Conclusions
We developed a generalizable trait-based approach and provide
reproducible code for quantifying pyrodiversity at regional to local
scales. This method has several advantages over previous efforts to
quantify pyrodiversity: 1) It uses a functional diversity framework that
captures multi-dimensional dispersion of pyrodiversity traits. 2) It
leverages Landsat imagery and Google Earth engine to measure intra-fire
variation anywhere validated severity models exist. While we demonstrate
its utility at the regional scale, the 30m resolution of the underlying
data also allow calculation of pyrodiversity at scales relevant to point
or plot-based biodiversity survey methods. 3) This method allows
flexible weighting of individual fire traits and the relative importance
of the visible/invisible mosaic. This novel approach, along with an
improved understanding of the ultimate drivers of pyrodiversity provides
opportunities to more consistently and comprehensively test the
influence of pyrodiversity on biodiversity and other ecosystem
processes. Doing so across regions, management approaches, and
ecological communities will increase our ability to manage fire and
conserve biodiversity as fire regimes continue to shift with
accelerating global change.