New Zealand native plant seeds survive high heat in lab study
Scientists at the University of Canterbury found that mākaka and kōwhai seeds from New Zealand survived heating to 80C in a laboratory experiment.
Exotic species showed higher tolerance
Researchers heated native and exotic seeds in an oven to temperatures they might face during a fire. Invasive gorse seeds survived heating to 100C and sprouted, while some native species died after exposure. The team expected exotic plants which experience frequent fires in their homelands to be more tolerant than local varieties.
Native broom stimulated by heat
Mākaka seeds survived up to 80C and even sprouted when exposed to that temperature. Kōwhai also tolerated these high temperatures, though the report cuts off before detailing its specific reaction. Dr Sarah Wyse noted that native broom species can handle heat levels that stimulate germination.
Other natives failed the test
Māhoe, tī kōuka and matagouri seeds died after being heated in the study. The researchers say understanding if native seeds can survive is important as fires become more common in New Zealand.
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