Predicted New Zealand Distribution
The potential distribution of L. humile in New Zealand was predicted using temperature and land cover data (Harris 2002). Much of Northland and coastal areas of the North Island are considered to be at high risk of establishment. Except for urban areas, most of central and southern New Zealand is considered too cold. Indigenous scrub/low stature vegetation is the native habitat considered most at risk, while indigenous forest is unlikely to be invaded (Harris 2002, Harris et al. 2002). Many offshore islands contain suitable habitat for the establishment of L. humile should it be transported there. Spread to areas outside urban development will be slow, as unassisted dispersal is only about 150 m/yr (Suarez et al. 2001).
North Island map (138 KB)
South Island map (100 KB)
 |
|
| Impacts | |