S. "Topa" Petit

Dr. S. "Topa" Petit is an Associate Professor at the University of South Australia within the UniSA STEM division. Her research focuses on pollination ecology, wildlife conservation, and ecosystem services in agricultural landscapes. She has contributed extensively to understanding microhabitat dynamics and thermal regulation in arid ecosystems.

Research Themes

• Quantifying pollination success in crops
• Thermal refuge for reptiles during fire events
• Nitrogen cycling via ant foraging behavior

Key Articles

Her recent work examines prescribed fire impacts on small vertebrates, vegetation configuration effects on bee pollination, and grass-tree canopies as climate buffers. These studies highlight the interplay between habitat structure and species survival.

Collaborations & Grants

• UniSA Research Themes Investment Scheme
• Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment
• Playford Memorial Trust Scholarships