Some case studies of Fire ecology/management

• Claude Martin-1975: Barsingha in Kanha
  • Extremely high grazing pressure by chittal, quick loss in post burn regeneration, severe food shortage, regression in plant community Burning was stopped-Animal numbers continued to increase-kept grass height low- woodland invasion increased Suggested periodic burning
• Andrew laurie-1976: Rhino in Chitwan & Kaziranga
  • Unburned patches: not used by rhinos Immediately after burning: rhinos started to eat
• Eric Dinnerstein-1979: Herbivore community in Karnali-Bardiya WLR
  • Annual fires induces grass growth at a time when grazing conditions are least favorable Strongly advocates burning for herbivores
• Johnsingh-1976: Herbivores in Bandipur
  • Fire: growth of tender grass-influenced movement of elephant & gaur and frequent use of burned patches Post fire situation witnessed dramatic increase in group size of chittal Frequently burned areas-predominance of thorny species Suggested patchy but periodic burning of grasslands
• Allan Rodgers-1985: Sal forest in Dudhwa
  • Non-burning of Sal in Dudhwa after 1974-dense growth of unpalatable shrubs-Prevented movement of Swamp deer to drier areas in monsoon-affected availability of forage