Part 3

READING PASSAGE 3

You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27-40, which are based on Reading Passage 3 below.

THE BENEFITS OF NATURE’S FIRES

Fire has long been perceived as a destructive force, capable of reducing entire forests to ash and threatening human settlements. However, in the natural world, fire plays a far more complex role. It is not merely a hazard but also a crucial ecological process that maintains balance in various ecosystems. From ancient times to modern conservation practices, fire has shaped landscapes, influenced biodiversity, and contributed to the survival of certain species.

Fire is a natural phenomenon that occurs when three essential components—heat, fuel, and oxygen—come together. In many ecosystems, such as grasslands, savannas, and coniferous forests, fire plays a critical role in maintaining ecological health. It helps in nutrient recycling, controls invasive species, and encourages the growth of fire-adapted plants.

One of the key benefits of fire is its ability to clear out dead and decaying vegetation. This reduces competition for nutrients and sunlight, allowing new plants to flourish. Additionally, fire can prevent the spread of disease by eliminating infected plants and trees. In certain ecosystems, periodic fires create a mosaic of different habitats, promoting biodiversity by providing varied environments for different species.

Some plant species have evolved specific adaptations to survive and even thrive in fire-prone environments. For example, the giant sequoia tree (Sequoiadendron giganteum) of North America relies on fire to reproduce. Its thick bark protects it from the flames, while the heat triggers the release of seeds from its cones. Similarly, some species of pine trees, such as the lodgepole pine, have serotinous cones that only open after being exposed to high temperatures.

Animals, too, have developed strategies to cope with fire. Some species, like kangaroos and deer, have the ability to flee from fire zones quickly, while others, such as certain insects and small mammals, seek refuge underground. Birds of prey, such as the black kite in Australia, have even been observed spreading fire intentionally by picking up burning sticks and dropping them into dry grass to flush out prey.

Fires can be classified into two main categories: natural and human-induced. Natural fires are typically caused by lightning strikes or volcanic activity. In many cases, these fires occur during dry seasons when vegetation has accumulated and conditions are ideal for combustion. Such fires, though destructive in the short term, play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem health.

Human-induced fires, on the other hand, can be both beneficial and harmful. Indigenous communities have long practiced controlled burning, also known as prescribed fires, to manage land and encourage new plant growth. These practices, which have been used for thousands of years, help prevent large-scale wildfires by reducing fuel loads. However, accidental or intentional fires caused by human activities—such as discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires, and land-clearing for agriculture—can lead to devastating consequences.

In recent years, climate change has significantly altered fire patterns worldwide. Rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, and changing weather conditions have increased the frequency and intensity of wildfires. Regions such as California, Australia, and the Mediterranean have witnessed unprecedented fire seasons, with fires burning larger areas and lasting longer than ever before.

One of the major consequences of increased fire activity is its impact on carbon storage. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When they burn, this stored carbon is released, contributing to further climate change. Moreover, frequent and intense fires can lead to soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and the displacement of both human and animal populations.

Given the importance of fire in natural ecosystems, scientists and conservationists have developed strategies to manage it effectively. Controlled burns, which mimic natural fire cycles, are widely used to maintain ecological balance and prevent catastrophic wildfires. These controlled burns are carefully planned and monitored to ensure they achieve ecological benefits without threatening nearby communities.

Firebreaks, which are cleared areas of land that act as barriers, help slow or stop the spread of wildfires. Additionally, advancements in fire detection technology, such as satellite monitoring and artificial intelligence-driven prediction models, have improved early warning systems and response times.

In some cases, fire suppression efforts have led to unintended consequences. Decades of fire suppression policies, particularly in North America and Europe, have resulted in dense forests with excessive fuel loads. This has made these areas more susceptible to severe wildfires when fires do occur. As a result, many governments and environmental agencies are shifting towards fire-adaptive management strategies that recognize fire as an essential ecological process rather than merely a threat.

Fire in nature is a powerful force that shapes landscapes and influences biodiversity. While it can be destructive, it also plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Understanding the dynamics of fire, recognizing its benefits, and implementing effective fire management strategies are crucial for both environmental conservation and human safety. As climate change continues to alter fire patterns, a balanced approach that integrates scientific research, traditional knowledge, and modern technology will be essential in ensuring that fire remains a beneficial force rather than a catastrophic one.

Questions 27-32

Do the following statements agree with the information given in Reading Passage 3?

In boxes 27-32 on your answer sheet, write

27.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . Fire only causes destruction, harming forests and human communities.

28.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . Fire plays a role in replenishing nutrients and managing invasive plant species in some ecosystems.

29.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . The giant sequoia tree is highly vulnerable to fire because its bark easily catches fire.

30.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . Certain birds of prey intentionally spread fire to drive out animals they hunt.

31.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . Volcanic eruptions are the main reason natural fires occur, while lightning strikes are less significant.

32.TRUEFALSENOT GIVEN . Fires started by humans always have negative effects on the environment.

Questions 33-36

Complete the summary below.

Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the passage for each answer.

Write your answers in boxes 33-36 on your answer sheet.

Wildfires have become more frequent and intense due to climate change, affecting 33 ____________ worldwide. Some areas now face 34____________ fire seasons, burning larger areas for longer periods. This leads to the destruction of 35____________, which normally absorb carbon dioxide. As a result, fires contribute to climate change and cause 36____________, harming ecosystems and displacing populations.