Intra- and Interannual Variation in Tree Deciduousness in a Tropical Dry Forest in Yucatán, México

Résumé fourni par la source

Leaf phenology affects critical ecosystem processes like primary productivity and nutrient cycling and serves as an indicator of plant and ecosystem responses to environmental variation, including climate change, particularly in tropical dry forests (TDF). Leaf phenology is influenced by several factors, including successional age, topography, and precipitation. This study examines intra- and interannual variation in tree leaf deciduousness in a TDF in Yucatán, Mexico, and assesses the effects of successional age and topography on this variation. We monitored leaf phenology of trees over 5 cm in diameter in 15 plots across four successional age categories (8–10, 15–22, 23–30, and ≥60 years) and two topographic positions (sloping and flat areas) monthly for two years. Generalized Linear Mixed Models were used to evaluate the influence of seasonality and its interaction with successional age and topography on deciduousness. Deciduousness varied across successional ages and topographic positions, with younger forests and flat areas showing a higher proportion of deciduous individuals and species. Leaf phenology displayed strong seasonality and interannual variation, with increased deciduousness during the year with more prolonged and intense drought. Our findings underscore the importance of considering ecological factors such as forest age and topographic position when evaluating variations in leaf phenology.

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