The positive effects of wildfire include starting the process of succession, which benefits a wide range of wildlife. This implies wildfire can contribute to which long-term ecological outcome?

• A. Decreased biodiversity
• B. Increased habitat diversity
• C. Permanent soil sterilization
• D. Reduced wildlife populations

Answer: (B)

Wildfire can act as a reset for forest structure by removing mature canopy and ground litter, which kick-starts a natural sequence of plant communities that change over time. As this succession unfolds, different habitat types appear in a mosaic across the landscape—open patches, early-successional shrublands, young forests, and eventually mature stands. This array of habitats provides a wider range of food sources, shelter, and breeding sites, attracting and sustaining more wildlife species. Over the long term, the result is increased habitat diversity, a condition that supports a broader and more resilient wildlife community.

Decreased biodiversity would run counter to this idea of more varied living spaces; permanent soil sterilization and consistently reduced wildlife populations don’t fit the positive, habitat-diversifying outcome described.