Australia+-+Wildlife+and+Vegetation



Australia's unusual fauna and flora is due to the continent having been isolated for millions of years. Continental drift tore Australia away from Africa and Antarctica and sent it on a 45 million year journey northwards. The original mammal passengers on this journey were the marsupials and egg layers (the monotremes). About 15 million years ago, as Australia drifted closer to Asia, rodents floated and bats flew over the sea to become the first placental mammal colonists. The journey north combined with global cooling to dry Australia out and give rise to its characteristic drought and fire-resistant plants.

It has the largest concentration of marsupials (mammals whose young mature in their pouch). Kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, and wombats are examples of these. It is also home to two of only three species of monotremes known to exist in the world. These are egg-laying mammals and include the duck-billed platypus and the echidna (a spiny anteater). Australia is the only place on earth that you’ll find these! Eucalyptus trees dominate the forests in Australia and they come in all different sizes - from tall shrubs to trees reaching up to 90m. Acacia trees and shrubs dominate the dry regions - these and the eucalyptus trees have adapted and have the ability to survive in heavy drought conditions.

Please watch these videos below. __[]__

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After you read through the information and and we watch the videos, please answer the following questions.

1. Based on what you have learned about the climate, wildlife and vegetation so far, would you want to travel to Australia? Why or why not? Provide examples.

2. Name 3 interesting things you have learned about Australia. Be specific.

3. Name 3 things that can kill you in Australia and the ways you can avoid it (other than just not going to Australia!)