Introduction

The research focused on the impact of burned forests on biodiversity and soil layers. The interaction between forests affected by wildfires and the ecological dynamics within forest ecosystems is complex. This complexity is increased by the use, on some occasions, of heavy machinery used in reforestation, which compacts delicate soil. Understanding the effects of wildfires on biodiversity, nutrient cycling, mycorrhizal networks, soil erosion, and forest resilience is key. The goal is to provide information for better conservation and restoration strategies for forests damaged by fire.

Methods

This study used a systematic review of the literature in an important series of databases. The key variables referenced included nutrient cycles, heavy machinery compaction alterations in different mycorrhizal networks, the survival and recovery of resilient trees, and the impact of fire on soil microbial communities. Case studies on natural fire regimes and their impact on biodiversity and forest dynamics were also included.

Results

The results indicate that forest fires significantly alter the cyclic and mycorrhizal networks, affecting the resilience of the forest ecosystem. Fire-induced deforestation can benefit some biodiversity by promoting fire-adapted species. On the contrary, the heavy machinery used in reforestation causes soil compaction, altering the ecological ‘coopetition phenomenon’. The combined stressors of fire and soil compaction make better recovery difficult. However, in contrast, other studies show that controlled burning can mitigate some negative impacts, facilitating the recovery of the mycorrhizal network and improving the regenerative capacity of trees.

Conclusions

Understanding the cumulative effects of wildlife deforestation versus traditional deforestation is essential for developing effective forest conservation and restoration policies. The findings suggest that integrating prescribed burning and sustainable forest management practices into forest management can promote resilience and recovery. Future research should explore the feedback loops between fire regimes, biodiversity, and forest dynamics to refine these strategies further.