ordination

Human impacts in Aotearoa New Zealand have considerably damaged native ecosystems, and conservation efforts must therefore preserve remaining ecosystems and restore degraded areas. However, restoration efforts must address several challenges including species authenticity, plant survival and seedling regeneration in the presence of exotic competition, browsing mammals, and vagaries of climate. Styx Mill Conservation Reserve (SMCR), Christchurch, contains a remnant freshwater wetland in a floodplain complex where restoration activities were initiated in 2000 under a 40-year plan.

Habitat disturbance is a significant factor contributing to biodiversity decline worldwide. Amphibians are particularly vulnerable because of their specific microclimatic and microhabitat requirements. In Aotearoa New Zealand, Archey’s frogs (Leiopelma archeyi) have shown some degree of resilience to severe habitat disturbance historically. However, it is unknown how much L. archeyi populations are currently being impacted by historical and ongoing mining activities and development within their range.