Aboriginal influences on natural ecosystems

Abstract

The role of Aborigines in influencing natural ecosystems is reviewed, based on recent findings which suggest that, contrary to previous understandings, they had a considerable impact on their surroundings. A review is made which suggests that the Aboriginal people were able to control their population densities within the limits of the available resources and their political and social structures allowed effective control of their territories and of their food, water and artefact resources. Aboriginal religious, spiritual and ceremonial beliefs emphasised their oneness with the land and their responsibilities for renewing and maintaining it. The significance of Aboriginal foraging, harvesting and hunting techniques, particularly their use of fire, has become increasingly appreciated as the importance of these factors has come under scrutiny in the Western scientific context. The thesis also examines a case study to assess the possible effects of Aboriginal firing on a transition between mulga and hummock grass in the Hamersley Ranges of Western Australia. Finally it considers the implications, that this relatively new appreciation of the significance of Aboriginal environmental manipulation has for our understanding and management of remaining natural areas. Show more