Phenological behavior in three altitudinal ranges of species; Enterolobium cyclocarpum, Maclura tinctoria. Esteli, Nicaragua

Abstract

Deterioration presented by tropical forest areas of Nicaragua, as a result of human actions, has resulted in the fragmentation and reduction of forests. Currently phenological studies have taken great importance, emphasizing mainly on biological processes of survival and reproductive success of the species, in order to improve the future distribution and adaptation to climate change; since variations on phenological stages have been observed.

The study consisted of evaluating the phenological behavior in three altitudinal ranges of tree species Enterolobium cyclocarpum, Maclura tinctoria in the dry tropical forest of northern Esteli - Nicaragua, as to obtain information on the phenology of these species to contribute to the recovery and conservation of such. Phenological behavior was evaluated in three altitude ranges: lower, middle and upper. The observation of phenological characteristics was based on the methodology of Fournier (1974). The data obtained were analyzed using non-parametric test of Kruskal-Wallis variance. Individuals of the species M. tinctoria showed significant difference in the percentage of leaves, sprouts and fruits in the altitudinal range of 700-800 m; and E. cyclocarpum were only in leaves and sprouts in the altitudinal range of 900-1000 m. The specie Enterolobium cyclocarpum is the best suited at different heights, behaving consistently, and it is recommended for use in reforestation programs.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/farem.v0i11.1607

Revista Científica de FAREM-Estelí No.11 2014: 81-90