Variation in Onset of Leaf Unfolding and Wood Formation in a Central African Tropical Tree Species

A diversity of phenological strategies has been reported for tropical tree species. Defoliation and seasonal dormancy cambial activity inform us on how trees cope with water stress during the dry season, or maximize use resources rainy season. Here, we study matching between leaf phenology (unfolding shedding) Prioria balsamifera , a key timber species in Democratic Republic Congo. In particular, (i) evaluated seasonality synchrony among response to climate (ii) identified its relation phenology. The was conducted Luki Man Biosphere Reserve, located Mayombe forest at southern margin Congo Basin. Historic defoliation data were collected every ten days using weekly crown observations whereas recent involved time-lapse cameras. Cambial pinning performed 20 months radius dendrometers installed three 13 months. Tree rings measured cores from growth evaluated. We found that P. defoliates annually peak observed end season beginning new leaves unfolded shortly after shedding old leaves. dates varied across years September 12 November 14 fraction number defoliated given time be negatively correlated annual rainfall temperature; when precipitation temperatures are lowest. Wood formation (radial growth), highly seasonal, occurring starting Individual ring-width series did not cross date well. within variability rhythms provides indication about resistance population against climatic changes.