Many natural ecosystems are fire dependent and in these ecosystems periodic perturbations by fire significantly influence the functioning of the system. Mutch (1970) hypothesised that, “...plant communities may be ignited accidentally or randomly, but the character of burning is not random...Fire-dependent plant communities burn more readily than non-fire-dependent communities because natural selection has favoured development of characteristics that make them more flammable.”

Fire performs many roles in ecosystems and plant communities, these are outlined below:

1. Influences Plant Community Composition

2. Interrupts and Alters Succession

3. Influences Scale of the Vegetation Mosaic

4. Affects Wildlife Habitat

5. Interacts with Insects and Diseases

6. Influences Ecosystem Productivity, Diversity and Stability

7. Influences Nutrient Cycles and Energy Flows