Large old trees are identified as among the most significant structures within native forests, not only in Australia but globally. These trees play a disproportionately large role in carbon storage when compared to smaller, younger trees.
Furthermore, large old trees provide critical nesting and denning hollows that are essential for the survival of hundreds of animal species. The loss of even a single such tree has considerable ecological implications.
The commentary highlights the ongoing disappearance of these vital forest components, suggesting logging as a primary driver of this trend. The slow but steady removal of large old trees represents a significant ecological concern for Australia’s biodiversity.
Source: Mongabay