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The Biology And Ecology Of The River Red Gum


Both juvenile and adult leaves are dull in colour and hang vertically, twisting at the petiole. They are isobilateral to obtain maximum light exposure in the colder, winter months. The leaves contain pores called stomata, which allow gas and water exchange between the leaf and the environment. Sunken stomata allow the tree to reduce water loss in windy weather conditions (Campbell & Reece 2002:582). .
             The flowers are well suited to the river red gums method of seed dispersal and reproduction. The flower buds occur in inflorescences generally seven to eleven buds. A cluster of stamens makes up the flower. They are exposed, white in colour and threadlike in shape. The fruit of the river red gum is the remains of the flower after fertilisation that has dried out. It is during this period that the fertilised ovules develop into seeds (Brooker & Kleinig 1990:170). .
             Environment and adaptations.
             Because of the river red gums adaptive qualities it is can be found in a number of diverse environmental conditions. It can survive in many soil types, extreme weather conditions and other environmental factors. .
             The river red gum can tolerate many soil types. It has been found to grow in heavy clays, sands and gravelly-rock soils. Not only can it grow any soil types it has adapted to survive in soils with high pH levels, alkalinity and salinity (Duke 1983:3-4; Beadle n.d:561).
             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 river red gum also has drought resistant properties, which include its root system and wilt-resistant leaves. The extensive taproot system of the river red gum allows it to thoroughly explore the soil for water and nutrients needed for survival (Jacobs 1955:221; Read 1994:157).


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