Bushfire Cellular Automaton
SWEN40004 - Modelling Complex Software Systems
Assignment 2
by Kim Bratzel & Aram Kocharyan
31st of May, 2013
Table of Contents
Introduction
Domain
Purpose
Hypothesis
Scope & Assumptions
In Scope
Out of Scope
Literature Review
Methodology
Design
Probability
Assumptions
Neighbourhood
Tree Growth Algorithms
Random
Proximity
Fire Spread Algorithms
Instant
Proximity
Implementation
Experimentation
Results
Baseline
Size
Lambda
Gamma
Moore Neighbourhood
Proximity Tree Growth
Proximity Fire Growth
Classification
1. Stable, Homogeneous
2. Oscillating, Heterogeneous
3. Random, Chaotic, Unpredictable
4. Complex, Localised Structures
Variance Analysis
Future Models
Probability
Slope
Climate
Tree Density
Tree Species & Characteristics
Tree Lifespans
Non-linear Tree Growth
Realistic Time Steps
Targeted Lightning Strikes
Conclusion
Appendix
Scenarios
Full Results
References
Introduction
Domain
Bushfires burn down millions of hectares of forest per year. Even though bushfires do have many useful environmental benefits,
they are commonly known for their ability to cause considerable damage to homes and property, and in extreme cases, a large
number of deaths. Increasing the knowledge of the behaviour of these fires is paramount to protecting against their dangers.
Simulation models are a great way to begin to understand how these fires spread, and to learn how to minimise the damage they
cause. (Collin, Bernardin & Séro-Guillaume, 2011)
Bushfires are critical for increasing biodiversity, they refresh the nutrients in the soil, helping to regrow vegetation. Eliminating
them altogether can cause many adverse effects including the extinction of native animals. (Taylor, 2013)
The difficulty is, of course, finding the balance between controlling the spread and destruction of bushfires and minimising them
all together.
Purpose
The purpose of this investigation is to find the optimal conditions and variables for allowing the most trees to grow in a confined
space, whilst minimising the impact of naturally occurring bushfires.
Modelling all the interactions between all of the properties of bushfires creates quite a complex system. One of the best ways to
simulate the system as a whole is to use computer simulation. Berjak & Hearne (2002) argue that computer simulation is generally
the most desirable method to measure various approaches to bushfire modelling as it removes all of the risks associated with
fires, is very cost effective and allows variables to be easily changed and measured.
Hypothesis
If bushfires are simulated using a two-dimensional, cellular automata then it will be possible to show a model that can maintain a high
percentage of trees whilst still having regular, non-devastating bushfires.
Scope & Assumptions
The overall scope is briefly mentioned here and elaborated on in our methodology.
In Scope
●
●
●
●
●
We assume that bushfires begin, and subsequently spread only when lightning strikes trees.
A cell can be of type tree, fire or empty (mutually exclusive).
Only a single type of tree is modelled.
We are forced to restrict the size of the lattice for the cellular automaton, creating edges in our world, but we allow this
size to be modified.
The tree population is initially 0.
Out of Scope
We have not considered seasonal and weather effects, topography of the surrounding environment, other surrounding vegetation
(e.g. grass) or other tree species. We discuss this in more detail during our conclusion which explores (in much greater detail)
possible future models.
Literature Review
A popular way to model bushfires is by using a cellular automaton. Quartieri, Mastorakis, Iannone & Guarnaccia (n.d.) explain
that,
“The reason behind the popularity of CA [Cellular Automaton] can be traced to their simplicity and to the enormous potential they
hold in modeling complex systems.”
A cellular automaton is a model which is commonly used to simulate different physical systems. A 2D grid is often used to model
a two-dimensional cellular automaton. A cell’s state can be calculated by its previous state, the state of its neighbours and its
transitions. (Choudhury, 2011)
Discrete time steps are used to advance the system, possibly changing the state of a particular cell.
It is generally accepted that there are four main classes of cellular automata (Han, Liao & Li, 2012) as described by Wolfram
(2002). These are defined by their observed behaviour, simplistically they are defined by the way in which they quickly evolve into
one of the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Stable, homogeneous behaviour
Oscillating, heterogeneous patterns
Random, chaotic and unpredictable behaviour
Complex localised structures
An example of stable behaviour may be the eventual loss of all trees, where no trees grow back (due to the lack of seeds). This
type of stable behaviour could also be observed in the situation where the number of trees grows to reach the maximum number
of trees which can fit into a particular space. Oscillating growth and burning of trees is a probable outcome that is observed
frequently in nature as fluctuating populations (Farabee, 2010). Random behaviour is the least prefered outcome as it makes
simulations hard to analyse and future outcomes difficult to predict.
In order to meet the goals of this investigation, the observation of highly stable behaviour would be most desirable. This type of
behaviour enables more accurate predictions of bushfires and will mean that large destructive bushfires are minimal or even
nonexistent. Optimally we would prefer to maximise the number of trees, whilst still having regular fires (with minimal
devastation) to refresh the soil and vegetation in order to support a balanced ecosystem.
It’s highly likely that some behaviour will repeat at certain intervals (lightning successfully strikes for example), keeping these
intervals close together may be the best way to achieve the desired results.
Methodology
Design
The variables present in the model are outlined below with a discussion on their effects.
Probability
g = γf where γ ≥ 0
f = λ/L2 where 0 ≤ λ ≤ 1, L ∈ Z +,
The tree growth probability (g) is proportional to the arbitrary constant, gamma (γ) and the lightning strike probability (f) , which
is dependent on another arbitrary constant lambda (λ) and the size of the lattice (L). Probabilities are for each cell per time
step.
Assumptions
Initially all cells are empty. Tree growth is instantaneous and can only take place in empty cells. Lightning is an event rather than
a cell type. In the same time step, tree growth is assumed to occur first. Unlike tree growth, lightning can strike in any cell and
instantly creates a fire cell if and only if it strikes a cell containing a tree. A fire cell lasts for a single time step and becomes an
empty cell at the end of the time step (i.e. the time taken for a fire to burn out is constant). In the following time step, a tree may
grow in this cell, but not during the time step that the fire cell was created.
This model assumes that lightning strike probability is inversely and exponentially related to the size of the lattice. As the size of
the lattice increases, the probability of lightning per cell per time step reduces, keeping the probability of lightning for the entire
lattice per time step as a constant:
f lattice, t = L2f = λ
Another assumption is that tree growth probability per cell per time step is proportional to the probability of lightning per cell per
time step. The probability of tree growth for the entire lattice per time step is a constant in proportion to the probability of
lightning.
glattice, t = lempty, t g
Where lempty,t is the number of empty cells in the lattice at time t . If all cells are empty, lempty, t = L2
and:
glattice, empty, t = L2g = L2γf = L2γλ/L2 = γλ = γf lattice, t
As cells are occupied, glattice, t should reduce and result in less tree growth for the entire lattice per time step, modelling
populations in nature. If glattice,t and g exceed 1, we consider the respective probability a certainty. f lattice, t and f are bounded
[0, 1].
Neighbourhood
Either the von Neumann (max neighbours = 4) or the Moore (max neighbours = 8) neighbourhood algorithm can be used to identify
neighbouring cells. For a comparison of these algorithms see Hand (2005).
Tree Growth Algorithms
We modelled two different tree growth algorithms described below.
Random
Each time step, an empty cell has probability g of growing into a tree cell. Since each empty cell has an equal probability of
growing into a tree, we can consider this as a uniformly distributed model. However, tree growth can only occur in empty cells as
mentioned.
Proximity
The probability of a tree growing in any cell per time step is proportional to the number of neighbouring trees (determined by the
neighbourhood algorithm) to that cell. This clustering was designed to be more realistic, whereby trees spread and germinate their
seeds in their local vicinity. The probability can be modelled as:
g = glow + (ghigh − glow) × ntree / nmax
Here glow and ghigh are probability bounds such that 0 ≤ glow ≤ ghigh ≤ 1 . The ratio of the number of current neighbouring trees
(ntree) and the number of possible neighbours (nmax) is used to linearly increase the probability of growth from glow to ghigh . This
means that a cell with a higher number of neighbouring trees is at least as likely to grow into a tree itself. If glow < ghigh the cell
is strictly more likely to grow into a tree when it has more neighbouring trees.
Fire Spread Algorithms
We modelled two different fire spread algorithms described below.
Instant
This assumes that fire spreads instantly and any neighbouring trees are ignited and burnt within the same time step.
Proximity
Fire is spread to neighbouring trees each time step. A fire cell may spread to a direct neighbouring tree during one time step, it
must then wait until the next time step before possibly spreading to a second degree neighbour. The probability of a tree cell
igniting is linearly proportional to the number of fire cells in its neighbourhood.
s = slow + (shigh − slow) × nfire / nmax , given nfire > 0
s = 0 , given nfire = 0
Similarly to the proximity tree growth algorithm, slow and shigh are probability bounds and the ratio of the number of current
neighbouring fires (nfire) and the number of possible neighbours (nmax) are modelled. Note that if there are no neighbouring fire
cells no fire will spread. Also, this is independent of g and f - trees will continue to grow and lightning to strike. This model
does not affect the lifespan of a fire cell (assumed to be a single time step).
This model attempts to capture the realistic scenario where fire might not necessarily spread to neighbouring trees. This may
occur for a variety of reasons, such as wind direction, elevation and humidity, which we do not explicitly model.
Implementation
The implementation was developed as a web app in JavaScript using the Crafty JS game engine, Bootstrap UI framework and the
jQuery library. You can test our automaton publicly here:
http://swen40004.bitbucket.org
The implementation has been tested in Google Chrome 27 (preferred) and Firefox 19. The source code is publicly available at
https://bitbucket.org/swen40004. A considerable amount of effort was put into the development our own implementation of a
cellular automaton.
Experimentation
Our approach is to form a baseline model with a basic configuration of parameters, this allows us to explore further modifications
so that we can compare them to the baseline and to each other. We consider the following possible parameter values:
L ∈ {20, 40, 80}, λ ∈ {1, 0.5, 0.1}, γ ∈ {10, 100, 1000}
. The baseline has L = 20, λ = 1, γ = 10 and uses a von Neumann neighbourhood,
random tree growth and instant fire spread. When proximity tree growth is used, glow = 0.01, ghigh = 0.2 by default, and when
proximity fire spread is used, slow = 0.5, shigh = 0.8 by default.
Our aim is to then modify a single parameter from the baseline and observe the results, so as to observe emergent patterns. For
each of these permutations, we then make a second, different parameter permutation, and observe how the two interact.
The main outputs of interest are the populations of tree and fire cells per time step, the growth rate of trees (first and second
order differences), and the frequency and success rates of lightning strikes.
Our approach is to then categorise similar results by their patterns and features and to identify which parameters produce a
particular pattern. We are then able to target the ideal model according to our hypothesis and aim, so that we may discuss its
feasibility and limitations.
Results
The aim of this section is to identify scenarios which support or contradict our hypothesis and study their features. Nearly all of
the scenarios we tested had an initial period of continuous growth, bounded only by the available empty cells. During this period
no trees were burnt since no fires took place. This would be typical of a new plantation. The charts below have time steps on the
x-axis and tree (green) and fire (red) populations on the y-axis (1 unit is 1 cell). The are generated directly from our implementation
and are viewable online. Please see the definitions of scenarios in the appendix. The parameters are mapped by (A-J) and (1-10)
which indicate the type of parameter combinations.
Baseline
Scenario A1 Population
Due to instant fire spread and a small lattice, a large population of trees is burnt each time. Tree growth shows support for this
claim. The remaining subsections will modify a single parameter at a time and will be compared to this baseline.
Size
Scenario A2 Population
Increasing the size of the lattice has a big impact. Since trees grow at random locations, a larger lattice ensures average
clustering takes more time to reach the level seen in the baseline (50%). This forms a more prominent logarithmic growth trend.
Lambda
Scenario A4 Population
A lower lambda value allows trees to grow for longer, but destroys more trees at a time, compared to the baseline during lightning
strikes.
Gamma
Scenario A6 Population
Increasing gamma leads to faster tree growth, with more frequent lightning success rates which destroys (almost) the entire tree
population each time.
Moore Neighbourhood
Scenario A8 Population
Changing neighbourhood from von Neumann to Moore reduces the frequency of small fires and produces larger fires, since each
cell has (up to two times) more potential neighbours to burn instantly. Fire destroys most of the population each time compared to
the baseline.
Proximity Tree Growth
Due to the increase in growth probability as neighbours increase, an exponential growth pattern emerges as opposed to the
logarithmic patterns which have been observed so far. Generally an exponential population increase is considered more realistic
according to Farabee (2010), but a logarithmic one ensures a faster recovery from fires if feasible and is hence preferred.
Unsurprisingly, proximity based growth with instant burning is a deadly combination, destroying the majority of the tree population
during the largest fires. This shows that the random tree growth model is a better survival tactic against fires in our simulation.
Proximity Fire Growth
This model greatly improves the chances of survival for uniformly distributed trees. Fires which burn clusters of trees take much
longer to consume them and can die out after several time steps, allowing time for the population to continue growing around the
fire. The realism of this is questionable, but may be feasible in trees which germinate under burnt conditions (Bell, Plummer &
Taylor, 1993). Nevertheless, this produces a somewhat chaotic oscillation and steady populations of trees and fire cells.
Classification
Classifying our scenarios into the four classes identified by Wolfram (2002) for cellular automata presented in the literature
review provides insights into which models may allow sustained tree growth as well as controllable and predictable bushfires. All
subsequent models use a lattice size of 40 (for fair representation) and Moore neighbourhood (for greater realism of fire spread,
ignoring out of scope scenarios). The full classification of all of our scenarios can be found in the appendix.
1. Stable, Homogeneous
Many of these models approached equilibriums and did not deviate after a certain period of activity. We are unable to model
extinction of trees since this requires growth to depend on tree population. The only way to achieve this using our model is by
using proximity growth, which requires glow = 0 . With an initially empty lattice (an assumption we made) this will result in no
growth at all, but if we could allow an initial tree population, such an experiment would be possible and could be used for hazard
prevention.
Scenario X1 Population
Scenario X1 uses γ = 100, glow = 0.01, ghigh = 0.2, slow = 0, shigh = 1, proximity tree growth and fire spread. We observe an initially
exponential population growth which becomes logarithmic and reaches an equilibrium with 95% average clustering. This is akin
to what Farabee (2010) describes with populations in nature as initially rapid growth reduces as competition for resources
develops and verifies our model of glattice, t reducing over time. Lightning strike success rates are very high but few trees are
burnt since slow and shigh act as insulation. This is a highly desirable scenario for tree growth, but can be negative if fire is
needed for germination or revitalisation of the soil, and can be unrealistic if resource constraints are modelled (trees populate the
entire lattice, which can deplete resources and lead to extinction).
Several scenarios such as B10, E10 and A10 showed signs of logarithmic long term growth followed by oscillations. B10
contained few bushfires at all however due to a larger lattice size than A10.
Scenario B10 Population
Scenario X5 Population
Scenario X5 uses λ = 0.5, γ = 1000, glow = 1, ghigh = 1, slow = 1, shigh = 1. Although it is not realistic, it demonstrates that modelling a
near-perfect tree/fire equilibrium is possible. Due to the large γ we see an increase in the tree population very early. Since all
proximity variables are at their maximum value, a tree will cause neighbouring trees to grow around it in the next time step.
Similarly, once lightning strikes successfully (as seen in X1) the fire spreads and burns all neighbouring trees with certainty.
This crucible of extreme growth and burning continues until it reaches an equilibrium, where it remains indefinitely. The outcome
is neither realistic or optimal, as there is a constant, large population of fire, but it demonstrates that our model can also
produce perverse outcomes not necessarily found in nature.
2. Oscillating, Heterogeneous
Some scenarios such as B4, B8, D6 and D8 have consistent fires which destroy a minority of the tree population, which is
relatively desirable and models nature described by William, Orians & Heller (1995) when populations reach their carrying
capacity.
Scenario D6 Population
Other scenarios such as B9, E7, E9 and X6 destroy the majority of the population during a fire. This may represent plants which
require fire to germinate, however we would prefer to burn smaller sections rather than the entire population at once to reduce the
effects on wildlife and for general safety.
Scenario E7 Population
Some oscillate more gradually as a result of proximity fire spread taking longer to burn small clusters before extinguishing.
Scenario GH9-10 Population
3. Random, Chaotic, Unpredictable
A somewhat more chaotic scenario still has oscillations but gives unpredictable, disadvantageous changes.
Scenario X2 Population
4. Complex, Localised Structures
Scenario HI10 Population
One model showed a change from oscillation to random variation and then back to oscillation.
Variance Analysis
We prefer models with less variance as they are more deterministic and easier to predict and prepare for, which is crucial during
bushfire emergency survival. It's possible to model very extreme variation, such as in scenarios A7 or X4, but these are
unreasonably extreme cases. Others have reasonably homogeneous variance distributions, such as A10, while others have a very
low constant variance, such as X1.
Scenario X5 Growth
X5 is peculiar in that its variance reduces over time, which would be desirable were it not for the irrational scenario. Given
sufficient time, calculating standard deviation of these growth distributions would benefit our understanding of the risks involved
in scenarios.
Future Models
There are many factors that have not been considered for these experiments. This section describes most (but not necessarily all)
extension models found in our review of existing literature which could help consolidate our results to real world observations,
thereby improving the prediction capabilities of the model.
Probability
We only considered a single probabilistic model, which has assumptions on the relationship between probability of fires and
growth of trees. This is a somewhat simplistic model which is based on a spurious underlying assumption. Coming up with a
better model which accounts for a greater number of variables is an extremely complex process however, and would require further
investigation. As D’Ambrosio, Gregorio, Di, Spataro & Trunfio (2006) discovered,
“The validation of fire spread models is difficult because usually standard fire records don’t account for all the data necessary to the
simulation.”
The model used is also very general and could be recalculated based on a specific geographical location in order to more
accurately represent as many known variables as possible, such as the climate.
Some previous studies, including one by Quartieri, Mastorakis, Iannone & Guarnaccia (n.d.) have discussed the possibility of using
fractal driven models as an alternative to probabilistic models. Fractal driven models are much more complex, are far less
researched and would require a great deal more investigation.
Slope
Factors such as the relationship between fire spread and the slope (or elevation) of the ground have already been well researched.
For example, Berjak & Hearne (pp. 137, 2002) tell us that,
“The relationship between spread and slope is generally accepted throughout Australia and is supported by data derived from
individual fire reports for the California region by the US Forest Service.”
Climate
Some variables such as wind speed have been ignored due to complexity. The most important weather factors to consider when
simulating bushfires have been elicited by Johnston, Milne & Klemitz (2005) and include wind speed and direction, humidity,
temperature and rainfall.
Tree Density
According to Li & Magill (2001) the tree (or bush) density is the most important factor to consider when looking at fire spread. It
provides the fuel for the fire to travel from one location to another. They go on to say that 59% of flammable fuel is the critical
amount that is required for fire to spread to neighbouring trees. Tree density should be incorporated into the model for a more
realistic simulation of fire spread.
Tree Species & Characteristics
The model used in this investigation assumes all trees possess identical characteristics. It does not take into account the varying
attributes of different trees. Attributes such as the particular species, combustibility, heat capacity, exposure to particular weather
conditions, size and age of the tree can affect their flammability.
Tree Lifespans
This investigation aims to model conditions which generate sustainable vegetation and maintain the fertility of the soil through
bushfires. The simulation looks at the number of fires overall but does not measure the locality of the fires. This could mean that
even though the number of fires is at a stable and healthy rate, one particular section or cluster of trees may never actually be
burnt and one set of cells may be burnt numerous times. Measuring this information would be very useful to ensure that all parts
of the forest are at some stage burnt and revitalised.
Non-linear Tree Growth
Proximity tree growth was based on a reasonably simplistic algorithm which increased the probability of a tree growing by a linear
relationship to the number of neighbouring trees. In reality, the chances of a tree growing at a particular location could
potentially increase by a polynomial, or even exponential rate in relation to the number of neighbouring trees.
Conversely, due to overcrowding, or the overuse of resources, the likelihood of a tree growing could decrease by some function
which is proportional to the number of neighbouring trees.
Realistic Time Steps
Currently the simulation allows for a tree to grow in the same length of time it takes a fire to burn. For realism, a tree should grow
at considerably slower rates. Different states could be used to model different growth states of a tree. The probability of a fire
spreading to a tree can be related to its current growth state (smaller trees may burn quicker, larger trees may take longer to
ignite).
Targeted Lightning Strikes
Lightning is modelled to strike the map at random locations. Golde (1968) describes that lightning strike probability depends on
the ground surface area and height of the object relative to the ground. Since it is likely that lightning would be more attracted to
clusters of trees, such an extension may benefit the accuracy of the model.
Conclusion
The results of the simulation have shown that by using different computer modelling techniques ranging from very simplistic, to
reasonably complex we can show that it is possible to maintain a high percentage of trees whilst still having regular,
non-devastating bushfires.
Appendix
An online version of this report is accessible here. Our planning and approach for this report can be accessed here.
Scenarios
As discussed in the methodology we started with a baseline and attempted to model a single parameter change. Then we modelled
each of these changes with another, different parameter change. We then applied what results we had to identify extensions. This
process, and our raw categorisation of scenarios into the four classes of cellular automata can be accessed here. A rough analysis
of the scenarios and their similarities is available here. A brief categorisation is outlined below. Note that any scenario may also
have miscellaneous features.
Class
Description
Scenarios
1
Equilibrium - no long term growth.
C4, GH10, X1, X3, X5, A10
2
Oscillating, heterogeneous patterns - no long term
2.1
Slight burning of trees
A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, B4, B5, B8, C6, D8, E6, A5
2.2
Total burning of trees
A6, A7, A8, A9, B6, B7, B9, C7, C9, D6, D7, E7, E9, H9, D8-9,
growth.
X4, X6
2.3
Gradual oscillation
D9-10, GH9-10, X7
3
Chaotic
X2
4
Complex localised structures
HI10, I10
Misc
Long term logarithmic growth
B10, C5, C7, C10, E10
Initial logarithmic growth
C6, D6, D7, GH10, H9, D8-9, HI10, I10, A5, A3, B5, B6, A6, A8,
Initial exponential growth
B9, C9, D9-10, E7, GH9-10, D8-9, X2, A9
Initial exponential and then logarithmic
E9, X1, X6
Initial linear growth
D8, E6, A2, A4
B4
Full Results
We usually tested the automaton for 500 time steps, but occasionally we needed more (up to 2000) to determine any emergent
patterns. The full generated results to all our scenarios using our web app is available online here:
http://swen40004.bitbucket.org/results/
Some scenarios are very similar to others but appear different due to varying tree growth and lightning rates, which stretch the
timeline. We attempted to group these models together and focus on their emergent patterns instead of these differences.
References
Bell, D., Plummer, J., & Taylor, S. (1993). Seed germination ecology in southwestern Western Australia. The Botanical Review, 59(1),
24–73.
Berjak, S. G., & Hearne, J. W. (2002). An improved cellular automaton model for simulating fire in a spatially heterogeneous Savanna
system. Ecological Modelling, 148(2), 133–151. doi:10.1016/S0304-3800(01)00423-9
Choudhury, S. (2011). A cellular automaton model for wireless sensor networks. Proceedings of the 22nd …, 7, 223–242. Retrieved
from https://www.oldcitypublishing.com/JCA/JCAabstracts/JCA7.3abstracts/JCAv7n3p223-241Choudhury.html
Collin, A., Bernardin, D., & Séro-Guillaume, O. (2011). A Physical-Based Cellular Automaton Model for Forest-Fire Propagation.
Combustion Science and Technology, 183(4), 347–369. doi:10.1080/00102202.2010.508476
D’Ambrosio, D., Gregorio, S. Di, Spataro, W., & Trunfio, G. (2006). A model for the simulation of forest fire dynamics using cellular
automata. Proceedings of the iEMSs …. Retrieved from http://www.iemss.org/iemss2006/papers/s11/315_Spataro_1.pdf
Farabee, M. J. (2010). Population Ecology. Retrieved May 20, 2013, from
http://www.emc.maricopa.edu/faculty/farabee/biobk/biobookpopecol.html
Golde, R. H. (1968). Protection of Structures Against Lightning. Proceedings of the Institute of Electrical Engineers, 115(10), 1523–1529.
Han, Q., Liao, X., & Li, C. (2012). Complex Dynamic Behaviors in Cellular Automata Rule 14. Discrete Dynamics in Nature and Society,
2012, 1–12. doi:10.1155/2012/258309
Hand, C. (2005). Simple cellular automata on a spreadsheet. Computers in Higher Education Economics …, 17. Retrieved from
http://www.economicsnetwork.ac.uk/cheer/ch17/hand.htm
Johnston, P., Milne, G., & Klemitz, D. (2005). Overview of bushfire spread simulation systems. BUSHFIRE CRC Project B. Retrieved from
http://www.bushfirecrc.com/sites/default/files/managed/resource/uwa_simulators_overview.pdf
Li, X., & Magill, W. (2001). Modeling fire spread under environmental influence using a cellular automaton approach. Complexity
International, 08, 1–14. Retrieved from http://www.complexity.org.au/ci_louise/vol08/li01/li01.pdf
Taylor, R. S., Watson, S. J., Bennett, A. F., & Clarke, M. F. (2013). Which fire management strategies benefit biodiversity? A
landscape-perspective case study using birds in mallee ecosystems of south-eastern Australia. Biological Conservation, 159,
248–256. doi:10.1016/j.biocon.2012.12.005
Quartieri, J., Mastorakis, N. E., Iannone, G., & Guarnaccia, C. (n.d.). A Cellular Automata Model for Fire Spreading Prediction 2
Background on Cellular Automata, 173–179.
William, K., Orians, G. H., & Heller, H. C. (1995). Life: The Science of Biology (4th ed.). Sinauer Associates.
Wolfram, S. (2002). A New Kind of Science. Wolfram Media, Inc.