Wildland fuels that lie under the surface of the ground are called ________ fuels?

Subsurface fuels refer to the combustible materials that are located beneath the ground's surface. These include organic materials such as roots, decayed plant matter, or duff, which can ignite and sustain a fire even when the surface is seemingly safe. Understanding subsurface fuels is critical for firefighters, particularly in wildland firefighting contexts, as they can lead to challenging fire behavior and contribute to the spread of wildfires. Recognizing the role of these fuels aids in determining fire behavior, developing effective strategies for suppression, and implementing proper safety measures during fire operations.