Spatial scale in prescribed fire regimes: an understudied aspect in conservation with examples from the southeastern United States

Abstract The idea that not all fire regimes are created equal is a central theme in research and conservation. Fire frequency ( i.e., temporal scale) likely the most studied regime attribute as it relates to conservation of fire-adapted ecosystems. Generally, converges on primary filter plant community assembly structure, which often critical goals. Thus, success commonly linked regimes. spatial scale may also be vital outcomes, but this underrepresented literature. In our global, contemporary literature search, we found 37 published syntheses concerning effects prescribed over last decade. those syntheses, only 16% included studies reported data-based inferences related fire, whereas 73% discussion empirical scale. Only one discussed explicitly tested extent, none were experiments manipulating Further, understanding spatial-scale-dependent patterns relevant because two databases fire-occurrence data from United States indicated among lightning-ignited fires have been mismatched past few decades. Based rich ecological base demonstrates pervasive scale-dependent ecology, relationships outcomes likely. Using examples southeastern States, explored potential for fire. particular, highlighted (a) influence wildlife populations by dispersion habitat components, (b) modulate structure affecting seed dispersal mechanics herbivory. Because understudied occurring, encourage researchers address prescribed-fire using comparative manipulative approaches.