Assessment of the reproductive timing of native tree species in the Tara Gedam Natural Forest, Northwestern Ethiopia

Research on plant phenology offers insights into the growth and developmental patterns of plants, as well as the impact of environmental conditions and selective pressures on their flowering and fruiting behaviors. The phenological behaviors of ten indigenous tree species were examined over a three-year period in the dry Afromontane Tara Gedam Natural Forest in northwestern Ethiopia, aiming to fill a data gap for this ecosystem. A total of 100 reproductively mature trees (10 per species) were selected for monitoring their leafing, flowering, and fruiting stages. The region experiences an extended rainy season (May–October) and a dry season (November–April). Most flowering occurred annually and seasonally during the dry season, while fruiting was less seasonal, occurring throughout the year. Peak reproductive events occurred later in the dry season or at the onset of the rainy season. Correlation analysis showed that both temperature and rainfall significantly influenced the flowering and fruiting patterns; however, temperature was found to primarily influence leaf phenology. This research is significant for conservation, providing foundational information for developing strategies for species conservation and managing tree seed production in the region.