Phenology and seed germination improvement of Terminalia superba and Terminalia ivorensis in a moist semi-deciduous forest in Ghana
Item
Title
Phenology and seed germination improvement of Terminalia superba and Terminalia ivorensis in a moist semi-deciduous forest in Ghana
Date
2018
Language
english
Abstract
Understanding the phenology and seed germination improvement techniques of forest tree species is crucial for their conservation and use in reforestation activities. This study examined the reproductive and vegetative phenology of two economic indigenous forest tree species; Terminalia superba and Terminalia ivorensis, relative to local climatic variables within the Bobiri Forest Reserve (BFR). We also assessed the effect of four physical and chemical seed germination improvement techniques on the seeds under ambient temperatures for 36 days. Phenology was observed and documented over a two-year period within six compartments in the reserve. Period and intensity of leaf flushing, flowering, fruiting and seed dispersal phenophases of 105 selected individuals of the two species were monitored and scored using the widely adopted Biologische Bundesanstalt, and Chemical Industry (BBCH) system of coding plant phenology. Leaf flushing in both species coincided with the onset of the wet season (April-July), which was closely followed by flowering during August and September. Fruiting and seed dispersal phenophases occurred between October and February. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.7325, p < 0.05) was established between the highest leaf flushing phenophase in T. superba and mean monthly rainfall. The highest fruiting phenological phase correlated negatively with mean monthly maximum temperatures (TEmx). Chemical scarification (soaking in 2M H2SO4 for 20 minutes prior to sowing) improved seed germination in T. superba above 30%. Results indicate that T. superba and T. ivorensis undergo a consistent and synchronized annual reproductive cycle dependent on temperature and rainfall regimes within BFR. We further indicate that large scale climatic fluctuations may affect the reproductive and vegetative phenology of these species.
Collection
Citation
“Phenology and seed germination improvement of Terminalia superba and Terminalia ivorensis in a moist semi-deciduous forest in Ghana,” CSIRSpace, accessed September 19, 2024, http://cspace.csirgh.com/items/show/1792.