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Cassowaries are considered a keystone species. They play an important role in the ecology of the rainforest and bushland areas where they live, as they are vital in dispersing seeds in their native forests.
They are frugivores which feed on the fruit of up to 238 different species of plants. Because they are able to eat larger fruits, they can therefore can disperse large rainforest fruits after the seeds have passed through their digestive system, which is gentle enough to allow the seeds to remain viable. The cassowary has a wide range, so is also the only long distance means for dispersing large seeded fruits. The seeds are excreted into a pile of the cassowary's own dung, meaning the seeds have their own ready-made pile of fertiliser. The smell of the dung even helps to deter seed-eating predators such as the white-tailed rat. Of the hundreds of fruit-bearing species on which the cassowary feeds, between 70 and 100 of them appear to rely completely on the cassowary for dispersal.
The cassowary also plays a major role as it is if considerable cultural significance to the indigenous people of the rainforests of North Queensland, where the Southern cassowary is found.
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What are the three types of cassowary?
The three species of cassowary are: Southern cassowary, or double-wattled cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) Northern cassowary, or single-wattled cassowary (Casuarius casuarius) Bennett's cassowary, or dwarf cassowary (Casuarius bennetti)
What is the scientific name for the cassowary?
The genus name of the cassowary is Casuarius.There are three species of cassowary:Southern cassowary, or double-wattled cassowary (Casuarius casuarius)Northern cassowary, or single-wattled cassowary (Casuarius casuarius)Bennett's cassowary, or dwarf cassowary (Casuarius bennetti)
Is a cassowary an amphibian?
A cassowary is a flightless bird.
Is a cassowary a reptile?
No. The cassowary is a large, flightless bird.
What animal eats the cassowary plum in the Australian rain forest?
In the Australian rainforest, the cassowary plum is primarily eaten by the cassowary itself, a large flightless bird known for its role as a seed disperser. Other animals that may consume the fruit include various rainforest birds and mammals, such as possums and bats. The cassowary's digestive system helps to break down the seeds, facilitating their germination and contributing to the ecosystem's health. This mutualistic relationship underscores the importance of the cassowary in maintaining biodiversity in its habitat.
How long is a cassowary's spikes on its feet?
A cassowary does not have spikes: it has claws. The claws on a cassowary's toes are around 12cm long.
Is the cassowary still alive?
Yes. Both the Southern cassowary of Australia and the Northern cassowary, also known as the Golden-neck cassowary, of the island of New Guinea, are alive and well.
When was Dwarf Cassowary created?
Dwarf Cassowary was created in 1857.
When was Northern Cassowary created?
Northern Cassowary was created in 1860.
When was Southern Cassowary created?
Southern Cassowary was created in 1758.
How do cassowary grow and walk?
Cassowary grow like kangaroo.
Why is cassowary eggs green?
Cassowary eggs are green due to the presence of pigments in the eggshell, primarily biliverdin, which is a breakdown product of hemoglobin. This green coloration helps provide camouflage in the dense forest floor of their natural habitat, protecting the eggs from potential predators. Additionally, the unique coloration may also play a role in regulating temperature and protecting the eggs from harmful UV rays.
