Daintree Rainforest Observatory Research

Research

The Daintree Rainforest Observatory offers researchers access to a large range of ecosystems. The unique combination of environment, climate and location are the perfect basis for ground-breaking research.

We use automated sensors and a wireless data network to closely monitor one hectare of rainforest. This data is available for research use. Within the arc of the crane, all trees with a DBH (diameter at breast height) greater than 100mm have been identified and tagged. This covers 87 species across 33 different families. We have installed dendrometers, sap flow meters, soil moisture pits, leaf litter traps, weather stations (including one on the tower of the crane) and cameras throughout the survey area.

We are looking forward to working with you to help you get the results you need.

Lowland rainforest

Our location in the Daintree rainforest makes it the ideal place to examine all aspects of lowland rainforest.

Canopy layers and above

Our canopy crane gives researchers access to every layer of the Daintree's irregular canopy. A weather station continuously monitors conditions at the top of the crane. Power and data connections are available for equipment installations upon request.

Understory

We use automated sensors and a wireless data network to closely monitor the one hectare of rainforest underneath the crane. This data is available for research use.

Leaf litter and Phenology

Long-term data-sets are available to researchers for leaf-litter fall and phenology (timing of fruiting and flowering events).

Freshwater, mangroves and shoreline

Within 3km of the station you can access numerous creeks, and their extensive rainforest / mangrove systems, as well as a range of intertidal environments at Cape Tribulation's beaches.

ILTER Logo

We are part of the Rainforest Supersite monitored by Australia's Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN), and subsequently a member of the International Long Term Ecological Research network (ILTER).