Extinct and introduced vertebrate species in New Zealand: a loss of biodistinctiveness and gain in biodiversity

Abstract

During the 1 000 years that people have lived in New Zealand 50 vertebrate species have become extinct. Other species are extinct on the mainland but survive on island refugia. In the 150 years since European colonization 95 vertebrate species have been introduced and habitat changes have allowed 10 additional bird species to colonize. All but one of the extinct species were endemic and 24 belonged to families or orders endemic to New Zealand. All but one of the introduced and colonizing species are common in their homelands. Although there are now more vertebrate species in New Zealand than there were at the time of human settlement, the previously highly distinctive fauna is becoming increasingly cosmopolitan. The impact faunal change has had on terrestrial ecosystems is poorly known. It is important that conservation priorities be based on an appreciation of faunal and ecological changes rather than responding to crises one species at a time.