Contraction–Expansion Dynamics Shape Refugia and Recolonisation Processes in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area

Climate stability and historical gene flow have shaped distinct refugial and recolonised areas within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area (GRWHA), with significant implications for future conservation. The study identified persistent refugia—regions of high climate stability, species richness, and genetic differentiation—and recolonised zones marked by lower stability but higher genetic diversity. Notably, the Clarence River Corridor acts as both a biogeographic barrier and a zone of admixture, homogenizing genetic signals. While rainforest suitability expanded post-Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), future projections indicate substantial contraction, particularly in southern regions, with high-altitude refugia emerging. This multi-species approach integrates climate modeling, landscape genomics, and intraspecific diversity metrics to inform regionally tailored restoration strategies, prioritizing provenancing guidance and assisted migration under climate change.

Dimon, R. J., Yap, J.-Y. S., Kooyman, R. M., Wilson, P. D., Henry, R. J., & Rossetto, M. (2026). Contraction–Expansion Dynamics Shape Refugia and Recolonisation Processes in the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. Applied Vegetation Science, 29(1). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/avsc.70059