From Forest to Fjaeldmark: Descriptions of Tasmania's Vegetation. 2005. Maps. photogr. 432 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

The principle aim of this book is to describe the classification of mapping units, including ecological vegetation communities used in TASVEG. However, this historical context of vegetation mapping in Tasmania is important because the TASVEG map originates from severalmapping processes. An understanding of these is necessary to Tasmania'sbiophysical environment is given for the benefit of mapping users outside the state. This will not duplicate the excellent publications already existing, such as Vegetation of Tasmania to which serious usersof vegetation mapping would be advised to refer for additional information. The description of each of the 158 mapping units, most ofthem ecological vegetation communities, form the bulk of this book andwill be an essential reference for those seeking to interpret themapping. The format of these descriptions is consistent, descriptiveand cross-referenced with relevant literature and other processes. Aphotograph of each communiy is included to assist the user to visualisethe community type. Each description includes an example locality,distinguishing features and similar types, a thumbnail distribution map,a list of the bioregions in which the community occurs, the site characteristics, habitat and ecology, the composition and structure ofthe community and equivalent floristic communities. Each of thesesub-headings in the descriptions is explained in more detail at thebeginning of Chapter 4. All the mapping units are grouped in this chapter under 11 headings that reflect major broad vegetation types orlandscape types. A key is provided for determining which of the 11sections will contain the description being sought. The proceduresunderpinning the vegetation mapping process, including its GIS processes, are described in a seperate technical manual. Many improvements have been made in the mapping since it began. This bookis one of a range of publications being produced to support and explainthe fundamental natural resource information being developed and maintained in Tasmania.