The Biology And Ecology Of The River Red Gum

The river red gum or Eucalyptus camaldulnesis is of the Myrtaceae family. The biology and ecology of the river red gum can be best described by analysing its habitat, growth form, environment and adaptations, its ecological role, reproduction and dispersal and management of genetic resources.

The most widespread Eucalypt species in Australia occurring in virtually every mainland state is the Eucalyptus camaldulnesis of the Myrtaceae family, commonly known as the river red gum. ‘E. camaldulensis is part of the Eucalyptus subgenus Symohyomytrus section Exsertaria’ (EUCLID 2003:3). The river red gum originates from Australia growing in abundance along the Murray-Darling river systems and other river systems of the east coast, north Eyre Peninsula, the Nullarbor Plain and south-western Western Australia; also in the hills of the Mount Lofty Ranges and plain around Adelaide and south-eastern South Australia. (Read 1994:157).

The structures of the river red gum are closely related to their functions. Its protective bark, deep root system, adaptive properties of the leaves and its flowering system are examples of these.

The river red gum actively helps prevent salinity. The copious amount of water that the roots draw up from the soil is able to stop the underground water and dissolved minerals from rising close to the surface. This prevents dissolved salts from being deposited in the topsoil after water is evaporated, thus preventing soil salinity (J. Turnell, lecture Aug 2003).

The adaptive qualities of the River Red Gum can also be illustrated by the extreme climatic conditions it can endure. In the winter months it can survive cold temperatures and frosts. It is infact so adaptive that it can tolerate constant temperatures of around three degrees and up to fifty frosts during a winter (Métro 1979:369).

The lateral root system of the river red gum allows it to penetrate deep into soils to obtain sufficient water and nutrients necessary. Young roots descend vertically into the soil providing the start of the taproot system, which is so vital for the survival of the tree (Jacobs 1955:221).

Some other products derived from the river red gum include honey, oils, medicinal (methanol extracted is used in cough medicines), ornamentals, firewood, charcoal, fuel wood and windbreaks (EUCLID 2003:3; Chippendale & Johnston 1969:34).

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