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RST Apology to Tasmanian Aboriginal people 2021.

Eucalyptus cordata Subsp. quadrangulosa (Myrtaceae), a new taxon of restricted distribution from southern Tasmania

Papers & Reports

Summary

Eucalyptus cordata subsp. quadrangulosa is described to accommodate western populations of the species, and differs from the typical subspecies most conspicuously in the quadrangular branchlets, and also in the larger and more pointed juvenile leaves, the more flattened peduncles, the larger bi-ribbed flower buds, and the larger fruits. The quadrangular branchlets of the new subspecies are unique in E. ser. Orbiculares. The new subspecies occurs to the west of, and largely disjunct from, eastern E. cordata, and tends to occupy cooler and wetter sites. Some morphologically and geographically intermediate populations are known. Both subspecies of E. cordata are of restricted distribution and are known from relatively few, disjunct and generally numerically small populations, and as such are under threat from various natural and human-induced influences. The newly described subsp. quadrangulosa is commonly cultivated in cool climates as an ornamental tree for its silvery foliage. A key to E. ser. Orbiculares, and a distribution map and photographs of representative types of E. cordata are presented.

 

Keywords:

Eucalyptus cordata,
Eucalyptus cordata subsp. quadrangulosa,
silver gum,
Orbiculares,
Tasmania,
new subspecies

Acknowledgement of Country

The Royal Society of Tasmania acknowledges, with deep respect, the traditional owners of this land, and the ongoing custodianship of the Aboriginal people of Tasmania. The Society pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge that Tasmanian Aboriginal Peoples have survived severe and unjust impacts resulting from invasion and dispossession of their Country. As an institution dedicated to the advancement of knowledge, the Royal Society of Tasmania recognises Aboriginal cultural knowledge and practices and seeks to respect and honour these traditions and the deep understanding they represent.

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On 15 February 2021, the Royal Society of Tasmania offered a formal Apology to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.