Assignment task:
Rehabilitation of the River Red Gum, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, on red mud residue resulting from bauxite mining. The material is highly saline and alkaline.
Consider the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of the media and the impact that they could have on the growth of Eucalyptus camaldulensis.
Discuss the effects that growing on red mud residue may have on the metabolism of the plant, on plant water relations and on nutrient uptake.
How is the plant likely to be affected?
What characteristics would be beneficial in an ideally suited species in terms of plant anatomy, plant physiology and structure?