Basal Area
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 18 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 17 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
Analysis indicates a critically low basal area for this biome/land-use is <2 m²/ha, below which ecosystem degradation accelerates.
Basal area (BA) is a standard forestry metric that quantifies stand density by summing the cross-sectional area of tree stems at a standardized height (typically 1.3 m) over a given area, expressed as square metres per hectare (m²/ha).
This benchmark defines the critical lower basal area threshold below which ecosystem degradation accelerates in the Arid Karstic Woodlands & Shrublands under livestock grazing.
This threshold is based on analysis indicating degradation accelerates below this basal area value.
Sources (1)
Grazing exclusion has nuanced effects on woody carbon stocks across Australian rangelands
View SourceSupporting Sources (4)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
A window of opportunity for climate-change adaptation: easing tree mortality by reducing forest basal area | Request PDF - ResearchGate
View SourceDoes grazing exclusion in Australia's rangelands affect biomass and debris carbon stocks? - CSIRO Publishing, accessed April 29, 2025,
View Source
Method for Rangeland condition monitoring: shrubland - Government of Western Australia
View SourceThresholds of biodiversity and ecosystem function in a forest ecosystem undergoing dieback
View Source