The phenology of growth and reproduction in plants

Published Date
Perspectives in Plant Ecology, Evolution and Systematics
1998, Vol.1(1):78–91, doi:10.1078/1433-8319-00053

• Author 

• Michael Fenner ^a,

• aBiodiversity & Ecology Division, School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Bassett Crescent East, Hampshire SO16 7PX, UK

Received 19 January 1998. Accepted 6 April 1998. Available online 10 November 2004. 

Abstract

The study of phenological aspects of plants involves the observation, recording and interpretation of the timing of their life history events. This review considers the phenology of leafing, flowering and fruit production in a range of species and communities. The selective forces (both abiotic and biotic) that influence the timing of these events are discussed. Within the limits imposed by phylogenetic constraints, the phenological patterns (timing, frequency, duration, degree of synchrony, etc.) of each phase are probably the result of a compromise between a variety of selective pressures, such as seasonal climatic changes, resource availability, and the presence of pollinators, predators and seed dispersers. Many studies on flowering times stress the role of interactions between plant species which share pollinators or predators. The timing of fruiting plays a key role in controlling the abundance and variety of obligate frugivores in many tropical communities. The importance of long-term recording is stressed, particularly in species which fruit irregularly. An understanding of the phenology of plants is crucial to the understanding of community function and diversity.

Key words

• Leafing
• flowering
• fruiting
• pollination
• seed predation
• synchrony

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http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1433831904700062