David Geering asks: "Are there any real long term benefits in this sort of
trade?"
I think that there are benefits of this sort of trade, if it is done
properly. I am aware of one example. The case involves the controlled
release, into the market-place, of the endangered Wollemi pine. Much secrecy
surrounds the actual location of these plants in the wild, for fear of
illegal poaching, as well as the risk of people transporting exotic
pathogens into the site. The management team is aiming to supply plants of
known genotype to nurseries for private purchase. By the way, this is
proving to be problematic as there has been little genetic variation
detected, and therefore a genetic 'barcode' is yet to be developed. (I
believe there is a group currently working for DoE in QLD who are doing the
same sort of thing for eclectus parrots, golden-shouldered parrots and palm
cockies.)
I think this is an example of sound management beating the crooks at there
own game: by supplying demand, as well as generating revenue for continued
research and monitoring of this impressive plant.
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Steve Murphy
Division of Botany and Zoology
Australian National University
Canberra ACT Australia 0200
Ph 02 62494074
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