Tasmania’s eucalyptus populations are facing mounting threats from climate change, land use pressures, and habitat loss—but one honours student is working to protect them. Nicholas Stratmann, a University of Tasmania student originally from Victoria, is conducting research into the genetic diversity and climate adaptation of eucalyptus species across the state. His project aims to pinpoint which populations are most resilient, which are isolated, and where conservation efforts should be prioritised.
“Understanding the genetic variation within and between eucalyptus species can tell us which populations are more resilient, which ones are isolated, and where we need to prioritise conservation efforts,” Stratmann said. “Eucalypts are incredibly important, not just ecologically, but culturally and economically,” he said. “They’re keystone species in many Australian ecosystems, and Tasmania is home to some of the most distinctive and rare types.”
Stratmann’s fieldwork involves collecting samples from eucalyptus populations and analysing their genetic structure and local adaptation to climate. The findings will inform conservation strategies and support landholders and community groups engaged in environmental restoration and native vegetation management. “Engaging with people on the ground is one of the most rewarding parts of this work,” he said. “Conservation is a shared responsibility, and it’s exciting to see how research can support community-driven efforts.”
His decision to relocate to Hobart was driven by the University’s reputation in environmental science and its strong ties with conservation organisations. “I knew I wanted to do work that could have a real-world impact,” he said. “Tasmania offered the chance to study in a place where nature is still accessible and relatively intact and where people are passionate about protecting it.”
Stratmann credits the University’s supportive academic environment for helping him settle in and thrive. “There’s a really strong research culture here. My supervisors have been incredibly generous with their time and knowledge, and the university has excellent facilities for both field and lab work. It’s been a great environment to grow in as a scientist.” He also finds inspiration in Tasmania’s natural beauty. “You don’t have to go far from campus to be in the bush,” he said. “That connection to place is a big part of what keeps me motivated.” Moving forward, he hopes to continue his work through postgraduate research in eucalyptus genetics. “There’s still so much we don’t know, and I feel really lucky to be contributing to that knowledge here in Tasmania.”
- Please note: This article was written using extracts from an article that appeared on the University of Tasmania website on August 8, 2025. For more information, click here to read the full article.
