Sydney, Nov 14 – New research from Melbourne’s Deakin University, published in Nature, highlights the extensive impact of Australia’s 2019-20 Black Summer bushfires on the country’s biodiversity. This study, which analyzed 1, 380 native animal and plant species, reveals that 55% of them experienced declines following the fires. These megafires, some of the worst in Australian history, scorched 24.3 million hectares, primarily on the east coast, causing 34 direct fatalities and additional deaths from smoke inhalation.
The report shows mammals were especially affected, with population declines double those of other groups. However, about 44% of species showed increased abundance in burned areas, likely benefiting from changes in habitat dynamics that disadvantaged others.
Compiled by over 100 scientists, the study calls for a re-evaluation of Australia’s current fire management strategies, especially fuel-reduction burns conducted pre-bushfire season. While prescribed burns are aimed at reducing fire intensity, the study finds that they could lead to larger ecosystem disruptions when large fires occur.
Key findings include:
Areas burned three or more times in the past 40 years had a 93% higher negative biodiversity impact.
Sites burned in the decade before the Black Summer had 70% larger impacts compared to those with 20+ years since their last burn.
The study suggests fire intervals of 11-20 years for reduced biodiversity disruption and emphasizes longer intervals to allow for critical habitat recovery, such as tree hollows essential for some species.
This research underscores the need for a balanced approach to fire management, aiming to protect biodiversity while mitigating bushfire risks.