Persistent effects of a tephra eruption (AD 1655) on treeline composition and structure, Mt Taranaki, New Zealand

Tephra eruptions have significant long-lasting impacts on vegetation, and potentially explain extant vegetation patterns in volcanic landscapes. We quantified the effects of the AD 1655 Burrell Lapilli deposit, Mt Taranaki, on treeline vegetation. Where lapilli depth was 25–40 cm, a succession close to primary was initiated. Where lapilli depth was 5–25 cm, the canopy was opened, but some vegetation survived. Total tree basal area remains lower...