Investigation into the Phenological Patterns of Trees in Socorro Plateau, Goa

Abstract

Phenology is defined as the observation of biological events or life cycle phases that occur due to changes in climate and season. Primarily, phenology of all organisms is influenced by temperature fluctuations and quick climate changes which in turn regulate a variety of environmental factors. When discussing about the effects of climate change on ecosystems, phenology is especially important as many animals depend on the phenology of plants for their survival. Analysing the phenological patterns of a particular area can provide us with critical points on how ecosystems are affected by climate change. In this study, we have analysed the patterns of phenology for several trees and tried to identify any idiosyncrasies which may arise as a result of climate change and other similar factors. A total of 75 individuals belonging to 15 genera or 17 species were documented in Socorro plateau, Goa and their phenological patterns such as flowering, fruiting and leaf cover were recorded and analysed. The phenological patterns of the individual trees were compared in relation to each other such as in-between flowering and fruiting of the same species. In addition to this, the species were compared with each other in terms of their rate of flowering/fruiting to observe their inter-connected variations. Prospects for future research were identified to further promote studies in conservation biology of flora and fauna in the area and in climate change to mediate its effects.