Abstract Detail

Phenology and Conservation Implications

Calinger , Kellen  [1], Weltzin, Jake [1], Herms, Dan [2].

Phenology and Conservation Implications.

Phenology, the study of recurring biological events in relation to the seasons, is a sensitive indicator of climate change and shifts in phenology have been observed worldwide. While the general trend with increased temperature is advancement of phenology, particularly for spring events, different species show markedly variable phenologic plasticity. A few studies are already presenting compelling evidence that temperature increases associated with climate change may be causing differential selection for phenologically plastic species and against non-responsive species. A variety of mechanisms may favor or disadvantage responsive versus non-responsive species. For example, early blooming species may be at increased risk of frost damage, yet stand to benefit from a longer growing season. The disruption of plant-pollinator symbioses may significantly reduce reproductive success if plants and insect pollinators respond differently to warming. Herbivore populations may be impacted negatively if there phenological synchrony with host plants is disrupted. Additionally, invasive species may be able to shift phenology to occupy currently open phenological niches and aid their invasion into the community. These paths through which phenology may alter future species performance require investigation in order to conserve at risk species and preserve biodiversity in the face of future warming.

Broader Impacts:

1 - The Ohio State University, Evolution, Ecology, and Organismal Biology, 318 W 12th Avenue, Columbus, OH, 43210, USA
2 - The Ohio State University, Department of Entomology, 1680 Madison Ave, Wooster, OH, 44691, USA

Keywords:
phenology
conservation.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: C7
Location: Union C/Hyatt
Date: Wednesday, July 11th, 2012
Time: 1:25 PM
Number: C7SUM
Abstract ID:29