Dendrochronology

Time-series analysis, a relatively uncommon technique in ecological studies, has been applied to annual tree growth-ring series. In agreement with earlier North American work, ARMA(1,1) models were found to be the predominant form for expressing stochastic growth processes, occurring in 58% of the 36 Nothofagus menziesii and N. solandri time-series examined. The remaining 42% conformed to an AR(1) process. The average parameter values of {0.79, 0.42} for the ARMA models are remarkably consistent with North American work.

The distinction is drawn in this paper between true dendrochronological studies (using crossdating) and studies using tree-ring counts to age trees or date events. The advantages of the former approach are emphasized. We summarize the main methods used in dendrochronology, concentrating on new approaches and techniques important in the New Zealand context, present a review of recent dendrochronological research in New Zealand, and finally discuss applications of dendrochronology relevant to New Zealand.