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Spring leaf phenology and the diurnal temperature range in a temperate maple forest
1Department of Earth, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences, Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI, 49855-5301, USA, johanes@nmu.edu.
International Journal of Biometeorology
|November 15, 2012
Summary
Leaf phenology influences the diurnal temperature range (DTR) in temperate forests. Canopy closure due to spring leaf unfolding primarily causes the DTR trend reversal, impacting climate models.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Atmospheric Science
- Climate Modeling
Background:
- Spring leaf phenology is linked to atmospheric conditions like energy balance and carbon flux.
- Accurate ecosystem and climate models require better understanding of phenology-climate interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the influence of maple leaf phenology on the diurnal temperature range (DTR) trend during spring.
- Determine the relationship between canopy development and atmospheric temperature fluctuations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized visual observations of maple leaf phenology.
- Collected below-canopy light intensity and micrometeorological data over three spring seasons (2008-2010).
- Analyzed seasonal transitions in the DTR trend in relation to leaf unfolding.
Main Results:
- A reversal in the DTR trend coincided with maple leaf unfolding and expansion.
- The spring decline in DTR was primarily driven by canopy closure affecting daily maximum temperatures.
- Established a direct link between leaf phenology and DTR dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Leaf phenology significantly impacts the diurnal temperature range in temperate maple forests.
- Accurate phenological data is crucial for improving ecosystem and climate models.
- Existing models may need re-evaluation for their incorporation of canopy phenology.
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