Tane Mahuta is the world's oldest Kauri [kou-ree] tree. Kauri trees are native giants to New Zealand and they are in danger. These massive trees have been harmed by the blade for hundreds of years, but now a more fierce and less understanding predator is on the prowl, Phytophthora Agathidicida.
Phytophthora Agathidicida is a soil living organism that attacks the roots of the Kauri tree. From there, this little bug works its way to the crown of the roots and all the way into the tree under the bark, in a tissue, called the secondary cambium. The secondary cambium is responsible for growth after the first season and increases the thickness of the trees. The disease can be seen on the outside of the tree, with white streaks at the base of the trunk. At that point, it is too late to save the tree as it takes many years for the disease to spread into the trunk. This little organism causes the Kauri trees to die prematurely, and recently it has been spreading like wildfire.
The first time I saw Tane Mahuta I was astonished...
It really wasn't that big of a tree. Don't get me wrong it was massive, but not any bigger than a Redwood or a Sequoia tree. I was astonished because this tree is dated to be 2,000 years old, and that, is absolutely insane! Around the tree, there was a fence and signs that stated that in the vicinity of this tree you should be quiet because it is a sacred place. It was an experience that is hard to explain. When you're looking at a tree this age, wondering what it has seen, what critters have called this place home, how long will it continue to live? It really was a humbling experience.
Phytophthora Agathidicida is killing off these magnificent trees. It is called by many Kauri dieback.
Many people are quickly trying to find ways to slow the spread of the disease, which is spreading almost out of control and causing great harm to the small population of Kauri trees that are left.
Phytophthora Agathidicida is spread through the soil. Moreover, moving soil from place to place is how the disease can be spread. Even if it is a very small particle, soil grains the size of salt grains can spread the disease to other Kauri trees.
This means that any wild/domesticated animal or human can cause harm by spreading the disease. Anything that moves soil can spread the disease, even water.
What Can You Do To Help Save These Magnificent Giant Trees?
1. Minimize soil movement
While walking near Kauri trees make sure to stay on marked paths, also keep your pet on the path. Try and avoid stepping near Kauri roots.
2. Always wash your shoes
Whenever you leave or enter a forested area, natural area, or hiking path be sure to scrape and rinse your shoes. This can help ensure that no soil is transferred far distances to other patches of Kauri trees. This tactic of washing shoes is also relevant to any sort of species or organism movement. Rule of thumb, whenever you enter or exit a natural area, wash your shoes. There could be many invasive species seeds within the creases on the bottom of your shoe waiting to wreak havoc on native species.
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