and has implications beyond scientific curiosity. As the sensitivities and perceptions of the settler, hunter, horticulturalist, farmer, miner and developer give way to, or come into conflict with, those of the urban dweller, recreationalist, naturalist and conservationist, questions as to the status and ecology of the present biota in relation to that of the past assume greater importance. Decisions on appropriate land use - although largely dominated by short-term economic factors - are also influenced by the extent to which a given area or biotic community reflects its natural condition. Management