Post-fire Recovery Dynamics and Resilience of Ecosystem Services Capacity in Mediterranean-Type Ecosystems

Abstract

Ecosystem services (ES) in Mediterranean regions are critically affected by forest fires, which pose significant threats to human reliance on these services. This study delves into the post-fire dynamics of ES, emphasising the distinct recovery processes in seeders dominated and resprouters dominated systems. By integrating an ecosystem service capacity matrix with transition matrices, we analysed the temporal recovery patterns of ES after fire disturbances under conditions corresponding to southern France Mediterranean-Type Ecosystems. In seeders dominated environments, recovery is gradual, with services like carbon sequestration and soil quality taking up to 87 years to regain 90% of their capacity post-high-intensity fires. Conversely, resprouters dominated systems show rapid regrowth, with carbon sequestration recovering in as little as 23 years following similar disturbances. Our findings highlight the variable recovery timelines across different ES. Pollination and wild plants display remarkable resilience, with recovery times not exceeding 2 years regardless of fire severity. However, provisioning services such as game provision exhibit lower resilience, requiring up to 67 years for recovery. Cultural services, reflecting emblematic and symbolic values, demonstrate greater resilience, with recovery spanning 3 to 51 years. This study underscores the importance of understanding vegetation types and succession patterns in predicting ES recovery post-fire, offering insights into ecosystem recovery and resilience in fire-prone Mediterranean landscapes.