Boulderfields of acidic rocks (non-volcanic)

Granite boulderfield, Lookout Range, NW Nelson (Susan Wiser)

Boulderfields are a collection of very large fragments of fallen detritus that have accumulated at the foot of a slope. Areas can appear similar to moraine (material deposited by glaciers). Granite and greywacke are the most common parent rocks. For many years, lichens and mosses may be the only colonists, particularly in alpine areas. Over time, boulderfields may be invaded from the margins by rhizomatous plants such as ferns and lianes. Older boulder fields at lower elevations may support woody species (e.g. snow totara) and communities (e.g. grey scrub and associated small trees), and provide fire breaks that allow remnants of vegetation to persist in otherwise disturbed landscapes. Pockets of fines can provide shaded, mesic habitats that allow herbaceous plants to persist.

Synonyms

Boulderfields of silicic rocks

Where do they occur?

On most granitic and greywacke mountain ranges in the South Island.

Notable flora and fauna

Threatened and rare plants include nationally critical Myosotis albosericea, nationally endangered Veronica cupressoides, the declining coral broom (Carmichaelia crassicaulis subsp. crassicaulis), North Westland snow tussock (Chionochloa juncea), Olearia lineata and Coprosma intertexta.

Threat status

Not threatened (Holdaway et al. 2012)

Threats

Browsing animals (goats, deer, tahr, chamois, hares and, possums) are likely to be present at some sites.

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua