna of the Jardine 

River is most similar to that of the central coastal plain of southern New 

Guinea; at least 63% of the Jardine River fishes occur in the latter region. In 

addition, a similarity exists between the fish faunas of the Jardine River and 

Arnhem Land, Northern Temtory . The zoogeographic relationships of these 

faunas are discussed in detail. 

Arthington, A. H. (1984). Biological resources of urban creeks. Bulletin of the 

Australian Society for Limnology 1 1 : 6- 10. 

Abstract 

Most Australian cities have developed along large rivers that are fed by a 

network of small creeks draining through urban and suburban areas. The 

plant and animal communities associated with urban creeks offer a variety of 

resources which can enrich human life. The diversity of plant communities, 

their associated terrestrial fauna, and the diversity of aquatic invertebrates and 

fish in the Brisbane region are described and the scientific, educational and 

recreational values of these resources are discussed. Some of the effects on 

Brisbane's creek communities of alterations to creek hydrology, urban 

development, water pollution and the establishment of introduced plant and 

fish are described. An example of the management problems arising from 

competing uses of urban creeks highlights the type of difficulty facing 

management authorities. Management strategies are needed to evaluate 

aquatic resources and to set management constraints and priorities at the level 

of Local and State governments. 

Arthington, A. H. (1989). Diet of Gambusia affinis holbrooki, Xiphophorus helleri, 

X. maculatus and P. reticulata (Pisces: Poeciliidae) in streams of southeastern 

Queensland, Australia. Asian Fisheries Science 2: 192-212. 

Abstract 

The diets of four introduced Poeciliidae, Gambusia affinis holbrooki, 

Xiphophorus helleri, X maculatus and Poecilia reticulata, were studied in 

subtropical streams, southeastern Queensland. The prey of greatest 

importance in G. affinis diets was usually of terrestrial origin, i.e. ants and 

adult nematoceran Diptera, but aquatic Hemiptera and other aquatic taxa were 

also important in some habitats. G. aninis ate invertebrate prey that were 

small relative to body size and mouth gape (mean prey width 0.3 x mouth 

gape, mean prey length 1.28 x mouth gape) and relative to the size range of

prey present (mean prey ingested = 0.597 x mean length and 0.702 x mean 

width of available prey in the environment equal to or smaller than the largest 

prey eaten). X helleri was omnivorous, consuming aquatic plant tissue, 

filamentous and other algae and aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates. X 

maculatus consumed Crustacea and aquatic and terrestrial insects, with 

dominance of the atyid shrimp, Caridina. P. reticulata had a more diverse diet 

composed largely of terrestrial insects, particularly ants; chironomid larvae 

were the dominant aquatic taxon eaten. The four species of poeciliids had 

significantly different mean diet composition. The implications of poeciliid 

feeding for sympatric endemic fishes are discussed. 

Arthington, A. H. (1990a). The biological environment of the Brisbane River: past, 

present and future. In: The ~3sbane River Book: A Source Book fo; the 

Future (Eds P. Davie, E. Stock and D. Low Choy). Australian Littoral 

Society Inc. and Queensland Museum, Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 73-82. 

Abstract 

The Brisbane River Conference documented the impacts of land clearing, 

urban growth and commercial development on the biological resources of the 

Brisbane River. This paper reviews the more important features of change that 

have affected the river and its biological communities since European 

settlement, followed by a summary of information on the diversity of the 

river's plant and animal communities and of the major ecological processes 

operating within terrestrial, riparian and aquatic ecosystems. The third theme 

of the paper is the future of the river's biological resources and the need for 

the conservation, management and enhancement of importance resources, 

preferably in a total catchment and river ecosystem framework. The paper 

demonstrates that the biological and ecological knowledge base for planning 

and management of the Brisbane River is inadequate. To address key issues 

affecting the future of the river's biota will require a sustained, long-term 

research effort involving many disciplines and research groups. 

Arthington, A. H. (1990b). Latitudinal gradients in insect species richness of 

Australian lotic systems: a selective review. Tropical Freshwater Biology 2: 

179-195. 

Abstract 

Recent comparisons of macroinvertebrate species richness in eastern 

Australian lotic systems suggest that tropical lotic communities may be more 

diverse or not noticeably less rich than temperate communities. The 

objectives of this paper are to review eastern Australian studies on lotic insect 

community diversity taking into account differences between studies which 

clearly influenced the reported estimates of species richness, including the 

physical characteristics of the river systems and reaches studied, the degree of 

disturbance or pollution of the study areas, and the sampling methods and 

intensity used to examine the lotic fauna. This review provides preliminary 

evidence of higher species richness of aquatic insects in some sub-tropical 

and temperate streams than in the tropics; this pattern is demonstrated in the 

insect fauna of both coarse and fine stream substrates. These uncommon 

latitudinal gradients seem to contrast with Rapoport's rule presented recently 

as a parallel pattern to, and as a possible phenomenon explaining, higher

iotic diversity in many tropical assemblages. This paper argues that 

Rapoport's rule has overlooked the importance of latitudinal patterns in the 

variability and predictability of stream discharge regimes, and related 

environmental attributes, as factors in the maintenance of lotic insect 

assemblages. Some effects of stream discharge regime on Australian lotic 

insect communities support this conten tion. 

Arthington, A. H. (1991). The ecological and genetic impacts of introduced 

freshwater fishes in Australia. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aauatic 

Science 48 (Suppl. 1): 33-44. 

Abstract 

The inland waters of Australia have been colonized successfully by 20 species 

of freshwater fishes introduced to the continent, including 6 poeciliids, 3 

salmonids, 4 cyprinids, 5 cichlids, 1 percid and 1 cobitid, all of which 

reproduce in the wild. The ecological and genetic consequences of fish 

introductions and translocations have concerned scientists and water 

authorities since the late 1960's, although the earliest introductions of 

salmonids for sport were made towards the end of the 19th century. Impacts 

of introduced fishes, including hybridization problems, habitat and water 

quality alterations, competition for space and food, predation and the 

introduction of exotic parasites and diseases are reviewed. Emphasis is 

placed on sub-tropical and tropical species, since they presently appear to 

present the greatest threat to natural ecosystems. Problems in the 

translocation of indigenous Australian fishes between drainage systems to 

supplement recreational fishing are noted. A review of the Lake Eacham 

rainbowfish, supposedly brought close to extinction in its natural habitat by 

translocated Australian piscivores, demonstrates that unanticipated predatorprey 

interactions may result from the thoughtless addition of piscivores to an 

endemic community. A theoretical perspective on the assessment of candidate 

species for introduction and translocation is given, and areas of theoretical 

ecology that may assist in predicting future impacts of introduced species are 

discussed. 

Arthington, A. H. (1992a). An holistic approach to water allocation to maintain the 

environmental values of Australian streams and rivers: A case history. In: 

Proceedings of Conference on Conservation and Management of Tropical 

Inland Waters: Problems. Solutions and Prospects. (Eds D. Dudgeon and P. 

Lam) Mitteilung, Societas Internationale Limnologie. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the key features of an holistic approach for assessing the 

environmental flow requirements of riverine ecosystems, based on the natural 

hydrological regime of the river and the specific ecological features that 

should be retained, protected or perhaps modified and which therefore require 

a water allocation. The paper then describes the first attempt to apply the 

holistic approach in a sub-tropical stream, Barker-Barambah Creek, southeastern 

Queensland, recently impounded by the Bjelke-Petersen Dam to 

provide a reliable water supply largely for irrigation purposes. The paper 

concludes with comments on the need for new directions in the overall field of

water allocation for the environment, and the development of sustainable and 

environmentally sound management of riverine ecosystems. 

Arthington, A. H. (1992b). Diets and trophic guild structure of freshwater fishes in 

Brisbane streams. Proceedings of the Royal Societv of Oueensland 101 (in 

press). 

Abstract 

This paper describes the diets of six common and five other endemic fish 

species from streams of the Brisbane region, south-eastem Queensland. The 

dominant trophic guild in these streams is comprised of insectivorous 

carnivores, including at least three species of Eleotridae and Ambassis 

nigripinnis. Several species for which there is less information may also 

belong in this guild (Retropinna semoni, Pseudomugil signifer, and 

possibly, Glossamia aprion and juvenile Tandanus tandanus). There is an 

omnivorous guild, including Melanotaenia duboulayi, Craterocephalus 

stercusmurcarum and A. marianu, and two species of Anguilla can be placed 

in a piscivorous carnivore guild. The ordination of dietary data by detrended 

correspondence analysis (DECORANA) suggested considerable dietary 

overlap among most species during a time of year (March to May) when instream 

food resources may be limited compared to earlier summer months. 

The significance of dietary overlap and the high incidence of use of terrestrial 

food resources are discussed in the context of the relatively unpredictable 

environment of Australian sub-tropical streams, where a degree of trophic 

plasticity may be particularly advantageous for stream fishes. 

Arthington, A. H. and D. R. Bluhdom (1992). Distribution, genetics, ecology and 

status of the introduced cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus, in Australia. In: 

Proceedings of Conference on Conservation and Management of Tropical 

Inland Waters: Problems. Solutions and Prospects. (Eds D. Dudgeon and P. 

Lam). Mitteilung, Societas Intemationale Limnologie. 

Abstract 

The African cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters), has established 

breeding populations in a variety of waterbodies in Queensland and in one 

Western Australian river system. The origin of all stocks is the aquarium 

trade. This paper reviews the distribution, genetic differentiation, somatic 

characteristics and ecological relationships of 0. mossambicus in Australia 

and the evidence of adverse ecological effects in terms of competition for food 

and space, predation, and the importation of parasites and diseases. We also 

discuss the implications of there being two different genetic strains of tilapia 

in Australia, one relatively pure form of 0. mossambicus and one based on 

this species but with hybrid introgression from one or more of 0. niloticus, 

0. hornorum and 0. aureus. The paper describes Federal and State legal and 

informal prohibitions on the importation and translocation of tilapias, existing 

management policies and practices, and options for the management of 

tilapias in different habitats and circumstances. Finally, we examine the ways 

in which research directed towards understanding the ecology of 0. 

mossambicur in Australia could be of benefit to other countries as well as to 

the needs of Australian management agencies.

Arthington, A. H, S. E. Bunn and M. Gray (1992). Tully-Millstream Hydroelecmc 

Scheme. Additional Limnologial Studies. Final Report to the Queensland 

Electricity Commission. 196 pp., plus Appendices. Centre for Catchment 

and In-stream Research, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This report presents the results of a range of lirnnological investigations carried 

out to provide an ecological basis for recommendations on the downstream 

flows required to maintain the environmental values of streams within the 

Tull y Millstream Hydroelectric Scheme in north Queensland. It includes 

information on stream hydrology, physical habitat, water quality, invertebrate 

communities, the fish fauna and reproductive cycles in relation to the flow 

regime, and a review of the in-stream water quality, habitat and flow 

requirements of fishes. The report concludes with a series of 

recommendations on alternative strategies for providing water to maintain the 

aquatic ecosystem of each sub-catchment. 

Arthington, A. H., B. M. Bycroft and D. L. Conrick (1992). Environmental Study 

of Barker-Barambah Creek: Volume 1: Executive Summary. Water Resources 

Commission, Brisbane and Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, 

Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 35 pp. 

Abstract 

This Study was commissioned to examine effects of the Bjelke-Petersen Dam 

and the associated Barker-Barambah Irrigation Project on the natural 

environment. The study began in 1987, with the following objectives: (a) to 

obtain -a baseline assessment of the pre-impoundment hydrologic regime, 

physical habitat characteristics, water quality, fish, invertebrate and aquatic 

plant communities of Barker-Barambah Creek, (b) to develop a water 

allocation strategy to protect the water quality and in-stream values of the 

creek, and (c) to assist in the development of operational strategies for this 

and other imgation projects to minirnise adverse environmental effects. This 

report presents an overview of the study and describes the water allocation 

strategy. 

Arthington, A.H. and C.P. Catterall (1 989). Brisbane Waterways Management 

Study: Ecological Issues in Waterway Management. Report for the Brisbane 

Wetlands Management Study, Brisbane City Council. Centre for Catchment 

and In-stream Research, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 34 pp. 

Abstract 

Ecological issues of significance to the management of waterways are 

reviewed, including the importance of riparian vegetation and biological instream 

resources. The report also provides an assessment of significant 

waterways for conservation in the Brisbane region. 

Arthington, A. H., D. L. Conrick and B. M. Bycroft (1992). Environmental Study 

of Barker-Bararnbah Creek: Volume 2: Scientific Report: Water Quality,

Ecology and Water Allocation Strategy. Water Resources Commission, 

Brisbane and Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, Griffith 

University, Brisbane, Queensland. 400 pp. 

Abstract 



environment. The study began in 1987, with the objectives described above. 

This report presents all results arising from the study (17 chapters) and a final 

chapter which integrates information from various chapters into a 

recommended water allocation strategy for Barambah Creek. The study 

demonstrates that maintenance of imgation water quality, fish habitat and 

spawning requirements, invertebrates and aquatic macrophyte communities 

may require controlled supplementary water releases from the Bjelke-Petersen 

Dam. Three levels of stream discharge have been recommended to describe 

the boundary conditions of the water allocation strategy; flushing flow 

requirements are also described. Since large releases of water from September 

to November, or fluctuating water levels, could affect fish spawning and 

survival of eggs and fry, the water allocation strategy recommends that daily 

water level variations during critical spawning periods should not be allowed 

to exceed the natural changes that occur over the historic range of flow 

conditions in each month at particular sites. The study demonstrates that the 

management of streams must be undertaken within the framework of 

Integrated Catchment Management in order to address the range of water 

quality and in-stream issues comprehensively. 

Arthington, A. H., D. L. Conrick and B. M. Bycroft (1992b). Environmental Study 

of Barker-Barambah Creek: Volume 3: Appendicies to Scientific Report. 

Water Resources Commission, Brisbane and Centre for Catchment and Instream 

Research, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 100 pp. 

Abstract 



environment. The Appendices present additional essential details on the 

findings of the study, basic calculations for certain analyses, and further 

information on the methodology used to assess the in-stream flow 

requirements of stream fishes (questionnaires, compilation of habitat 

preference data and the RHYHABSIM Computer Manual). 

Arthington, A. H., D. L. Conrick, D. W. Connell and P. M. Outridge (1982). The 

Ecology of a Polluted Urban Creek. Australian Water Resources Council 

Technical Paper No. 68. Australian Government Publishing Service, 

Canberra. 

Abstract 

Sewage systems servicing urban and light industrial areas may receive organic 

wastes and a variety of toxic substances in low concentrations. Treatment 

substantially reduces the BOD and converts organic nitrogen, phosphorus and 

sulphur into oxidised salts. Chlorine is used as a sterilising agent in the final

effluent. Treated sewage effluents discharged into urban streams may 

therefore contain toxic substances as well as organic materials. This report 

describes the effects of such an effluent on the physical, chemical and 

biological properties of an urban creek in metropolitan Brisbane, Queensland, 

Bulimba Creek. The report then evaluates physico-chemical and biological 

methods of detecting and assessing sewage effluent contamination in streams. 

Evaluation of published toxicity and bioassay data indicated that the combined 

effects of dissolved oxygen deficiency, residual chlorine and metals, acting at 

lethal and sublethal levels, were likely to have had detrimental effects on 

invertebrates at all sites downstream of the effluent outfall, but particularly 

immediately below it. A total of 240 invertebrate species was collected from 

Bulimba Creek during the study. The Phyla present were Cnidaria (one 

species), Platyhelminthes (probably five species), Nematoda (number of 

species not known), Mollusca (12 species), Annelida (nine species) and 

Arthropoda (Arachnida 2 species, Crustacea 14 species and Insecta 197 

species). 

Arthington, A. H., D. L. Conrick and G. W. Yeates (1986). Nematodes, including 

a new record of Tobrilus diversipapillatus in Australia, as potential indicators 

of sewage effluent pollution. Australian Journal of ~arihe and Freshwater 

Research 37: 159- 166. 

Abstract 

Nine nematode taxa were collected during a study of the effects of sewage 

effluent on benthic macroinvertebrates in Bulimba Creek, Brisbane. The 

nematode, Tobrilus diversipapillatus, previously unknown from Australia, 

comprised 80% of the collection, and was most abundant at polluted sites 

with high biological oxygen demand and high levels of total organic carbon. 

Free-living adult and juvenile Mermithidae made up 15.6% of the collection 

and were most abundant at sites with low biological oxygen demand. The 

potential of T. diversipapillatus and Mermithidae to serve as biological 

indicators of organic enrichment and toxic pollution is discussed in terms of 

these preliminary findings and literature data. 

Arthington, A. H., M. W. Griffiths and T. S. Hailstone (1990). Freshwater flora 

and invertebrate fauna of the catchment. In: The Brisbane River: A Source 

Book for the Future. (Eds P. Davie, E. Stock and D. Low Choy). Australian 

Littoral Society Inc. and Queensland Museum, Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 

103- 130. 

Abstract 

This paper has three main themes: aquatic plants and riparian vegetation, 

aquatic invertebrates, and the integrated management of catchments and the 

aquatic systems they support. Firstly, it lists the freshwater plants and 

macroalgae known from the Brisbane River catchment, reviews ecological 

studies on aquatic plants and comments on areas where further research and 

management investigations are most necessary. It also outlines the critical 

research and management issues relating to riparian vegetation, and to the 

ecological links between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. It updates and 

earlier list of the freshwater invertebrates collected from the Brisbane River 

catchment and develops a major theme discussed during the 1977 symposium

- the commercial, scientific, educational and practical importance of studies on 

aquatic invertebrates. The concept of integrated catchment management and 

recent developments in its application in the Brisbane River catchment are 

discussed. 

Arthington, A.H., S. Hamlet and D.R. Bluhdorn. The role of habitat disturbance in 

the establishment of introduced warrn-water fishes in Australia. In: 

Introduced and Translocated Fishes and their Ecological Effects (Ed. D. A. 

Pollard). Bureau of Rural Resources Proceedings No. 8. Australian Govt. 

Pub. Service, Canberra. pp. 61-66. 

Abstract 

The types of disturbance recorded in Australian streams supporting introduced 

warm-water fishes are reviewed and it is demonstrated that habitat disturbance 

may contribute to the success of invading species such as Oreochromis 

mossambicur and Gambusia holbrooki. Implications for better management 

of streams and other waterbodies and of the problem of introduced fishes are 

discussed. 

Arthington, A. H. and E. J. Hegerl (1988). The distribution, conservation status 

and management problems of Queensland's athalassic and tidal wetlands. In: 

The Conservation of Australian Wetlands. (Eds A. J. McComb and P. S. 

Lake). Surrey Beatty and Sons, Sydney. pp. 59-101. 

Abstract 

This chapter presents an overview of Queensland's inland and tidal wetlands 

and an appraisal of deficiencies in knowledge of the wetland resources of the 

state. With the possible exception of mangrove wetlands, the sum total of 

knowledge permits little more than an inventory of wetland types and their 

distribution within 13 biogeographic regions. From this basis, and a review 

of the conservation status of wetlands, it is possible to present a case for the 

conservation of additional representative wetlands within each biogeographic 

region, as Sattler has done for the terrestrial plant communities of Queensland 

(Presidential Address to the royal Society of Queensland, April, 1986). 

Queensland's athalassic and saline wetlands have been altered in many ways 

by European settlement and development, particularly in populated coastal 

areas where demand for agricultural and urban dryland is high. In this review 

a wetland inventory and literature review is presented, but further work is 

needed to identify critical areas of high conservation value before they are lost 

or irreparably altered. 

Arthington, A. H., J. M. King, J. H. O'Keeffe, S. E. Bunn, J. A. Day, B. J. 

Pusey, D. R. Bluhdorn and R. Tharme. Development of an holistic approach 

for assessing environmental flow requirements of riverine ecosystems. 

Proceedings of an International Seminar and Workshop on Water Allocation 

for the Environment. Centre for Water Policy Research, Armidale, New 

South Wales. pp. 69-76.

Abstract 

The paper describes key features of an holistic approach for assessing the 

environmental flow requirements of the en tire riverine ecosystem, based on 

the natural hydrological regime of the river, and the specific ecological 

features that should be retained, protected or perhaps modified and which 

therefore require a water allocation. The annual water needs of a riverine 

ecosystem would be the sum of the low flow requirements throughout the 

year, the additional wet-season flows and floods and the requirements for 

flushing flows to achieve particular objectives which are not likely to be 

achieved by the basic water provisions. The total water requirements of the 

riverine ecosystem would ultimately be defined in terms of monthly flow 

allocations, and monthly maximum and minimum flows, desirable levels of 

flow variability and the timing and duration of floods and flushing flows. 

The paper concludes with several observations on the need for new directions 

in the overall field of water allocation for the environment, and the 

development of sustainable and environmentally sound management of 

riverine ecosystems over the long term. 

Arthington, A. H., R. J. McKay, D. J. Russell and D. A. Milton (1984). 

Occurrence of the introduced cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters) in 

Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 35: 267- 

272. 

Abstract 

The Mozambique mouthbrooder, 0. mossambicus, has established selfmaintaining 

populations in two water-supply reservoirs in Brisbane, southeastern 

Queensland, and in ornamental ponds and a man-made drainage 

system in Townsville, northern Queensland. It has bred in standing 

freshwater systems and in tidally flushed drains. An attempt to eradicate 0. 

mossambicus from ornamental ponds in Townsville in 1980 was 

unsuccessful. The species has also been recorded from the Gascoyne River, 

Carnarvon, Western Australia. 

Arthington, A. H. and D. A. Milton (1986). Reproductive biology, growth and age 

composition of the introduced Oreochromis mossambicus CCichlidae) in two 

reservoirs, Brisbane, Australia. Journal of the ~nvironmental ~ iolo~v of 

Fishes 16: 257-266. 

Abstract 

The reproductive biology, growth and age composition of Oreochromis 

rnossambicus (Peters) were studied in two Brisbane reservoirs during 1981- 

1983. The life history was assessed in terms of altrical and precocial 

tendencies after Noakes and Balon (1982). Fish from both reservoirs had a 

precocial life history style, showing delayed maturation at 12-15 months, at 

minimum sizes of 152mm standard length in males and 174mm standard 

length in females. The minimum size of fish at maturity was 0.51-0.73 of 

maximum size. Mean fecundity was 1360 (+I 17.2 standard error) in North 

Pine Dam and 2107 (k220.4 standard error) in Tingalpa Reservoir. This 

difference was significant ( ~~0.0 1). Oocyte diameter ranged from 1.7- 

2.6mrn. Overall sex ratio was 1:l but males predominated amongst Ash

than 200mm standard length. Stocks consisted mainly of three age groups 

and the oldest fish caught were 3+ years old. Growth rates were high in both 

populations. Length-weight relationships conformed to the allomemcformula 

W = aL" and were consistent with data on growth rates. High growth rates 

are attributed to the high productivity of both reservoirs and the small size of 

the populations relative to food resources, which are not utilized directly by 

other fishes. These factors probably also account for the precocial life history 

style exhibited, compared to the altricial history style of 0. mossambicus in 

Lake Sibaya, South Africa, a food-restricted environment. 

Arthington, A. H., D. A. Milton and R. J. McKay (1983). Effects of urban 

development and habitat alterations on the distribution and abundance of 

native and exotic freshwater fish in the Brisbane region, Queensland. 

Australian Journal of Ecology 8: 87-101. 

Abstract 

The distribution of freshwater fish in creeks throughout the Brisbane region 

was determined by a survey carried out in 1977-78. Seventeen native and six 

exotic species were recorded in 55 creeks. Sixteen exotic species were 

recorded in 55 creeks. Sixteen native and four exotic species were collected 

in a more restricted survey of central Brisbane in 1948 1. Urban development 

and the establishment of exotic plants have resulted in substantial changes to 

the aquatic environment in many of the creeks surveyed. Exotic grasses, 

especially para grass (Brachiaria mutica) have reduced the extent of free water 

by growing partly into stream reaches. Native aquatic macrophytes have 

declined, apparently due to dredging, siltation and other disturbances. These 

changes have affected the distibution and abundance of native and exotic 

fish. Native species with preference for open water and beds of aquatic plants 

have declined in creeks overgrown by para grass and floating plants. 

Melanotaenia fluviatilis, Retropinna semoni, Pseudomugil signifer, 

Craterocephalus stercusmuscarum and Ambassis nigripinnis have been 

affected. Para grass and floating plants have not affected the range of 

abundance of Hypseleotris galii, H. compressus and Mogurnda adspersa. 

Gambusia affnis andXiphophorus helleri have been advantaged by expansion 

of their preferred habitat type - the edges of pools were exotic grasses have 

grown partly into the water. The effect of exotic fish on native species is 

unclear. There was a correlation between large number of G. afJinis and small 

numbers of H. galii and M. fluviatilis. Correlations could result from 

predatory or competitive interactions between species. Alternatively, 

correlations could be due entirely to the effects of habitat alterations on exotic 

and native species. However, H. galii was evidently not disadvantaged by 

the habitat alterations studied. Thus there may be a complex interaction 

between this species and G. affinis. There was no evidence that X. helleri 

had affected the range or abundance of native species. 

Arthington, A. H. and I. Pullar (1990). Barker-Barambah Irrigation Project: a case 

study in integrated management of a catchment-aquatic ecosystem. 

Proceedings of the 17th Conference of the International Committee on Larec 

Dams IICOLD). pp. 78 1-803.

Abstract 

The Queensland Government has recently completed the construction of an 

Irrigation Project where impounded water will be used to irrigate alluvial flats 

along Barambah Creek in the South Burnett region of south-eastern 

Queensland. Impounded water will replace an inadequate groundwater supply 

which can be temporally and spatially of poor quality. The impoundment 

will intercept down valley flow of groundwater as well as effluent from an 

upstream coal power station. An environmental study of the catchment and 

aquatic ecosystem began in 1987 to obtain a baseline assessment of the preimpoundment 

hydrologic regime, physical habitat characteristics, water 

quality, fish, invertebrate and aquatic plant communities of Barker-Barambah 

Creek and to assist in developing operational strategies for this and other 

irrigation projects to minimise adverse environmental effects. This paper 

presents selected pre-impoundment results and demonstrates that maintenance 

of imgation water quality, fish reproductive patterns and balanced aquatic 

macrophyte communities may require controlled supplementary water releases 

from the Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Future studies will define an environmental 

release strategy and monitor its subsequent instream effects. 

Australian Environment Council (1989). Acid rain in Australia: a national 

assessment. Australian Environment Council Report 25. AEC, Canberra, 

ACT. 

Abstract 

Acid rain has not been perceived as a problem in Australia as it has been in the 

northern hemisphere for two reasons: (i) the emission of acid rain percursors 

to air is relatively small compared to the northern hemisphere countries and, 

(ii) Australia is geographically isolated from heavily industrialized countries, 

which ensures that long range transport of emissions is not problematic. In 

some European countries acid depositions come from neighbouring countries 

rather than locally. Not many extensive studies on rainfall acidity have been 

conducted in Australia. The evidence suggests it is not a national problem, 

but there are regions which warrant investigation. These are the Kalgoorlie 

region of Western Australia, Mount Isa in Queensland and the Latrobe Valley 

of Victoria. Regions susceptible to soil acidification include the eastern parts 

of the Great Dividing Range in northern Queensland and sections of Kakadu 

National Park. Techniques for minimizing acid percursor emissions are 

identified. 

Benson, L. J. (1983). Drift and Recolonization in a North Queensland Tropical 

Stream. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, Townsville, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

A study conducted in Yuccabine Creek, a rainforest stream in tropical north 

Queensland, traced the benthic recolonization process following the breaking 

of an unusual drought by heavy autumn rain. A rapid recovery of taxonomic 

composition was attributed to survivors in pools and moist 

microenvironments under stones, and the immigration of flying adults from 

nearby streams which did not cease to flow during the drought. A much

slower recovery in the density of benthic animals was linked to sporadic 

spates during the fist three months of stream flow, the onset of winter and 

depressed food reserves. The use of implanted-substrate trays showed drift 

was the primary dispersal mechanism of larval colonists, particularly during 

the early stages of recolonization. The majority of insect taxa in Yuccabine 

Creek showed nocturnal drift maxima with a peak immediately following 

sunset, a result which concurs with studies from both tropical and temperate 

latitudes. 

Benson, L. J. and R. G. Pearson (1987a). Drift and upstream movement in 

Yuccabine Creek, an Australian tropical stream. ~;drobiolo~ia 153: 225- 

239. 

Abstract 

Drift and upstream movement were monitored over 14 months in a seasonal 

upland tropical stream in northeastern Australia. There were distinct seasonal 

pulses in the drift with variable peak levels in the summer wet season and low 

more stable levels during the dry season. Drift density ranged from 0.36 to 

3.98 animals per m3 (monthly mean = 1.26). There was no correlation 

between drift density and either benthic density or stream discharge. In the 

absence of catastrophic drift, drift was dispersive, not depletive in the wet 

season. A total of 12 1 taxa was caught in the 14 drift samples. Most taxa had 

nocturnal maximum drift levels with a peak immediately after sunset, a pattern 

apparently related to level of light and not temperature. Compensation for 

drift by upstream-moving nymphs and larvae was least during the wet season 

and increased during the dry season to a peak of 27% by numbers. Mean 

compensation was 8.2%. It is suggested that apart from the wet season when 

an animal may drift substantial distances, most riffle animals will spend their 

larval lives in one small stretch of stream. 

Benson, L. J. and R. G. Pearson (1987b). The role of drift and effect of season on 

macroinvertebrate colonization of implanted substrata in a tropical Australian 

stream. Freshwater Biology 18: 109- 1 16. 

Abstract 

Experiments using implanted substrata were conducted in Yuccabine Creek 

Queensland , an upland stream which exhibits a strong seasonal pattern of 

discharge and temperature. The implanted substrata were either set in the 

stream bed or were raised in the water column. Three experiments were run, 

at different times of the year. Colonization rate was dependent on benthic 

abundance, mobility of the fauna and distribution of resources. The rates on 

embedded trays were similar in the late wet season and mid dry season, but 

colonization rate in the late dry season was greater. Drift alone could have 

accounted for all colonization in the late wet season, 63% of colonization in 

the mid dry season and less (unmeasured) in the late dry season. Drift acts to 

disperse early instars to patches of suitable habitat after the summer wetseason 

peak in reproduction. Following the wet season, stream discharge 

decreases, benthic abundance increases, resources become more concentrated 

and movements of animals in contact with the substratum play an increasingly 

important role in colonization.

Benson, L. J. and R. G. Pearson (1988). Diversity and seasonality of adult 

Trichoptera captured in a light-trap at Yuccabine Creek, a tropical Australian 

rainforest stream. Australian Joumal of Ecologv 1 3: 3 37-344. 

Abstract 

Seventeen light-trap samples were taken over a 20 month period at Yuccabine 

Creek, an upland rainforest stream in north-eastem Queensland. Seventyeight 

species of Trichoptera were recorded from a total catch of 6431 

individuals. The fauna was dominated by the Hydroptilidae (25 species and 

5131 individuals) and, though composed primarily of To~~esian genera, some 

Bassian elements were recorded. A seasonal pattern of change of abundance 

was observed with the majority of taxa exhibiting maxima between December 

and January (summer) and minima between July and September (winter). 

Beumer, J. P. (1979). Reproductive cycles of two Australian freshwater fishes: the 

spangled perch,Therapon unicolor Giinther 1859 and the East Queensland 

rainbowfish, Nematocentris slendida Peters 1866. Joumal of ~ish Biology 

15: 111-134. 

Abstract 

The reproductive cycles of the spangled perch Therapon unicolor Gunther, 

1989 and the East Queensland rainbowflsh Nematocentris splendida Peters, 

1866 are described in terms of maturity stages, sex-ratio, gonosomatic 

indices, oocyte diameters and fecundity. T. unicolor has a well-defined 

reproductive cycle with gonad development stimulated by rising temperatures 

and increasing daylength; with spawning induced by the 'wet', possibly by 

rising water levels and increasing turbidities. In contrast, N. splendida has a 

protracted spawning period with a peak of spawn!ng activity in pre-flood and 

flood periods, although individuals in spawning condition and juveniles may 

be found throughout the year. 

Beumer, J. P. (1980). Hydrology and fish diversity of a North Queensland tropical 

stream. Australian Joumal of Ecology 5: 159- 186. 

Abstract 

The diversity and distribution of fish and the hydrology of the Black-Alice 

River System, North Queensland, are described from a 2-year study 

(September 1972 to August 1974). Most physico-chemical parameters 

measured exhibited seasonal patterns which are influenced by rainfall and 

discharge. A total of forty-one species of fishes belonging to four groups: 

freshwater tolerant, saltwater tolerant, diadromous and sporadic, were 

recorded during the study. The diversity of fish species decreased with 

increasing distance from the mouth of the system. Fluctuations in total 

diversity (H') were due to variations in 'species richness' (D) rather than to 

equitability (E). The ability of the fish community to 'recover' its diversity 

and longitudinal distribution after a flood of above-average magnitude is 

demonstrated.

Blackman, J. G. and D. K. Locke (1985). Quantitative analysis of seasonal 

wetlands in the Burdekin-Townsville region with special reference to 

waterbird habitat. Ecologv of the Wet-drv tropics: Proceedings of a Joint 

Svm~osium. (Eds M.G. Ridpath and L.K. Corbett). Ecological Society of 

Australia and the Australian Mammal Society, Melbourne, Victoria. pp. 139- 

152. 

Abstract 

Vegetation and other wetland components of seasonally adapted wetlands can 

be precisely mapped from low level aerial photography. Measurements of the 

individual components' area and position within the wetland have been 

indexed. These indices can be used to assess the persistence of components 

within the wetland habitat at sequential time periods. This persistence concept 

has three applications: (i) in establishing the nature and variation of succession 

and persistence of components in a wetland, (ii) in evaluating the persistence 

of those components which determine waterfowl carrying-capacity of a 

wetland, and (iii) in monitoring seasonal and longer term changes in 

wetlands. The above indices are used to examine the persistence of waterfowl 

plant food species which occurred at one swamp over a 10 year period. There 

is an apparent relationship between the persistence of these and the numbers 

of waterfowl which used the swamp. Present work is concerned with habitat 

utilization of coastal sedge swamps by regional populations of brolgas Grus 

rubicundus (Perry). One aspect of this work is the use of persistence indices 

to examine and subsequently model seasonal and annual persistence of 

components in these swamps. The data for this are being derived from 

repetitive mapping of wetland components along fixed transects across coastal 

swamps. 

Bluhdom, D. R. and A. H. Arthington (1990a). Somatic characteristics of an 

Australian population of Oreochromis mossambicus Peters (Pisces: 

Cichlidae). Journal of the Environmental Biologv of Fishes 29: 277-29 1. 

Abstract 

TheOreochromis mossambicus population of North Pine Dam, Brisbane, 

Queensland, Australia was studied over three years, from 1985 to 1988. 

Basic somatic data were obtained and characteristic values of condition factor, 

sex ratio, gonosomatic index and the relationships between total and standard 

lengths, and length and weight, were calculated. Standard length is 

proportional to total length by the formula SL= - 0.321 + 0.799 TL. Weight 

is related to length by the isometric formula W = a ~3. Condition factor 

values spanned the range 0.0254 to 0.0563, with an average of 0.04078 for 

males and 0.03877 for females. The sex ratio is 1: 1 until maturity is reached 

(21 cm SL), at which time the catch rate of the sexes varies due to divergent 

habitat selection behaviour. Average values of gonosomatic index, considered 

in relation to maturity classification, are similar to those obtained from other 

populations, however maximum values are generally much lower, at 0.47 for 

males and 3.62 for females. These characteristic values are compared, with 

varying degrees of concordance, with those for populations of this species in 

other countries.

Bluhdom, D. R. and A. H. Arthington (1990b). The incidence of stunting in 

Australian populations of the introduced cichlid Oreochromis mossambicus 

(Peters). In: The Second Asian Fisheries Forum (Eds R. Hirano and I. 

Hanyu). Asian Fisheries Society, Manilla, Philippines. pp. 41-44. 

Abstract 

This study involved the electrophoretic and morphometric examination of six 

feral populations of Oreochromis mossambicus in Australia for indications of 

stunting. Gonosomatic index and condition factor values were calculated and 

evaluated, along with standard length, minimum and meansize at maturity, 

and sex ratio. Two of the six populations were considered to be stunted. The 

delineating values derived from the above data are considered in relation to the 

Australian populations and comparable populations in other countries. It is 

concluded that, 1: two populations, Guthries Pond and Western Australia, are 

stunted, 2: the stunted populations are not genetically different from 

associated non-stunted populations, 3: while each exhibited characteristics of 

a stunted population, it appears that the environmental issues being applied are 

of very different types, and 4: there are indications that, at Tingalpa 

Reservoir, the population is intermediate between stunted and non-stunted 

conditions. 

Bluhdorn, D. R., A. H. Arthington and P. B. Mather (1990~). The introduced 

cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicur, in Australia: a review of distribution, 

population genetics, ecology, management issues and research priorities. In: 

Introduced and Translocated Fishes and their Ecological Effects (Ed. D. A. 

Pollard). Bureau of Rural Resources Proceedings No. 8. Australian 

Government Publishing Service, Canberra, ACT. pp. 8 3-92. 

Abstract 

The introduced African cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus (Peters), has 

established feral populations in a range of tropical and sub-tropical 

waterbodies in Australia. This paper describes the species' distribution in 

Queensland and Western Australia. Genetic differences between populations 

are discussed and evidence is presented that two basic stocks of Oreochromis 

mossambicur are involved; a hybrid in the Cairns area, and an almost pure 

stock in the remaining areas. Somatic characteristics of six populations are 

described, showing that two of these exhibit stunting, that is, reproduction at 

an unusually small body size. Information on the dietary ecology of 0. 

mossambicus in North Pine Dam and Tingalpa Reservoir, Brisbane, shows 

that adult and sub-adult 0.mossambicus has a markedly different diet 

composition from the other two common large fish species in these 

impoundments. 0. mossambicus, Tandanus tandanus (eel-tailed catfish), and 

Leiopotherapon unicolor (spangled perch) partition the available food 

resources at both high and low water levels in these impoundments. The 

paper concludes with an overview of management issues arising from the 

presence of 0. mossambicus in Australia. A case is made for continuing to 

prohibit importation and translocation of this species as the single most 

significant action needed to prevent the widespread invasion of fresh and 

brackish water habitats. Research priorities are also outlined.

Bretz, J. J. (1984). Watercourse Meander Spectra of the Logan and Albert Rivers. 

B.C.E. Thesis, Queensland Institute of Technology, Department of Civil 

Engineering, Brisbane, Queensland. 125 pp. 

Abstract 

The report outlines a project which uses the technique of spectral analysis to 

find meander wavelengths of the Logan and Albert Rivers. It discusses the 

introductory theory of meanders, considering such aspects as regular 

watercourse forms from total work, pools and riffles and comparison of a 

straight reach with a curved reach. Previous work is surveyed, including 

modelling meanders and artificial meander generation. Spectra were 

generated for the two rivers using the sine generated curve to approximate the 

in-plan shape of meanders. From the spectra obtained, dominant wavelengths 

were found and interpretations made. 

Bristow, J. (1985). Water quality changes with impoundment. Oueensland Division 

Technical Papers: Institution of Engineers 26: 29-35. 

Abstract 

This paper considers the specific rainfall and stream flow conditions in 

Queensland and their effects on water quality in streams and impoundments. 

It discusses the changes introduced by impoundment of water and cites 

specific data relating to various problems experienced in the operation and 

control of water treatment plants. The examples quoted show that there are 

definite water quality changes with impoundment but that it is difficult to 

postulate these with certainty due to rainfall intensities experienced from time 

to time. 

Bunn, S. E. (1991a). Response of stream invertebrates to extreme discharge events. 

30th Australian Society for Limnoloev Congress: Promamme and Abstracts. 

Australian Society for Limnology, Caulfield East, Victoria. 

Abstract 

A preliminary study of the life history and behavioural responses of algal 

grazing invertebrates to physical disturbance was conducted in a small 

subtropical rainforest stream in south-east Queensland. Three relatively 

sedentary species of Trichoptera dominate the guild of grazers on stone 

surfaces in this stream; an undescribed species of Tasimia, Tmiagm ?ciliata 

(both Tasimiidae) and an undescribed species of A gap e t us 

(Glossosomatidae). These species comprise approximately 60%, 13% and 

13% respectively of the individuals on cobble size stones. The lowest 

chlorophyll a concentrations on cobbles were recorded during the wet season 

but the decline in algal food resources occurred in the absence of disturbances 

from extreme discharge events. Such disturbances in the late wet season 

were, however, associated with a major decline in the density of grazers, 

particularly Tasimia, on cobbles. The subsequent recolonisation of grazers on 

cobbles post-disturbance was slow and correlated with an increase in 

chlorophyll a during the dry season. Qualitative sampling of boulder habitats 

demonstrated a disproportionately high number of Tasiagma ?ciliafa larvae 

(46% of the total individuals) than on cobbles and it appears that densities of

this species were-not greatly reduced following high discharge events. 

Experiments are underway to determine if boulder habitats offer a refuge from 

discharge-related disturbances and to examine the influence of disturbance on 

interactions among these species of grazers. 

Bunn, S. E. (1991b). Streamflow patterns, disturbance and benthic invertebrate 

communities. In: Svm~osium on Streamflow Regulation and Ecolo~ical 

Implications - Australia/South Africa ~ers~ectives. Centre for Catchment and 

In-stream Research, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

There is little doubt that disturbance exerts a major influence on the structure 

and dynamics of natural communities and that it can account for a large 

portion of the observed spatial and temporal heterogenity. This appears to be 

particularly true for stream and river communities and disturbance is now 

considered by some stream ecologists to be the most important feature of 

steams to be studied. One of the more common natural disturbances can also 

result from periods of low stream discharge which lead to stranding and 

desiccation. Populations of stream invertebrates are greatly influenced by the 

intensity, frequency and predictability of these extreme discharge events. The 

latter is particularly important because this will influence the evolution of 

behavioural and life history strategies. A study of the responses of algal 

grazing invertebrates to discharge-related disturbance is underway in a small 

sub-tropical rainforest stream in south-east Queensland. Data from this study 

will be discussed together with additional information on the influence of the 

overall pattern of flow on benthic invertebrate communities in Australian 

streams. An understanding of the influence of the seasonality and 

predictability of stream flow and the associated disturbance regime on stream 

benthic communities is essential to the planning of water release strategies for 

flow-regulated rivers. 

Bunn, S. E. (1991~). The neglected inhabitants of our streams and rivers: aquatic 

invertebrates. In: Snippets. The Occasional Journal of CCISR. (Ed. D. 

Charles-Edwards). Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, Griffith 

University, Brisbane, Queensland. Number 4: 17-25. 

Abstract 

With perhaps the exception of conspicuous and admired species such as 

butterflies and beetles, insects and arthropods in general are rarely considered 

worthy of inclusion in conservation and management programmes. This 

article discusses the importance and significance of aquatic invertebrates in 

terms of their contribution to world biodiversity, their conservations status, 

the taxonomic impedment to their analysis in ecological studies, and the 

regional and functional significance of invertebrates in aquatic ecosystems. It 

discusses the condition and fate of Australian streams and rivers and the role 

of biological monitoring in assessing and managing the condition of 

waterways.

Bunn, S. E. and W. Boughton (1991). Ecological significance of streamflow 

patterns of some Australian rivers. Internationale Vereinigune fur 

Theoretische und An~ewandte Limnologie 24. 

Abstract 

The pattem of stream discharge is known to exert a major influence on the 

structure and functional organisation of stream benthic communities. In 

particular, discharge-related disturbance can be responsible not only for major 

variations in spatial and temporal patterns in community structure, but also 

have a major impact on productivity, nutrient spiralling and decomposition in 

streams. The east cost of mainland Australia extends from 100 to 400 S 

latitude. Discharge data from a range of river systems along the east coast, 

and from the south-west of Western Australia, were compared using 

Collwell's measures of time-series. This approach considers the overall 

predictability of discharge patterns, together with their contingency, which 

measures predictable fluctuations, and constancy. Streams in the far north of 

eastern Australia show pronounced seasonal variation in flow from the 

tropical wet summers and dry winters, and have a high predictability and 

contingency. Streams in south-western Australia also show pronounced 

seasonal variation but with wet winters and dry summers. The degree of 

seasonality of stream discharge diminishes, however, as we move down the 

east coast. Streams in the south-east are more uniform in flow throughout the 

year because of the temperate climate and some snowmelt and in fact, show 

the least seasonal discharge pattem. Most knowledge of the structure and 

functional organization of stream communities in Australia is based on studies 

conducted in the south-east. If stream discharge patterns are important in 

influencing benthic communities we should be careful not to make 

generalisations when this region is clearly atypical of most river systems in 

Australia. 

Cameron McNamara Pty Ltd (1985). Stream aggradation effects of soil erosion. 

Cameron McNamara Pty Ltd, Brisbane. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the erosion/aggradation processes that are occumng in 

the agricultural catchment of the South Johnstone River and the methodology 

adopted for measuring aggradation and its physical and quantified off-site 

economic consequences. The significance of farm erosion on river 

aggradation is discussed and the findings of a sedimentary study of collected 

sediment samples reported. Finally, on the basis of the findings of the 

project, the report recommends that the movement and deposition of sediment 

and the very high suspended beds in the South Johnstone River should be 

subject to a monitoring programme so that the appreciable silt content can be 

evaluated. This will assist the fate determination of catchment erosion and 

provide input to coastal studies connected with environmental conditions. 

Campbell, I. C. and T. J. Doeg (1989). Impact of timber harvesting and production 

on streams: a review. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater 

Research 40: 5 19-539.

Abstract 

Timber harvesting operations have significant effects on both water quantity 

and water quality. The effects on water quantity have been well documented 

both in Australia and elsewhere. The effects on water quality are less widely 

appreciated, and include elevated concentrations of dissolved salts, suspended 

solids and nutrients, especially during peak flow periods. Several Australian 

studies have failed to measure peak flow transport of suspended solids, or 

have measured it inadequately, thus severely underestimating transport. The 

major short-term effects of timber harvesting on the aquatic biota result from 

increased sediment input into streams or increased light through damage to, or 

removal of, the riparian vegetation. Sediment which settles on, or penetrates 

into, the stream bed is of more concern than suspended sediment, and can 

lead to long-term deleterious changes to fish and invertebrate populations. 

Increased light causes an increase in stream primary production which may 

increase invertebrate densities, and alter community composition. These 

biological consequences have not yet been adequately investigated in 

Australia. Longer-term effects, as yet not investigated in Australia, include 

changes to stream structure as the regrowth forest has fewer large logs to fall 

into the stream. These large logs play a major role as habitat and retention 

structures in streams. There has been no attempt to evaluate the effects of 

timber production activities, including pesticide use and fuel reduction 

burning, on the Australian stream biota. Likewise, although buffer zones are 

widely advocated as a protection measure for streams in Australia, there have 

been no studies to evaluate their effectiveness. 

Chandler, C. (1985). The Australian Bass. Internal Report. Queensland Department 

of Primary Industries, B ris bane. 

Absmct 

This report presents information on the Australian Bass, the only freshwater 

sport fish of any consequence in southern Queensland: It establishes the 

distribution of the fish. The Bass is found in the freshwater reaches of coastal 

streams from the New South Wales border to the Noosa River and streams 

running into Tin Can Bay. Briefly discusses the biology and ecology, 

covering aspects such as growth rates, food items and breeding. Turbidity, 

temperature and salinity limitations are stated. Outlines measures needed to 

maintain bass populations, including the prevention of erosion, siltation, and 

pollution. Specific management steps legislated to protect the fish are listed. 

They involve the Noosa River system and Lake Cootharaba, and also relate to 

minimum catch sizes and commercial netting. 

Charlton, L. J. (1989). The Ecology of Dragonflies (Odonata) in a Tropical 

Australian Stream. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, 

Townsville, Queensland. 88 pp.

Abstract. 

An ecological study was conducted of the dragonfly (Anisoptera) and 

damselfly (Zygoptera) fauna of Birthday Creek, an upland, order-3 tropical 

rainforest stream in north eastern Queensland. A diverse fauna comprising 14 

species, representing nine of the 16 odonate families in Australia, occurred 

within a 200m stretch constituting the study site. The Birthday Creek fauna 

was typified by stream dwelling odonate species restricted to north eastern 

Queensland and Cape York. Although the odonate fauna in each of the four 

major habitats (riffles, runs, leaf litter and sand) was comparatively diverse, 

odonate species demonstrated a distinct preference for either riffle or leaf litter 

by way of their relative abundance in these two habitats. Within the major 

habitats there was spatial separation of species in response to limitations 

imposed by environmental variables and morphological traits. Biotic 

interactions were probably most important between species occupying the 

same microhabitat. Results of the study indicated that a range of 

environmental variables and biotic interactions determined the spatial and 

temporal occurrence of odonates in Birthday Creek. 

Congdon, R. A. (1990). Two extremes of the Burdekin River system: from 

Birthday Creek the Banattas wetlands. 29 th Australian S ocietv of Limnology 

Conmess: Promamme and Abstracts. Australian Society for Limnology, 

Caul field East, Victoria. 

Abstract 

The Burdekin River system has its headwaters in wet tropical rainforests on 

the Great Dividing Range, but flows through much dner savanna woodlands 

to the enonnous Burdekin Dam, and thence to the coast. Water from the dam 

is diverted to the Burdekin River Inigation Scheme near the river's delta, 

where it drains into the wetlands of the Barrattas creeks. This paper 

summarizes studies underway in a rainforest catchment in the river's 

headwaters and in the Barrattas wetlands. These extremities of the Burdekin 

system show contrasting water quality, with important implications for 

management. 

Congdon, R. A. (1991). Effects of imgation discharge on the Barrattas wetlands. 

Report to the Land and Water Resources Research and Development 

Corporation, Canberra, ACT. 

Abstract 

Data on water quality were collected over 26 months from 11 sites within and 

downstream of the Burdekin Irrigation Area Queensland . At least some of 

the increased nutrient concentrations are likely to have resulted from inigation 

drainage. To reduce nutrient inputs and the likelihood of algal blooms in 

natural wetlands receiving irrigation drainage, it is suggested that an artificial 

wetland system be developed to act as a biological filter. Total catchment 

management, however, would be necessary to reduce the impact of nutrients 

and sediments on the coastal waters of the Great Barrier Reef. It is 

considered probable that the natural wetlands play an important role in 

absorbing some nutrients and accelerating sedimentation. Eichhornia and 

Salvinia were found in the wetlands, and it is recommended that their

distribution be monitored, as they can clog imgation channels as well a 

degrading natural aquatic systems. 

Connell, D. W., H. C. Morton and B. M. Bycroft (1982). Oxygen budget for an 

urban estuary. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 33: 

607-616. 

Abstract 

Various processes affecting the dissolved oxygen content of waters of the 

Norman Creek estuary, Brisbane, were measured or estimated and 

standardized for the mid-tide daylight situation. Over a 9-week period, 

accrual, aeration and photosynthetic processes resulted in the daily addition of 

76,225 and 214 kg oxygen, respectively, and export, deaeration, biochemical 

oxygen demand, plant respiration and benthic respiration in the daily loss of 

30, 89,91,97 and 335 kg oxygen, respectively. These processes are highly 

dynamic, with substantial daily turnover in the water mass. Benthic 

sediments, enriched with organic matter, exercise a major influence on the 

dissolved oxygen content of the water. 

Corben, C. J. and G. J. Ingrarn (1987). A new barred river frog (Myobatrachidae: 

Mixophyes). Memoirs of the Oueensland Museum 25: 233-237. 

Abstract 

Mixophyes fleayi sp. nov. has been confused with both M. balbus and M. 

fasciolatus, but it is readily separable from these species and the other two 

members of the genus. The new species is a ground dweller in montane 

rainforest from Conondale Range, southeast Queensland to Richmond Range 

northeast New South Wales. Discovery of M. fleayi triggered new 

examination of the types of mixophyes taxa about which there has been 

serious confusion, 

Cosser, P. R. and A. J. Moss (1986). Environmental considerations in planning 

long term sewage disposal from Caloundra: Part 2 - Biological studies. Use 

and Abuse of Environmental Information in Engineering. National 

Environmental Endneering Conference. Institution of Engineers, Barton. 

pp. 21-25. 

Abstract 

The biological effects of sewage effluent discharged to shallow water off 

Moffat Heads, southeastern Queensland, were assessed. The diversity, 

abundance and distribution of species of intertidal algae were determined in 

impacted and control areas. The biomass of algae regrowth was measured 

following clearing of areas of substrate. The total number of algae species 

declined from 17-21 at control sites to 10 nearest the outfall. A total of 15 

species recorded from control sites did not appear in the impacted area. The 

Rhodophyta and Phaeophyta appeared most sensitive to pollutants. A 

difference in species dominance and evenness was observed, with Ulva sp. 

and Enteromorpha clathrata assuming dominance in the impacted area. The 

biomass recovered from cleared areas was significantly higher near the outfall

as a result of growth stimulation. As a result of toxicants and growth 

stimulants contained in the effluent, the intertidal community has been 

significantly altered. 

Cosser, P. R. (19 88a). Macroinvertebrate community structure and chemistry of an 

organically polluted creek in south east Queensland. Australian Journal of 

Marine and Freshwater Research 39: 67 1-683. 

Abstract 

The benthic macroinvertebrate fauna of Gowrie Creek Queensland and 24 

chemical and physical parameters, were monitored over 105km downstream 

from a major sewage effluent outfall near Toowoomba Queensland between 

June 1981 and October 1984. Species richness declined to two to three taxa 

and density of organisms increased significantly just below the outfall, with 

an increasing number of taxa progressively downstream. The elimination of 

taxa near the outfall was caused by dissolved oxygen depletion and possible 

ammonia and sulphide toxicity. Changes in dominance were related to the 

changes in food types in the transition from a heterotrophic to an autotrophic 

environment. 

Cosser, P. R. (1988b). Concentration-flow Relationships and Loads of Phosphorus 

in the South Pine River, South-east Queensland. M. Phil. Thesis, Griffith 

University, Brisbane, Queensland 

Abstract 

The concentrations of total phosphorus, particulate phosphorus and total 

dissolved phosphorus were monitored in the upper South Pine River, 

Queensland, to examine concentration-flow relationships and estimate 

catchment phosphorus export. 

Cosser, P. R. (1989a). Estimating catchment phosphorus export using a unit runoff 

coefficient. 28th Australian Society for Limnologv Congress: Promamme 

and Abstracts. Australian Society for Limnology, Caulfield East, Victoria. 

Abstract 

Unit runoff coefficients were determined for stormflow and baseflow 

discharge regimes during a two year study of the South Pine River 

Queensland . Coefficient values were constant during baseflow and relatively 

constant over three major storm events. This constancy has potentially 

significant implications for load estimation because, by using the coefficients 

in conjunction with discharge data stratified by flow regime, reliable 

estimation is possible. Once measured, the coefficients can be used to 

estimate both historical and current load directly from the flow record. 

Cosser, P. R. (1989b). Nutrient concentration-flow relationships and loads in the 

South Pine River, south-eastem Queensland. I. Phosphorus loads. Australian 

Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 40: 613-630.

Abstract 

Total P (TP), particulate P (PP), and total dissolved P (TDP) were monitored 

over 24 months in the South Pine River, south-eastem Queensland. The 

sampling interval ranged from 13-16 days during baseflow to less than 30 

min during stomflow. Baseflow TP concentrations were relatively constant at 

0-03 mg L-1. During stormflow, concentrations of both TDP and PP 

increased significantly and were positively correlated with flow. TP loads 

were 8950 kg (56 7 kg km-2 year-1) and 3980 kg (25.2 kg-2 year-1) in 1984 

and 1985 respectively. Annual load was influenced by both the absolute 

discharge volume and the relative proportion of stormflow. PP was the 

dominant P fraction, comprising 77% of the TP load. Approximately 86, 89 

and 75% of the TP, PP and TDP loads, respectively, were canied in only 2- 

8% of the time (20 days) during three major storms (50-8% of total flow). 

Concentrations and exports were high relative to those reported in other 

Australian studies, suggesting that climatic factors, particularly rainfall 

intensity, are important in determining export. As a result of the variability in 

unit area export attributable to variations in runoff, unit area export 

coefficients are of negligible use for predictive purposes. However, by 

expressing load in terms of mass per unit runoff per unit area (kg mm-1 km- 

A 

L), variance attributable to discharge is removed. When expressed in this 

form, stormflow export was relatively constant (0.46-0-54 kg mm-1 km-2). 

A method of predicting load from the flow record using this coefficient is 

proposed. 

Coughlan, J. F. (1990). Population and Trophic Ecology of the Freshwater Crayfish 

Cherax depressw (Crustacea: Parastacidae) in a North Queensland Tropical 

Rainforest Stream. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, 

Townsville, Queensland. 74 pp. 

Abstract 

An autecological investigation into the population and trophic ecology of the 

freshwater crayfish Cherax depressus (Crustacea: Parastacidae) was 

conducted in a third order North Queensland tropical rainforest stream. The 

interaction of the riparian zone with the stream was investigated through 

monthly leaf litter collections and monthly standing crop estimates. Litterfall 

and standing crop of litter in the stream were monitored monthly. Litterfall 

comprised 75% leaf and peaked in October and November (late dry season). 

Standing crop levels did not correspond to litterfall. Litter accumulated 

steadily in pools whilst in riffles in the standing crop remained at or below a 

threshold level which is a function of current velocity and protruding 

obstacles. Accumulated litter was washed from the stream during high 

discharge after cyclone Ivor. Cherax depressus was found to shred leaves, 

prefemng those conditioned for the longest amount of time. Experiments 

showed a clear preference for the least tough leaves. There was a preference 

for one species over all others and it is thought that a combination of nutrient 

content and physical characteristics of the leaf ultimately influence how much 

it will be processed.The interactions between the crayfish population and the 

riparian vegetation are discussed with reference to quantity, quality and timing 

of litter inputs to the stream. The contribution of the crayfish population to 

litter processing is discussed. A tentative leaf processing budget is presented.

Day, D. G. (1988). River mismanagement: policy, practice or nature? Centre for 

Resource and Environmental Studies, Australian National University, 

Canberra, ACT. 

Abstract 

This paper explores the 'mismanagement' problem for Australian rivers. In 

reviewing close interrelationships between the physical nature of rivers and 

their management, questioning policy problems already recognized and those 

unrecognized in the conflicting and changing perception of riverine resources 

by society, the paper attempts to put forward some objectives for better river 

management. Case studies for the Macquarie River, NSW and Thomson 

River, Victoria, are noted, in particular, the impact of flow regulation on instream 

water allocation and runoff dynamics. A conceptual model for riverine 

planning suggests how the complexities and failures in managing rivers might 

be reduced. 

Day, D. G. (1989). Resources development or instream protection? The case of 

Queensland, Australia. Environmentalist 9: 7-23. 

Abstract 

The extent of instream water planning in Queensland is considered as well as 

the potential for new policy development. Important environmental water 

allocation issues are explored, including instream water resource management 

policy and the position of the Queensland Water Resources Commission. 

Derivation of State river management policies and the implications for 

planning are discussed. 

Digman, R. (1990). River repair needs rock, not sand. Australian Canemower 12: 

29-30. 

Abstract 

Erosion control along the Tully River Queensland is discussed. The practice 

of dozing to place sand across rivers is criticized for being ineffective and for 

its adverse environmental effects. Rock protection of eroding banks is 

proposed as a more suitable technique. Costs involved and responsibility for 

these are discussed. The suggestion is made that the Queensland Electricity 

Commission should undertake a rock stabilizing programme to overcome 

erosion which will be aggravated by the proposed Tully-Millstream 

Hydroelectric Scheme. 

Dowling, A. J. and B. A. Cowie (1984). Chemical monitoring of underground 

waters in the Callide, Don and Dee Valleys. Australian Salinitv Newsletter 

12: 26-27. 

Abstract 

The objectives of this investigation in the Don, Dee and Callide Valleys in 

Queensland include provision of information on water level and quality

changes for selected bores within the valley system, evaluation of differences 

between bores and assessment of directional trends in water quality attributes. 

Conclusions regarding salinity, restricted lateral groundwater flow and 

groundwater leakage are presented. Salinity variations in the Callide alluvium 

were explained using a simple hydrological model involving recharge, 

transmission and accumulation areas. 

Duivenvoorden, L. J. (1988). The Dee River: aquatic flora and acid mine discharge. 

Water Weeds Management Workshoo. Queensland Institute of Technology, 

Brisbane. 

Abstract 

The open cut gold mine at Mount Morgan in central Queensland lies adjacent 

to the Dee River and was established about 100 years ago. Upstream of the 

mine water in the river varies in pH from about 7.2 to 8.0 and contains a 

diversity of aquatic plants. At the mine the pH of the water is reduced to 

levels as low as 2.7 and this is associated with a change in the stream flow. 

The pH of the water and the number of aquatic plant species increase with 

distance downstream from the mine. Factors which may influence the 

distribution of aquatic flora are discussed and preliminary results of the heavy 

metal content in plants are presented. 

Duivenvoorden, L. J. (1989). Aquatic macrophytes and heavy metal pollution in the 

Fitzroy River system, Central Queensland. State of Our Rivers Conference, 

Canberra. 

Abstract 

This paper extends an earlier study into the effects of acid mine discharges 

from the gold and copper mine at Mount Morgan in Central Queensland on the 

water quality and aquatic macrophytes of the Dee River, a tributary of the 

Fitzroy River. It documents macroph yte species downstream and provides 

further data on the heavy metal contents of plants at various sites along the 

Dee River. Results indicate that more research is needed to assess the extent 

of pollution from the mine on the Fitzroy River system. 

Edwards, P. B. (1989). Seasonal changes in larval populations of Culicoides 

subimmaculatus Lee and Reye (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), with observations 

on the influence of tides on larval ecology. Australian Journal of Marine and 

Freshwater Research 40: 69-78. 

Abstract 

At Tingalpa Creek, Brisbane, larvae and pupae of Culicoides subimmaculatur 

were most numerous 1.94m above datum, midway between mean high-water 

neaps and mean high-water springs. Monitoring of a field population of 

immature stages indicated that C. subimmaculatw completes four generations 

a year, and overwinters in the 4th larval instar. Adults emerge during 

synchronized periods associated with the lunar tidal cycle; however 

laboratory experiments indicated that tidal coverage did not affect the time of

adult eclosion or of pupation. It is suggested that synchronization occurs at an 

earlier point in the life cycle, possibly at ecdysis of 3rd to 4th instars. 

Edwards, T. M. (1988). Design Proposal for Toowong Creek as a Wildlife Corridor 

and Local Recreational Resource. Grad. Dip. Land Arch. Thesis, Queensland 

Institute of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

The study sets out to achieve a design proposal for Toowong Creek 

Queensland as a wildlife comdor and community resource. The proposal 

aims to promote the Toowong Creek wildlife conidor as a model for other 

creek schemes in Brisbane. The study is presented in two sections: the 

investigative section and the design proposal section. The investigative section 

examines the habitat requirements of wildlife in an urban environment and 

how wildlife corridors function and links these requirements directly to the 

conditions found in Toowong Creek. The design proposal section covers the 

site survey, an analysis of the site survey and an evaluation of the analysis, 

giving options and preferred options. Presents the preferred options as a 

concept and a management strategy. The study concludes with a master plan 

showing Toowong Creek as a wildlife comdor and community resource for 

recreation and nature study. 

Fenwick, T. D. (1986). Transferable water rights: a Queensland viewpoint. 

Proceedings of the Joint AWRC-AAES Seminar on Transferable Water 

Rights. Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra, ACT. pp. 85- 

102. 

Abstract 

The paper provides a brief perspective on irrigation development in 

Queensland and looks at the present situation for allocation of water. It 

addresses the constraints to development of a market in water rights and 

concludes with an overall strategy for enhancing cost recoveries from the 

Burdekin River Imgation Project. 

Fleay, A. (1978). Studies on the Ecology and Behaviour of Phalacrocorax 

sulcirostris (Brandt, 1837) and Phalacrocorax melanoleucos (Vieillot, 18 17) 

on the Ross River Dam, Townsville. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook 

University , Townsville, Queensland.. 

Abstract 

Two species of cormorant Phalacrocorax sulcirostris (Brandt, 1837) and 

Phalacrocorax melanoleucos (Vieillot, 1 8 17) were studied on the Ross River 

Dam between February and October 197 8. Although broadly these species 

were similar, a number of differences in the use of resources and in the 

associated behaviours were observed. These differences were considered in 

terms of potential competition between the species. The comfort behaviours 

of each species were described and were found to be similar. Except in a few 

specific instances they were very similar to those described in the literature for 

the Anatidae. A list of bird species observed on the Dam was compiled and

the abundance of some of the more common waterfowl noted. Comments 

were made regarding the future management of the Dam in relation to these 

bird populations. 

Fleming, P. M. (1986). The Burdekin Dam and irrigation project: some 

environmental consequences with particular reference to drainage and 

flooding. Proceedin~s of Conference on Plannin E and Manavemen t of Water 

for Amiculture in the Tro~ics. International Commission on Irrigation and 

Drainage. West Perth. pp. 384-392. 

Abstract 

The Burdekin irrigation project comprises a large dam at Burdekin Falls some 

160km from the mouth of the river, a weir at 50.5km and two pumping 

stations and supply canals. An area of 45000ha will be irrigated annually in a 

region adjacent to an existing groundwater supply area of 40000ha. The new 

development will inigate different soil types and landscapes from the present 

development and part of an area subject to overbank flooding. The paper 

discusses possible environmental degradation due to irrigation, resulting from 

changes in the hydrologic balance, in particular waterlogging and salinization. 

The necessary surface and subsurface drainage systems will carry agricultural 

chemicals and fertilizers into the adjacent marine environment. General 

design and management considerations with respect to the drainage systems 

are discussed. The large floodways necessary to cany overbank flooding 

offer a unique opportunity to preserve and manage some significant natural 

ecosystems. 

Guilfoyle, B. P. (1978). A Preliminary Study of Water Quality in Bulimba Creek 

and Tributaries. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, Griffith University, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

This study investigates some water quality parameters in Bulimba Creek, a 

tributary of the Brisbane River, during an atypical low flow period. The 

results confirm that along the main stem of the creek the effluent from the 

overloaded Mimosa Creek sewage treatment plant is an important determinant 

of water quality for most of the time. The literature canvassed to ascertain the 

effects of urban development on the stream flow regime and water quality of 

streams and the review is included in this dissertation. 

Gilmour, D. A. (1971). The effects of logging on streamflow and sedimentation in a 

north Queensland rainforest catchment. Commonwealth Forestry Review 50: 

39-48. 

Abstract 

Stream water samples were collected during logging operations in a 17 square 

mile rainforest catchment in North Queensland. Analysis by millipore 

filtration equipment indicated high levels of sediment resulting from low 

rainfall intensities. A survey of the catchment revealed that most of the 

sediment was derived from a relatively small number of sediment source

areas. Conditions were inserted in the timber sale agreement aimed at 

preventing the occurrence of these sediment source areas and these proved 

effective in reducing the sediment level in the streams. A double mass curve 

analysis indicated a trend towards increased annual discharge since logging 

commenced in 1960. It is concluded that it is possible to harvest both timber 

and water from the one catchment provided each producer is prepared to make 

concessions for the utilisation of the other resource. 

Gilrnour, D. A. (1977a). Effect of rainforest logging and clearing on water yield and 

quality in a high rainfall zone of north-east Queensland. The Hvdrology of 

Northern Australia: Hvdrologv Svmposium. Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 156- 

160. 

Abstract 

A pair of small catchments was used in a land use hydrology experiment to 

determine the effects of logging and clearing in a tropical rainforest. One 

catchment was kept as an undisturbed control while the other was treated. 

Logging produced little hydrological change. However, clearing produced a 

substantial increase in baseflow and the annual water yield increased by 293 

mm (10.2 percent) during the first two years after clearing. Logging 

produced a doubling of the suspended sediment load during high flows and 

clearing produced a ten-fold increase. 

Gilmour, D. A. (1977b). Streamflow generation processes in a tropical rainforest 

catchment: a preliminary assessment. The Hvdrologv of Northern Australia: 

Hydrologv Svmposium. Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 178-179. 

Abstract 

An hypothesis is developed to explain the source of quickflow in a tropical 

rainforest catchment. This is contrasted with the situation in humid 

temperature environments. It is indicated that in this particular tropical 

rainforest environment the variable source area concept of storm flow 

generation, associated with humid temperate areas, is not applicable, mainly 

due to the characteristics of rainfall intensity. 

Gilmour, D. A., D. A. Cassells and M. Bone11 (1982). Hydrological research in the 

tropical rainforests of North Queensland: some implications for land use 

management. (Eds E. M. O'Loughlin and L. J. Bren). 1st National 

Symposium on Forest Hydrology. Melbourne, Victoria. pp. 145-152. 

Abstract 

Forest hydrology research in the rainforests of north Queensland began with 

studies which aimed to quantify the hydrological effects of logging and land 

clearing. Subsequently, hydrological process studies were undertaken to 

provide a basis for extrapolating the results from these monitoring studies to 

the wider rainforest management situation. This paper summarises some of 

the more important findings from both the monitoring and the process 

studies. It also outlines a number of implications for land management and 

future research. It is considered that long term environmental monitoring

should be seen as an integral part of land management in the tropics. 

Gunn, D. (1982). Water management - Tarong power station. Electricity S UDD~~ 

Association Conference: Section 1 : Genera tion. Electricity Supply 

Association of Australia, Melbourne, Victoria. 

Abstract 

This paper depicts the overall water supply and effluent systems management 

for Tarong power station which is designed to operate on a zero discharge 

concept using ash dams. Water for construction is drawn from a borefield via 

a lagoon and 1Okm of pipeline, and for domestic purposes, requires treatment 

by a plant which includes a reverse osmosis unit. Provision has been made 

for using dam surface water on sit to supplement the bore water. Make-up 

water for the operating power station is from the Boyne River Dam and 

pipeline and three associated pumping stations balancing storages. 

Conservation measures planned to ensure an adequate supply for power 

generation are an on site water harvesting system utilizing stomwater in the 

Meandu Creek and on ash water reclaim system. 

Hacker, J. L. F. and M. R. Gourlay (1986). The problems of a prograding river 

mouth: the Pioneer River at Mackay. Proceedings of Short Course on 

Geoloeical and Environmental Aspects of Coastal Management Programs. 

Queensland Institute of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 93- 109. 

Abstract 

This paper presents a case study which looks at the problems of a prograding 

river mouth, the Pioneer River at Mackay Queensland. It outlines the 

sedimentation processes which are aggravating the flooding situation in the 

city. As a result of this sedimentation, major flood related effects in the river 

are (i) deposition on the floodplain, (ii) formation of Cullen Island 

Queensland within the estuary, (iii) progradation of the bar, (iv) formation of 

a new beach ridge south of the river mouth, and (v) extension of the area 

colonized by mangroves. These various effects are discussed. Examines the 

influence of tides, waves and wind on the sedimentation processes. States 

the necessity for this estuarine environment to be studied as a whole. Rate of 

sedimentation is examined. In conclusion, considers guidelines for the 

management of the estuary. 

Hair, I. D. (1990). Hydrogeology of the Russell and Johnstone Rivers alluvial 

valleys, north Queensland. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 57 pp. 

Abstract 

An investigations program was initiated by the Department of Mines in 1980 

to assess the groundwater resources of the Russell River and Johnstone 

River-Liverpool Creek areas of northern Queensland. The fieldwork phase of 

the program was completed in 1985. Pumping tests to determine aquifer 

characteristics were camed out at four selected sites. Groundwater samples 

were taken for chemical analysis and determination of ionic constituents.

Particle size distribution tests were carried out on selected samples of 

sand/gravel aquifer material. Little development of groundwater resources 

has taken place in this part of Queensland, and water requirements for the 

region are largely met from surface water resources. Results of this 

investigation show that there is little scope for large scale development of 

existing groundwater resources. 

Ham, R. D. (1981). The Ecology of Six Native and Two Introduced Fish Species in 

the Enoggera Creek System, South-east Queensland. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, 

Griff'ith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

The ecology of two introduced and six native fish species in Enoggera Creek, 

Brisbane were investigated. Many native species were found upstream from 

the Enogerra Reservoir but no exotic species. Numbers of introduced species 

increased as the downstream distance from the reservoir increased. The 

distribution appears to reflect the habitat alteration in the downstream areas. 

Harding, P. (1988). Report on Mulgrave River degradation study. Queensland 

Water Resources Commission, Brisbane. 

Abstract 

The US Army Corps of Engineers model, HEC-6, was used to simulate the 

sediment transport processes in the Mulgrave River Queensland between 

Gordonvale and Behana Creek to quantify the bed degradation caused by 

sand extraction operations and to determine the limits for both existing and 

future operations. While the hydraulic component of the model was 

calibrated using measured flood levels, there was insufficient information to 

calibrate the sediment transport component. Therefore, the uncertainty in the 

applicability of the various available sediment transport formulae was 

determined by a sensitivity analysis. The effects of the extraction proposals 

on the water quality, fringing bank vegetation and in stream fish habitats were 

briefly addressed. 

Hart, B. T, G. Day, A. Sharp-Paul and T. Beer (1988). Water quality variations 

during a flood event h the Annan River. Australian ~ournal of -~arine and 


Abstract 

Variations in water quality during a major flood event that occurred in the 

Annan River on March 21 1985, are reported. Factor analysis showed that 

dilution of base flow concentrations by surface runoff was the dominant 

influence during the rising stage of the flood event, possibly with some 

flushing of ions from surface layers of the catchment soils also occumng. At 

low river flow, water quality was dominated by that in groundwater and 

possibly interflow. Heavy metals were mostly transported in particulate 

forms. Filterable metal concentrations were low and changed little with flow.

Hearnden, M. N. (1986). Resource Use by Mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) in a 

Topical Rainforest Stream. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, 


Abstract 

Patterns of spatial resource use indicated distinct partitioning of the available 

habitat among a suite of mayfly species in a tropical rainforest stream. The 

observed patterns were dependent on the distributions of detrital deposits. In 

the absence of detritus in erosional, fast-flowing regions, leaf litter was the 

prime determinant of distributions. Current velocity and substratum particle 

size were of influence in determining the distribution of these detrial and leaflitter 

deposits. The carrying capacity of pool habitats exceeded that of the 

riffle habitat as the result of limited detrital and leaf-litter resources. Detritus 

was of major importance in the diet of all mayfly species, except one species 

with a carnivorous habit. 

Hearnden, M. N. and R. G. Pearson (1991a). Habitat partitioning among the mayfly 

species (Ephemeroptera) of Yuccabine Creek, a tropical Australian stream. 

Oecolorria 87: 9 1 - 10 1. 

Abstract 

This study examines the distributions among microhabitats of 12 detritivorous 

species of mayfly in Yuccabine Creek Queensland, an upland tropical 

rainforest stream. Analysis of the data showed that although all species 

occurred in all the microhabitats examined, different species had significantly 

different peaks of abundance in different microhabitats, leading to distinct 

partitioning of the available habitat. In the absence of fine detritus deposits in 

fast flowing regions, leaf litter was the prime determinant of species 

distribution. Current velocity and substratum particle size influenced the 

distribution of detritus and leaf litter. 

Heamden, M. N. and R. G. Pearson (1991b). The diets of mayflies (Insecta: 

Ephemeroptera) in a tropical Australian rainforest stream. Journal of Tropical . 

Freshwater Bioloev (in press). 

Abstract 

The diets of 13 species of mayflies from Yuccabine Creek, a tropical 

rainforest stream, were investigated. Quantitative analyses of gut contents 

showed that fine detritus was of major importance in the diets of all species 

except Mirawara sp. 1, which was carnivorous. Dietary overlap was 

exceptionally high (Horn's coefficient, c = 0.92 to 1.00). There were no 

differences between winter and summer diets within each species. No 

significant difference was found between the diets of large and small size 

classes of any detritivorous species, but the diets of small and large nymphs 

of Mirawara sp. 1 were significantly different: larger individuals selected for 

larger numbers of leptophlebiids in the diet, while smaller individuals utilised 

chironomid prey that were not observed in the guts of the larger size class.

Hearnden, M. N. and R. G. Pearson (1991~). Habitat partitioning among the mayfly 

species (Ephemeroptera) of Yuccabine Creek, a tropical Australian stream. 

Oecolorria 87: 91-101. 

Abstract 

This study examines the distributions among microhabitats of 12 detritivorous 

species of mayfly in Yuccabine Creek, an upland tropical rainforest stream. 

Analysis of data from regular benthic sampling and from in situ experiments 

using implanted substrata showed that although all species occurred in all the 

microhabitats examined, different species had significantly different peaks of 

abundance in different microhabitats, leading to distinct partitioning of the 

available habitat. The observed patterns of distribution were closely 

associated with the distribution of fine detritus deposits (FPOM). In the 

absence of FPOM in fast-flowing regions of the stream, leaf litter was the 

prime determination of species distribution. Current velocity and substratum 

particle size influenced the distribution of the detritus and leaf litter. 

Abundance of mayflies was greatest in the pool habitat for all except two of 

the species. 

Herbert, B. (1987). Note on Cherax quadricarinatus from the Jardine River, Cape 

York Peninsula. Oueensland Naturalist 28:19-21. 

Abstract 

This paper compares Cherax quadricarinatus from the Jardine River 

Queensland with the same species in the Mitchell River (700km to the south). 

It discusses the four different habitat types inhabited by Jardine River C. 

quadricarinatus. and remarks on cover size, breeding and diet. Concludes 

that the difference in reproductive biology and parasitic fauna suggest that the 

Mitchell River and Jardine River populations of the crayfish species represent 

intraspecific clinal variations. 

Hewitt, D. R. (1984). Growth and Bioenergetics of the Freshwater Prawn, 

Macrobrachiurn australiense (Hol thuis). B . S c. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook 

University, Townsville, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Prawns of the species Macrobrachium australiense were grown using diets of 

differing composition to determine the suitability of the animal for 

aquaculture. This required the determination of the calorific loss associated 

with each energy-consuming bodily process, to construct a partial energy 

budget. Four diets were used, Caridina (freshwater shrimp), pellets (poultry 

feed), algae (Spirogyra sp.) and detritus (decayed plant material). The 

growth rate was highest for the Caridina diet (65% protein) and decreased 

through pellet, algae and detritus. Growth rate decreased with increasing 

prawn size. Growth rates of M. australiense were lower than those of culture 

organisms, but higher than those of organisms not used in aquaculture. 

Construction of a partial energy budget showed that larger prawns assimilate 

high nitrogen diets more efficiently. Low nitrogen diets were more efficiently 

assimilated by small prawns. Plant protein was more efficiently utilized by 

large prawns than by smaller prawns. It was concluded that different sized

M. alcrtraliense would require different feeds in culture. M. rosenbergit 

would be a wiser choice for aquaculture when the advantages of M. 

alcrtraliense (non-feeding larval stages with no need of saline water, growth 

nearly all year round; widespread distribution) are not a consideration. 

Hicks, D. (1986). Ipswich City's Bremer River: a Strategy for Riverside Recreation 

Management. Grad. Dip. Land Arch. Thesis, Queensland Institute of 

Technology, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This thesis presents a study which investigates the use of the Bremer River as 

a recreational resource for the residents of Ipswich and surrounding districts. 

It looks at the current state of the river comdor relative to physical, social and 

biological factors and the visual character of the river and adjacent land areas. 

Examines the likely recreational needs and demands of the local residents and 

the types of recreational activities that are possible on or beside the river. 

Determines four options for levels of recreation usage and provides guidelines 

for management under each of these options. A strategy plan is outlined 

designating the recreation management options to appropriate areas along the 

river within the study area. 

Howell, J. (1987). Epiphytic Diatom Communities of South East Queensland, as 

Indicator Species of pH Levels (preliminary survey). B. App. Sc. Thesis, 

Queensland Institute of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Epiphytic diatom communities were investigated at three sites in southeast 

Queensland: (i) Eighteen Mile Swamp North Stradbroke Island, (ii) a small 

dam near Boyne Smelters Boyne Island, Gladstone and, (iii) Swanbank 

Lagoon near Ipswich. Samples of submerged macroph ytes were collected in 

the littoral regions. Physiochemical data at each sampling site was also taken. 

There was an indication of an association between some diatom communities 

and a particular macrophytic host. A correlation of diatom community 

composition with pH levels and water conductivity was established. 

Hortle, K. G. and R. G. Pearson (1990). The fauna of the Annan River, Far North 

Queensland, with reference to the impact of tin mining. I. Fishes. Australian 

Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 4 1 : 677-694. 

Abstract 

Fish were sampled at a range of sites in the Annan River system in tropical 

northern Queensland, using a variety of methods. In all, 25 species were 

recorded, including 14 principal fresh water forms. Species richness 

increased in a downstream direction and was directly related to stream size, 

the best measures of which were catchment area and stream length. When 

adjusted for stream size, the fish fauna of the Annan River system is relatively 

rich, compared with temperate Australian systems and streams on other 

continents. analyses of gut contents of the species found in freshwater 

showed that six species were carnivorous, four were omnivorous, three were

algivorous or detritivorous, and one was piscivorous. Mining were evident at 

three sites and were associated with a reduced number of species; those 

eliminated were apparently less tolerant of sediment. 

Hughes, J. M., M. N. Griffiths and D. A. Harrison (in press). The effects of an 

organophosphate insecticide on two enzyme loci in the shrimp Caridina sp. 

Biochemical and Svstematic Ecolog~ 

Abstract 

This paper examines the effect of acute exposure to the organophosphate 

pesticide, chlorpyrifos, on genetic structure of freshwater shrimps. Genotype 

frequencies at two enzyme loci, Pgi and Pgm, were examined. There were 

significant differences in genotype frequencies between tolerant and 

susceptible animals in some experiments and not others. This suggests that 

the differential tolerance occurs only at some concentrations or in some 

populations due to different linkage relationships between populations. The 

potential for using this method for monitoring pollution impacts is discussed. 

Hughes, J. M., D. A. Harrison and I. M. Arthur (1991). Genetic variation at the 

Pgi locus in the mosquito fish Gambusia afJinis (Poeciliidae) and a possible 

effect on susceptibility to an insecticide. Biological Journal of the Linnaean 

Society 44: 153-167. 

Abstract 

Although some studies have been completed on genetic variation in relation to 

tolerance to heavy metals, none have considered pesticide pollution. This 

study examines the relationship between genotypes at the glucose phasphate 

isomerase (Pgi) locus in Gamburia and susceptibility to the organophosphate 

insecticide chlorpyrifos. Laboratory toxicity tests show significant differences 

in genotype frequencies between susceptible and tolerant groups of fish from 

one site but not at others. A field survey examined genotype frequencies and 

levels of pesticide in the fish at seven sites. No chlorpyrifos was found at any 

of the sites, but a number of organochlorines were recorded. Significant 

correlations were found between three organochlorines @DT/DDD, DDE and 

lindane) and frequencies of particular genotypes. There were also significant 

differences in tolerance between populations and between size classes. These 

results are discussed in relation to previous work with heavy metals. 

Ian Drummond and Associates Pty Ltd (1985). Macalister River Improvement Trust: 

Master Plan. Macalister River Improvement Trust, Maffra. 

Abstract 

Reviews the operations of the Macalister River Improvement Trust and makes 

recommendations for its future. It identifies the seriously degraded state of 

some of the streams. The strategy plan recommends implementation of a 

strategy aiming to treat the most urgent stream related problems in a six year 

works programme. It describes major components of the works programme. 

A history of the Trust is given.

Jackson, B. (1991). The Darling: from floods to drought and poisoned water. 

Enrrineers Australia 63: 14- 16. 

Abstract 

Infestations of blue-green algae in the Darling River, New South Wales, are 

indicative of the environmental degradation of Australia's inland waterways. 

The contamination is attributed particularly to phosphorus from 

superphosphates and sewage. Engineering and environmental management 

options to deal with the problem are discussed. 

Johnson, I. G. (1990). An Assessment of Fish Ladders in South-eastern 

Queensland. Ph D Dissertation, University of Queensland, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

This thesis presents an assessment of fish ladders on major structures in 

rivers of south-eastem Queensland. It reviews the literature on fish ladder 

design and efficiency and then presents the results of field studies designed to 

assess the efficiency of particular types of ladder. Population and community 

data are summarised for each site. The study also assess the Denil fish 

ladder. 

Kailola, P. J. and B. E. Pierce (1988). A new freshwater catfish (Pisces: Ariidae) 

from northern Australia. Records of the Western Australian Museum 14: 73- 

89. 

Abstract 

Describes a new species of fork tailed catfish on the basis of 31 specimens 

collected in northern Australia between the Fitzroy River, Western Australia 

and the Mitchell River, Queensland. Comparison is made with other ariid 

species occurring in northern Australian waters, including the 

morphologically similar A rius leptaspis (B leeker) . 

Kelley, R. E. (198 1). Hydrogeochemistry of the Upper Isaac River: with Comments 

on the Origin and Tansport of Sediments and Solutes. M. Sc. Thesis, Griffith 

University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This thesis examines the chemical loadings in the river, both spatially and 

temporally. As sampling was carried out at wide intervals on an ephemeral 

stream, the available data in some areas of flow regime is meagre and the 

establishment of significant correlations is affected. It is estimated however, 

that the annual loss rate from the catchment of suspended material is 

approximately 12 tonneslsq km and dissolved material loss approximately 7.8 

tonnes/sq km. Although there was sufficient data to produce a broad 

characterization of the chemical loadings of the river, the paucity of flowing 

water data at specific sites precluded the adequate correlation with land

features. The study did show a reduction in solute concentration with 

increasing distance downstream. 

Kent, D. J. (1986). Salinity in the South Burnett. In: Landsca~e. Soil and Water 

Salinitv. Proceedings of the Darling Downs Regional Worksho~. 

Toowoomba, March 1986. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

After giving an historical introduction, describes the extent of salting effected 

areas in the South Bumett. States that development in the form of clearing 

and cultivation have been the main factors contributing to the increased 

movement of water and salts through the deeply weathered landscapes 

concerned. Mentions the problem potential, the increasing number of salinity 

related inquiries being received by Departmental officers. Relates reclamation 

schemes attempted, which have used either drainage or revegetation 

techniques. The use of gypsum on smaller wet spots where soil structure has 

declined is noted. Summarizes future requirements, such as the need for 

practical reclamation guidelines and systematic data recording. 

Kerby, B. (1991). Aspects of Invertebrate Drift in a South-East Queensland Stream. 

B. Sc. Honours Thesis, Division of Environmental Sciences, Griffith 

University, Brisban, Queensland. 93 pp. 

Abstract 

This report has investigated several aspects of invertebrate drift in south-east 

Queensland streams. The pattern of drift was documented for two streams in 

the Conondale Ranges. Hourly drift sampling in these streams revealed low 

drift rates and no distinct die1 patterns. The drift was dominated by the taxa 

Simuliidae (Diptera), Chironomidae (Diptera), and to a lesser extent 

Tasmanocoenis (Caenidae: Ephemeroptera), Baetis (Baetidae: 

Ephemeroptera) and Cheumatopsyc he (H ydrops ychidae: Trichop tera). The 

phenomenon of behavioural drift was investigated with the aim of determining 

why some individuals of particular taxa drift while other individuals (of the 

same taxa) remain in the substratum. To determine this three aspects were 

investigated, 1) state of hunger, 2) injury and 3) possible genetic differences 

between those individuals drifting and those remaining in the substratum. 

Kevan, S. D. and R. G. Pearson (in press). Toxicity of Diquat pulse exposure to the 

tropical fresh water shrimp Caridina nilotica (A tyidae). Bulletin Environmental 

Contamination and Toxicoloev. 

Abstract 

A two hour pulse exposure to diquat concentrations >= 213.4 mg L-l was 

acutely toxic to the tropical freshwater shrimp Caridina nilotica. Although the 

two hour PE-LC50 concentration may be greater than recommended 

concentrations (80 mg diquat11000 m2 plants, excluding wetting agent, for 

single field applications (QRLPB 1989), it is conceivable that higher

concentrations of diquat could occur in the field where saturation of diquat to 

densely infested areas of plants is necessary. 

Kneipp, I. J. (1979). The Ecology of Macrobrachium species (Decapoda, 

Palaemonidae) in a Coastal Stream in North Queensland. Ph.D. Thesis, 

James Cook University, Townsville, Queen sland. 267 pp. 

Abstract 

Five species of Macrobrachium occur in the study area, Bluewater Creek, 

27km northwest of Townsville. They are M. latidacrylus (Thallwitz, 1891), 

M. tolmerum (Riek, 195 I), M. australiense (Holthuis, 1950), M. novaehollandiae 

(de Man, 1908) and M. species A, probably an undescribed 

species. A multivariate morphometric study gave support to the separation of 

M. sp. A and M. tolmerum which are morphologically very similar. Field 

studies were undertaken in order to infer causal relationships between 

environmental factors and distribution patterns. These were complemented by 

laboratory studies of responses to selected environmental factors. It is 

concluded that distribution patterns of Macrobrachium species in the study 

area are largely determined by temperature, salinity, substrate and current 

whose effects are interconnected with competition between species and 

adaptation of the life cycle to fresh water. 

Kowarsky, J. (1980). Fish passage through the fishway at the Fitzroy River 

barrage, Rockhampton: Part B: Effects of environmental variation on the 

upstream movement of fish through the fishway. QDPI, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

This part of the two-part report seeks to determine the effects of various 

environmental factors on the upstream passage of fish through the Fitzroy 

River barrage fishway. A sampling programme was initiated. The study 

suggests the level of the headwater exerted an important influence on the sizes 

of fish negotiating the fishway. Smaller fish were excluded at relatively high 

headwater levels and some larger fish did not use it at relatively low levels. 

There is some evidence the tailwater level may have influenced the rate of 

passage through the fishway. The presence and position of open barrage 

gates did not appear to affect the number of fish using the fishway. 

Leadbetter, B. W. (1978). A Basis for Evaluating Future Land Use within the 

Noosa River Catchment. M.Sc. Thesis, Griffith University, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

The natural environment and current and possible future land use patterns of 

the Noosa River catchment are examined. The thesis presents a methodology 

for evaluating future land use change involving initial qualitative assessment 

of possible impacts using conceptualized models. The technique appears 

useful in indicating the magnitude of possible impacts with limited data and in

isolating the factors or processes effecting changes. The method could be 

used to limit undesirable changes to acceptable levels. 

Lever, M. L. (1979). Strategies and Standards for the Protection of Australian 

Waters. M.Sc. Thesis, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

A national, coordinated programme to combat water pollution is needed. 

Types of pollution and methods to control them are discussed and a 

management decision making process is suggested. A case study showed 

changing social values in favor of better water quality in an urban creek. A 

second case study attempted to quantify heavy metal inputs into a Brisbane 

River estuary and found pollutants which could accumulate in shellfish to 

levels which may adversely affect consumers' health. 

Lewis, J. W. (1987). The Red Dome project. Environmental Workshop Papers, 

Australian Minin~ Indusav Council. Dickson. pp. 24-36. 

Abstract 

Environmental studies and the underlying philosophy used in the approach to 

environmental controls are discussed in relation to the Red Dome gold mining 

project Queensland . Major areas of study include surface water quality 

monitoring and aquatic fauna surveys, as well as groundwater investigations 

to determine mine water supplies and a mine dewatering scheme. 

Liesch, P. W. and G. L. Jocumsen (1982). A survey of the use and management of 

water resources from the Condamine-Balonne Rivers systems. School of 

Business Studies, Darling Downs Institute of Advanced Education, 

Toowoomba. 

Abstract 

The survey of water users from the Condamine-Balonne Rivers system is a 

submission to the Department of National Development and Energy for 

inclusion of information in the study of National Water Resources 

Perspectives to the year 2000. The Condamine-Balonne Water Committee 

surveyed Local Authority Councils and water user associations. The survey is 

in four sections which solicited responses in domesticlurban water use, river 

management, total valley development and legislation. 

Macdonald Wagner Pty Ltd (1986). Tweed River dredging: environmental impact 

statement. Macdonald Wagner Pty Ltd, Tweed Heads, New South Wales. 

Abstract 

This environmental impact statement has been prepared to support a 

development application to Tweed Shire Council and other authorities for the 

dredging of river sand from the Tweed River NSW between Barneys Point 

Bridge and Banora Point and for the stockpiling of the dredged sand on an

adjacent privately owned property. It is proposed that sand be dredged from 

the river utilizing a modern suction dredge with a diesel driven sand pump and 

the excavated material be pumped via a floating submerged pumpline to the 

stockpile area. Return water from the stockpile would be contained by use of 

bund walls and, after a suitable settlement period, would be returned to the 

Tweed River via Womin Lake. Dredging will be carried out to meet Public 

Works Department Dredge Management Plan conditions, and more than 30m 

away from the mangrove stand. Dredging of this section of the Tweed River 

will enhance water circulation and improve navigation. 

McIvor, C. C. (1976). The effect of organic and nument enrichment on the benthic 

macroinvertebrate community of Mogill Creek, Queensland. Water 3 : 1 6-2 1. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the physical environment, water quality, algae and 

benthic invertebrate communities of Mogill Creek, Brisbane, and the causal 

factors of biological change due to inputs of nutrients and sewage wastes. 

Biological monitoring methods are discussed. 

McMahon, B. J. (1984). Alimentary Structure and its Adaptive Diversity in a 

Community of Australian Freshwater Teleosts. M. Sc. Thesis, University of 

Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Members of the Teleostei exhibit remarkable variability in dental apparatus, 

mouth form and gut morphology, permitting successful utilization of aquatic 

and terrestrial food resources. This thesis describes alimentary structure and 

its adaptive diversity in the fish community of the Brisbane River. It 

interprets the adaptive significance of the dental apparatus and alimentary 

morpho-histology of each species by reference to the general nature of its 

food. The Brisbane River fish community exhibits a number of features 

generally possessed by freshwater fish communities. These include the 

presence of several stenophages and divergent euryphages, considerable 

sharing of food resources, high reliance on insect material and an appreciable 

piscivorous component. 

Mackey, A. P. (1991). Aspects of the limnology of Yeppen Yeppen Lagoon, central 

Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine and Fresh water Research 42: 309- 

325. 

Abstract 

Aspects of the morphometry and physical and chemical limnology of Yeppen 

Yeppen Lagoon, in tropical Australia, have been investigated. The lagoon is a 

channel billabong lying in the old bed of the Fitzroy River. It has a relatively 

small, shallow and elongated basin. Seasonal variations in water temperature, 

light regime, oxygen concentration, pH and conductivity suggests that the 

lagoon exhibits a warm monomictic pattern of thermal stratification rather than 

a continuous warm polymictic one. The annual heat budget was 3294 

calories 

Maximum work of the wind was 238.8 g-cm ~ m-~, and

maximum stability was 34.5 g-cm ~ m-~. Despite the apparently low stability 

of stratification, the lagoon remained thermally stratified for much of the year. 

analysis of wind-distributed heat suggested that slow mixing was taking place 

even during periods of relatively high stability, although this mixing was 

insufficient to reoxygenate the hypolimnion, which remained anoxic for much 

of the year. Yeppen Yeppen Lagoon is likely to prove eutrophic, and it is 

suggested that primary productivity will be high because a large volume of the 

lagoon's water is well lit and a large sediment surface area is in contact with 

the epilimnion. Notes on the biota of Yeppen Yeppen Lagoon are also given. 

Mallett, C. W. (1963). The Upper Permian flora from Burngrove Creek and 

Adjacent Areas. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, University of Queensland, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 

Absmct 

The flora from localities in the Upper Permian of Central Queensland is 

described. The flora is dominated by Glossopteris, with Phyllotheca and 

Cladophlebis playing minor parts. Gangamopteris is notable for its absence. 

Various floral environments are recognized by the plant characteristics and 

mode of preservation, the distinction between forest and swamp flora being 

clearly marked. The classification of Glossopteridae is such that stratigraphic 

correlation is difficult, but there do seem to be several endemic Australian 

species of Glossopteris. One new species is described and a new 

fructification of Glossopteris is described but not named. 

Midgley, S. H. (1983). The Meandu Creek catchment and a number of small water 

storages in the immediate vicinity of the Tarong Power Station in the Nanango 

area, Queensland. An unpublished report to the Queensland Electricity 

Generating Board, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This report provides information on the freshwater fish fauna of the Meandu 

Creek catchment and a number of small storages near the Tarong Power 

Station, Nanango, Queensland. A list of fish species and of large Crustacea 

is provided with indications of relative abundance and some limited water 

quality data. 

Milligan, C. J. (1986). An Evaluation of some Stream Characteristics and their 

Application to Water Quality Assessment in Sou th-eastern Queensland. M. 

Phil. Thesis, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Nine sites within five catchments were chosen for a sampling programme 

covering a 19 month period. The catchments chosen supported a variety of 

land use categories. Physico-chemical and biological attributes were sampled 

concurrently over a range of seasonal conditions. Water flow strongly 

influenced water chemistry, as several significant correlations were 

established between rainfall and the physico-chemical parameters of 

temperature, conductivity, BOD and total phosphorus. The biological data set

contained information on the type of fauna, the number of individuals of each 

type and the number of taxa in each sample. Several methods of analysis 

were reviewed in order to evaluate the potential relationships between the 

physicochernical and biological content of samples. The wide variability in 

the data collected from all catchments indicated that water characteristics were 

in dynamic equilibria that appeared little affected by land use. 

Milton, D. A. and A. H. Arthington (1983a). Reproduction and growth of 

Craterocephalur marjoriae and C. stercusmuscarum (Pisces: Atherinidae) in 

south-east Queensland, Australia. Freshwater Biology 13: 589-597. 

Abstract 

The reproductive cycle and growth of Craterocephalus marjoriae and 

Craterocephalus stercurmurcarum (Atherinidae) were studied in Brisbane, 

south-eastem Queensland, over a 17-month period (1981-82). Both species 

had a 5-month breeding season in spring and summer, with a breeding peak 

in spring (September-October). Multiple spawning occurred but life time 

fecundity was not determined. Gonosomatic index values and mean fecundity 

per female were higher in Craterocephalus marjoriae than in C. 

stercusmuscarum. Fecundity increased with body length in both species 

according to the relationship, ~ =a~b. Growth rates were similar and growth 

was adequately described by the von Bertalanffy equation. Both species grew 

rapidly during the first year and reached maturity the following season. 

Reproductive strategies are considered in relation to seasonal flooding in the 

streams inhabited. 

Milton, D. A. and A. H. Arthington (1983b). Reproductive biology of Gambusia 

affinis Baird and Girard, Xiphophorus helleri (Gunther) and X. maculatus 

(Heckel) (Pisces: Poeciliidae) in south-eastern Queensland. Journal of Fish 

23: 23-41. 

Abstract 

The reproductive biology of three introduced Poeciliidae, Gambusia affinis 

holbrooki Baird and Girard. Xiphophorus helleri (Gunther) and X. maculatus 

(Heckel) was studied over a 14 month period in Brisbane. Queensland. 

Photoperiod and water temperature determined the length of the breeding 

season in G. affinis which produced up to nine broods between August and 

March with the peak of reproductive activity in October. Fecundity was 

linearly related to body weight in G. affinis (mean fecundity = 22.78 f 

2 range = 3-108 offspring per brood). X. helleri bred from August to May 

producing eight to nine broods with peak reproductive activity from October 

to December. Fecundity was curvilinearly related to body weight (mean 

fecundity = 60.15 f 3.8, range = 7-183 offspring per broods during the study 

period. Fecundity was linearly related to standard length (S.L.) (mean 

fecundity = 27.27 k 2.4 range = 3-92 offspring per brood). Although the 

reproductive strategy of the three species differs all have the capacity to build 

up large populations in south-eastern Queensland. Their present distributions 

and relative abundance are discussed.

Milton, D. A. and A. H. Arthington (1984). Reproductive strategy and growth of 

the Crimson-spotted Rainbow Fish, Melanotaenia splendida fluviatilis 

(Castelnau) (Pisces: Melanotaeniidae), in south-eastern Queensland. 

Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 35: 75-83. 

I 

Abstract 

M. s. fluviatilis has a well-defined annual reproductive cycle in south-eastem 

Queensland. Spawning is confined to October, November and December, 

with the peak in October, before the onset of summer floods and 

unpredictable water levels in coastal streams. Juvenile fish grow rapidly and 

reach maturity in the year following hatching. Growth in both sexes 

conforms to the von Bertalanffy model, but males grow faster and to larger 

sizes than females. Differences in the reproductive strategy of M. s. fl uviatilis 

in southern Queensland and that of the more northern subspecies, M. s. 

splendida, may be related to the relative predictability of flooding, and hence 

to the probability of egg and juvenile survival, in the two areas. M. s. 

fluviatilis has low fecundity but the species is, nevertheless, abundant in 

suitable environments. 

Milton, D. A. and A. H. Arthington (1985). Reproductive strategy and growth of the 

Australian Smelt, Retropinna semoni (Weber) (Pisces: Retropinnidae), and 

the Olive Perchlet, Ambassis nigrippinus (De Vis) (Pisces: Ambassidae), in 

Brisbane, south-east Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine and 

Freshwater Research 36: 329-34 1. 

Abstract 

The reproductive biology and growth of R. semoni and A. nigripinnis were 

studied in Brisbane, south-eastem Queensland, over a 20-month period 

(1981-1982). R. semoni began to breed in winter at water temperatures 

exceeding 15OC, reflecting its salmoniform affinities and temperate 

distribution. A. nigripinnis, a subtropical species of Indo-Pacific origin, 

required a period of rising temperature before breeding began in spring at 

22OC. Both species concentrated their breeding activity into the months that 

precede summer storms and high, variable stream discharges, which can 

generate fluctuating water levels, destruction of weedbeds and instability of 

the stream substrate. Pre-flood spawning also occurs in three other smallbodied 

native species in the region, and appears to have adaptive value in the 

seasonally unstable environments and coastal streams. Dispersal of juvenile 

fish may be facilitated by rising water levels during summer months 

following spawning. R. semoni grew faster and to larger sizes than A. 

nigripinnis and growth of both species was adequately described by the von 

Bertalanffy equation. Male and female R. semoni and male a. nigripinnis, 

which tends to forage amongst littoral vegetation and in mid-water. 

Differences in the sizes of eggs and larvae of the two species are also 

consistent with the probability that they experience different relative exposure 

to predation. These and other attributes, coupled with pre-flood spawning, 

enable both species to achieve large populations in suitable habitats within 

coastal streams, in spite of their relatively low fecundities.

Nolan, G. A. (1985). Levees in the North Queensland flood plain environment. 

Proceedings of Planning and Management of Water for Agriculture in the 

Tro~ics: Afro-Asian Regional Conference. International Commission on 

Irrigation and Drainage, Townsville. pp. 4 17-43 1. 

Calamitous floods in the lower reaches of a number of North Queensland 

rivers have caused considerable damage to riparian lands and, in some cases, 

loss of life. In recent years to mitigate the effects of these floods, which have 

frequently ruptured and outflowed the natural levee banks causing gross 

deposition of sediments, both structural and nonstructural solutions have been 

adopted in regard to the management of the floodplain. This paper 

summarizes and reviews the various types of structural levees that have been 

built in the agricultural, urban, tidal and nontidal environment and draws a 

number of conclusions regarding the need for greater attention to the 

implementation of nonstructural controls by way of legislation and town 

planning. 

Nolen, J. A. (1988). Aspects of the Life History and Trophic Ecology of 

A nisocentropus kirramus (Trichop tera: Cal amoceratidae) in a Tropical 

Rainforest Stream. B. Sc. (Hans)-Thesis, James Cook University, 

Townsville, Queensland. pp.95. 

Abstract 

An ecological study was conducted on the trichopteran Anisocentropus 

kirromus occuring in a small (third order) upland rainforest stream north 

Queensland. A. kirromur larvae are common in Birthday Creek where they 

are involved in the initial breakdown of leaf litter within the stream. Through 

their feeding activities, nutrients and fine organic matter are made available to 

the rest of the stream community. From an analysis of larval head widths, A. 

kirrm was found to have five instars. Egg masses were located in the field 

and reared in the laboratory to the first instar stage. General observations 

were made of pupating larvae both in the laboratory and in the field. The life 

cycle of A. kirramus from egg to adult is described. The distinctive timing 

and nature of litter fall together with annual wet seasons are important factors 

of this tropical environment. The influences of these factors on the life 

history and tropic ecology of A. kirramus are discussed. 

Nolen, J. A. and R. G. Pearson (1992a). Life history studies of Anisocentropus 

kirramus Neboiss (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) in a tropical Australian 

rainforest stream. Aquatic Insects (in press). 

Abstract 

Eggs and larvae of Anisocentropus kirramus were collected from leaf packs in 

riffles and pools in a small upland rainforest stream in tropical Queensland. 

Adults were collected in floating emergence traps. Egg masses contained 80- 

100 eggs. There were five larval instars and complete development appeared 

to take several months. Instars 11-V were present in all nine months sampled; 

instar I was present in all but one month. Adults emerged in all ten months

sampled, but there was clear seasonality with peak emergence in the summer. 

The sex ratio of adults was 1 : 1. 

Nolen, J. A. and R. G. Pearson (1992b). Factors affecting litter processing by 

Anisocentropus kirramus Neboiss (Trichoptera: Calamoceratidae) from an 

Australian tropical rainforest stream. Aauatic Insects (in press). 

Abstract 

Larvae of the caddisfly Anisocentropus kirramus are common leaf shredders 

in rainforest streams in tropical Queensland. Laboratory experiments were 

undertaken to examine the effects of: (a) different leaf species and conditions, 

(b) leaf preferences, (c) temperature and (d) larval stage on litter processing. 

Leaf species, age and condition each had a significant effect on the amount of 

leaf material processed. For most species, conditioned leaves were processed 

fastest but for one species unconditioned leaves were more rapidly processed. 

Senescent leaves were processed more rapidly than green leaves in three 

species but not in the other two. Processing occurred at all temperatures (10, 

18 and 25 OC), with processing rate increasing with temperature. 

Outridge, P. M., G. J. Miller, R. J. Neller, J. H. Powell and E. C. Stock (1984). 

Water quality and benthic biota of Blackwater Creek, Central Queensland. 

23rd Australian Societv for Limnology Congress. Australian Society for 

Lirnnology , Caulfield East, Victoria. 

Abstract 

A 12 month survey of Blackwater Creek Queensland indicated that the flow 

regime and town sewage discharge caused extreme temporal and spatial 

variations in water quality, affecting, in particular, dissolved oxygen, 

macronutrients, faecal coliforms, and algal biomass. Thirty-eight taxa of 

benthic invertebrates were identified, mainly chironomids and the oligochaete, 

Branchiura sowerbyi. Benthic community characteristics were affected by 

conductivity, dissolved oxygen, Mg, Fe, and total P in water, and by Cu, Ni, 

B, Mn, Mo, and total P in sediments. Wet season flooding reduced 

community parameters, but recovery occurred in less than four months. 

Orr, T. M. and R. G. Millward (1984). Reproduction and development of 

Neosilurus ater (Perugia) and Neosilurus hyrlii Steindachner (Teleostei: 

Plotosidae) in a tropical Queensland stream Australian Journal of Marine and 


Abstract 

The reproduction and development of two plotosid catfishes, N. ater and N. 

hyrtlii, were investigated in a seasonal tributary of the Ross River, northern 

Queensland. The fishes were observed to move upstream to spawn during 

monsoonal flooding. Their mating behaviour, embryology and larval 

development are described. The adaptive significance of a flood-spawning 

strategy is discussed in relation to food availability, predation, and aeration in 

seasonal tropical streams.

Pearce, B. (1990). Upper Condamine River area and Dalrymple Creek: progress 

report on assessment of vegetation changes utilizing remote sensing 

techniques. Water Resources Commission, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

A review of the current water quality monitoring network in the upper 

Condarnine River Queensland catchment revealed that significant changes in 

water quality have occurred in the southeastern headwaters, and 

simultaneously significant rises in water levels in the major alluvial 

groundwater aquifers have occurred which correspond with simultaneous 

deterioration in groundwater quality. It was suspected that major changes in 

the vegetation cover over the past decade or so may have caused these 

changes in water quality and groundwater levels. This report outlines the 

progress being made in assessing these changes utilizing remote sensing 

techniques. 

Pearson, R.G. (1991). Ecology of fresh waters in the Queensland wet tropics: 

Current knowledge and research needs for monitoring and management. In: 

Tropical Rainforest Research in Australia. (Eds M. Goudberg, M. Bone11 and 

D. Benzaken). Institute for Topical Rainforest Studies. James Cook 

University, Townsville, Queensland, pp. 87-94. 

Abstract 

The study of freshwater ecology in the tropics is still in its infancy, although 

work has been occurring for some time in both rainforest freshwater streams 

and standing water bodies. Streams in the northern tropics show a seasonal 

hydrograph but nevertheless contain a more diverse invertebrate fauna than 

found elsewhere. Much of the invertebrate fauna depend on the detritus food 

web; current studies focus on the differential rates of detritus input and 

decomposition and use by different organisms. While most research to date 

has centred on studies of invertebrates, research into the fish and frog fauna 

of rainforest streams has shed new light on the behaviour, diversity and 

population dynamics of freshwater vertebrates. 

Pearson, R.G. (1991). Ecology of the Burdekin River. Report to the Land and 

Water Resources Research and Development Corporation, Canberra, ACI: 

Abstract 

A two year study of the habitats and biota of the middle Burdekin River 

Queensland is described. The river is a large, seasonal, tropical river 

draining a catchment with varied vegetation, severe land degradation and a 

new dam along its course. Aquatic macrophytes were virtually absent and no 

plankton, apart from shrimp larvae was recorded. Multivariate analyses of 

invertebrate samples produced site groups characterized by sediment size, 

current velocity, depth and the amount of particulate in organic matter. Results 

were supported by Anovas performed on groups derived from cluster analysis 

and by multiple regression analysis of species against environmental 

variables. Differences between sites up and downstream of the Burdekin 

Falls reflected disturbances due to minor flooding. Most of the common taxa

demonstrated definite seasonal trends in abundance while some taxa were of 

very patchy distribution both spatially and temporally. The project is 

considered to have provided a necessary baseline for future studies. 

Pearson, R. G., L. J. Benson and R. E. W. Smith (1986). Diversity and abundance 

of the fauna in Yuccabine Creek, a tropical rain forest stream. In: Lirnnolopy 

in Australia. (Eds P. De Deckker and W. D. Williams). CSIRO, Melbourne 

and Dr W. Junk, Dordrecht. pp. 329-342. 

Abstract 

This paper introduces a long term study of Yuccabine Creek, an upland 

rainforest stream situated in tropical Queensland. The stream is rocky and 

comprises alternating riffles and pools. It is acidic with low conductivity and 

seasonally variable temperature and discharge reflecting the regional climate 

of hot wet summers and warm drier winters. In comparison with streams 

elsewhere, the invertebrate fauna is diverse, currently 267 species have been 

recognized from one 50m stretch of riffle. From a year's regular sampling, 

21 1 invertebrate species were collected, although 56 of these occurred only 

once. Only two species of fish occur. Data on diversity, abundance and 

variability of samples are summarized for a full year, but patterns of change 

are not considered here. The mean number of taxa collected per month was 

105 and the mean monthly abundance per square metre was 2768 animals. 

Variability of samples was usually high, indicating patchy distributions of all 

but the commonest species. Preliminary analysis shows that the fauna is 

dominated numerically and in number of species by detritivorous collectors, 

with smaller numbers of predators, grazers-scrapers, filterers and shredders. 

Yuccabine Creek does not have the constancy of conditions associated with 

the wet equatorial tropics, however, it probably does represent a common 

type of system to be found in the geographically widespread wet but seasonal 

vopics and it reflects the highly seasonal pattern generally reported for 

Australian streams. The diversity and organization of the community in 

Yuccabine Creek are discussed in the light of current ecological ideas. 

Seasonality of the stream is a major factor in determining the composition of 

its fauna. 

Pearson, R. G. and L. K. Penridge (1987). The effects of pollution by organic 

sugar mill effluent on the macroinvertebrates of a stream in tropical 

Queensland, Australia. Journal of Environmental Management 24: 205-215. 

Abstract 

Effects of discharge of organic effluent from a sugar mill were examined for 

the lower reaches of Babinda Creek and Russell River Queensland . 

Increased pollution led to decreased diversity of macroinvertebrate fauna. 

With heavy pollution, Oligochaeta and one species of Chironomidae 

dominated the fauna. Results were produced using techniques that could be 

readily used by non-specialist mill staff to monitor stream quality. 

Pearson, R. G. and L. K. Penridge (1979). An Ecological Survey of Selected 

, 

Rivers in Queensland. James Cook University of North Queensland, 

Townsville. 234 pp.

Abstract 

The Northern Rivers Survey (NRS) was instituted in order to provide 

information to the sugar industry regarding the effects of sugar mill effluents 

on streams. The Introduction (Section 1) discusses the background to the 

work, the rationale of the approach taken, and the main aims of the NRS. 

The approach was to use biological parameters as indicators of water quality, 

and to correlate these with the physico-chemical effects of effluents. In 

Section 2, the general surveys of the selected streams and rivers are 

described. Several different sampling methods were used which were simple 

but effective. The results clearly showed the relationship that types of 

treatment and dilution of effluents bear to stream quality. Further results 

demonstrated the capability of the fauna to recolonize previously disturbed 

areas. It was shown that the changes that take place with introduction of the 

mill effluent were very similar to those reported from elsewhere in the world 

(see Hynes, 1960). Moreover the composition of the animal communities 

changed with varying levels of pollution. In general a level of about 6.0 - 6.5 

ppm DO was found to be the minimum required to support a healthy biota. 

Pearson, R. G. and R. K. Tobin (1989). Litter consumption by invertebrates from 

an Australian tropical rainforest stream. Archive Hvdrobiology 116: 71-80. 

Abstract 

Larvae of the caddisflies Anisocentropus sp. (Calamoceratidae) and 

Triplectides sp. (Leptoceridae), and the mayfly A talo nella sp. 

(Leptophlebiidae), collected from Yuccabine Creek, an upland tropical 

rainforest stream, were fed soaked green leaves of Ardisia brevipedata 

(Myrsinaceae) and Rhodomyrtus trineura (Mytraceae) in the laboratory. The 

larvae of both caddis species caused considerable breakdown of leaf discs and 

production of FPOM. The proportions of total processing due to the caddis 

larvae ranged from 34.8% (A nisocentropus sp. fed Ardisia brevipedata 

leaves) to 82.5% (Anisocentropus sp. fed Rhodomyrtus trineura leaves). 

Atalonella sp. did not feed on the fresh leaf material. Field and laboratory 

decomposition rates reflected differences in initial nutrient content of the 

leaves as well as changes in nutrient levels associated with the decomposition 

process. In the laboratory R hodomyrtus trineura leaves (2.95%N) were 

prefened to Ardisia brevipedata leaves (1.45%N) which, in this field, were 

preferred to Rhodumnia sessilij7ora (Myrtaceae) leaves (1.08%). 

Pearson, R. G., R. K. Tobin, R. E. W. Smith and L. J. Benson (1989). Standing 

crop and processing of rainforest litter in a tropical Australian stream 

Archives Hvdrobiolo~v 115: 481-498. 

Abstract 

Standing crop of litter in Yuccabine Creek, an Australian upland rainforest 

stream, varied from 2.4 2 0.5 to 11.5 f 2.7g dry weight per 1/16m2, was 

greatest in the late dry season (October, early summer), and differed 

substantially between years, because of variations in retention rate rather than 

in litterfall. Predominant macroinvertebrates in natural litter packs (82% by 

numbers) were caddis larvae (Trichoptera: Leptoceridae and Calamoceratidae) 

which appeared to be the main shredders of leaf litter. Rates of litter

processing in the stream were estimated using artificial litter packs of single or 

mixed species and of fresh or aged leaves. Macroinvertebrates accounted for 

up to 77% of processing after 64 days (aged leaves), but there was great 

variation between experiments according to differences in leaf species, pool or 

riffle environments, and time of year. The most rapid processing resulted in a 

processing coefficient (-k) value of 0.017, and 50% decay value (T50) of 32 

d. The slowest processing (estimated (TSO > 400 d) was for fresh Rhodamnia 

sessiliflora leaves. There was no apparent relationship between temperature 

and processing rate in the field, but this result may have been due to a great 

abundance of litter in summer. The observed variation in the results was 

caused largely by local factors, such as leaf species; presence, abundance and 

distribution of shredders; and the temporal changes in standing crop of litter 

and abundance of shredders. 

Pettigrove, V. (1989). Larval mouthpart deformities in Procladie paludicola S kuse 

(Diptera: Chironomidae) from the Murray and Darling Rivers, Australia. 

Hydrobioloeia 179: 1 1 1- 1 17. 

Abstract 

In consequence of studies indicating a link between structural deformities in 

chironomid larvae and high levels of particular pollutants, the incidence of 

deformities in Procladius paludicola was examined in the MurrayDarling 

system. As part of a long term biological monitoring programme, artificial 

substrate samples from seven riverine sites were collected in 1985-86, five on 

the Mumy River and one each on the Darling and Mummbidgee Rivers. A 

high incidence of ligula (mouthpart) deformities was found: of 522 larvae 

examined, 19 deformities were detected, one in the second instar, three in the 

third instar and 15 in the final instar. This is the first report of deformities in 

Australian Freshwater insects, and is discussed in relation to known toxic 

pollutants within the catchment. 

Pfund, D. P. (1987). A Population Study in the Life Cycle of M. macleayi in the 

Noosa River System. B. App. Sc. Thesis, Queensland Institute of 

Technology, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This report studies a four month period part of the life cycle of juvenile 

Metapenaeus macleayi within the Noosa River Queensland system. This 

species was the dominant species at Lake Cootharaba when using a daylight 

trawling method. During the sampling months from July to early October it 

was found post-larva occurred over this period, though decreased with time. 

This indicated a trend of overwintering, as there was only a relatively small 

growth rate of the juvenile population in this time. The density of the 

juveniles increased with time. This was found to be the result of the prawns 

altering the phase of their life cycle from post-larva to juveniles. The fishing 

season for these prawns began a month early at Lake Cootharaba suggesting 

there was sufficient number of the larger sized juveniles for fishing to be 

commercially viable.

Poplawski, W. A. and M. R. Gourlay (1987). Wash load estimation for rivers in 

North Queensland. 3rd Conference on Hvdraulics in Civil En gineerin g. 

Melbourne. pp. 169-170. 

Abstract 

A method based on the Upper Mississippi River Basin Commission formula 

is proposed for estimating the wash loads in three north Queensland 

catchment areas: the Burdekin River, Flinders River, Mulgrave and Russell 

Rivers. This method lumps in one regional factor the influence of rainfall, 

catchment characteristics and land use. As wash load is a significant 

component of total sediment transport, it is proposed that a study be 

undertaken to map values of the regional factor and the influence of climate, 

geology and land use be further investigated. It is recommended that regional 

factor values k = 95 to 140 be adopted for catchments between latitudes 17 

deg S and 21 deg S until more reliable data becomes available. 

Poplawski, W. A. (1989). Report on Basin 1362: Barker-Barambah catchment 

statistical analysis of water quality data collected by the Water Resources 

Commission. Volume 1 : Main Report. Water Resources Commission, 

Brisbane. 9 pp. 

Abstract 

This report examines trends in 20 years of water quality records for several 

gauging stations in the Barker-Barambah catchment, including conductivity, 

dissolved ions, sodium, chloride and sodium absorption ratio (SAR). 

Recommendations on further monitoring and statistical analyses of water 

quality data are presented. 

Poplawski, W. A., J. Piorewicz and M. R. Gourlay (1989). Sediment transport in 

an inland river in North Queensland. Hvdrobiologia 17611 77: 77-92. 

Abstract 

A sediment transport study was undertaken at Glendower QLD, a possible 

damsite on the Flinders River, to assess potential sediment in filling of a 

future storage basin. Suspended sediment samples were collected from three 

sites on the river during a flood in January 1982. Particulate concentrations 

and grain size distributions were determined and the latter were compared 

with bed material size distibutions. Of methods assessed for predicting bed 

material transport, those treating bed load and suspended load independently 

were selected and field data were used to determine the wash load and the 

suspended bed material load. The bed load was then computed in order to 

determine the total sediment load. 

Pringle, A. W. (1991). Fluvial sediment supply to the north-east Queensland coast, 

Australia. Australian Geographic Studies 29: 1 14- 138.

Abstract 

River discharge and sediment yield are examined in the catchments of the 

Barron, Mulgrave-Russell and Burdekin Rivers Queensland. Their initial 

erosive impact and constructional effect are examined along the Burdekin and 

Barron delta coasts. The effects of human interference are noted. 

Pusey, B. J., and A. H. Arthington (1991). Limitations to the valid applicability of 

the Instream Flow Incremental Methodology (IFIM) for determining in-stream 

flow requirements in highly variable Australian lotic environments. 

Internationale Vereinieun P fur Theoretische und An gewandte Limnoloeie 24: . 

2559, 

Abstract 

The Instream Flow Incremental Methodology (IFIM) was used to assess 

changes to fish habitat availability in Barambah Creek, Murgon, Queensland 

following construction of the Bjelke-Petersen Dam. The generated 

relationships between discharge and habitat availability were used to assess 

the potential changes to fish species diversity and the abundance of rare 

species, species included in the amateur angling industry and of 

macroinvertebrates. Two major responses of habitat availability to discharge 

were revealed by the simulation process. The first was a linear or curvilinear 

response of increasing habitat with increasing discharge, demonstrated for the 

majority of small-bodied fishes. The second response, or more properly, 

lack of response was shown by larger bodied fish including rare species and 

important angling species. The m6ority of these species could bk properly 

considered pool dwellers. The Bjelke-Petersen Dam is expected to reduce 

discharge in Barambah Creek by 50 %. This should result in a decrease in 

habitat availability of approximately 50 % for the species considered. The 

discharge of rivers of South-east Queensland shows marked seasonal and 

annual variability and therefore so should habitat availability. In determining 

the impact of the Bjelke-Petersen Dam it is necessary to know the importance 

of habitat to the regulation of the fish communities of such rivers. We believe 

that the variability of the flow regime and the incidence of flooding are more 

important structuring agents and that fish communities rarely reach densities 

high enough to generate conditions where habitat is a limiting resource. 

Operating conditions of the dam have a greater potential for impact on the fish 

fauna than a simple reduction in discharge. Release of water for downstream 

imgation is scheduled to occur in periods of predictably low flows at a time 

when many species reproduce. 

Quinn, N. J. (1978). Numerical Analyses of the Fish Assemblages of Serpentine 

Creek. M. Sc. Thesis, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Ten sites were sampled for fish assemblages in a small mangrove-lined creek 

34 times between Nov 1975-Apr 1977. Data on salinity and water 

temperature were obtained on each occasion. Representative sediment 

samples for wet and dry seasons were collected and rainfall data obtained 

from the Bureau of Meteorology. These abiotic data showed marked 

temporal variation. Fourier analysis was performed on rainfall, salinity,

water temperature. and on the differences between hydrological data taken in 

Moreton Bay and Serpentine Creek. Significant annual cycles were revealed. 

Forty-five taxa were recorded, with some statistically significant differences 

between day and night catches. Recordings of species in groups were 

subjected to several methods of statistical analysis. Three site groups were 

identified. A coefficient of dispersion was used to determine the aggregation 

of 22 abundant species. Although significant levels of aggregation were 

found, the coefficient of dispersion was ineffective in determining species that 

would characterize a given single time group. 

Rarnrn, R. A. (1981). Vibrio cholerae in Queensland river systems 1977-1980. 

Australian Water and Wastewater Association. Federal Convention. Sydney. 

Abstract . 

The presence of Vibrio cholerae in some southern Queensland streams places 

obligations on those involved with water supply and public health. The 

opportunity exists to monitor the natural history of V. cholerae in an 

environmental surface water system and to assess the obligations placed on 

public health authorities, which include the protection of the public, and 

surveillance of rivers, sewage treatment plants and drinking water plants for 

the presence of the organism. Mentions the 'over-wintering' phenomenon, 

where cholera tends to disappear, from streams in the 'dry' and reappear in 

the 'wet' (summer) in Queensland. 

Reeve, R. and I. F. Fergus (1983). Black and white waters and their ~ossible 

relationships to fie podzolization process. Australian ~ournal'of Soil 

Research 21: 59-66. 

Highly coloured, organic-stained water (black water) occurs as springs, seeps 

and perched lakes in the Cooloola area Queensland. Springs of clear, 

colourless water (white water) sometimes occur in close proximity to the 

black water. Field evidence suggests that black waters move laterally along 

semipermeable B horizons of humus podzols, whereas white waters are part 

of a much larger storage system in which the water has been decolorized by 

contact with the C horizons. Thus it appears that black waters are the active 

eluviating agent and white waters are the residual liquid phase of the 

podzolization process. Chemical analyses of black and white waters, and the 

results of a laboratory leaching experiment, support this view. Possible 

mechanisms and some implications for the genesis of podzol B horizons are 

discussed. 

Rosser, Z. C. (1991). The Role of Physical Disturbance as a Structuring Force of 

Invertebrate Communities in two Rainforest Streams. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, 

James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland. 

Abstract 

The role of physical disturbance in the structuring of macroinvertebrate 

communities of two tropical forest streams was examined. Two

geographically isolated sites were chosen. The upland site at Birthday Creek 

was known to possess a biogeographically distinct taxa fiom the lowland site 

at Gorge Creek. At both sites, natural, flood-induced substrate movement 

was simulated through the physical manipulation of artificial (brick) 

substrates. A range of treatments were incorporated to simulate natural 

disturbances of differing intensities. Four treatment levels were used, ranging 

from an undisturbed control at one extreme, to substrates which were both 

tumbled and scrubbed, with two intermediate treatments. Fauna from natural 

stones was monitored throughout the study, revealing a community which 

undergoes temporal and spatial changes following the summer wet season. 

The ecological implications of the results and their applicability to pertaining 

ecological theory are also discussed. 

Rudd, P. J. and V. G. Curnrnins (1988). Mackeys Creek catchment project: final 

report. Department of Primary Industries, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Investigations by officers from the Queensland Soil Conservation Services 

Branch showed that the erosion and erosive flooding problems in the 

Mackeys Creek Queensland area were aggravated by a lack of coordinated 

drainage. Detailed topographic information was required to develop a 

coordinated plan, and orthographic maps were considered to be the most 

efficient means of obtaining the topographic information. Orthophotos were 

provided in late 1986 and used to develop technical solutions to the runoff 

coordination problems and prepare conservation plans for individual 

properties and the catchment. Since the plans were prepared, landholder 

meetings have solved some runoff coordination problems, backhoe drains on 

the road reserves were widened and trash retention and green cane harvesting 

are practised in 60% of the catchment. 

Russell, D. J. (1992). Fish movements through a fishway on a tidal barrage in subtropical 

Queensland. Proceeding of the Roval Societv of Oueensland 10 1. 

Abstract 

A 32 month study was undertaken of fish movements through a "pool-andweir" 

fishway on the Burnett River barrage in south-eastem Queensland. A 

bi-directional fish trap was used to catch in excess of 4100 fish from 25 

species. Of these, 19 species were moving upstream and 20 were moving 

downstream. Arius graeffei, Notesthes robusta, Anguilla reinhardtii and 

Mugil cephalus comprised the majority of the fish moving downstream while 

graeffei, A. reinhardtii and M. cephalus were the dominant species moving 

upstream. Mature M. cephalus in near spawning condition moved 

downstream in May/June and coincidentally immature. M. cephalus moved 

upstream. Rates of fish movement through the fishway are considered poor 

and measures to enhance its effectiveness are discussed. 

Russell, D. J. and R. N. Garrett (1983). Use by juvenile Barramundi, Lates 

calcarifer (Bloch), and other fishes of temporary supralittoral habitats in a 

tropical estuary in Northern Australia. Australian Journal of Marine and 

Freshwater Research 34: 805-8 1 1.

Abstract 

Use by fishes of temporary pools created by high seasonal tides, which occur 

each year from October until April, on the saltpans and littorals adjacent to the 

Norman River estuary in northern Queensland was investigated. Fish 

entering the pools were sampled with on-way tidal traps placed in inlet 

gutters, and fish in the pools were poisoned using rotenone. Recruitment to 

the pools by fish occurred soon after the initial tidal inundation. Juvenile fish 

of 37 species, including the commercially important food fish L. calcarifer, 

used the pools. The first barramundi were found 8 weeks after initial 

inundation and for the remainder of the study they continually migrated into 

these habitats. The total length of the smallest L. calcarifer sampled was 9.5 

mm. Salinities in pools containing fish ranged from 94x10-3 to less than 

2 1 x 10-3 temperatures reached 36OC. 

Russell, D. J. and R. N. Garrett (1985). Early life history of Barramundi Lates 

calcarifer (Bloch), in North-eastem Quee-nsland. ~uskali an Journal of Marine 

and Freshwater Research 36: 191-201. 

Abstract 

Larval barramundi in the size range 2.8-5.2mm were collected from plankton 

in two estuaries in north-eastem Queensland from 31 October 1979 until 13 

February 1980. After leaving the plankton, barramundi moved into nearby 

brackish and freshwater swamps. These areas acted as nursery grounds, 

offering both protection from predators, and abundant prey in the form of 

insect larvae, other Ash and crustaceans. These habitats exhibit a wide range 

of salinities (fresh water -44 x 103 mb 1-1) and surface water temperatures 

(23-36OC). Juvenile barramundi commenced migration from these swamps 

-into permanent tidal creeks around April where they remained for up to 9 

months before dispersal into the estuary, up rivers or along coastal 

foreshores. The diet of the barramundi in these tidal creeks was exclusively 

fish and crustaceans. Juvenile barramundi were resident in tidal creeks that 

had been subjected to substantial human interference through habitat 

alteration. Destruction of nursery swamps may pose a serious threat to local - 

barramundi stocks near centres of human population on the eastern 

Queensland coast. 

Russell, D. J. and R. N. Garrett (1988). Movements of juvenile barramundi, Lates 

calcarifer (Bloch), in North-eastem Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine 

and Freshwater Research 39: 1 17-23. 

I 

Abstract 

Movements of juvenile barramundi resident in tidal creeks of two northeastern 

Queensland coastal bays were determined using tag and recapture 

techniques. In a three year period from 1978, 1268 mainly young-of-the-year 

barramundi were tagged and 213 (17%) recaptured. Most fish were 

recaptured at the original tagging location, with only 32 (2.5% of all fish 

tagged) caught away from the tidal creeks where they were released. Marked 

fish continued to be recaptured within the tidal creeks until they were about 

one year old. Barramundi of this age moved out into the main estuary and

dispersed into adjacent streams and coastal habitats. After leaving the tidal 

creeks, barramundi tagged in Trinity Bay moved an average distance of 

7.6km, whereas those tagged in Rockingham Bay moved an average of 23 

km. Factors which may limit the movements of these juvenile fish are 

discussed. 

Saenger, P. (1982). Macrobenthos of the cooling water discharge canal of the 

Gladstone Power Station, Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine and 


Abstract 

Quantitative sampling of the macrobenthos of the cooling water discharge 

canal of the Gladstone Power Station has been conducted monthly from Sept 

1976 to July 1980 (sampling times 1-47), to provide information on (i) the 

effects of an initially small but increasing thermal discharge on this biota, and 

(ii) the likely effects that could be expected to occur in the Calliope River, 

when the power station is fully commissioned. Considerable fluctuation was 

found in the biotic data. It is concluded that the changes in the benthos of the 

canal can be attributed primarily to changes in flow rates, which, in turn, have 

altered the sediment composition. This is supported by a change in the 

benthic fauna, with a gradual replacement of species of known sandy mud 

affinities by species living on or in stiff clays. With a design maximum 

temperature differential of 8.2 deg C and with lower water velocities outside 

the canal, the present data suggest that it is unlikely that the benthic fauna of 

the Calliope River, adjacent to the power station, will be markedly altered as a 

result of the thermal discharge. However, because of abiotic and biotic 

differences between the canal and the river, the testing of this extrapolation 

must await the analysis of the 'post-thermal' data presently being collected. 

Sargent, D. M. (1991). The western Queensland floods: April 1990. Challenges for 

Sustainable Develo~men t : International Hydrologv and Water Resources 

Svm~osium. Institution of Engineers, Barton. pp. 35-40. 

Abstract 

Record or near record flooding occurred over a wide area of western 

Queensland during April 1990 with river levels in some towns exceeding the 

previous record flood height, since European settlement, by more than a 

metre. This paper outlines a recently completed study into the flooding of the 

six towns most severely affected, or most at risk from flooding during this 

event, namely Charleville, Augathella, Cunnamulla, Blackall, Alpha and 

Jericho. The paper describes the hydrology of the river systems concentrating 

on estimation of event probability of the April 1990 flood, the extent and 

nature in each town and studies and recommendations in regard to future 

flood management for the six towns. Emphasis is given to the flooding in 

Charleville, the largest of the towns studied. 

Smith, R. E. W. (1982). The Ecology of the Pool Fauna in an Intennittent Stream. 

B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland.

Abstract 

The ecology of the benthic macroinvertebrate communities in ten pools of an 

intermittent stream (the Campus Creek) was studied. An examination of the 

diurnal and seasonal environmental changes within the pools showed that the 

pools had large ranges of temperature, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, pH 

and algal density and that the actual ranges for each variable differed between 

the pools. The benthic macroinvertebrate communities in the pools were 

shown to be diverse, with a mean number of 42.6 species per pool and a total 

of 103 species represented, 80 of which were insects. Cluster analysis of 

community change in all the pools showed that major changes in the 

communities were caused by stream flow, and the drying of the pools 

(provided the pools persisted for more than four months after the cessation of 

stream flow). Specialised faunas were associated with both these stages 

during the existence of the pools. The introduction of a fish species, 

Leiopotherapon unicolor, caused major changes in the macroinvertebrate 

community of one pool, and these changes were more important than the 

effect of drylng of the pool. The natural colonisation of another pool by three 

other fish species had similar effects. In both pools fish acted as keystone 

species. 

Smith, R. E. W. (1987). The Ecology of Australatya striolata (McCulloch and 

McNeill) (Decapoda: Atyidae). Ph.D. Thesis, James Cook University, 


Abstract 

The ecology of the protandrous freshwater shrimp, Australatya striolata 

(McCulloch and McNeill), was studied in two stream systems in north 

Queensland, in the context of its distribution in eastern Australia. The size 

frequency distributions of the populations studied were found to be bimodal, 

with the left mode consisting primarily of males, and the right mode of 

females. The modal size classes did not vary through time, although 

recruitment was found to be seasonal. The most likely mechanism for the 

maintenance of this bimodal distribution was a two-stage curve of an initial 

phase of relatively rapid growth of juveniles followed by very slow growth of 

mature males, then a relatively rapid transition from male to female size 

followed by very slow growth of mature females. This explanation was well 

supported by a sigmoidal growth curve for individuals between the modal size 

classes, low levels of recruitment and negligible growth of tagged and caged 

males and females. Analysis of length frequency distributions through time 

also indicated very slow growth for mature males and females (lmm in 870 

days), and rapid growth of juveniles (2-3mm in 61 days). This growth 

pattern is possibly unique in the recorded literature. 

Smith, R. E. W. and R. G. Pearson (1984). Survival of Sclerocyphon bicolor 

Carter (Coleoptera: Psephenidae) in an intermittent stream in north 

Queensland. Journal of the Australian Entomological Societv 24: 101 - 102. 

Abstract 

Larvae of a water penny, Sclerocyphon bicolor, of a range of instars were 

abundant in an intermitten stream in north Queensland 2 to 3 h after the

commencement of stream flow. In the laboratory these larvae could swive 

out of water for up to 4 months, and withstand the loss of up to 79.2% of 

their initial body water. Field collections found larvae in substrate which had 

been dry for up to 6 months. The ability of these larvae to survive out of 

water is attributable to (i) quiescence when out of water; (ii) considerable 

tolerance to water loss; and (iii) seeking of cooler, more humid regions 

within the substrate. 

Smith, R. E. W. and R. G. Pearson (1987). The macroinvertebrate communities of 

temporary pools in an intermittent stream in tropical Queensland. 

Hvdrobiolorria 150: 45-61. 

Abstract 

Nine pools were studied in an intermittent stream. They were close to each 

other but differed in size, substratum, amount of shade and duration of water 

presence. Initial conditions were set by wet season flooding, following which 

each pool developed its own character. Cluster analysis showed that 

communities changed substantially with time in both species composition and 

abundance, and that some initially similar communities diverged while some 

initially dissimilar ones converged. Principal Components Analysis showed 

that these community changes were due largely to the drying of the pools, and 

to seasonal effects. Specialised drying communities developed in the pools of 

longer duration (up to 8 months), but not in the short-lived pools (3-4 

months). Apparently similar numerical responses in different pools were often 

caused by different suites of predominant species. The diversity of the fauna 

(total of 78 species) was high in comparison with similar habitats in nontropical 

regions. The pattern of development of the pools' communities was 

much as expected from island biogeography theory, except that there was no 

relationship between species richness and duration and size of pools. The 

species complements were largely opportunistic, being governed by extreme 

environmental disturbance, 

St Clair, R. M. and J. A. Nolen. (1989). Life histories of Trichoptera from the wet 

tropics of Queensland. 28th Australian Society for ~ imnolo~~ Congress: 

Programme and Abstracts. Australian Society for Limnology, Caulfield East, 

Victoria. 

Abstract 

Life histories of two species of Leptoceridae are being studies at Birthday 

Creek, Queensland. Preliminary results show that in the summer wet season 

an undescribed species of Notalina is univoltine at the site and Triplectides 

gonetalus is either univoltine or has more than one generation per year. A 

population of the Calamoceratidae, Anisocentropus kirramus, is also being 

studied at a site further upstream. Results are compared with results of life 

history studies of Trichoptera from around Australia.

Sonnenburg, R. (1987). Brisbane's diminishing wetlands. Habitat 15: 36-37. 

Abstract 

Land south of the Pine River, 25km north of Brisbane, is presently subject to 

an application for rezoning. The 500ha contains mangroves, casuarinas, 

eucalypts and melaleucas, interspersed between freshwater swamps, salt 

marshes and tidal mudflats. It provides a major nesting area for egrets and 

ibis, and provides a habitat for Jabiru and brolgas. The value of the land lies 

in its easy accessibility and close proximity to the city of Brisbane. It is a 

popular recreational fishing area and the tidal mudflats are essential to 

commercial fisheries in the Moreton Bay region. Development of the area has 

been opposed both by environmental groups and commercial fishermen. 

Sonnenburg, R. (1988). Birds of the threatened wetlands. Wildlife Australia 25: 23- 

25. 

Abstract 

This report lists birdlife observed on a small freshwater swamp in an area 

near the Pine River Queensland. It describes the habitats and species and 

notes that a Ministerial rezoning application to develop a canal estate is being 

considered for the area, which is also a popular weekend fishing spot. 

Staples, D.J. (1984). Habitat requirements of juvenile prawns. Proceedings of the 

Conference on the Potential of Aauaculture in Oueensland. Department of 

Primary Industries, Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 87- 102. 

Abstract 

This report introduces the species of prawns which form the basis of the 

Queensland prawn catch. Gives the life history of the prawns, during which 

the larvae are transported from the offshore spawning grounds to the shallow 

inshore coastal regions and estuaries which function as nursery areas for the 

young prawns. Discusses the habitat requirements of juvenile prawns, 

commenting on their spatial and temporal distibution. Particular studies 

based on sampling in the Gulf of Carpentaria and in Moreton Bay are 

mentioned. Taxonomy, ecology and behaviour of the genera Penaeus and 

Metapenaeus are examined from an Indo-West Pacific perspective. The 

relationship between prawn nursery areas and fishing ground catches is 

examined. It is concluded that each species of prawn requires a well defined 

set of environmental conditions for its survival, and that any removal of 

mangroves or sea-grass meadows must have some impact on existing 

fisheries. 

Steele, I. G. (1989). High-resolution profiles of temperature and dissolved oxygen 

in a river. Hvdrobiolo~ia 179: 17-24. 

Abstract 

High resolution profiles of the Bremer River Queensland were made using 

five stations placed 3 km apart, employing velocity meters equipped to

measure water quality simultaneously every 10 minutes. Depth, temperature, 

conductivity and dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured and the data were 

extrapolated upstream and downstream of the station using the velocity data. 

When the average cross sectional speed was 0.25m/s (typical of tidal 

conditions), the extrapolated data points were 150m apart, giving a resolution 

of 7/km compared to 0.3/km for the stations alone. Details of the 

extrapolation process are given. The computer programmes used have been 

generalized for other rivers. The high resolution obtained enabled the 

structure and variability of the DO sag in the Bremer River to be studied. 

Tickle, K. S. and J. Law (1987). Tully Millstream project: derivation of stream 

flow. Queensland Water Resources Commission, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

This report presents details of the derivation of stream flows at a number of 

sites within the Tully Millstream project. The Sacramento Model, which is an 

explicit soil moisture accounting type model, was used to extend the record of 

daily stream flow at Queensland Water Resources Commission gauging 

stations to cover the period 1914 to 1985. These flows were then 

proportioned to provide estimates at the required locations. Details of the 

Sacramento Model parameters and calibration and verification statistics 

comparing recorded and calculated flows, are presented in the appendices. 

Thomson, J. M. (1955). The movements and migrations of mullet (Mugil cephalus 

L.). Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 6: 328-347. 

Summary 

- The mullet school (Mugil cephalus L.) has a real entity. The same fish remain 

associated in a group for a considerable period. Some emigration from and 

inferentially immigration to) the school takes place. Some schools remain in 

one locality (within a river system) for some months. Others appear to move 

more or less continually. A sojourn in fresh water does not appear to be 

essential though many fish are found there. It is impossible to generalise 

about age preferences for salinity. Fish of all age groups can be found at all 

times of year from fresh water to the lower saline estuaries. Some seasonal 

difference in the direction of movement is evident in Moreton Bay, 

Queensland but this movement lacks the persistence of the seaward spawning 

migration of adult fish in late summer and autumn. There is some evidence to 

support the hypothesis that the majority of mature fish do not migrate every 

spawning season, but at greater intervals. 

Thomson, J. M. (1957). The penetration of estuarine fish into freshwater in the 

Albert River. Proceedings of the Royal Societv of Oueensland 6: 17-20. 

Abstract not available. 

Tobin, R. K. (1981). Leaf Litter Degradation by Macroinvertebrates in a Tropical 

Rainforest Stream. B. Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, 

Townsville, Queensland.

Abstract 

The effects of flood availability and palatability on the colonization and 

community processing of leaf litter were examined in an upland tropical 

rainforest stream (Yuccabine Ck, Queensland) and under controlled 

laboratory conditions.Pattems of litterfall and stream discharge associated 

with wet and dry seasonal regimes control the amount of allochthonous 

material accumulating on the stream bed. Surface and bottom litter 

accumulations were found to differ fundamentally in the microclimatic 

conditions and state of the leaf material that were offered to the detritivore 

community. A succession of invertebrate colonization of leaf packs was 

controlled by the rate and degree of processing and the behaviour of the 

colonizers. Variation in breakdown of individual leaves in field and laboratory 

investigations was attributed to differences in the chemical composition of the 

leaves themselves. Food quality rather than quantity may be expected to limit 

growth and production of detritivore communities within the stream. 

Treneny, M. (1988). The Ecology of Tadpoles in a Tropical Rainforest Stream. B. 

Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland. 65 pp. 

Abstract 

This study investigated the ecology of four co-occurring tadpoles 

(Nyctimystes dayi, Litoria nannotis, Litoria serrata and Muophyles schevilli) 

in a rainforest stream. Temporal and spatial patterns of abundance, 

development and resource use were determined for each species. An 

experiment was used to investigate the effects of habitat and competition on 

the growth of L. serrata and N. dayi. Abundances of three species declined 

after the wet season. One species (M. schevilli) maintained reasonably stable 

abundances throughout the study. One species (L. serrata) which declined in 

winter showed a marked increase in abundances before the wet season in 

spring, with the entry of recruits into the population. Development was 

arrested in Winter in all species: each species was confined to a small range 

of body sizes and development stages. Growth continued at a slow rate at 

this time. All species showed evidence of very lengthy tadpole life-spans. 

Alga and detritus were the major food materials of three of the species. One . 

species (M. schevilli) was less general in food type consumed, feeding mainly 

on detritus. Little change was observed in dietary composition between the 

wet season and dry season tadpoles with arrested development. Significant 

dietary overlap was found between all species pairs. From experiments it was 

found that a riffle species (N. dayi) and a pool species (L. serrata) performed 

poorly in opposite habitats. It was deduced that both habitat and competitive 

effects influence the distribution of these species. 

Turner, P.A. (1991). The Impact of Short-term Fish Predator Introduction on 

Stream Pool Invertebrate Communities. B. Sc. Hons. Thesis, Griffith 

University Brisbane, Queensland. 9 1 pp. 

Abstract 

A contemporary theme in stream ecology is that of the interaction between 

abiotic phenomena and biotic interactions. It was hypothesised that pool 

environments, during periods of reduced flow, may provide a physically

enign habitat for a fish predator, Mogurnda adspersa, to significantly affect 

stream invertebrate communities. Fish were added to several pools along a 

small first order stream that drains into Stony Creek, Conondale Ranges, 

south-east Queensland. Several fishless pools acted as controls. Two 

experiments are detailed in this dissertation; one carried out during a period of 

low, continuous flow, and the other during a severe drought. No significant 

impact by Mogzu-nd~ on the density of any taxon or community attribute (e.g. 

diversity) was detected in the second experiment, although some replicates 

were lost due to evaporation. In contrast, results from the first experiment 

suggested that fish detrimentally affected conspicuous taxa such a Paratya 

australienesis and Synlestes sp.; the size distribution of Tasrnanocoensis sp.; 

and overall Community Dominance. Laboratory studies suggested that 

Paratya sp. reduce their degree of movement and increase their use of refuges 

when in the presence of Mogurnda. Thus, some of the apparent reduction in 

density of Paratya sp. in the field may have been due to shrimps shifting their 

spatial distribution to more inaccessible regions in the pools. Dewatering of 

the pools in the second experiments emphasised the ovemding influence that 

disturbance can have on stream invertebrate communities. The potential for 

fish predators to have an impact on invertebrate populations and community 

structure is likely to be mediated by the intensity and frequency of discharge 

fluctuations, refuge availability, prey turnover rates, prey morphology and 

behaviour. 

Watson, J. A .L., A. H. Arthington and D. L. Conrick (1982). The effect of sewage 

effluent on the dragonflies (Odonata) of Bulimba Creek, Brisbane. Australian 

Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 33: 517-528. 

Abstract 

The adult dragonfly fauna and the larval fauna and abundance decrease 

markedly immediately downstream of the outfall from the Mimosa Sewage 

Treatment Plant into Bulimba Creek. The adult fauna is substantially restored 

farther downstream, but the larval fauna and abundance are not. Of the 36 

species of Odonata observed at Bulimba Creek, the 10 abundant, essentially 

stredwelling species were most affected by the sewage effluent. Adults of 

only one of these stream species were found at the most contaminated site, 

and then only in very low numbers; those of two others were not observed 

downstream of the outfall. The diversities of both adult and larval dragonfly 

faunas give a qualitative indication of water quality. Parallels between the 

distribution or abundance of Odonata and the concentrations of contaminants 

indicate that chlorine may be the most important toxicant immediately 

downstream of the sewage outfall in Bulimba Creek. 

Watter, R. (1980). The Effects of Organic Pollution on Aquatic Macrophyte 

Distribution, Abundance and Diversity in the Pools of an Urban Creek. 

M. Sc. Thesis, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Physicochernical analysis of a 9km stretch of Bulimba Creek, Queensland 

revealed that the creek was heavily organically polluted immediately below the 

discharge from the Mimosa Creek sewage treatment plant. Recovery from the 

pollution load began approximately 2km below the discharge although the 

I

creek had not fully recovered within the study area. The creek upstream of 

the discharge was not polluted, but was moderately enriched with nitrogen 

and phosphorus. The study shows that aquatic macrophytes are potentially 

useful tools in biological surveillance if patterns of abundance, diversity and 

distribution are carefully interpreted with respect to the prevailing ecological 

conditions, and if account is taken of the number of species expected in a 

comparable 'clean' area. Knowledge of the tolerance or sensitivity of the 

species to organic pollution is necessary. When the water quality of Bulimba 

Creek was assessed using aquatic macrophytes, the relative pollutional status 

of the sites as determined by biological criteria did not differ from the status 

revealed by phy siochemical analysis. 

Whelan, B. R. (1977). Nutrient levels in the Walsh and Barron Rivers draining 

agricultural catchments in north Queensland. The Hvdrolo~v of Northern 

Australia: Hvdroloev Svm~osium. Brisbane, Queensland. pp. 192- 193. 

Abstract 

This preliminary study was initiated to determine the influence of fertilizer 

leaching and runoff from agricultural and pastoral land on the Walsh and 

Barron Rivers in north Queensland. The survey indicates that agricultural 

production increases nutrient loads but are offset by the large volumes of 

flow. One of the critical areas identified is fertilizer and water management. 

Currently there is a large loss of plant nutrients and sediments out of the 

catchment which can only be to the detriment of continued agricultural 

production. 

Whitehead, M. (1985). Ecology of the Purple-Spotted Gudgeon Mogurnda adspersa 

(Castelnau) (Pisces: Eleotridae) in a Tropical Upland Rainforest Stream. B. 

Sc. (Hons) Thesis, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland. 93 pp. 

Abstract 

A study in a tropical upland rainforest stream examined the ecology of the 

small eleotrid Mogurnda adspersa. Relative abundance, patterns of habitatuse, 

and movement patterns appeared to be related to the seasonal fluctuations 

in water levels. Fish moved to deep pools and aggregated around refuge sites 

during the dry season. Growth was described by the Von Bertalanffy 

equation. Gut contents analysis indicated that microcrustaceans and 

chironomids were of particular importance in the diet of small fish, while 

large fish, ephemeropteran nymphs (especially Atalophlebioides and 

Atalonella) were of greatest importance. Both diet and seasonal variation of 

composition of the diet were observed for small fish but not for large fish. 

Microcrustaceans were only important in the diet of small fish during March 

and April. In following months, chironomids assumed dominance. Field 

experiments designed to investigate the influence of differing densities of M. 

adspersa on invertebrates suggested that the fish was not important in 

structuring the invertebrate community; further investigation in this area is 

required. Summarising these results, it was concluded that the seasonal 

nature of Yuccabine Creek is of paramount importance in determining the 

distribution and abundance of M. adrpersa.

Woodall, P. F. (1985). Waterbird populations in the Brisbane regions, 1972-83, 

and correlates with rainfall and water heights. Australian Wildlife Research 

12: 495-506. 

Abstract 

Mean numbers and annual variation of 25 species of waterbirds from the 

Queensland Ornithological Society's records of the Brisbane region during 

1972-83 are presented. Changes in the numbers of many species show 

significant negative correlations with changes in the Moreton winter rainfall 

and with changes of inland rainfall. Correlations with Moreton dam levels 

were also examined. Numbers of some species decreased and others 

increased during the survey period. Coastal and inland distribution of some 

species is also presented. 

Wright, A. D. (1987). A Basis for Integrating Biological and Chemical Controls of 

Water Hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms. M. Phil. Thesis, Griffith 

University, Brisbane, Queensland. 269 pp. 

Abstract 

The water hyacinth is a major weed of freshwaters in the tropics and 

subtropics of Australia and several other counties. As part of a biological 

control program against the weed in Australia, stocks of two insect biological 

control agents, Neochetina eichhorniae Warner (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) 

and Sameodes albiguttalis (Worren) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), were obtained 

from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The insect 

species were later widely liberated and became established. Research by 

USDA personnel led to suggestions that the insects would enjoy a synergistic 

relationship and that the moth would be the more effective agent. Neither of 

these expectations was fulfilled. Early field observations in Australia 

suggested that the insects may be sensitive to changes in plant quality, in 

particular to one component of leaf quality, hardness. The research program 

described in this thesis developed from this hypothesis. 

Yezdani, G. H. (1986). An ecological study of the Albert and Logan River systems, 

southeastern Queensland. Queensland Institute of Technology, Brisbane, 

Queensland. 11 1 pp. plus Appendix. 

Abstract 

This document reports on a study of the Albert and Logan River systems 

within the Shires of Albert and Beaudesert, southeastern Queensland. The 

study programme was designed to establish baseline data on the distribution 

and ecology of the aquatic fauna and flora of the region, and to monitor major 

changes in the physical, chemical, and biological water characteristics for a 

period of 12 months. It identifies factors which may contribute towards 

increased production of aquatic organisms, and survival and reproduction of 

the heterotrophic bacteria, Vibrio cholerae. The sites involved are described. 

Physicochemical features considered are water temperature, dissolved 

oxygen, pH, ionic composition, salinity, etc. The river flora considered 

include phytoplankton, aquatic macrophytes and epiphytic and toxic algae. 

River fauna considered include Protozoa, zooplankton, microcrustacea, the 

benthic macroinvertebrate fauna and fish.

3.0 STREAM AND RIVER RESEARCH IN PROGRESS 

This section of the bibliography presents summaries of research projects in 

progress at the Centre for Catchment and In-stream Research, Griffith University 

and the Australian Centre for Tropical Freshwater Research, James Cook University. 

It provides, where possible, an abstract of each publication in press and in 

preparation, and descriptions of studies in progress. All studies listed have relevance 

to the themes of stream fauna, stream ecology, stream condition and biological 

approaches to assessing condition and disturbance in streams. 

3.1 CENTRE FOR CATCHMENT AND IN-STREAM RESEARCH 

3.1.1 Stream Invertebrate Studies 

Several CCISR research projects include aspects of benthic macroinvertebrate 

community structure in streams, and the effects of various microhabitat and water 

quality factors on community organisation, life history and dispersal strategies, 

responses to the flow regime and to flooding and dam construction. Experimental 

studies have been conducted in an artificial stream system located at Atkinsons Dam, 

and in the field using various manipulative techniques. Field investigations have been 

conducted in the Brisbane, Stanley , Mary and Burnett River catchments, South-east 

Queensland, and in the Tully-Millstream system of north Queensland. One objective 

of these studies has been to assess various methods for biological monitoring of 

stream condition using the macroinvertebrate community. 

Arthington, A. H., D. L. Conrick, and J. Zalucki (in prep.). The macroinvertebrate 

fauna of Barker-Barambah Creek, Murgon, in relation to water quality, the 

flow regime and downstream effects of dam construction. 

Abstract 

A two year has been undertaken of the aquatic invertebrate fauna at nine sites 

in Barker-Barambah Creek, S E Queensland. The macroinvertebrate fauna of 

this system is described and compared with the fauna recorded in streams of 

the Brisbane Region. Spatial and temporal variation in invertebrate 

communities is related to physico-chemical parameters of water quality and 

microhabitat in the streams. The study compares patterns in invertebrate 

communities generated by analyses of data derived by three sampling methods 

(Surber, kick and dip net sampling) and by Surber sampling alone. It also 

examines the sensitivity of various invertebrate taxa and levels of taxonomic 

resolution to water quality differences among sites and to flooding and flow 

regulation (See Environmental Study of Barker-Barambah Creek, Volume 2. 

Scientific Report: Water Quality, kquatic Ecology and Water Allocation 

Strategy, Chapter 15). 

Arthington, A. H. and B. J. Pusey (in prep.). The aquatic macroinvertebrate 

communities of tributaries of the Brisbane and Stanley Rivers, South-east 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the aquatic macroinvertebrate communities of three 

tributary streams (East Brisbane River, West Brisbane River and Stony

Creek), excluding larval chironomid midges. Spatial and temporal variation 

(over 2 years) in assemblage structure is examined in relation to physicochemical 

parameters of water quality, stream microhabitats and catchment land 

use. The report compares patterns in macroinvertebrate communities 

generated by analysis at various levels of taxonomic organisation (e.g. 

species, genus, sub-family, family) and discusses the utility of these 

approaches in assessing water quality and other site differences by biological 

means. 

Arthington, A. H. and B. J. Pusey (in prep.). Leaf litter decomposition in artificial 

streams systems receiving pulsed and chronic applications of Chlorpyrifos. 

a. 

Journal of Environmental Cbntarnination and ~o&olo ey, 

Abstract 

This paper describes the results of experiments conducted in the artificial 

stream system in which the rates of decomposition of leaf litter packs were 

monitored prior to and after pesticide treatments. Little change in 

decomposition rates was observed when the pesticide was applied as a 6-hour 

pulse, and no differences between low dose (0.1 ug.~-l) and high dose (5.0 

ug.~-l) were observed. Decomposition was retarded at both concentrations 

when pesticide application extended over 20 days. Data on the effect of 

chlorp yrifos on microbial fauna associated with decomposing leaves are also 

presented. The findings of this study have implications for interpreting and 

predicting the effects of pesticides on leaf litter processing and hence energy 

flow in streams. 

Arthington, A. H., B. J. Pusey and P. Cranston (in prep.). Chironomid midge larvae 

of tributaries of the Brisbane and Stanley Rivers, South-east Queensland. 

Abstract 

A twelve month study has been undertaken of the larval chironomid midge 

fauna at eleven sites in three tributaries streams (East Brisbane River, West 

Brisbane River and Stony Creek). The fauna was sampled by kick sampling 

and Surber sampling. Spatial and temporal variation in assemblage structure 

was related to physico-chemical parameters of water quality and microhabitat 

in the streams. The study compares patterns in midge communities generated 

by application of the two sampling methods and discusses the utility of these 

approaches in assessing water quality and other site differences biologically. 

Bunn, S. E. (in progress). Life history and behavioural responses of stream 

invertebrates to disturbance. 

Abstract 

Stream communities are greatly influenced by disturbance resulting from 

extreme discharge events. Although the frequency and intensity of these 

events is important, the predictability of disturbance will influence the 

evolution of behavioural and life history strategies. The behavioural and life 

history response of stream invertebrates to discharge related disturbance are 

being examined in this study. This information will lead to a better

understanding of how stream communities respond to disturbance and make a 

substantial contribution to our knowledge of the ecology of subtropical 

streams, as well as contributing to the management of flow-regulated rivers. 

Conrick, D. L., A. H. Arthington and J. Zalucki (in prep.). The mayfly 

(Ephemeroptera) fauna of Barker-Barambah Creek, Murgon, and the utility of 

this group in biological monitoring. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the spatial and temporal variation in mayfly communities 

in Barker-Barambah Creek, South-east Queensland. The fauna was sampled 

by kick and Surber sampling and by dip-netting and related to physicochemical 

parameters of water quality and microhabitat in the streams. The 

study compares patterns in mayfly communities generated by application of all 

three sampling methods and by Surber sampling alone. It discusses the utility 

of these biological approaches in assessing water quality differences among 

sites and the effects of flooding and flow regulation. A new species of 

mayfly was recorded in Barambah Creek. See Environmental Study of 

Barker-Barambah Creek, Volume 2. Scientific Report: Water Quality, Aquatic 

Ecology and Water Allocation Strategy (Chapter 15). 

Hughes, J. M. and S. E. Bunn (in progress). Estimating dispersal among 

populations of stream invertebrates using allozyme data. 

Abstract 

Knowledge of the extent of gene flow enables determination of the degree of 

exchange of breeding individuals among populations. Limited movement of 

-these individuals may reduce the resilience of populations to natural and 

anthropogenic disturbances and ultimately lead to their extinction. Gene flow 

among populations of stream invertebrates is likely to be limited because of 

their generally poor dispersal ability and the presence of real barriers between 

drainage systems. This project aims to establish the extent of gene flow 

among conspecific populations within and between drainage basins. This . 

infomation will contribute to the management of streams for the maintenance 

of natural values. 

Hughes, J. Me, S. E. Bunn, D. A. Hurwood and M. Kingston (in prep.). Gene flow 

and dispersal in stream invertebrates. 

Abstract 

Many stream insects have both an aerial and aquatic phase in their life history. 

The relative importance of aerial to aquatic dispersal has seldom been 

questioned, even though some species have extremely short adult lives. Other 

species are more likely to disperse only via the stream as they have no 

terrestrial stage in the life history. This project explores the idea that the 

degree of differentiation among populations can indicate the degree of 

dispersal between them. The shrimp, Parazya aurtraliensis, was chosen as the 

first species to investigate because dispersal by the stream was assumed and

the results could be used for comparison with other species with unknown 

dispersal mechanisms. Sampling was carried out in 1990 and 1992 in two 

adjacent catchments, one on either side of the Connondale Ranges, South-east 

Queensland, each of which consists of two subcatchments. Almost no 

temporal variation in gene frequencies was observed. The amount of spatial 

variation within and between subcatchments was extremely large, with Fst 

values greater than 0.5 in some cases. The use of this species as a model for 

later comparisons is discussed. 

Hughes, J. M. and D. A. Harrison (in prep.). Effects of long-term exposure to 

chlorpyrifos on genetic variation in the freshwater shrimp Paratya 

alcstraliensis. 

Abstract 

Limited information exists on the effects of pesticide pollution on genetic 

variation within populations. It is expected that low levels of pollution may 

act as selective agents to remove or decrease the frequency of certain 

genotypes in a population. This may affect the ability of that population to 

adapt to future changes in the environment. Such effects may be more 

pronounced in long-term experiments than in laboratory bioassays because 

both mortality and differential reproduction between genotypes may affect 

genotype frequencies. This study used artificial ponds to examine the longterm 

effects of pollution on genetic variation at four enzyme loci in the 

freshwater shrimp. Cellulose acetate electrophoresis was used to identify 

variation at four variable enzyme loci, Pgi, Pgm, Mpi and Pep C and to 

compare genetic variation among ponds before and after application of 

pesticide. 

Hughes9 J. M. and D. A. Harrison (in prep.). The effects of long-term exposure to 

sub-lethal levels of chlorpyrifos on growth and reproduction in the decapod 

crustacean Macrobrachium sp. 

Abstract 

Little is known of the sublethal effects of pesticides on stream fauna, 

especially invertebrates. This study has examined the effects of long-term 

exposure to sub-lethal levels of chlorpyrifos on growth and reproduction in 

the decapod crustacean Macrobrachium sp. A series of 12 artificial ponds 

was set up, stocked and monitored for 12 months. Four remained as 

controls, four were given a low dose treatment and four a higher dose of 

chlorpyrifos. They were monitored for a further nine months. Every month, 

a sample was taken from each pond and each animal was scored for size class 

and reproductive condition. This paper will describe differences in age 

structure and reproductive condition among the three treatments. 

Kerby, B. M. and S. E. Bunn (in prep.). Factors influencing invertebrate drift in 

small forest streams, South-East Queensland. Australian Journal of Marine 

and Freshwater Research.

Abstract 

Aspects of invertebrate drift were investigated in four small rainforest streams 

in south-east Queensland. Hourly drift sampling in two streams revealed low 

drift rates and no distinct die1 patterns throughout the dry season. The drift 

during this period was dominated by Simuliidae, Chironomidae and to a 

lesser extent Tasma1~3coenis (Caenidae: Ephemeroptera) and Chewnatopsyche 

(Hydropsychidae: Trichoptera). Additional studies were undertaken to 

examine why some individuals of particular taxa drift while others (of the 

same taxa) remain in or on the substratum. Analysis of the relative gut 

fullness of Simuliidae and Chironomidae showed that a higher proportion of 

non-drifting individuals had full or near full guts than those in the drift. 

Hungrier individuals of these two taxa may enter the drift as a food searching 

mechanism. An analysis of limb loss of hexapod nymphs indicated a 

disproportionate number of individuals in the drift had one or more limbs 

missing compared with those that remained in the benthos. Such injured 

individuals may not be able to resist dislodgement from the substratum during 

periods of activity. 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and T. J. Flanders (in review). An outdoor 

replicated artificial stream system: design, operating conditions and initial 

invertebrate colonization. Journal of Environmental Contamination and 

Toxicoloey, 

Abstract 

This paper describes the design and operating conditions of a replicated 

artificial stream system for experimental investigation of the effects of 

pesticides on stream invertebrate communities and important processes in 

stream ecosystems. The artificial stream system consists of six channels 

equipped with notch weirs for the control of depth and flow velocity. The 

water quality characteristics and initial colonisation of the streams by 

invertebrates is described and the utility of the stream system for experimental 

analysis of stream processes is discussed. 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and J. McLean (in review). The effects of an 

insecticide, Chlorpyrifos, on macroinvertebrate communities in an outdoor 

artificial stream system. Journal of Environmental Contamination and 

Toxicoloey, 

Abstract 

The results of a 250 day experiment examining the effects of a pulsed 

application of two levels (0.1 ugL-l and 5.0 U~L-') of chlorpyrifos on 

macroinvertebrate communities are presented. No effects of the low dose 

treatment were observed. The high dose treatment resulted in an initial 

depression of invertebrate densities, particularly for some species of 

Chironomid midge larvae. These effects were relatively transitory and 

invertebrate communities in treatment streams were indistinguishable from 

those in control streams 38 days after application of the pesticide pulse. The 

implications for setting water quality criteria for chlorpyrifos in particular and

pesticides in general are discussed, as well as the implications for the design 

of biological monitoring programs using stream invertebrates. 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and S. Ward (in prep.). The effects of chronic 

application of Chlorpyrifos on invertebrate communities in an outdoor 

artificial stream system. Journal of Environmental Contamination and 

Toxic010 rrv. 

Abstract 

This paper describes the results of an experiment in which chlorpyrifos was 

applied to the artificial streams at concentrations of 0.1 ugL- and 5.0 ug~-l 

for 20 days. Major changes to the invertebrate fauna were observed in all 

treatment streams, even for low rates of pesticide application. The 

implications for setting water quality criteria for chlorpyrifos are discussed, as 

well as the implications for the design of biological monitoring programs 

using stream invertebrates. 

3.11.2 Fish Community Studies 

CCISR research projects on fish community structure in Queensland streams 

and rivers can be grouped into three categories: (1) Fish assemblage smcture and the 

influence of water quality, habitat, the flow regime, competition and predation in 

regulating species composition and age structure; (2) Distribution, ecology and 

conservation of rare and endangered species; and (3) Distribution, ecology and 

management of exotic species. One objective of these studies has been to assess the 

significance of stream habitat in regulating fish community structure and thereby to 

develop an ecological basis for stream habitat assessment and stream habitat 

management. 

Arthington, A. H. and C. J. Marshall (in prep.). Distribution and habitat 

requirements of the vulnerable Honey Blue-eye (Pseudomugil mellis), the 

endangered Oxleyan Pygmy Perch (Nannoperca oxleyana) and the Ornate 

Rainbowfish (Rhadinocentrus ornatur) in South-east Queensland. 

Abstract 

This paper reports on the distribution, relative abundance and broad habitat 

preferences of the Honey Blue-eye, the Oxleyan Pygmy Perch and the Ornate 

Rainbowfish in South-east Queensland. It maps the distribution of each 

species on the mainland and dune islands of this region and examines patterns 

in fish assemblage structure among Fraser Island lakes in relation to physicochemical 

features of the waterbodies and their spatial relationships. The 

conservation status of each species is assessed in terms of its distribution, 

rarity, relative population abundance, habitat niche and the degree of 

protection afforded to significant sites by different categories of conservation 

reserve in South-east Queensland. Options for conservation of the three 

species are presented.

Arthington, A. H. and C. J. Marshall (in prep.). Distribution, diet and habitat 

preferences of the vulnerable Honey Blue-eye (Pseudomugil mellis), the 

endangered Oxleyan Pygmy Perch (Nannoperca oxleyana) and other endemic 

species in the Noosa River, South-east Queensland. 

Abstract 

This paper demonstrates that the Honey Blue-eye and Oxleyan Pygmy Perch 

share habitat in the main channel of the Noosa River, whereas the Ornate 

Rainbow fish is confined to tributaries, possibly as a response to piscivores. 

The Honey Blue-eye and Oxleyan Pygmy Perch partition food resources 

within their preferred habitat, shallow beds of Eleocharis sedges. In the case 

of P. mellis, low dietary overlap with Oxleyan Pygmy Perch and other 

endemic species is largely due to the Blue-eye's distinctive diet, in particular 

the significant consumption of algae, especially desmids and diatoms (50- 

70% of mean population diet). Other species do not utilise this food resource. 

The potential for interspecific competition as an agent regulating the success 

of the Honey Blue-eye and Oxleyan Pygmy Perch in the Noosa River is 

discussed. 

Bluhdorn, D. R. and A. H. Arthington (in review). Distribution and population 

characteristics of the introduced cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus (Pisces: 

Cichlidae), in the Gascoyne-Lyons river system, Western Australia. 

Australian Journal of Marine and Fresh water Research 

Abstract 

The introduced cichlid, Oreochromis mossambicus has become established in 

the Gascoyne-Lyons River System, Western Australia. In less than 10 years, 

0. mossambicus has colonised almost the entire length of the system, 

extending 350 km inland. The range expansion achieved in this arid 

environment demonstrates the invasive abilities of 0. mossambiclcr and the 

potential threat to other Australia waterways in tropical and sub-tropical 

regions. 

Bluhdorn, D. R., A. H. Arthington, S. Hamlet and S. Dunlop (in progress). The 

effects of flow regulation in B arker-Bararn bah Creek. 

Abstract 

Stage 2 of the Environmental Study of Barker-Barambah Creek includes a 

range of water quality and ecological studies designed to assess the effects of 

flow regulation and to develop management options for the system and its 

catchment, with particular reference to management of releases from the 

Bjelke-Petersen Dam. Results and final reports are due in June 1993. 

Kennard, M. J. and B. J. Pusey (in prep.). Fish assemblage structure and resource 

use in tropical floodplain lagoons of the Normanby River, Cape York, 

Australia.

Abstract 

Fish assemblages were sampled in eight floodplain lagoons of the Normanby 

River shortly after they had been inundated by floodwaters and again just 

prior to the resumption of the wet period. Fish communities were sampled by 

electrofishing and gill netting; habitat structure and complexity, physicochemical 

characteristics and the food resource base of each lagoon were 

quantified. Assemblage structure changed markedly between the two 

sampling periods due to recruitment processes and variable levels of 

predation, apparently related to changes in habitat complexity. Habitat 

complexity was not an important predictor of assemblage structure at the 

beginning of the study and it appeared that assemblage structure was more a 

matter of random processes when vast areas of floodplain not just lagoons 

were inundated. The role of habitat complexity in determining assemblage 

structure increased as the size of lagoons decreased with progression of the 

dry season. 

Kennard, M. J. (in progress). The effects of predation and habitat complexity on fish 

assemblage structure and resource use in experimentally manipulated 

floodplain lagoons of the Nomanby River, Cape York, Australia. 

Abstract 

In order to test some of the hypotheses formulated by the results of the 

research described in Kennard and Pusey (in prep., above), the density of 

predators and habitat complexity (refuge from predation) were manipulated in 

eight lagoons of the Normanby River. Assemblage structure, changes in 

growth rates, habitat preferences and resource use of the various species are 

being monitored over the period of the experiment (nine months). 

Pusey, B. J. and A. H. Arthington (in progress). Regional patterns of discharge 

regime within rivers of Queensland with particular reference to discharge 

events of relevence to the aquatic biota. 

Abstract 

The discharge patterns of major easterly flowing Queensland rivers were 

examined and several important parameters quantified to enable a regional 

classification of discharge regimes. Colwell's predictability analysis was used 

to quantify the predictability of mean monthly flow, instantaneous monthly 

maximum and minimum flow and the monthly ratio of maximum to minimum 

daily flows. In addition, several parametric measures of variability were also 

used. In general predictability analysis was superior in its ability to detect 

regional patterns although the two approaches can be said to be examining 

different process and can therefore have their own value. Major differences 

were found between rivers of Cape York, those of the Atherton Tablelands, 

those of the Burdekin and Fitzroy drainage systems and those of southeastern 

Queensland. Rivers of the north of the state were more predictable 

although this predictability was not necessarily derived from the same 

sources. For example Cape York rivers were predictable because of the 

strong seasonal signal whereas the Mulgrave and Johnstone Rivers had more 

constant flows and thus were also highly predictable. Large drainage systems 

had their own regional differences in predictability depending on latitude and

distance from the coast. Rivers of south-eastem Queensland tended to be the 

least predictable as they frequently received both a summer and a winter 

rainfall but not necessarily in the same year. 

i 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and M. G. Read (in prep.). Spatial variation in fish 

assemblage structure of two rivers of the Wet Tropics area of North 

Queensland: the Mulgrave and South Johnstone Rivers. 

Abstract 

The fish assemblage structure, diet and dietary overlap and habitat preferences 

of individual species were examined at 22 sites in the Mulgrave and South 

Johnstone Rivers. Diversity was highest in the Mulgrave River and appeared 

to be due to an absence of physical baniers to fish movement and a lessened 

impact of agriculture in this system. Dietary overlap was high for most 

species indicating that competition for food resources could be important in 

structuring communities. Habitat preference data, however, indicated that this 

resource was more strongly partitioned than food, and this partitioning may 

ameliorate the effects of high dietary overlap. Strong spatial differences in 

assemblage structure were evident in both rivers with several zones of species 

replacement. Range extensions for several species are reported, particularly 

for rare species. 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and M. G. Read (in prep.). Spatial and temporal 

variation in fish community structure in the Albert River, South-east 

Queensland. 

Abstract 

The results of a three year study of fish assemblage structure in which fish 

assemblages were sampled once a year at nine sites are presented. Major 

spatial differences in assemblage structure and only minor temporal variation 

were observed. Temporal variation was most pronounced at downstream sites 

which appeared to most heavily affected by agriculture. Assemblages 

characteristic of headwater streams were closely correlated with substrate and 

flow related differences. Habitat preference data were also examined and an 

attempt made to use these data in conjuction with habitat structure data to 

predict relative species densities. The results are discussed with reference to 

the Mary River study (see below) 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and M. G. Read (in prep.). Fish assemblage 

structure in the Burdekin River: the influence of habitat, floods and variable 

recruitment. 

Abstract 

r 

Seasonal and between-year variation variation in discharge was found to be an 

extremely important determinant of changes in fish assemblage structure in the 

Burdekin River. Although habitat was a factor in determining the 

composition of the fish assemblage, variable recruitment, which was 

dependent on the intensity of the summer wet season, was found to most 

strongly affect composition. The absence of a strong habitat effect was due to

a low diversity of habitats within the river with very little change over the 

entire river length in either habitat structure or fish assemblage composition. 

Habitat appeared important however in determining the strength of recruitment 

after the primary effect of flood strength had been taken into account. High 

discharge events did not greatly influence assemblage composition through 

the physical removal of individuals. 

Pusey, B. J., A. H. Arthington and M. G. Read (in prep.). Habitat preferences of 

freshwater fish of Queensland. 

Abstract 

Habitat preferences for over 40 species of fish are detailed. Where sample 

sizes are large enough temporal and spatial variation in preference is also 

examined. Many species have very plastic habitat requirements and showed 

little preference for particular habitats. These species, in general, have wide 

geographical distributions and are rarely limited to particular parts of drainage 

basins, i.e. headwaters or lower reaches. A few species have very defined 

habitat preferences and these were generally of limited distribution both 

geographically and within drainage systems. The importance of cover is high 

for a large number of species particularly those of small body size. Some data 

on physico-chemical tolerances are also presented. 

Pusey, B. J., M. G. Read and A. H. Arthington (in prep.). Spatial and temporal 

variation in fish assemblage structure in the Mary River, South-east 

Queensland: the influence of community structure. 

Abstract 

The results of a 15 month study of fish assemblages at 11 sites throughout the 

Mary River drainage system are presented. Major spatial differences were 

apparent and considerable temporal change in assemblage structure also 

occurred. Differences in assemblage structure were correlated with habitat 

parameters such as substrate type, stream width and the presence of cover. 

Discriminant functions analysis was used to test for habitat differences 

between assemblage groups defined by ordination and classification. A 

model was developed in which various aspects of habitat were used to 

identify assemblages using depth, flow, substrate, cover and physicochemical 

parameters. Using all of these variables allowed a 100% successful 

descrimination between groups. Cover tended to be the most powerful 

variable for descrimination and at most sites, temporal variation in assemblage 

structure could be correlated with the abundance of aquatic macrophytes. 

Pusey, B. J., M. G. Read and A. H. Arthington (in prep.). Fish assemblage 

structure in three rivers of Cape York Peninsula, Australia. 

Abstract 

The results of surveys on the Pascoe (three sites), Stewart (five sites) and 

Noxmanby Rivers (eight sites) are presented. Spatial variation, both within 

and between rivers, was pronounced and to a large degree related to 

differences in habitat structure. Dietary analyses were undertaken for all the

species collected in the study. Comparisons of dietary overlap be tween 

species at different sites revealed that the potential for competition to be 

important as a structuring agent varied between rivers. Predation was also 

found to be potentially important in structuring fish assemblages. 

Pusey, B. J., M. G. Read and A. H. Arthington (in prep.). Diet, dietary overlap and 

species interactions of fish assemblages of the Burdekin River, Queensland. 

Abstract 

Fish assemblages at fourteen locations within the Burdekin and Bowen River 

drainage systems were sampled in both the wet and dry periods for three 

years to investigate spatial and temporal variation in dietary preference and the 

strength of interspecific interactions. The hypotheses tested were that 

partitioning of resources should be evident given the pronounced 

predictability of the flow regime in this river and that specifically dietary 

overlap should decrease in the late winter dry period. Some dietary 

partitioning was evident particularly for closely related species but in general 

partitioning was not strong. Contrary to the prediction, overlap was lowest 

during the wet period when food resources were most abundant. A large 

proportion of species showed a seasonal shift from large aquatic invertebrates 

and terrestrial invertebrates during the summer months to small aquatic insect 

larvae during the summer. Macrophytes and filamentous algae were 

surprisingly, an important component in the diets of many species, 

particularly during the dry period. 

Pusey, B. J., M. G. Read and A. H. Arthington (in prep.). The diets of Queensland 

freshwater fish. 

Abstract 

This presents the results of dietary gut analysis of over forty species of 

freshwater fish from rivers extending along the coast from South-east 

Queensland to Cape York. Spatial, temporal and onto genetic shifts in dietary 

preference are examined for most species. The results are compared with data 

from other studies on Queensland fishes. 

3.2 AUSTRALIAN CENTRE FOR TROPICAL FRESHWATER 

RESEARCH 

The Australian Centre for Tropical Freshwater Research (ACTFR) has 

established a range of research programs and projects in fields concerned with 

catchment processes, riparian vegetation, landscape and stream ecology, stream 

condition, impacts of pollution, imgation discharge and disturbance, and related 

topics. There is a particular emphasis on the ecology of rainforest streams. Project 

descriptions are provided together with abstracts of publications under review and in 

progress.

3.2.1 Project Outlines 

Alford, R. A. and S. Richards. Experiments and observations on the ecology of 

tropical frogs, dragonflies and their larvae. 

Outline 

The project is investigating two questions: 1. To what extent can the 

performance of species in complex assemblages be predicted from their 

interactions in simpler systems? 2. How are competition and predation 

influenced by the size distributions of interacting species? The answers to 

these questions are of importance in predicting the behaviour of managed 

populations of commercially harvested, game, and endangered species. 

Congdon, R. A., J. Herbohn and C. Maycock. Ecosystem Dynamics of Humid 

Tropical Rainforest. 

Outline 

This study aims to document hydraulic and nutrient budgets in a humid 

tropical rainforest catchment, by measuring fluxes in bulk precipitation, 

throughfall, streamflow and litterfall. Nutrient stocks in vegetation and losses 

in streamflow are also being determined. 

Congdon, R. A. and G. Lukacs. Effects of irrigation drainage on the Barrattas 

Wetlands (Burdekin Img ation Scheme). 

Outline 

This study aims to determine the present levels of nutrient inputs in the 

surface water draining into the wetlands which receive imgation discharge 

from the Burdekin Imgation Scheme, and to monitor changes such as 

increased algal looms, resulting from this run-off. It will have general 

applicability to the understanding of effects on water quality, and wetlands, of 

waters draining agricultural lands (cane fields, rice fields, feed lots, etc) in the 

seasonal tropics. 

Pearson, R.G. Burdekin River Ecology Project. 

Outline 

Following previous descriptive studies of the river an its biota, a pilot project 

was initiated to examine the feasibility of using stable isotope methodology to 

study organic inputs and processing in the river. Preliminary results indicate 

that the methods have some potential success.

Pearson, R. G. and P. Clayton. The Effects of Dunder Disposal on Stream Water 

Quality. 

Outline 

The Australian Centre for Tropical Freshwater Research is undertaking a twoyear 

intensive study and a long- term monitoring program to assess the effects, 

if any, of dunder disposal on stream water quality and animal community 

composition. In previous studies it was found that the aquatic fauna provided 

an ideal monitoring mechanism for water quality, and it is intended to utilise a 

similar system in the present study. The initial approach has been to examine a 

large number of stream sites (>70) both within and outside the cane growing 

area many of these have been used for water quality and faunal sampling and 

the results of this work are currently being analysed using various statistical 

procedures. During the course of these analyses the exceptional rainfall of the 

1990-91 wet season caused severe flooding in all the study streams. This has 

been fortuitous as it has provided as complete a flushing of the systems as 

possible, re-setting stream conditions, and facilitating the monitoring of 

developments through the full seasonal cycle. The number of sampling sites 

will be reduced subsequent to a second post-wet season survey, for more 

intensive studies and for subsequent long-term monitoring. Preliminary 

results indicate that it is possible to discriminate between streams affected by 

different agricultural regimes, including irrigation, but it is too early to 

determining whether or not there are measurable effects due to dunder alone. 

The study will continue in its intensive phase through 1992, following which 

a less intensive long-term monitoring program of key sites will be 

implemented. 

Pearson, R. G., R. M. St. Clair, L. J. Benson, P. Clayton and J. Nolen. Rainforest 

Stream Ecology. 

Outline 

This study consists of several inter-linked projects which together form a 

program of research into the community ecology of pristine forests streams. 

Current work includes a long-term study on the dynamics of the invertebrate 

community and of organic material in the stream, on litter processing by major 

shredders, on the population dynamics of important species, and on the 

ecology of waterfalls. Publications in press and in review are listed below. 

Pearson, R. G., R. M. St. Clair and D. Kwan. Classification of Rainforest Streams. 

Outline 

A classification of streams in the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage 

Areas is being undertaken on the basis of their invertebrate communities, and 

in relation to instream and landscapes variables. The intention is to provide 

the basis for future stream monito6ng, in particular to enhance manigement 

capabilities in the region.

3.2.2 Publications in Progress 

Benson, L. J. and R. G. Pearson (in review). Litter inputs to a tropical Australian 

rainforest stream. Aust. J. Ecol. 

Abstract 

Vertical litterfall and lateral litter movement were monitored in the riparian 

zone of Birthday Creek, a small upland rainforest stream in north Queensland, 

from June 1987 to May 1990. Total litterfall (mean = 484 gm me* yrl) was 

low in comparison with other tropical sites, both within Australia and 

elsewhere. Litterfall was distinctly seasonal, with maxima occurring in the 

late dry season (Oct. - Nov.) and minima in winter (June - July). Tropical 

storms caused short-term increases in litterfall, especially the small wood 

fraction. Overall, laterally transported litter contributed 6-8% of the total litter 

input. Lateral movement varied according to the bank slope and 

microtopographic features and was not related to wind. Nitrogen and 

phosphorus content of leaves were low (mean N = 1.26%, P = 0.029% by 

weight). Nitrogen content of laterally transported leaves was overall about 

19% higher than that of leaves falling directly into the stream. 

Pearson, R. G., K. R. Hortle and R. E. W. Smith (in review). The fauna of the 

Annan River, North Queensland with reference to the impact of tin mining. 11. 

Macroinvertebrates. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research 

Absmct 

The riffle fauna of the Annan River system, in northern Queensland, was 

sampled in May and October 1982. The river had a strong sesonality of 

discharge and was subjected to sedimentation due to small scale alluvial tin 

mining on some tributaries. Maximum density of animals was 4220 m-2 in 

October. The number of species recorded from five kick samples (total of 0.5 

m -2) varied from 27-47 in May and 33-60 in October. The total number of 

species recorded from all sites was 148 from 110 kick samples. At the 

undisturbed sites more than 48% of the fauna and up to 78% of the 

abundance was accounted for by four species, Atalophelbia sp., Baetis sp., 

Chimarra sp. and Cheumatopsyche sp. Sedimentation caused severe depletion 

of the fauna. 

Population biology of Australa~a striolara (Decapoda: Atyidae) in a rainforest stream 

(with R.E.W. Smith). 

Litter processing by crayfish in a tropical Australian stream (with J. Coughlan). 

Ecology of dragonflies in a tropical Australian stream (with L. Charlton). 

Population biology of Mogurnda adspersa in a tropical Australian stream (with M. 

Whitehead).

Community dynamics of the invertebrate fauna of Yuccabine Creek, a tropical 

rainforest stream 

The fauna of small streams in the Birthday Creek catchment, tropical north 

Queensland (with L. Benson). 

Ecology of the Burdekin, a large seasonal tropical river. I. Major habitats and the 

biota. 

Ecology of the Burdekin, a large seasonal tropical river. 11. Community dynamics 

of the invertebrate fauna. 

Effects of the hydrologic disturbances on community processes in a small tropical 

rainforest stream. 

Experimental assessment of the role of disturbance in the riffle fauna of tropical 

rainforest streams (with 2. Rosser). 

A preliminary classification of landscapes, streams and steam biota in the southern 

Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (with R. St. Clair). 

A classification of tropical wetlands in the Burdekin floodplain, north Queensland 

(with R. Congdon, G. Lukacs and J. Nolen). 

Stream metabolism in Birthday Creek, a small tropical rainforest stream (with R.W. 

Davies). 

Leaf litter decomposition in soil and water at Birthday Creek, a small tropical 

rainforest stream (with R.W. Davies). 

Rock texture as a determinant of species diversity in a tropical rainforest stream.

4.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 

I wish to thank Dr Richard Pearson, Dr Brad Pusey, Dr Stuart Bunn and Dr 

Jane Hughes for providing information on research in progress, Ms Wendy Abbot 

for conducting STREAMLINE searches and Ms Liz Collins and Mrs Maria Barrett 

for editing and typing.

4.0 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 

I wish to thank Dr Richard Pearson, Dr Brad Pusey, Dr Stuart Bunn and Dr 

Jane Hughes for providing information on research in progress, Ms Wendy Abbot 

for conducting STREAMLINE searches and Ms Liz Collins and Mrs Maria Barrett 

for editing and typing.

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