Methods
We conducted a series of field experiments to
evaluate how different bark traits influence the likelihood of fire-induced tree mortality. First, we heated the air adjacent to the outer bark
of trees with a propane torch to relate heat transfer rates (R) to bark traits. Second, we developed a predictive model of bark thickness as a function of tree dbh for the 24 most common
species. Third, based on predicted bark thickness, we estimated R (referred to as R) for each tree (10 cm dbh) in experimental plots subjected to different fire frequencies. Fourth, we tested several statistical models of mortality as a function of R for trees in two 50 ha plots that were burned
either twice (B2) or five times (B5) between 2004 and 2010. Finally, we compared the importance of ^R with other plant traits in avoiding fire-induced mortality.
