Echidna Conservation Science Initiative - Echidna CSI
Echidna CSI is an Australia-wide initiative that is helping to conserve our wild echidnas.
We are a team of world-leading echidna researchers connecting with the community to learn more about these unique creatures.
Thousands of Australians have sent us photos of echidnas through our Echidna CSI app. They have even collected echidna poo for University of Adelaide researchers to use for molecular analysis.
Echidna CSI has collected unprecedented data and material to help ensure the long-term survival of this iconic Australian animal.
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See an echidna? Take a photo or video with your smart phone and send us the details!
Echidna CSI news
15 Million-Year-Old Fossil Shells Reveal Traces of Colour Patterns in South Australia
University of Adelaide PhD candidate Mahala Fergusen, together with Environment Institute members Dr Liz Reed and Assoc. Prof. Diego García-Bellido, examined fossil shells from the Murbko Marl. They discovered 18 different species responded to UV light, displaying stripes, bands, and chevrons that had been hidden for millions of years. Through the use of UV light, this study has provided a better understanding of molluscs but also a vivid reminder of South Australia’s oceanic past.
New Research on Governance Challenges for Ecosystem-Based Adaptation in Bangladesh
Environment Institute member Professor Melissa Nursey-Bray has co-authored a new article examining the governance challenges of implementing ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) in Bangladesh. The paper, written with Syed Mohammad Aminur Rahman and Md. Masud-All-Kamal, explores how wetlands, which are vital for biodiversity and community resilience, are increasingly under threat from climate change and ecological degradation.
Global Collaboration in Action: United Nations Association x Environment Institute
The Environment Institute was honoured to host Jay Jethwa, Vice President of the World Federation of United Nations Associations, whose visit strengthened connections between the UN system and universities, particularly around the Sustainable Development Goals. Jay also delivered a keynote address at the special event ‘Biodiversity Matters’, co-hosted with UNASA and DFAT. The event was MC’d by Martin Haese, opened by Dr Susan Close MP and convened by Institute Director Professor Andrew Lowe, the panel featured Jay Jethwa, Jill Collins (DFAT), Tim Jarvis AM, and Craig Wilkins, with closing remarks from The Hon. Robert Hill AC. The event was held in honour of Lidia Moretti, President of the South Australian chapter of the United Nations Associations.
Image credits: Banner image - Cecilia Webster; 'Download the app' image - Matthew Wilkinson.