Fire is a natural part of the landscape, but may have varying effects on species depending on the history of fire in their native habitat. We are investigating the response of grassland plants to fire at Los Fresnos. We collected data on the abundance and diversity of plants on control and treatment plots prior to a controlled burn. The controlled burn (in Nov. 2005), coupled with a small natural burn in the area (Feb. 2006), burned seven plots and left seven control plots unburned. We are currently comparing the plants on these plots before and after the burn. We are also comparing select data on the insects on these plots. Preliminary results suggest that burning grasslands at Los Fresnos results in 1) higher abundance of some insect orders (e.g., orthoptera, lepidoptera), lower diversity (and abundance) of other insect orders (e.g., hymenoptera) and 2) increased success of non-native grasses. We hope to publish these results in relevant journals; in the meantime, contact Emilie Snell-Rood for more information.
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Alex Eilts and Anne Estes explore the grassland following a controlled burn (left); the grassland following a small natural burn (right).