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 5 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 4 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
persistent basal area values falling below 2-3 m²/ha across significant areas may signify severe degradation.
Basal area as defined above.
This benchmark defines a basal area range below which significant degradation of ecosystem structure, function, and biodiversity occurs in tropical monsoonal savanna forests under conservation management.
Values below this range indicate loss of essential savanna woodland functions and severe degradation.
Sources (1)
Additional peer-reviewed articles underpinning concepts of woody encroachment, fire ecology, and savanna dynamics as cited from search results like.1
View SourceSupporting Sources (3)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Liddell, M. J., Preece, N. D., Krix, D., Edwards, A. C., & Hutley, L. B. (2024). Seasonal litter decomposition and accumulation in north Australian savanna. International Journal of Wildland Fire, WF24053.
View Source
Murphy, B. P., Lehmann, C. E. R., Russell-Smith, J., & Lawes, M. J. (2015). Fire or Water: Which Limits Tree Biomass in Australian Savannas? In: Ecology of Australian Freshwater Plants (pp. 273-294). CSIRO Publishing.
View SourceEyre, T. J., et al. (2011). BioCondition: A Condition Assessment Framework for Terrestrial Biodiversity in Queensland. Assessment Methodology Manual. Version 2.1. Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management.
View Source