Local environment contributes to shape phenological patterns in Mauritia flexuosa L.f

Abstract

AimsHere, we characterized the vegetative and reproductive phenology of Mauritia flexuosa in an extra-Amazonian environment, in four veredas (humid environment) in the Brazilian semiarid Cerrado region. Our objectives were to identify whether the phenology of palms growing in the veredas follows the same pattern as populations in other localities, such as the Amazon, or if the phenological pattern of M. flexuosa corresponds to local seasonality, to test for correlations between phenophases and local environmental variables, and to summarize the differences in biometric and quantitative parameters of reproductive structures between male and female individuals. LocationThe study was conducted in the Environmental Protection Area (APA) of Rio Pandeiros, municipality of Bonito de Minas, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. MethodsFor phenological monitoring, 100 adult individuals were selected (60 females and 40 males), and monitoring was conducted monthly for 50 months (November 2015 to December 2019). Circular statistics and linear models were used to correlate phenophase data with abiotic variables and compare floral and inflorescence biometry data. ResultsMauritia flexuosa produces spear, green, and old leaves continuously throughout the year. Mauritia flexuosa was classified as a supra-annual presenting flowering/fruiting event at intervals longer than one year. The reproductive and vegetative phenophases were correlated with different abiotic variables (precipitation, photoperiod, and temperature). ConclusionWhen we consider the “bigger picture” and compare different palm populations from Amazonian and non-Amazonian regions, M. flexuosa flowering and fruiting phenology differ depending on locality, sometimes occurring during the dry season and at other times during rainy periods. The phenological differences found here confirm the importance of characterizing species and phenological patterns in different environments of occurrence to better understand the ability of species to adapt to a changing climate.