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Twenty-two terrestrial and over 20 marine mammal faunas are currently recognized in the fossil record of Victoria, representing one of the most complete records of mammal evolution in Australia. Although the earliest recorded terrestrial mammals come from the Early Cretaceous, the majority of the faunas are concentrated in the Pliocene and Pleistocene, whereas the marine mammal record spans the Late Oligocene–Holocene. Despite the generally fragmentary nature of the fossil remains, many of the faunas are diverse and offer insights into the changes in palaeoecology and palaeoenvironmental conditions of the region over time. The terrestrial mammal faunas follow the global trend with the appearance of more arid-adapted species in the late Pliocene; however, a number of Pliocene–Pleistocene coastal sites indicate the continued presence of wet forest refugia, with several relict species occurring in the Early Pleistocene. Most of the faunas are well dated, providing a basis for the production of a biostratigraphic framework, essential for the more accurate dating of mammals in Australia. Two new diverse mammal sites, Childers Cove and Portland, are a welcome addition to the Pliocene records of both terrestrial and marine mammals. Marine mammal research is only in its early stages, but the Victorian record is fundamental in understanding the evolution of cetaceans in the southern oceans. The known diversity of species has increased substantially as a result of recent research. Some well-preserved specimens, including complete skulls, have implications for cetacean systematics, including basal mysticetes. However, much more work needs to be focused on the cataloguing, preparation, description and interpretation of the faunas to take full advantage of this excellent record. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floras (and Faunas) have a rich history that involves examining questions on evolution and biogeography. However, in recent publications Floras have been viewed as an end unto themselves, separate from clade-based monographs and evolutionary studies. Floras are not a separate entity but rather a part of a continuum that involves databases, checklists, floras, biodiversity studies, and conservation biology as well as monographs. As the importance of Floras and related studies has become more apparent, there have been comments about the lag time between when specimens are collected and when they are identified, the amount of time it takes to describe new taxa, and how long it takes to finish floras and other projects. Some have referred to this as the "Taxonomic Impediment", and it is sometimes laid at the feet of taxonomists. Taxonomists can become more efficient by using various on-line resources and this will continue to speed up as more literature, etc. become available but the impediments to taxonomy are many, not the least of which is a lack of funding and the dwindling number of taxonomists. Changes in how systematists work and interact with other branches of science must take place in order to speed up research and re-establish the importance of Floras but only a substantial infusion of funds and personnel will really accelerate our progress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]