Reproductive phenology of timber tree species in the Yungas Piedmont Forest of Argentina

Abstract

The tree reproductive phenology in the seasonal neotropical forest is driven by many abiotic and biotic factors and provides information to understand the biological processes of ecosystems. The Yungas Piedmont Forest in Argentina is one of the areas with the greatest biodiversity and timber resources in the country. However, limited knowledge of the reproductive phenology of these species has resulted in inadequate management plans and protocols. In this study, we observed the reproductive phenology of eight timber tree species in the Yungas Piedmont Forest over a two-year period and evaluated the relationship between local climatic conditions (temperature, precipitation, and photoperiod) and reproductive phenology. In the Yungas Piedmont forest, the reproductive phenology of timber tree species presented intermediate intensity, and short duration. The reproductive phenology of each species was seasonal and mainly modulated by photoperiod. Concerning the timing of each phenophase, we found interspecific variation in reproductive phenological strategies. Flowering occurred mainly during the late dry season up to early wet season and fruiting had two annual intensity peaks, one per season. This study provides valuable information on the phenological patterns of economically important tree species in the Andean Forest, and it is essential for underpinning conservation and restoration actions in the Yungas forests.