Fire caused demographic attrition of the Tasmanian palaeoendemic conifer Athrotaxis cupressoides

Increasing lightning-ignited fires are causing significant demographic decline in the Tasmanian palaeoendemic conifer Athrotaxis cupressoides, with a 2016 fire killing 68% of stems and exacerbating poor regeneration rates. Research across its range revealed that burnt stands had higher grass cover, greater exposure to hot winds, and lower juvenile presence compared to unburnt areas. While island populations showed less fire impact but also poorer seedling survival, suggesting other factors limit regeneration. The study highlights the vulnerability of this iconic species despite protection under the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, emphasizing the need for proactive management strategies such as seed banking, restoration planting, and fuel load reduction to mitigate climate-driven fire risks.

Bowman, D. M. J. S., Bliss, A., Bowman, C. J. W., & Prior, L. D. (2019). Fire caused demographic attrition of the Tasmanian palaeoendemic conifer Athrotaxis cupressoides. Austral Ecology, 44(8), 1322–1339. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aec.12789