Urban fire outbreaks and biodiversity: The role of habitat suitability in fire incidence across a tropical metropolis

This study investigates the relationship between urban fire outbreaks and biodiversity in a tropical urban environment, using an index that assesses urban suitability for biodiversity. Analyzing 9,877 fire records from 2011 to 2020, we found that the highest frequency of fire outbreaks occurred in areas with intermediate suitability levels, typically peri-urban vegetated zones with limited law enforcement. In contrast, areas with the lowest biodiversity suitability exhibited the fewest incidents, likely due to stricter regulations and alternative land uses. Notably, regions with high biodiversity suitability showed double the frequency of fire occurrences compared to areas with lower suitability, suggesting significant human disturbances within preserved vegetation patches. Our findings indicate that urbanization correlates with increased fire risks, emphasizing the need for effective fire management strategies. Furthermore, this research highlights the critical need for public policies aimed at raising awareness of the ecological and health impacts of urban fire outbreaks. By linking fire outbreaks to urban biodiversity, this study underscores the importance of integrating environmental considerations into urban planning and management to mitigate adverse effects on both ecosystems and human populations.