Ground Cover - Tree Canopy

AUS-TMI-LVG-TCC General Moderate confidence

Benchmark Value

40 %
Direction: Higher is desirable ↑
Form: MaximumOnly

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 19 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 18 guard(s) constrain the result.

Evidence & Context

A TCC greater than 40% constitutes an upper detrimental threshold.

Metric Definition:

Upper detrimental threshold for Tree Canopy Cover (TCC) above which woody encroachment and loss of fire-maintaining processes occur

Benchmark Definition:

The upper detrimental threshold beyond which pasture is suppressed and fire processes are disrupted, risking a shift to closed-canopy woodland.

Justification:

Exceeding 40% TCC breaks the grassy fuel continuity, preventing fire spread and triggering woody encroachment.

Supporting Sources (1)

Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.

Preview of Balancing trees and grass for improved grazing conditions in central Queensland
Balancing trees and grass for improved grazing conditions in central Queensland
Direct Evidence

Balancing trees and grass for improved grazing conditions in central Queensland

View Source

Context

  • Region Australia
  • Biome Tropical & Subtropical Maritime Islands
  • Land Use Livestock Grazing & Pasture
  • Assessment Not Stated
  • Evidence Type DegradationThreshold

Lifecycle

  • Status Active
  • Version 1
  • Effective From 10 Jun 2026

Notes

This threshold represents a critical ecological tipping point in tropical savanna grazing systems. AssessmentContext defaulted to 'Not Stated' because the source document did not state one.