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Factors predisposing rata-kamahi(Metrosideros umbellata-Weinmannia racemosa) forests to canopy dieback, Westland, New Zealand

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Abstract

In many areas of WestlandMetrosideros umbellata (southern rata) andWeinmannia racemosa (kamahi) have undergone apparently excessive canopy dieback over the las 30–40 years. Browsing by the introduced brushtail possum is the predominant trigger involved. However, the roles of predisposing factors have received little attention.

Dieback patterns indicate that the susceptibility of Westland rata-kamahi forest depends on their composition and structure. Stands containing abundant seral shrub hardwoods and a high proportion of old canopy trees are highly predisposed to dieback. Less dieback occurs in mature stands lacking seral species or in young apparently vigorous stands. Forest composition and structure are largely determined by site stability, i.e., the frequency and magnitude of physical disturbances such as mass movements. The underlying stability of different parent materials and landforms therefore largely determines rata-kamahi dieback patterns.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Forestry Research Centre, Forest Research Institute, PO Box 31-011, Christchurch, New Zealand

    Stewart G. H. Dr. & Rose A. B.

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  1. Stewart G. H. Dr.
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  2. Rose A. B.
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Stewart, G.H., Rose, A.B. Factors predisposing rata-kamahi(Metrosideros umbellata-Weinmannia racemosa) forests to canopy dieback, Westland, New Zealand. GeoJournal 17, 217–223 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02432925

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