Travis Marsh: invertebrate inventory and analysis

Abstract

Travis Marsh (next to New Brighton) being large (about 130 ha) and urban has much potential for recreation, education and research compared to the only other similarly diverse and large sites (L. Wairarapa, Taupo Marsh, Sinclair wetlands) in eastern New Zealand (Meurk 1995, McMillan & Reynolds 1996). Travis Marsh has 62 indigenous (native to New Zealand) vascular plant species. This represents 79 % of the original wetland floral diversity of Christchurch and probably lowland Canterbury. The peaty northern half has a sequence of three main marsh vegetation types, which are mapped (Meurk 1988).