Ms Starsha Bird1, Dr Shaun Wilkinson2, Dr Ang McGaughran1
1The University of Waikato, Hamilton, Aotearoa New Zealand, 2Wilderlab New Zealand Ltd, Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand
Biography:
I recently completed an MSc (Research) with a major in Environmental Sciences at Te Whare Wananga o Waikato – The University of Waikato (UoW). I am now pursuing a PhD in Ecology and Biodiversity through the UoW. My environmental motivations stem from my passion and admiration for Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique environment and are deeply rooted in my whakapapa (ancestral connections). My tribal affiliations are with Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāruahine. I am interested in working on restoration projects, particularly in terrestrial and wetland ecosystems, with the goal of preserving and enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem functions. I am especially drawn to projects that incorporate te ao Māori (Māori worldview and perspectives), as I believe that drawing upon two knowledge systems can enrich and improve conservation outcomes.
Abstract:
Exotic species threaten biodiversity in Aotearoa New Zealand. In wetlands − significant sites that provide a range of ecosystem services and hold an intimate relationship with Māori − exotic species can affect hydrology, nutrient regimes, and overall ecological function. Yet, little is known about how native or exotic biodiversity varies in wetlands over fine and broad spatial scales. We used a publicly available environmental DNA (eDNA) database (Wilderlab New Zealand Ltd), comprising biodiversity data from 26 sites across the motu (country) to assess taxonomic diversity patterns, including the extent of exotic and non-exotic (native and endemic) species. We found significant spatial variation in biodiversity, even among neighbouring sites, and that all sites had ≥50% exotic species proportions in their total species tally. Our results provide new information on the current state of wetland biodiversity in Aotearoa New Zealand and highlight the value of eDNA databases for generating new insights from publicly shared data. However, they also emphasise an important caveat: ‘open science’ is responsible for upholding Indigenous data sovereignty. Historical and modern injustices have left Māori feeling disconnected from their whenua (land); thus, future research must acknowledge and incorporate Indigenous perspectives. This approach will help Māori rekindle the deep connection their tūpana (ancestors) once shared with their whenua, while simultaneously ensuring the persistence of treasured native and endemic wetland species.