Vines may fuel forest fires, new study finds

VINES THAT once protected vegetation from fire may now be drying into fuel, a University of York scientist has warned, as new research is uncovered that may have implications for Australia’s ecology following devastating bush fires.

Dr Andy Marshall, who holds joint positions at the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) in Australia and the University of York, is lead investigator in a five-year Forest Restoration and Climate Experiment (FoRCE) study.

Woody vines called lianas, he has found in his work to preserve forests, could become a fire hazard when dried by hot weather.

“Lianas growing extensively over the top of trees actually protect forests from fire, but if they’re not properly managed, dried lianas can act as fuel for fires,” said Dr Marshall.

“Increasing fire resulting from climate change is likely to worsen this effect because some forests will likely become too dry for lianas, leaving dried out vegetation behind for fires to spread – even up into the forest canopy.”

While unusual for rainforest areas, researchers have heard accounts of this happening in north Queensland which is of concern for forest managers, he added.

“Forests are also vital for our planet, so when vines are stopping them from growing or contributing to fuel loads, we need to take notice.”

The study is focussing on assessing whether lianas help or hinder the recovery of forests after damage caused by tree felling or cyclones.

Dr Marshall’s previous research has led to the discovery of two new tree species and a chameleon species.