When dieback kills the banksia, birds disappear
Submitted by Chickowee on 22 Mar 2014.
"Studies by ECU show that banksia woodlands are critical for birds and plants in the south west.
Professor Robert Davis says the researchers were astounded by the complete change in the bird community where dieback is prevalent.
Dieback, Phytophthora cinnamomi, is a soil borne pathogen which has been dubbed the biological bulldozer for its ability to wipe out plant species.
Jarrah and, particularly, banksia are susceptible. Currently, quarantine is the only effective method of control."
