- Do you think global warming has anything to do with increased number of forest fires?
- What are both the pros and cons of forest fires?
- How do forest forest fires relate to ecology?
This is a 10 point discussion assignment. In order to get the 10 points, I would like you to comment to this post below. Write a scholarly response using ecology vocabulary from this unit. For an extra 2 points, you may comment on another student's discussion response. Do you agree? Do you disagree? Why? Can you provide scientific proof?
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| The Rim Fire burning in Yosemite National Park on August 22, 2013. Image: NASA Earth Observatory. |
Keim, Brandon. (8.30.2013). After the Fire: The Uncertain Future of Yosemite's Forests. Wired. Retrieved from: http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2013/08/yosemite-after-the-fire/
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ReplyDeleteI think global warming and climate change have a lot to do with forest fires, because warm, humid and dry air creates these fires. and, when places like Yosemite have droughts, it affects the chance of it getting forest fires. Global warming also takes a big part in it because since global warming means a big increase of the Earth's temperature, thus, creating more wildfires. some pros of forest fires is that global warming may prevent the next 'ice age' from coming, and places like the arctic, antarctic, and siberia may experience a significant increasing change in their plant growth. Some cons is how the higher sea level may flood low-lands, wiping out a community. Forest fires relate to ecology because there is a type of ecology called forest ecology, studying how forest fires start, and linking up with how the fires naturally start, and other ways on how they start.
ReplyDeleteI agree with what you said about how global warming may cause climate change, but I think global warming is not the actual source, I believe its us humans as a population that cause many of these fires, not always global warming.
DeleteI agree with your opinion on the forest fires and global warming. I too think that the fires are caused by the increase temperatures of global warming, and droughts. Many factors can support a wildfire however global warming is giving them a boost as its raising temperatures drying everything out. wildlife management branch stated that " dry grass, dead leaves, and tree needles.. ignite quickly and cause rapid spread of fire." Because of the droughts this is easily happening.
DeleteI agree with your view on how global warming can instigate forest fires because of climate change. With warm, humid, dry air, there's more of a risk of a fire to form. I found it interesting how you brought up the term ice age that was used loosely in the article in addition to providing a valid point as to how forest fires are connected with ecology.
DeleteI agree about global warming having to do with forest fires. A lot of fires start in areas that are dry and humid so its more likely for the fire to start.
DeleteI do not think that global warming has anything to do with the increased number of forest fires. Fires are good because for one thing, fire is a natural element and fires can occur naturally in many ecosystems. Second, fires burn all of the dead stuff so that new healthy stuff can grow, and they also kill all of the non native plants in that area. Fires are something Mother Nature is going to do whether we want her to or not. But sometimes they can be harmful because they will set fire to more trees and might kill animals or burn down nearby houses. They will kill the environment so that animals and plants have no place to live. Forest fires have to do with ecology because fires are interactions between organisms and their physical environment, and ecology is the scientific study of interactions among organisms and between organisms and their physical environment.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mikayla's pros about forest fires and how some good can come out of them.
DeleteI also agree with the pros about forest fires, especially how fires can kill the non-native plants in a forest that should not be there. But then again, I also agree that it is sad that animals and other inhabitants are in danger when these fires occur.
DeleteI agree with your pros and I too think it is sad that they will all be killed.
DeleteGlobal warming has a lot to do with the number of fires at Yosemite. As temperatures increase so do the number of droughts. This dried out land increases the chance of fires. Not only does it increase the amount of fires but also enhances how big they are. these droughts supply, "Dry grass, dead leaves, and tree needles..[that] ignite quickly and cause rapid spread of fire"(Wildfire Management Branch). therefore, the warmer temperatures of Global warming have a huge effect on the wild fires. An obvious con of forest fires can be that is a source of destruction, destroying ecosystems and physical environments in its path. Another being that intense fires can demolish soil banks and root structures of trees resulting in a scrub filled, easy burnable forest. Recently, they have also discovered that some fires are becoming to be too big to control, and burning more then they can handle. however there are a few pros that balance out the effective cons. for one, the old seeds on the ground will be cracked open by the heat, exposed to the moisture, germinate, and begin there cycle of vegetation.(after the fire)They can also be beneficial in preventing the next ice age, with all the heat. Forest fires can be related to ecology in the sense that affects ecosystems and has a non-living interaction itself. forest fires can tear down habitats and kill some populations, causing them to have too tolerate and evolve to the new circumstances. Carl skinner is one example of an ecologist that specifies on the relationship fire has with the vegetation. thus, forest fires can easily be related to ecology for it effects it in numerous ways.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Jessie, global warming has a lot to do with the number of fires at Yosemite.
DeleteI agree with Jessie. Global warming is another "fuel" in the spread of forest fires. With the lack of rain in some areas, and the sweltering heat, wildfires are becoming less and less uncommon.
DeleteAfter reading the article, I personally think that global warning does not have anything to do with the increased amount of forest fires because most fires are all started from us humans as a population. Many forest fires are cause by us in our Biomes in America, we have many forests which are old and prone to catching fire, so a little mistake from a human can cause an even larger mistake throughout the forest. But, these forest fires have there goods and bads. The good in forest fires are that they can burn down the old trees and when burnt down, produce seeds in order to grow new trees. Over summer, I went to the redwoods and there were trees that were burnt down, but produces even more trees from when it fell. The bad in the forest fires is that it spreads quickly and sometimes if too quickly, the fires are hard to stop. The forest fires also kill off many species of animals and plants in the Biotic Factor. Forest fires also relate to ecology because what i said earlier, the forest fires when spread kill off the species of animals and planets in the Biotic Factor. The fires hurt the physical environment which is a big part of ecology.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, global warming does have to do with forest fires. The dry vegetation from the heat is perfect for a forest fire. The pros of a forest fire is that it burns down the shrubs and prevents more forest fires. The cons of forest fires are that they cause much harm including burning houses and sometimes people. Ecology is the study of interactions with organisms and their environments. Forest fires relate to ecology because they cause harm to our environment and that interferes with the organisms too.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your comment, I didn't think about the fact that the heat drys the vegetation and causes them the burn easier, that is a good point.
DeleteI think global warming has helped increase the chance of forest fires by creating drier, warmer conditions; however I feel like the actual cause of the fires are humans who don't consider the conditions of the environment before they light a campfire, or cigarette lighter. They may not realize that global warming has dried out the area and chances of a wildfire are more likely. I think the pros of a forest fire are creating space for new growth, killing off invasive species of plants and allowing the indigenous species to grow back. Some cons however would be harm to animals, loss of habitats and homes and if the fire gets out of control then loss of resources. Forest fires relate to ecology because ecology is the study of the interactions of organisms and their interactions with nature and their environment. Therefore, it is related because forest fires affect both the organisms and their environments.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you and your view on the increasing chance of a forest fire due to careless campers, but what is your view on natural forest fires? Do they exist? Is it because of more cigarette buds being dropped on the forest floors or unattended camp fires? I'm just curious on your opinions.
DeleteTo Rosemary I agree that natural forest fires aren't that common but they still happen. A natural forest fire could start because lightning hit a tree I admit there is a very low chance of this happening but lightning is believed to be one way early humans discovered fire. Also if it is hot an dry enough then the heat could cause a fire.
DeleteFrom reading this article, global warming could corroborate to the increased number of fires in Yosemite because if Earth increases in temperature while habitats with dry climates or vegetation are provided with no source of water, then a higher risk of forest fires are imminent. With forest fires, they both aid and provide dangers to our community. From them, we have the open possibilities of eradicating dead life and replacing it with the new in addition to having improved plant and animal communities. However, forest fires also tend to inflict damage to both their environment and the organisms around them, which can cause a lack in resources, primary producers, and all sorts of problems involving both the forest's population and organisms' tolerance. Finally, forest fires are germane to ecology because they affect organisms' ecosystems. Fire itself may be an abiotic factor, though it takes a role in interacting with the physical environment including both various species and communities.
ReplyDeleteI think that global warming is only one reason why there are increased forest fires now than there used to be. Although there are other factors like for example droughts, and careless campers leaving there fires unattended. Forest fires can be both helpful and dangerous. Controlled forest fires are a great way to get rid of dead trees, and it also helps keep the forest from growing too large. The dangers of forest fires is that a controlled forest fire can easily get out off control and burn down most or all of the forest and kill all the wild life that live there(worst case scenario). How forest fires relate to ecology is the fact that to many organisms forests are there habitat or home, and when a forest fire burns down there habitat it kills a lot of the animals that lived there. The creators that escape the fire won't survive long because many resources that they needed to survive were most likely destroyed by the fire.
ReplyDeleteI agree with everything you said and I really like the part about the controlled forrest fires, never would have thought of that. I also like how you stated how some of the fires are started with the camp fires and droughts.
DeleteI agree with you that many of the animals in the forest die from the fire, and i also liked that you said that the creatures that survive the fire may not survive long after because there resources may have been destroyed by the fire.
DeleteIn my opinion global warming is for sure one reasons why forest fires are so common now, the warmer it gets the dryer the wood, making it easier for the trees to catch fire. forest fires are both good and bad they can destroy wildlife and their homes and they can release a thick smoke, a couple years a go there was a forest fire near to where i lived some of the kids i went to school with had to evacuate their homes,forest fires can also be good a good hing some plants need fire to reproduce. Some ecosystems need fire,it can put nutrients back into the soil and it can also damage ecosystems.
ReplyDeleteGlobal Warming is not necessarily a primary reason for an increased number of forest fires. For one thing, forest fires have been happening for a long time, not just since we have become aware of a change in our climate. Now more than ever, we are becoming more aware of these fires, which may be part of the reason for the increased number- we are just simply able to record more of them. Forest fires used to go on unnoticed in some places, and now that is not the case. However, increased air pollution, drought,and careless human error can al lead to more fires. The effects of these fires are both devestating and rejuvinating. The fire clears out dead plants and debris, allow the ashes to provide nutrients for the soil and more sunlight for new growth. It also prevents from the forest to become too overgrown. On the other hand, these fires can take the lives of animal and plant populations, some of which may not be able to recover from the destruction. Forest fires definitely relate to ecology. The fire effects how plants and animals interact with each other. Their environment undergoes a drastic change. Relationships are dirupted and the dynamic of the forest ecosystem shifts. Fires are a large part of the way a forest functions.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your points on how global warming isn't the only factor that causes forest fires, but there are others as well. I also liked how you brought up that the reason it seems that forest fires have increased could just be a result of the fact that now we are actually recording and documenting them.
DeleteI agree with you about how the careless behavior of humans can affect the forest fires. Maybe if we polluted less, the rate of these forest fires could decrease. Also, i like how you worded that "the fires affect how the plants and animals interact with each other".
DeleteI believe that global warming does affect the number of forest fires that occur. With the temperature rising it and smaller amounts of rain and snow the weather makes it just perfect for the dry forests and hot weather to have a large fire started. The pros of forest fires are that it helps pines seeds fall out and start new trees. After a fire the soil is almost perfect for planting plants and it helps some trees remain the dominant species in some forests. It's cons are that it does mass destruction to cities, ecosystems, establishments, etc. Forrest fires relate to ecology because they interfere with ecosystems such as animals, people, terrain, and plants. It can be in a good way such as it is for the pines or it could be bad like it would be for some animals caught in the fire.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Brandon's statement about global warming affecting the rainfall. The warmer climate and lack of rain would most definitely set conditions for a forest fire. I also agree with his pros and cons and how the fire would help the soil.
DeleteForest fires are undoubtedly a controversial topic. They tie into the topic of global warming, and many people still debate whether or not forest fires really are beneficial to our environment. Global warming probably does have an effect on our many forests, as the temperature steadily grows warmer and certain trees grow drier and drier. And of course, with dry trees, you are bound to have a large risk of forest fires. Forest fires, at first glance, are tragic, especially when they occur in such a monumental area like Yosemite. The article almost considers the fires a 'reboot', and this could be considered a correct terms. Forest fires are a huge part of any forest ecosystem, as they help many things die, return nutrients to the soil, and sow the seeds for new plants--and animals, for that matter-to return to the area. A fire could easily represent an ecological revolution for a certain area, furthermore tying this article and the topic to ecology. The forests that house many animals are in fact part of our biosphere, and with any change in the environment, there is an ultimate change in an ecosystem. The change, in this case, may just be for a better, ecologically refreshed Yosemite.
ReplyDeleteFrom reading the article and finding additional research, global warming is taking part in the spread of forest fires. With the heat index drastically rising, and receiving little rainfall in some areas, the chance for a wildfire to strike is very common compared to what it was 30 years ago. This isn't necessarily a bad thing. Forest fires can be beneficial to the reproduction of seeds as well as eliminate any dead, unwanted plants. Despite the positives of forest fires, there are many harms they can cause, and worries taking place. Depending on the severity of the fire, they can be very hard to keep under control. With the lack of manage, a wildfire can spread to local suburbs, and other forests. Forest fires are also financially devastating. With property damage and fire-suppression costs, one fire can cost home owners and the government over $1 billion dollars. An ecologist would take very close note when a forest/wild fire breaks out. A forest fire shows how different species interact with each other when forced to work in a changing environment. Their tolerance to the environment is put to the limit.
ReplyDeleteI think that global warming has a lot to do with the increase in forest fires because the drier climates make it easier for fires to start. Fires are good for nature because it burns all the non-native plants and it maintains good nitrogen levels in the soil. But this does not mean that forest fires are all good they cause thousands of people to evacuate there homes each year and homes are destroyed. Because fires now are larger and more intense it incinerates soil seeds that new trees would sprout form this means it will take longer for the land to recover. It relates to ecology in the way that it is an Abiotic factor because it is a non living part of the environment and if there were no wild fires the community would not survive.
ReplyDeleteI agree, it seems to be a big chain reaction that keeps repeating.
DeleteI also agree. Forest fires have a positive and negative effect on the ecosystem of the affected area, that repeats itself over the course of time.
DeleteI agree, 100%, with your first sentence. As the climate gets hotter from global warming, the planet, in turn, gets much drier. As a result of a dry planet, forest fires have a much better chance of occurring (there is less moisture).
DeleteAfter reading, i believe global warming is not a cause of forest fires. I believe this because even though global warming causes hot, humid, and dry air in the environment-which is perfect weather for a fire to spread- I think the majority of forest fires are caused by arson and the carelessness of a human. Although forest fires do come with many disadvantages, some pros are that they burn away the already dead trees, land, wildlife, ect. Which makes room for new, healthy organisms to grow. Some cons of forest fires are they kill trees which is the primary source of the air we breathe. Also, the fires can kill all animals or wildlife and become a serious detriment to the environment-including humans- around it. Forest fires relate to ecology because there is a study of forest ecology so you can then get a deeper understanding of the fire. Also, the fire can test the tolerance of its environment.
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ReplyDeleteI think that global warming is a problem and part of it is that it snowballs. As it gets hotter and dryer during the summer it makes it more likely for a forest fire to take place. And because of all the smoke it affect not only the quality of air for us but it also speeds up global warming. Causing in turn even dryer summers to cause more forest fires. It is a big chain reaction. But the good news is after each forest fire the ground has nutrient rich ash from the previous fire allowing for a new one.
ReplyDeleteYou have a good point. But I would like to add that forest fires have been going on since the beginning of time, while global warming has just recently spiked. We've determined much of that reason is due to the human population. I feel like humans cause a lot of the environmental problems of the world. If we weren't here, maybe the earth would be much healthier. I think the forest fire chain is a natural one that isn't going to lead to the ultimate destruction. It's what was to happen anyway.
DeleteI believed everything that you said. The drier climate, and the warmer temperatures do have a great impact on the amount of forest fires taking place.
DeleteI agree 100% when you said that forest fires are getting worse and worse because of global warming. The worse global warming gets the more dry the environment will be causing more fires. I also never thought about the big chain but when I think about it kind of makes sense since it keeps on going around and is all natural but helps out the environment in some important ways. Good points
DeleteGlobal warming is definitely a factor relating to forest fires, as it is causing perfect conditions in which fires can spread such as humidity, and heat; but it is not the only factor. The other factor would be the desire to protect homes, as the article stated. Because of the desire to protect their homes, people would extinguish the fires that were of short duration. This caused smaller trees to grow and the amount of dead wood to increase, resulting in much more flammable forests, and the milder fires to rage into fires of monstrous characters. There fires seem to just be the destroyers of all life at first glance, as they have the power to harm many organisms, which could lead to species endangerment and eventually extinction; however these fires have more to offer than what meets the eye. These fires can so to speak, wake up dormant seeds, provoking them to sprout and grow. Also, they take down the older and nearly dead, or the dead plants, allowing new life to find its way into the forest. These fires relate to ecology because they can influence the way the organisms react with each other and to their environment. The ecology of an area that is susceptible to forest fires, has developed and adapted to its use to these condition and its after affects.
ReplyDeleteI think that you brought up a good point when you said that our desire to protect homes it actually causing fires. I never thought about it that way; that by putting out the smaller fires we are actually causing more fires to happen, whith debris buildup and other things.
DeleteI agree with you Imaima because it is true that Global warming is a big factor, but it is not the only factor. I think forest fires can also be caused by humans, and other natural causes.
DeleteI love how in-depth you go with explaining the whys and why nots of global warming! I agree with you and love how clear you made your point to the reader
DeleteI do not think global warming has anything to do with the forest fires in Yosemite. A fire will burn just as hot and just as long no matter what the air temperature is. Also I think that forest fires help more than they harm. Some seeds of coniferous trees only break open under the intense heat of a forest fire, demonstrated by the huge fires in Yellowstone National Park in the late 80s. These seeds are now sprouting and repopulating the area around Yellowstone with new trees. The burning away of the old allows new things to grow and develop. On the other hand, fires that are allowed to rage out of control could have dangerous affects on the human population, destroying homes, buildings, and possibly even killing. Fires are important in ecology because they make way for the birth and regrowth of new trees, plants, even animal species. Animals that may have not lived in an area before the fires might now return where there is more space available in the aftermath.
ReplyDeleteWhile you have a point that a fire can burn for any length of time regardless of the temperature, you must also keep in mind how they are created. With the rising temperature of the planet, it doesn't just have to be a stray camp fire that can ignite a forest.
DeleteI really liked how you pointed out that forest fires create more living space for the animals. I think that is a very important job of wildfires that often gets overlooked. I also agree with the dangerous affects an uncontrolled fire can have. It is necessary to keep tabs on where and how strong fires are to prevent tragedies like the ones you listed.
DeleteI think global warming has everything to do with these huge forest fires in Yosemite because forest fires each year keep on getting bigger and are showing up in many places. Global warming is getting worse every year there fore our planet is acting differently. I think that forest fires at first helped nature but when they reach a level of intensity it is a detriment to the forest. the forest fires help with the growth of of new trees, plants, and new organisms. the forest fires also take down old dying trees and other plants helping new organisms to grow in the forest. The forest fires relate to ecology because they have a bid part on how organisms react with there environment and with other species. After the fire happens it leaves rich soil, and new animals and organisms appear to start a new life.
ReplyDeleteBut has global warming really affected it? I am actually not even sure if it is a true occurrence. Has it been proven?
DeleteI agree with Caroline, but i also agree partially with you, Katy. I believe that global warming, if existent, is a factor to the rise of the number of forest fires occurring but i do not think that global warming is the sole reason for it.
DeleteI believe that, yes, global warming has played a major part in affecting the increased number of forest fires. As more greenhouse gas builds up in our ozone, our planet’s surface temperature has been steadily increasing. With this increased temperature, droughts are occurring more often; without rain forests can become very dry. When these same gases magnify sun’s rays, the intensified heat can cause spontaneous combustion in a tree’s wood.
ReplyDeleteForest fires have many negative consequences, such as the destruction of property and habitats, animals and insects perishing from the fire, wildlife populations suffering substantial losses due loss of food sources, as well as the occasionally the loss of human life. Though these fires also have some positive benefits. Reduction of excessive amounts of dead vegetation is one of them. Others can be helping controlling diseases and insects in both soil and plants, and eliminating invasive species.
Forest fires relate a lot to ecology. Anything having to do with the relation of organisms, such as forest wildlife, and their physical surroundings is part of ecology.
While I believe wildlife population decreases because of the loss of their habitat, I also agree forest fires can affect the wildlife population due to loss food of source. Without any food the animal will have to become nomadic in hopes to find some. But the question is, where would the animal go? Forest fires can spread far and other areas of land already thrive with other populations. That's why we see that decrease.
DeleteI think that global warming is a major contributor to forest fires. Not only may the forest fires be caused by the intense heat, but they are not doing much to help put out the fires, making them blaze even hotter. Although there are many cons for forest fires, there are also some positive things. They can help by getting rid of the dead and dying trees, it can also help some trees reproduce from pine cones and Acorns falling to the forest floor. Some of the negative effects of forest fires are that they can kill many animals, and even sometimes people. The fire kills live trees that produce our necessary oxygen, and the Co2 stored in the trees gets released back into the atmosphere. Two ways that Ecology relates to forest fires is that, when the ashes of the trees falls to the ground along with the new seeds of the dead trees, the ashes will act as a natural fertilizer to help the new trees grow. Another way it relates to ecology is that animals living in the burnt down forest will have an easier time hunting other animals in their environment.
ReplyDeleteGood point on the pros and cons, I think it's good that fires can get rid of dead and decaying trees, but I think the cons outweigh the pros by a lot still.
DeleteI believe that, yes, global warming has played a major part in affecting the increased number of forest fires. As more greenhouse gas builds up in our ozone, our planet’s surface temperature has been steadily increasing. With this increased temperature, droughts are occurring more often; without rain forests can become very dry. When these same gases magnify sun’s rays, the intensified heat can cause spontaneous combustion in a tree’s wood.
ReplyDeleteForest fires have many negative consequences, such as the destruction of property and habitats, animals and insects perishing from the fire, wildlife populations suffering substantial losses due loss of food sources, as well as the occasionally the loss of human life. Though these fires also have some positive benefits. Reduction of excessive amounts of dead vegetation is one of them. Others can be helping controlling diseases and insects in both soil and plants, and eliminating invasive species.
Forest fires relate a lot to ecology. Anything having to do with the relation of organisms, such as forest wildlife, and their physical surroundings is part of ecology.
I think that global warming has a minimal effect on forest fires. Wildfires have existed forever and are a natural part of the forest's cycle. When a habitat grows old and dies, it loses all moisture, becoming the perfect 'fire starter'. Forest fires sweep in and remove the old growth to make room for a new generation of plants and trees. With or without global warming, wild fires are bound to happen and recycle old habitats.
ReplyDeleteOne of the downsides to forest fires is that animals get hurt. however, this is a unfortunate but necessary part of a forest fires work. The animals who survive have enough tolerance to begin to thrive again in the rebuilding habitat. Humans can also get injured or their homes get destroyed, but it is a consequence of living in dry, hot areas. We need to be prepared and remain informed about where the fires are located and what direction they are going.
Wildfires are an important topic in ecology because they make such a huge impact on the forest environment. they change the forests and the animals that inhabit it.
I believe that forest fires are caused by global warming. The increase of CO2 being released into the atmosphere only makes the earth warmer and warmer. At the same time, it is causing the earth to become much drier, making trees and dry objects on earth a target of temperature increase. For example, if someone wants to start a bonfire or a campfire, he or she doesn't throw green leafs beneath the wood, or use fresh wood, because it does not burn well, compared to dry leafs and dry wood, which com-busts easily.
ReplyDeleteForest fires can be a great disadvantage when it comes to property damage and life threatening situations. Great forest fires can easily spread to towns, causing the land to be leveled, homes never to be seen again, maybe even people, some will not have the chance to say goodbye to. On the other hand, forest fires can be an advantage, more or less to nature itself. Many firefighters and environmentalists actually encourage controlled fires, to clear the land of dead wood and useless vegetation, to create a new, healthy forest for plants to thrive.
Forest fires are a natural occurrence. They act as a reboot system, to create a brand new landscape for life to renew itself on. Also creating habitats for animals, etc.
Forest fires have, yes, been increasing as time goes on. Global warming has done the same - the planet is getting hotter. This, of course, doesn't mean that the increase in global warming is in direct relation with the increase in forest fires, but there is a pretty good chance that it is. For instance, the hot weather leads to dryness, which assists the burning of forests. Lack of rain or drought, which are caused by global warming, therefore, have to at least somewhat contribute to the rise of forest fires. Forest fires can be very harmful to the environment. First of all, lots of trees die. This destroys animal habitats. In addition, the fire may kill some of the organisms and species that live in the forest (and maybe even destroy an entire population), and it may destroy buildings and even harm humans. Firefighters have to be put to major work, too. High intensity fires will also ruin the soil for new forests to start. Although forest fires are bad for the environment in these ways, they play a positive factor, too. The fire that burns the trees may open up the conifer trees' seeds, which causes new trees to be planted. In addition, when trees die, sunlight can reach the forest floor, which causes even more plants to grow! Ecology relates to forest fires in that organisms respond to their physical environment, and organisms' responses will of course vary depending on whether there are trees in a specific area versus no trees or small sprouts. Living in a completely different ecosystem may cause certain species to migrate or to live a different lifestyle. In conclusion, forest fires have various pros and cons.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. you brought up some good points about the negative effects of forest fires.
DeleteI think Global Warming has to do with the increase in forest fires because it has to do with a lot of temperature fluctuation which causes a lot of storms and lightning, which is how a lot of forest fires are started.
ReplyDeleteSome pros of forest fires are that they can be healthy for the trees and plants because they help regenerate the ecosystem. Some cons would be that the fires drive a lot of native animals out of the area.
Forest fires relate to ecology because ecology is the study of life and its interactions with one another and its environment. Trees are living and fires, which are abiotic factors, affect the living organisms that interact with trees.
(By Joe Brucker) I think global warming has alot to do with forest fires. The climate change has something to do with the fact that there are alot more forest fires then there were a few years ago. global warming makes the tempature humid and moist in places like yosemite. making these type of places prone to forest fires. a pro of forest fires are getting rid of the dead trees, brush, plants etc. some cons are these are very dangerous, they can cause bigger wildfires than are harder to control and this could lead to wildlife devastion. forest fires relate to ecology because forest fires affect the ecosystem, which is a part of ecology.
ReplyDeleteI think that forest fires are caused by global warming and its affects. Because of more recent dry weather, droughts and unaware humans playing with fire around forests, the risk for forest fires are more at risk. I also think that air quality is not what it used to be. The ozone layer is struggling to keep up with us humans polluting and harming not only the Earth, but many abiotic and biotic factors are also worsening. A pro to forest fires are eliminating or helping unwanted or invasive species stay limited. Other advantages are that the fires kill and disintegrate all the dead matter, carcasses, and help control some species' population. With all the old turf and excess matter gone, it leaves a new and fresh start for other organisms to grow and create a new "generation" of life.Some disadvantages are the fact that it does kill many species of plants, animals, and living things that we, as humans want to preserve or keep thriving. Other cons are the fires spreading too quickly, open for wild spreading and rapid giant flames. Forest fires have to do with ecology because ecology is organisms, life and environmental factors, and forest fires affect all of those things in good and bad ways.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on your statement about forest fires spreading too quickly. I also mentioned in my comment, the negative affects they have on the species and ecology.
DeleteBased on this article, alongside my opinion, global warming encourages the existence of forest fires. When the temperature rises, heat and light are concealed within the atmosphere, causing an unsafe spread of gases and vapors into the air we breathe. If too many of these fuels leak into our forests, a forest fire can ignite from a small, flammable source, such as a match. These fires can either be beneficial or devastating to our ecological system. For example, it could destroy plant life, wildlife habitats, human campsites, and much more. However, it can also rebuild new habitats, and establish new plant life from different seeds. This relates to ecology because of environment's affect on the organisms within and how these sudden changes cause them to respond.
ReplyDeleteGlobal warming has been a pretty hot topic over the years. Personally, I do believe that it may have a part of most the forest fires that have occurred over the past few years. Due to the dry and warm weather, caused by global warming, it increases the chance of a forest fire to begin. Though, you must keep in mind that it could always be because of a camper who left the fire unattended for a long or short period of time.
ReplyDeleteThere are always benefits that are given after such an event happens to nature, but the most common things that are told are the dis-advantages. Yes, animals and plants die, which is very saddening to think about. Yet, with plants that only got partially damaged they become stronger than they were before. Due to this, the naturally reproduce more. Once the ashes are mixed into the dirt, the seeds will be given a natural fertilizer, and have the extra room to grow.
Animals, after adapting to the change, would continue to reproduce to regain their species population in the forest. Though, they would have a harder time adapting to the changes around them because of lack of food. However, it will all return in time.
Forest fires relate to ecology due to the changes around the organisms living and growing in the forest. They have to adapt to the now abiotic ashes of what was at one point biotic. Everything around them changed, for better and for worse. This is what relates forest fires to ecology.
Forest fires are entirely natural. They're caused by lightning, extreme heat, and other parts of nature. Global warming isn't natural. It's caused by the pollution put off by humans. I do not think there is a correlation between the increase in forest fires and global warming. Forest fires can be beneficial. They rid the ground of dead plants to allow room for new ones to grow. As described in the article, it sports germination. It's also strictly what nature intended to happen. Now, there are cons, unfortunately. Plants can be wiped out. Animals do die and also lose their homes and resources. But that doesn't mean they can't start over. Forest fires effect ecology. Ecology is the study of organisms and their physical environment and how they interact. Fires change the physical environment dramatically and thus effect the organisms living there.
ReplyDeleteIn some ways, yes, forest fires do help the environment. But in my opinion, they are more disastrous than useful. The amount of habitats they diminish in 20 seconds, is an inconvenience for most animals. even for homosapians. people in Colorado are being evacuated out of there houses, and not being told when they can go home.
ReplyDeleteI agree. Even a controlled fire is harmful and it could get out of control if somebody doesn't get a calculation right.
DeleteI think that the forest fires are not so great. They kill all the animal life if not controlled and even then some might not make it. the wildfires are disastrous and can pollute water supplies and go on to cities and homes. Controlled fires are fine, they get rid of the weeds, and restore nutrients to the soil and plant life.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I don't think that global warming has anything to do with the reaccuring forest fires in Yosemite. Though global warming is a universal issue, the temperture would have to be extremely high to be able to set a forest into blaze. If anything, a factor of forest fires would be the dryness reacting to the heat, but not the heat alone.
ReplyDeleteFurthermore, there are pros and cons to these forest fires. First off, it helps the regrowth of the burnt down forest by providing new and fertile soil. Though, a con is the loss of habitat for all the animals living within the forest and the decrease of animals in their population.
Likewise, Forest fires relate to ecology because the fire that is spreading, is involving itself in the environment of the forest. As it spreads, it interacts with the animals and plant living there.
I believe that global warming does affect the frequency of forest fires. The Earth's surface temperature is increasing and this is causing forests to light up in flames more often because the wood is now more flammable than ever!
ReplyDeleteAlthough forest fires do promote healthy forest growth and they help spread seeds, they also destroy some wildlife and habitats.
I believe that, no, global warming has anything to do with the forest fires. Fire is something that occurs in nature and, in some cases, can not be prevented. Reflecting on the research I have conducted into global warming it does not exist. The pros to Forrest fires are some trees need it to reproduce a the seeds can only be opened under intense heat. While they help trees reproduce they also cause large amounts of property loss and loss of the state parks and forests natural beauty. relate to ecology in the sense that they can wipe out large amounts of the key stone species and food sources for the under species and the key stone species devastating the entire ecosystem.
ReplyDeleteAddition to my comment:
ReplyDeleteForest fires relate to ecology because they destroy some habitats and habitats are a great part of ecology.
Forest fires are being effected by global warming because of the Green house effect. The surface temperature has slowly increasing so I think that has a major contribution to the fires. Forest fires are decreasing our oxygen, but it does clear space for new land and crops. Ecology relates to Forest fires because they interact and change the environment.
ReplyDeleteThe increasing heat of the earth might have a part in the larger number forest fires, but I find it hard to believe that that is a major contributing factor. There must be some other reason causing more fires to start. The pros of forest fires is that it clears out the area for new vegetation to grow. One of the cons are that it is temporally decreasing the output of oxygen to the atmosphere.The forest fires relate to ecology because they change and interact with the environment.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your pros and cons about forest fires. Good ideas!
DeleteI never thought about how a controlled fire would also help the soil. Good idea.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion, I do not think forest fires have affected the intensity and frequency of forest fires. Each year, more and more people are venturing out into the forests and bringing in a large amount of variables that could also account for the increase of wild fires. Things such as forgetting to put out pit fires and leaving flammable detritus around could most definitely help wild fires spread. According to the LA Times, "The Outdoor Foundation, in partnership with the Coleman Co., have released a report stating there was a 7.4% increase in RV, car and backyard camping in 2008." The popularity has most likely increased since then. With more people going camping each year, there will be more wildfires each year.
ReplyDeleteAlthough forest fires destroy our plant life, they have many uses as well. Fires could help burn large, dying plants and have them decompose faster. This in turn helps the next generation of plants grow stronger and healthier. As said by Ian MacRae of Yahoo News, "Wildfires expose mineral-rich soils and return the nutrients from plants back to the earth. After a fire, new small plants use these newly rich soils to grow extremely quickly. These new plants are ideal food sources for wildlife." They may eradicate the habitats of the residential fauna, but wildfires have always been a part of nature and it's ways of bringing in new life.
On that note, forest fires are certainly related to biology. They affect the homes of the animals that inhabit the area where they blaze. The organisms caught in the fire will provide a lot of food for scavengers and decomposers, thus speeding up the food cycle. Many species might obtain the necessary niches to flourish in the face of wildfires, and plants and bacteria might evolve to withstand heat better. All this means that forest fires are an important part of our biosphere.
I think Global Warming has to do with the number of increased fires. As the temperatures get warmer and warmer,the more dry and humid the air becomes creating these fires. Some pros of forest fires is that it can burn down shrubs which may prevent more forest fires. Also it may create more space by getting rid of the old dead trees and growing new trees. Some cons of fores fires is that it is harming to other living things such as humans and animals, it could also spread so far that it could burn down other things like houses. Forest fires relate to ecology because it can effect living and nonliving things. Also the definition of ecology is the interaction between organisms and their environment and we are seeing how organisms interact with these fires.
ReplyDeleteI believe global warming is a major factor in which it increases the number of forest fires each year. The fires in the Yosemite reserve are examples on how global warming impacts forests. When the climate of forests are humid and hot,not to mention there has been little rainfall; they're more likely to have a fire compared to a forest who's climate has plenty of rainfall, is moist and has fair weather. Many disasters come from forest fires for example, the shortage of natural resources, the decrease in wildlife population due to the lack of livability and the increase of human injuries. With any negative situation there's always a positive. In this case heat from the fire can create the perfect environment for seeds to produce and kill off any dead, undesirable plants. Forest fires relate to ecology because they demonstrates how organisms react to their physical environment as well as other organisms.
ReplyDeleteI don't think global warming adds much of an effect on forest fires because they have been happening for a very long time, and I'm pretty sure global warming didn't exist back in the early 1800s. I don't really think global warming will have a big effect on forest fires now, but in the future, if we don't do anything about global warming, I think it will be a major factor. One major disadvantage to forest fires is that it kills many animals' homes, and can kill the animals as well. The fires also produce a lot of smoke, so people in surrounding areas might have trouble breathing. The only pro I can think of is that it helps us recognize what brave men and women do to help us. They run right into the fires trying to put them out, and save the area. Most people don't understand the bravery of firefighters, and I think this is a good way to see it. This relates to ecology because fire is an abiotic factor, and it is causing problems to biotic factors in the ecosystem.
ReplyDeleteIn my opinion Global Warming is a major factor in forest fires. However, it isnt always Global Warming that starts these Forest Fires. Some pros of forest fires is that it burns down old trees, branches and dead plants. Cons are that it can kill multiple species of animals during the fire which is not good.If people were not aware of the fire and it was still going at night they could very easily get burned alive while sleeping. Forest fires relate to Ecology because Ecology is the study of interactions among organisms and there physical enviroment and the animals have to deal with the forest fires so it's there interaction with there physical enviroment.
ReplyDeleteYes, global warming is responsible for SOME of the forest fires because of the rising temperature and with the droughts the temperature would help with setting dried grass or dehydrated leaves on fire. Some pros of the forest fires is that it could make more space in between the trees so another fire doesn't happen on a large scale. Some cons of forest fires is that it could destroy trees which we need to live because they give off oxygen, harm humans or animals and if it reaches a town it could burn down establishments. Forest fires have to do with ecology because they are in some points harming and or helping our environment. Also, might I add that I think global warming isn't caused as much by us as we think. I think it is just a phase the earth is going through. If you look at the earth it has had ice ages and when the temperature gets warmer it will melt the ice caps. Then the water level will rise and flood the coasts of land masses. Then, the earth will get cooler and cooler and cause another ice age. Keep in mind this will happen within thousands of years so we really won't have to worry about it. I think we do contribute a little to global warming but it is just a phase the earth goes through every 10,000 years or so.
ReplyDeleteAlthough global warming may play a role in the increased number of forest fires, it should not take all the blame for them. Yes, forest fires are known to thrive in warm climates, a factor of global warming, but there are many other aspects that contribute to them. Some may be the raised the striking of lightening or human error and carelessness, a trait that has been amplified in the species over the past few years. In this era we also have the technology to record and calculate the intensity of these fires whereas years ago scientists could not communicate or track them making this increase less accurate.
ReplyDeleteForest fires can both aid and destroy its surroundings. When a fire burns it can 'awaken' dormant seeds, creating more vegetation in the forest and any dead plants may be cleared by the flames. However, these events can be devastating due to its effect on animals and their habitats.
Forest fires relate to ecology. Their effects on the animal and plant life is an example of the different and changing relations between the ecosystem and ecology is the study of such interactions.
I agree with you Katie that global warming is only partially the cause of forest fires and that there are other things that contribute to them as well.
Delete(Kyle Vesely)
ReplyDeleteForest fires are getting more and more common around the word and are getting bigger and more destructive. I think a big part of this is global warming. Global warming id getting worse and worse as years go on and makes the environment drier. This could help the forest fires start as well as how global warming makes the environment have less rain and the trees are easier to catch on fire by other natural causes. Not all the affects of the forest fires are bad, yes it kills trees and messes with the environment but it could also kill dead trees and help new ones grow in its place. I could help the soil and help other new coming plants come in and grow in place of the dead ones. These forest fires also make a big affect in ecology. The forest fires change the physical environment and change the way that different species interact. The different species will respond to the forest fire in many ways and changes that entire area. If a forest fire occurs, ecology will be affected.
i think that global warming is responsible for a tiny percent of forest fires. before global warming was such a big deal these fires were happening anyway. it is beneficial though for the ecosystem. the fire helps new plants start to grow. it fire is also bad though as it is fire and it can burn stuff that shouldnt be burned or get to out of hand and then you have too much burnt. forest fire relate to ecology because it affects the ecosystem we live in and it affects us.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Will because only a small part of forest fires relate to the drought that drys out the forest, dead leaves, and dead branches.
DeleteI believe that global warming is contributing to the increased number of forest fires because if the temperature is warmer and there is a drought, then the wood dries out and that makes it easier to burn. Secondly, there are a lot of cons to forest fires but surprisingly, there are also a lot of pros. Some downsides to forest fires are that if the fire burns too intensely the forest does not come back and instead will be replaced by dense, fast growing shrubs and small trees, that are very flammable. This creates an endless cycle of fire and shrubs and the forest never returns to it's original state. On the other hand, forest fires can often be a good thing. When the fire is not as intense, it can actually be beneficial and simulate a kind of "reboot" to the forest-- old seeds open and grow into trees and the forest eventually returns back to normal. If we don't find a perfect balance between suppressing fires and letting them burn wildly, then we could end up losing a lot of old forests. Finally, forest fires have a lot to do with ecology because it shows the relationship between forest fires and the organisms in the forest. Depending on the size and intensity of the fires, the forest grows accordingly. Sometimes the fires completely destroy a forest, while other times it's helpful to a forest.
ReplyDeleteThe frequency of forest fires is unaffected by global warming, but is becoming more common than in previous years. While it is possible to argue that the increase in temperature of the globe could have something to do with the frequency of forest fires, I have been able to deduce that it is more commonly because of the lack of rainfall in the arid climates forest fires are common in. In fact, the area that Yosemite is located in is currently under a severe drought leaving the underbrush dry and perfect to use as kindling. Since this underbrush is easily ignitable, it would be all too easy to accidentally forget to put a campfire out and have it spread like wildfire.
ReplyDeleteMultiple Pros and cons come from forest fires, and looking at it short-term, the cons heavily outweigh the pros. Any property that was in or near the forest fire is more than likely burned down. The landscape where the fire burned will take on a charred appearance, along with being severely cut down. Due to the cut down in the amount of space available to inhabit, this will also cause multiple organisms to die.
In the long term, the pros start to outweigh the cons. The extreme heat of the forest fire is helpful in opening the shells of some seeds that plants have given off. All of the organisms that died will decay (with the help of decomposers and detritivores)and reintroduce key nutrients and minerals, such as carbon, into the soil. The minerals and nutrients will allow the new generation of plants to potentially grow healthier, stronger, and taller than the previous generation.
Forest fires are extremely relatable to ecology. Ecology is the study of organisms and how they interact with their environment. Natural disasters such as forest fires burn and destroy much of the forest where certain organisms would go, and potentially deny primary consumers of food. Without food, the ranks of the primary consumers will slowly start to thin out, causing the rest of the food chain to do the same. Habitats of these organisms are also destroyed in these forest fires. Keystone species may be eradicated, causing a shift in the food web of the are where the forest fire occurred.
I love how you explained how forest fires are unaffected by global warming. Also I totally forgot that animals leave behind carbon when they decompose. Great Work!
Deletei think that global warming has nothing to do with forest fires and that forest fires are good for the environment. This is because forest fires burn away a lot of old or dead trees and plants and make room for new plants and seeds.
ReplyDeleteOn the other hand forest fires are not good when then run totally out of control and are a threat to towns and cities and may harm humans.
Forest fires relate to ecology because ecology is the scientific study of how organisms interact to their environment and among other organisms and the forest fire is an abiotic factor in an organisms life.
In my opinion global warming plays a big part in starting forest fires. But it's not the only reason forest fires start. Global warming is causing the snow on top of mountains to melt earlier than normal, in the spring. Then with the dry air caused from global warming, low humidity, and high winds causes forests to be possible for fires. But other things can start these huge fires. Something as little as a campfire, or a lightning strike can cause a fire to start. Some pros of forest fires are that they help control diseases that may be in bugs or things of that sort. Forest fires also help get rid of dead vegetation, if fires didn't start then the dead vegetation would pile up and overflow. The cons of forest fires are they kill a lot of wildlife, and could potentially wipe out a species in that area. Also forest fires can destroy peoples properties. Ecology is how organisms relate to their physical surroundings. Fires damage trees, plants, animals, and lots other things. This destroys forests and destroys many ecological connections.
ReplyDeleteGlobal warming is a contributing factor to the rise in forest fires. Warmer temperature heat our atmosphere to the point where heat lightning will have a increased chance of beginning to form. Lightning is currently the number one cause of forest fires in the united states. Forest fires are destructive forces, but also have some positive effects on the affected environment. Forest fires often burn dry, dead trees and debris that lines the forest. The fires remove this unwanted natural material and leave space for new healthier life to begin. The negatives of forest fires are far more lengthy. Houses are often caught in the path of the fire, and force many of the people within the ecosystem to start from scratch. When a forest fire destroys a ecosystem, the wildlife are often forced to find new sources of food and shelter if they have been destroyed by the fire. When the fire has passed, it leaves barren empty land in its path for a new ecosystem to form in its destruction, in a constantly revolving cycle. We can not prevent forest fires, but we can observe their effects on the ecosystem of planet earth, and its population.
ReplyDelete(References for statistics)
http://bcwildfire.ca/history/average.htm
I do think that global warming has affected the amount of forest fires. The increase in temperature has changed the climate causing there to be more precipitation and humidity in some areas and droughts in the others. One of the the areas of drought is the west,where the fires are occurring. However the article only mentions global warming briefly, and focuses more on the topic of suppressing the forest fires. I also think this is a contributing factor since as the article says, the suppression interferes with the regularity of the fires. It causes the fires to return less frequently, but more powerfully, therefore, instead of the fire renewing the soil, its burning seeds and roots, which results in those plants not growing back. Another disadvantage to these intense fires,is the killing of different populations, such as plants, that are not adapted to these newly powerful fires. Ecologically, these areas reach a tipping point or a change in the ecosystem. If these fires returned to their natural cycle the forest life would be rejuvenated.
ReplyDeleteGlobal Warming makes conditions more favorable for forest fires to occur because drought, caused by warmer temperatures, makes fires easier to start. However, forest fires are created equally by humans, such as the case if The Rim Fire at Yosemite which was determined to be caused by a hunter's illegal fire.
ReplyDeleteA pro of forest fires is that they clear the forest of old, dying trees and refresh the ecosystem, causing new plant growth. Ash from the fires also adds nutrients to the soil.
A con of forest fires is that they kill plants and animals in that environment. Also, the smoke from the fires overpowers surrounding communities, and homes and other buildings are demolished.
Forest fires have an impact on the relationship between living organisms. For example: maybe an animal survives the fire, but their food supply won't if they are an herbivore, therefore the animal will die. Also, if a plant or tree relies on an animal to carry its seeds or to pollinate it, and that animal dies in the fire, then that plant can't survive.
I feel global warming has a slight impact on forest fires because the warmer climate helps the fires spread more easily. The bigger impact on forest fires is the way man treats the forest for example by protecting homes and putting out fires. The ecology changes over time based on how we treat the environment. Today the fires are bigger because of what we did in the past, but in the future I believe that it will cycle back to having smaller fires, the way they were in the past. The fires today are having a big impact on the forest, the animals, and the humans ,but they will all adapt and will be different, but that is part of nature.
ReplyDeleteI believe that global warming has a huge affect on forest fires but it is not the only cause. If the air is dry and humid and we go through a drought, then yes, it will cause the vegetation to become dry and come prone to fires. But also humans are a big part of this problem. we (or most of us) are very careless and and do not pay close enough attention to our surroundings. Since we are very curious creatures we tend to mess with dangerous things and cause accidents, with poor conditions we can cause serious damage. There are very few good things about forest fires except that it helps get rid of the dead trees and helps reproduce more healthy trees. But some cons are that it kills off many species and puts them in danger of extinction. Forest fires are related to because if a fire happens then it affects all of the living and non living organisms in that area. The fire has to do with the way we live. Ecology is the way non living and living things interact. Forest fires play a huge part in these interactions, it could help a species (living or not) prosper or it could completely destroy it.
ReplyDeleteI think that forest fires aren't cause by global warming. Global warming could cause the air to be hotter and possibly more drier, making the wood on trees easier to burn but there actually caused by lighting sometimes. As for the pros and cons of forest fires I think they lean more to the pro side when contained. Although the fires could take out a lot of land in a short amount of time there is a good side to this. The fires are helping to rid of invasive or overgrown plants. Also if trees are burnt down this allows sunlight to finally reach the ground allowing other plants to come and grow. The down side to forest fires though could be that fact that animals could die in them, which in turn could seriously mess up the food chain. There's also the fact that if they're not contained they could cause property damaged to one's home.
ReplyDeleteForest fires can easily be related to ecology. Ecology is the study of organisms and how they interact with the world around them. If forest fires destroy part of a species then there could be a problem of over population of the organism's prey and a decline in its predators. Another possible is if a organism's habitat is destroyed than niche could also be destroyed too, therefore they would need to find another one. But as the competitive exclusion principal states, "no two organisms can have the same niche" Therefore more and more species would begin to be affected by these fires.
Global warming may be a factor to the increased amount of recent forest fires, however there are more common causes of these fires. The majority of our population is becoming more and more careless recently. It's more likely that humans could have directly caused a fire than have such a strong increase of temperature that it effects environment in such a big way. The fires that us humans cause tend to be more destructive than naturally occurring ones so they need to be under watch and under control. Forest fires are also helpful at times, they allow the dead plant life to be destroyed to make room for a new, healthier environment. As long as the fire is not spreading to rapidly and out of control than it's a completely natural way of improving the forest. However if the fire does go out of control then it can cause wildlife to flee for a new source of food since to much plant-life is being killed. Forest fires have more positive effects than negative so we should try to keep them under control, but not get in the way of the fire's direct target. Forest fires relate to Ecology because it effects the plant-life and wild-life of the forests, they have to possibly find new food sources but grow new plant life. In short global warming has little to do with the recent jump in forests fires, the main cause is the way human interaction with forests is changing to be more destructive. Natural forest fires should be left alone where as man made ones need to be under control.
ReplyDeleteFrom reading this article I don't think that global warming has anything to do with increased number of forest fires. As it says in the article, fire is just natural and occur every three hundred year, going through it's usual cycle. Not only are the natural, but they help throw away the old and come with the new or in other words, they help heat up old seeds, crack them open to have the ability to start growing. Yet, forest fires cause great damage to the habit of the organisms whom live there. Forest fires are related to ecology from the way the can either be beneficial to an organism's environment or not.
ReplyDeleteClimate change in my opinion plays a huge role in today's environment. It has been causing the polar ice caps to melt, and in this case, forest fires to start. Before this article I thought that forest fire were only a bad thing, but after reading this article, they can also be a good thing (but mainly bad). The upside of these fires and climate change is that they could slow the rate of the next ice age coming but on the down side, it will melt the ice caps faster and cause the sea level to rise and flood the land. Lastly, forest fire relate to ecology because the fires cause animals whose habitat is in a forest area with lots of trees to flee, causing them to no longer have a home.
ReplyDeleteI think that global warming isn't to blame for the increased number in forest fires because these fires have been irrupting in forests since the middle of the 20th century, so obviously global warming can not be blamed. Some of the good things that come out of forest fires are that in some places of the forest is considered a type of "rebooting", while in other parts of the forest the fire helps dormant seeds in the ground crack open and be exposed to moisture. On the other hand, if these fires burn too hot and too close to the crowns of the trees then there is a chance that those parts of the forest will not grow back. These fires are a part of ecology by changing the surroundings for other animals to strive in and around these forests.
ReplyDeleteI personally don’t think that global warming as something to do with the amount of forest fires. There are good and bad things to forest fires. A pro to this is that fire is a natural thing so without it are ecosystem would be really different. Fires also kill all the dead plants so new and healthier plants can grow in its place. We cannot change Mother Nature and she knows what’s best for us. The con is that it kills millions of firefighters a year trying to contain it. Also, to try to must the fires out it cost us a lot of money as well as the homes in these fires. A Forest fire has to do with ecology because it is the interaction between organisms and their physical environment. Ecology is the study of interactions among other organisms and between their physical environments.
ReplyDeleteI think that global warming is highly influential in the forest fires. Lately, the weather has been much warmer much drier during the summer. This causes droughts. The long periods of time without rain make a forest much more susceptible to fire. Contrary to popular belief, there are some pros to forest fires. These fires keep the forest small, so there is always room to grow. The natural life cycles of the forests rely heavily on the fires, so that the seeds embedded in the ground have a chance to germinate. However, there are always cons. The fires are a danger to the buildings and people near the forest; if your house is too close to the fire, it's going to burn too. Forest fires are closely related to ecology. Ecology is the study of organisms and their interaction with each other and their habitat. The organisms living in the forest need this interaction with the fire in their habitat in order to make room for reproduction. Without the fires, each species has no room for their species to grow.
ReplyDeleteI personally don’t think that global warming as something to do with the amount of forest fires. There are good and bad things to forest fires. A pro to this is that fire is a natural thing so without it are ecosystem would be really different. Fires also kill all the dead plants so new and healthier plants can grow in its place. We cannot change Mother Nature and she knows what’s best for us. The con is that it kills millions of firefighters a year trying to contain it. Also, to try to must the fires out it cost us a lot of money as well as the homes in these fires. A Forest fire has to do with ecology because it is the interaction between organisms and their physical environment. Ecology is the study of interactions among other organisms and between their physical environments.
ReplyDeleteI believe that global warming is a main cause in forest fires. Earth is warming up, causing it to become drier. With the increased dryness, it is more likely for a forest fire to occur.
ReplyDeleteThere are many pros and cons to forest fires. The pros are that they "reboot" the forest if the fires aren't too intense. By having mild fires regularly this can help trees sprout faster. The cons of forest fires are that they can become too big! Large fires will destroy forests' root structures, soil, and seeds. With the destruction of what's necessary for trees to grow, fast-growing shrubs that burn naturally could take over forests, leaving it susceptible to more dangerous fires.
Forest fires relate to Ecology because many living organisms inhabit them. They're full of living plants, animals, and insects. Because of these fires, many organisms are in danger.
I think that global warming is a major factor in the cause of forest fires. When the earth warms, the natural,some abiotic factors warm/dry as well. IF the air is very dry, and it is very hot, there is a good chance for a fire. The pros are that it helps trees sprout quicker, and they "reboot" the forest after mild fires. The cons of forest fires are that they are very destructive, and can destroy organisms, and homes, and natural habitats. They are also very, very hard to put out, and they spread quickly. Forest fires relate to ecology because there are many abiotic and biotic factors with forest fires. They destroy many organisms, but it could also help develop/evolve to resist forest fires, or escape them.
ReplyDeleteGlobal warming is a definite factor in forest fires, but another factor is human interference. Forest fires are a very good thing for the environment, but only when they are naturally made, and don't get to big. There are many pros and cons to forest fires too. One pro is that everything is refreshed and renewed, kind of like when you restart your computer when it is running really slow, or when you take out the garbage so you have room for more garbage. Except trees aren't really relatable to either of those things because they are both living things... Anyways, the cons are pretty bad. If the fire is too big, the seeds from the trees can burn, and that means no new forest, and also, it could mean no towns because the fire could burn them. It is very dangerous as well because of the smoke that gets into the air during a forest fire. It's also very hot. Humans should not try to prevent forest fires in my opinion, but more or less, just try not to make any forest fires. The environment needs them. Like how a baby needs a blanket. But babies don't want to be set on fire, they just want their blanket. And people can't just give babies blankets, they have their own blanket, and they use it when needed, not when we tell them to. Finally, forest fires are related to the ecosystem because of how it basically destroys an entire ecosystem, but in turn, makes a completely new realm of excitement and adventure for all the organisms living there. And that is why forest fires are a strange, weird way of getting out with the old, and in with the new.
ReplyDeleteForest fires are both a good and bad thing. They are good because it helps make everything fresh. Also, sometimes humans create the forest fire on purpose because the forest has gotten really dry and it will help prevent the forest catching on fire without control. Controlled forest fires help keep from having non controlled forest fires and helps renew the forest and start fresh. Forest fires are not good because the forest has many homes for animals. When the forest catches on fire the animals lose their home and it messes withe the food chain. Forest fires effect the food chain because if all the vegetation gets burned then the herbivores die of hunger and so do their predators. Forest fires are good and bad for the environment.
ReplyDeleteI think global warming does have some effect on forest fires. These fires can be good or bad. They benefit the forests by getting rid of dying trees and open up seeds underground to grow new ones. However, there are more cons then pros. The forest fires kill many animals and potentially people too. They are also fed by oxygen causing the fire to get bigger and bigger and could maybe kill an entire ecosystem
ReplyDeleteI think global warming has played a big part in the increase of the chance of a forest fire. global warming has created warmer, drier conditions. with these conditions a fire started has a large chance of spreading faster and getting larger because all the fuel for the fire is dried out and easily burned.I think a pro of a forest fire is that is can destroy invasive plant species and create space for new plant growth. some large problems with forest fires are that they can harm animals by destroying their habitat and maybe even their food supply. Forest fires can relate to ecology because ecology is the study of interaction between organisms and their environment. Therefore, forest fires can be connected to ecology because a forest fire can affect an organism and its environment in many different ways
ReplyDeleteI think that global warming is a big contributor to forest fires because with the atmosphere heating up, that means that forests are becoming drier. And with the forests becoming drier, more droughts are occurring. Plus lighting and storms are contributing to these massive fires. But, another key factor to the starting of forest fires is human interference. Sometimes it's as simple as a family that hasn't put out their camp fire completely which can lead to fires occurring rapidly. But overall, there are the pros and cons to forest fires. When there are a lot of dead tree and leaves in a forest, those fires can help get rid of those dead organisms. And yet, there are plenty of cons when it comes to forest fires. Many animals and even humans can be hurt in these fires. Depending on where your home is, a forest fire could destroy not only your home, but everything around your home too. So, forest fires relate to ecology because ecology is the study of how organisms react to each other and to their habitats. And the way that organisms react to a forest fire is what ecology is all about. Seeing how each organism reacts to the forest fire and other organisms. Overall, forest fires do in fact relate to ecology just like how global warming has a big affect on forest fires.
ReplyDeleteGlobal warming could be affecting the increase in forest fires, but it is definitely not the leading cause. Over 80% of forest fires are man-made. The pros of the forest fires are that it reduces excessive amounts of dead vegetation that could potentially harm the ecosystem,they expose mineral soil for better reproduction of plants, recycles nutrients, and helps control diseases and insects in soil and plants. The cons of forest fires are that they can damage properties that surround the area, animals can die, and food sources can be burned. Forest fires relate to ecology because they affect the ecosystem by providing things that can help and harm it.
ReplyDeleteFrom personally living in California for the short time that I did, I do not think that global warming has anything to do with the fire in Yosemite National Park. Forest fires are extremely common in that area do to the nature of the environment that surrounds it. Covered in deserts, the hot and dry temperatures of the land are a beckoning tool for fires over long spans of land. Just like sometimes in Illinois we have heavier snow seasons, it’s only natural for a place like California to have larger fire seasons. These fires have negative effects, such as polluting the water supply and destroying the gems of nature that surround Yosemite. They also affect the surrounding ecosystem greatly, but for the good or for the bad it is uncertain. And just like anything else they also have their benefits. Some of these benefits include clearing the dead branches and brush that suffocate the new trees and greenery trying to grow it. Another benefit is as the heat from the smoke rages through the majority of the forest it cracks open seeds that cover the ground and allow them to be able to grow freely as the fire dies down. By destroying life and creating life around the surrounding area it is very clear how forest fires can relate to ecology. Because of the severity of the fire, scientist predict that a whole new system could evolve. This could essentially change the way that many people in the surrounding area live and how the animals and other living creatures act in their biome.
ReplyDeleteI agree that the increase in forest fires is related to global warming. The Earth is heating up, creating droughts and because of the droughts the plants are dry and easy to ignite by natural or manmade means. I learned of the NAtional Park website that the forest fires are actually very good for that ecosystem because the forest has been overgrown and unhealthy-the forest fires are an opportunity of rebirth for the whole forest. Sure there is a lot of destruction that has occurred because of the fires but the reward of a beautiful forest could be worth while. Forest fires relate to ecology because it effects the ecosystems and all the biotic factors living in it. Forest fires are abiotic factors and so are the droughts that have been occurring.
ReplyDeleteI believe that the forest fires and global warming are related because the Earth is getting warmer creating dryness for the plants, such as the grasses and trees in Yosemite, that are easily ignited by natural means (lightning) or man made means (campfires, careless cigarettes). There are both pros and cons to forest fires. The forest actually really benefits from the forest fires because it is an opportunity for the overgrown, unhealthy forest to be reborn and create a healthier forest for the future. This reminds me of when Mt. St. Helena, WA irrupted and the forest in the valley was destroyed, but the regrowth was beautiful, it took time but the ecosystem is healthier than ever before. The cons to a forest fire are obviously that it is destructive to the land, ashes from the fire get into the water sources, and the smoke pollutes the air.
ReplyDeleteForest fires relate to ecology because it is an abiotic factor disrupting the biotic factors living in Yosemite National Park.
I believe that global warming has some affect on forest fires. The earth is heating up causing the plants to dry out. When the plants are dry they catch on fire easier. This means there will be more and more forest fires due to global warming. Forest fires also create a lot of problems. Forest fires can spread quickly and burn anything in their path. Including entire ecosystems full of living organisms. Even humans die from these when fires spread to their homes. However, forest fires can also help the enviorment. The fire gets rid of old trees and plants making room for new ones. These new plants and trees grow because their seeds are underground. When the heat reaches the seeds the open up and start growing helping the enviorment. Forest fires relate to ecology because ecology is the study of organisms reactions and interactions with their enviorment. The organisms in this case are the plants and animals. The trees die off and the new trees start to grow in and that is their reaction. This has been happening to Earth forever so it is a natural process in which the forest "restarts". On the other side animals probably try to run away but some still die. That is why this article is related to ecology and what we have been learning in class.
ReplyDeleteI believe that global warming does have a huge effect of the amount of forest fires occurring recently. I believe this because with the growing temperatures it is drying out the forest which is making the trees more dry. Dry trees and leaves are easier to burn which is making these fires more likely to happen.
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