Grasslands are open ecosystems that can be determined both by climatic patterns and disturbance occurrence. This chapter aims to present the current state of information on the incidence of fire in subtropical and temperate grasslands of South America (Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina). Fires, natural or human-induced, cause changes in grasslands by reducing plant biomass, opening up space and increasing the incidence of sunlight on the ground. Most of the existing studies in these grasslands have examined the effect of fire on plants and animals, and we provide a comprehensive compilation of existing studies on this topic. Some existing information about the impact of fire on soil and decomposition variables has also been compiled, as well as regarding the use of fire as a management tool by livestock ranchers. We also discuss how fire (in addition to grazing) has been able to maintain grasslands in a region where the climate allows for forest development. Lastly, we address the issue of the knowledge and policy gaps that exist. There is a need to continue generating knowledge on the fire effects, so that decision makers can evaluate its potential use as a conservation or management tool.