Floristics and structure of the mossy cloud forest of Mt Gower summit, Lord Howe Island

Abstract

The summit of Mt Gower, Lord Howe Island (31 °33'S, 159°05'E), is a small area of 27 ha supporting mossy cloud forest. This study describes patterns in the floristic composition and structure of the vegetation of the summit, in relation to a range of environmental variables. A total of 42 vascular plant species was recorded, 86% of which are endemic to Lord Howe Island, and 17% of which are found only on the summit and upper slopes of Mt Gower and adjacent Mt Lidgbird. A complete species list for Mt Gower Is presented, including species from the present survey and all previously recorded species. The composition of the vegetation differed in gullies and on ridges, reflecting differences in substrate rockiness and soil moisture, and was also influenced by the number of bird burrows and aspect. The summit of Mt Gower is of high conservation significance, due to the restrIcted distribution of the habitat type it represents, its relatively undisturbed state and high levels of endemism. Potential threats to the summit vegetation include the impacts of climate change, seed predation by introduced rats, and the introduction of weed species and exotic pathogens such as Phytophthora cinnamomi.