Réponses des végétaux ligneux méditerranéens à l'action du feu

Abstract

The response of different Mediterranean wood species to fire action is studied in the neiglibourhood of Montpellier (France). Along 19 years (1969-1987), the author follows the evolution of 35 experimental plots undergoing artificial fires in the spring and fallow, and with different frequencies: 2,3 a 6 years. He controls moreover 52 areas burned from natural fires, for ten years after the burning. Concluding remarks show that woody species of Mediterranean region are, in general, rather fire-resistant. Some of them, however, such as Cistus monspeliensis, Juniperus oxycedrus and Rhamnus alaternus, con be eliminated if the fires are too frequent. Other, such as Quercus coccifera, Q. ilex or Q. pubescens, show, importance for the regeneration capability of the species, mainly for those being very sensitive to frequent fires.