Since 1991 epidemic dieback of the kelp Ecklonia radiata has been observed at the Leigh h4arine Reserve and other sites in northern New Zealand. As the dominant phaeophycean E. radiata is a very important component of the eastern coastal ecosystem, providing both food and refuge for many species. Examination of the E. radiata sap extracts by electron microscopy detected the presence of both straight (ca 280 nm) and flexuous (ca 700 to 900 nm) virus-like filamentous particles. Extracts from several dieback-affected plants also reacted positively with potyvirus group monoclonal antibody.

Containerized seedlings, grown in a newly developed, controlled environment greenhouse, can substantially reduce the time required to produce high quality seedlings, improve seedling survival rates in outplantings, and reduce net reforestation and afforestation costs. Plantable containerized stock can be produced in a greenhouse in 1 year as compared to 2 years for bare-root nursery stock and 3 years for potted seedlings. Moreover, the survival rate in outplantings for containerized seedlings is expected to be equal that for potted stock and almost twice that for bare-root stock. As a result, the costs per thousand surviving trees are estimated to be $460 for 2-0 bare-root stock, $441 for 2-1 potted stock, and $393 for containerized greenhouse seedlings. An equation is presented for determining the cost per thousand trees and for comparing between systems.

Lewis, Gordon D., compiler.

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