Sentinel-2 derived Phenometrics of three tree species growing in Protected Area (Shoolpaneshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India).

This study investigates the phenometrics of three tree species two deciduous and one evergreen growing in the Shoolpabeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery. The study aims to extract key phenometrics for each species and analyze variability between deciduous and evergreen trees. High-resolution remote sensing data were processed using QGIS, Google Earth Engine (GEE), and R Studio to derive phenological metrics such as seasonal greenness dynamics. Comparative analysis revealed significant differences in the phenometrics of deciduous versus evergreen species, reflecting their distinct physiological and ecological traits. Results showed that deciduous and evergreen species exhibited strong seasonal dynamics with sharp increase in greenness during monsoon with high VI values. Tectona grandis L.f shows clear SOS with development of new leaves during growing season while EOS will be reduced due to shedding of vegetation. As per the results NDVI is more sensitive to vegetation change compare to EVI2. But prior study determines that by minimizing the atmospheric condition and background noise extracted value of EVI2 will be relatively high compare to NDVI. The length of growing season of Madhuca longifolia J.F.Macbr is relatively higher compare to evergreen species, variation in this is due to the climate condition prevailing in that year and also it depends on species composition, its relative abundance. Evergreen species i.e Mangifera indica L. shows high seasonal VI value than both deciduous species due to their consistent greenness by maintaining their foliage throughout year. The findings highlight ecological knowledge for better decision making in environmental conservation.