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Asia is experiencing an alarming rate of inland wetlands loss, posing a risk to the future long-term survival of many species depending on these ecosystems. This review on the status and conservation of the little curlew (Numenius minutus) aims to draw attention to the conservation challenges faced by migratory shorebird species using the inland wetlands of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway (EAAF). Extensive and systematic research survey efforts along the EAAF have focused on species using coastal and tidal areas rather than on species using inland wetlands. Knowledge gaps include functional ecology and physiological responses to quality of food resources, population trends, migratory strategy and the role species play in supporting ecosystems resilience. Studies using remote sensing and geographic information system techniques to track the movements of birds along the flyway and to map habitat condition will prove essential in the future to allow a better understanding of the dynamics occurring at the stopover areas, how birds use resources and what competition pressures exist among species. Ultimately, these studies will contribute to our ability to predict changes and establish management practices for the long-term protection and conservation of the stopover areas for a suite of shorebird species using inland wetlands along the flyway.

Australia’s north supports many wetlands. The biodiversity of these wetlands is highly regarded, but many are increasingly being affected by well recognised pressures that result in adverse change in their ecological character. The extent of the knowledge base and causes of adverse change in Australia’s tropical wetlands are reviewed with an emphasis on the linkage between direct and indirect drivers of change. Within the context of the existing knowledge base, an integrated model for collecting information on the ecological character of tropical wetlands is proposed. The model encompasses hierarchical and multi-scalar approaches to wetland inventory, assessment and monitoring and was developed largely from research undertaken in northern Australia. It is based around the concepts of wise use and maintenance of the ecological character of wetlands, which in turn emphasises the value of wetlands to people through the delivery of ecosystem services. A broader conceptual framework linking ecosystem services and human well-being to the condition of wetlands is introduced as a forerunner to considering research needs for tropical Australian wetlands. The integrated model and framework entail community consultation and the involvement of stakeholders in decisions about wetland research and management. In conclusion, it is emphasised that the maintenance of the ecological character of the wetlands of northern Australia is a task for wetland managers, users and owners in collaboration with scientists from many disciplines.