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Resolving the value of the dingo in ecological restoration

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-18, 15:40 authored by Newsome, TM, Ballard, G-A, Crowther, MS, Dellinger, JA, Fleming, PJS, Glen, AS, Greenville, AC, Christopher JohnsonChristopher Johnson, Letnic, M, Moseby, KE, Nimmo, DG, Nelson, MP, Read, JL, Ripple, WJ, Ritchie, EG, Shores, CR, Wallach, AD, Wirsing, AJ, Dickman, CR
There is global interest in restoring populations of apex predators, both to conserve them and to harness their ecological services. In Australia, reintroduction of dingoes (Canis dingo) has been proposed to help restore degraded rangelands. This proposal is based on theories and the results of studies suggesting that dingoes can suppress populations of prey (especially medium- and large-sized herbivores) and invasive predators such as red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cats (Felis catus) that prey on threatened native species. However, the idea of dingo reintroduction has met opposition, especially from scientists who query the dingo's positive effects for some species or in some environments. Here, we ask ‘what is a feasible experimental design for assessing the role of dingoes in ecological restoration?’ We outline and propose a dingo reintroduction experiment—one that draws upon the existing dingo-proof fence—and identify an area suitable for this (Sturt National Park, western New South Wales). Although challenging, this initiative would test whether dingoes can help restore Australia's rangeland biodiversity, and potentially provide proof-of-concept for apex predator reintroductions globally.

History

Publication title

Restoration Ecology

Volume

23

Pagination

201-208

ISSN

1061-2971

Department/School

School of Natural Sciences

Publisher

Blackwell Publishing Inc

Place of publication

350 Main St, Malden, USA, Ma, 02148

Rights statement

Copyright 2015 Society for Ecological Restoration

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Terrestrial biodiversity

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