Home1 July 2025
The communities of microbes living in and around plants play an important role in shaping plant growth, health, and resilience. Yet, we still know little about how these microbial communities interact with each other and with the environment to influence tree growth.
This research investigates the microbiome of Kunzea ericoides (Kānuka) across 30 sites on Te Pātaka o Rākaihutū | Banks Peninsula spanning strong gradients in elevation and rainfall. By sequencing microbial communities in multiple plant compartments and neighbouring vegetation, we explore relationships between microbiome composition, tree growth, and environmental conditions. These results highlight the potential of microbial communities as indicators of forest health and suggest how they may respond to climate change.
About the presenter
John is an early-career researcher exploring how plant–microbe interactions influence tree growth, forest health, and ecosystem resilience. His work spans multiple spatial scales, integrating field studies, microbial DNA sequencing, and satellite-based remote sensing to uncover the ecological patterns that shape forests across diverse environmental conditions. John is a local to Christchurch, having completed his BSc and MSc from Lincoln University and his PhD at the University of Canterbury.
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More information
- Article | Redefining what it means to be a healthy ecosystem
Like humans, ecosystems might become ‘unhealthy’ through stressors like pests, weeds and pathogens that affect their ability to function and be productive. Some ecosystems can recover on their own, while others may need human intervention. But before people can intervene and restore what is damaged, they first need to understand what a ‘healthy’ ecosystem looks like.
- Research | Understanding the drivers of plant health
Explore John’s research, which investigates the role of the plant microbiome in supporting plant health, and assessing its potential transferability to enhance restoration plantings.
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- Project Co-lead | Identifying New and Emerging Microbial Threats
Explore the Tranche 2 project co-led by John, Identifying New and Emerging Microbial Threats, improving how we detect, monitor, and understand microbial risks across dynamic landscapes.
Find out more about this project >>
About Rangahau Rising Webinar Series
Rangahau Rising is a new webinar series showcasing emerging researchers who are asking bold questions and exploring new directions in bioprotection. Each session features an early career researcher sharing their journey, ideas, and in-progress work across a range of bioprotection topics.