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QUT Samford Ecological Research Facility

Engaging Science Trail

SERF TERN

Stop 2 of 12

Soil hydrology

Soil moisture probe

Probes measuring volumetric soil moisture in 10cm increments to a depth of 1.2 metres.

Look forLook for dry sclerophyll forest dominated by Eucalyptus species, on poorer soils and with lower rainfall.

Field researcher holding a soil sample in bushland

What this is

  • Soil moisture probes measure volumetric soil moisture at 10cm increments to a depth of 1.2 metres.
  • Measurements are taken weekly for use by researchers.
Why it matters
  • Water availability is a main driver of ecosystem productivity.
  • Soil moisture data supports understanding of soil hydrological processes and helps explain ecosystem changes such as tree death and slow growth.
What to notice
  • The surrounding dry sclerophyll forest, dominated by Eucalyptus species, typical of poorer soils and lower rainfall.
  • Soil here is sandy loam for about 30cm, then clay to 1.2m. The gentle slope favours run off and gives low moisture retention.
Research connection

Weekly probe data underpins studies of the Pine Rivers catchment soils in the D'Aguilar Range and supports interpretation of vegetation change at SERF.

Source: QUT Engaging Science Trail, Stop 2

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Next on the trail

Stop 3: Pitfall traps

Continue along the loop to the pitfall traps.

Orientation assist

The next stop is roughly south from here. Use the trail map and site signs or markers where available to stay oriented.

When you arrive, look forLook for the pitfall trap area, and the transition from dry Eucalyptus-dominated forest toward wetter Melaleuca-dominated forest.

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Follow the numbered trail overview and site signs or markers where available.

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Return to the trail map and check the nearest on-site marker or sign. Stay on marked public paths and do not rely on this prototype for turn-by-turn navigation.

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