This report investigates the presence of wet-adapted fauna – specifically nematodes and earthworms – in wetlands across New Zealand. It responds to a legal and environmental need to determine whether areas classified as wetlands in accordance with existing wetland delineation protocols support natural ecosystems of animals adapted to wet conditions.
Based on samples collected from 32 wetlands across five regions (Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, Otago, and Southland), the study provides empirical evidence that nematodes and earthworms are present in all wetlands sampled, including those that are seasonally dry or subject to enforcement action. These findings support arguments presented by an expert panel that wet-adapted fauna are virtually certain to occur in areas that otherwise meet conditions outlined in the wetland delineation protocols.
This report investigates the presence of wet-adapted fauna – specifically nematodes and earthworms – in wetlands across New Zealand. It responds to a legal and environmental need to determine whether areas classified as wetlands in accordance with existing wetland delineation protocols support natural ecosystems of animals adapted to wet conditions.
Based on samples collected from 32 wetlands across five regions (Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury, Otago, and Southland), the study provides empirical evidence that nematodes and earthworms are present in all wetlands sampled, including those that are seasonally dry or subject to enforcement action. These findings support arguments presented by an expert panel that wet-adapted fauna are virtually certain to occur in areas that otherwise meet conditions outlined in the wetland delineation protocols.