Spatial Difference of Interactive Effect Between Temperature and Daylength on Ginkgo Budburst

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Plant Science
• Climate Change Research

Background:

• Climate warming significantly alters terrestrial ecosystem functions through shifts in spring phenology.
• Spring phenology is influenced by temperature, daylength, and winter chilling, but their relative importance across spatial gradients is unclear.
• Understanding these cues is crucial for predicting ecosystem responses to global climate change.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate spatial differences in ginkgo budburst responses to temperature and daylength.
• To determine the relative importance of temperature and daylength cues across latitudinal and elevational gradients.
• To provide empirical evidence for improved understanding of phenological changes in response to climate change.

Main Methods:

• A manipulative experiment using controlled daylength (8h vs. 16h) and temperature treatments on ginkgo twigs from three sites (low latitude/low elevation, low latitude/high elevation, high latitude).
• In situ phenological observations of ginkgo along latitudes in China to validate experimental findings.
• Analysis of budburst timing in relation to temperature and daylength under different spatial conditions.

Main Results:

• Ginkgo budburst occurred earlier at higher latitudes (JF) and elevations (TMhigh) compared to low-latitude/low-elevation sites (TMlow) under identical conditions.
• Daylength significantly influenced budburst only at low latitudes, with long days advancing budburst, particularly in low-elevation individuals.
• Temperature sensitivity of budburst decreased with increasing latitude and elevation, indicating adaptation to local environmental cues.

Conclusions:

• Significant spatial variation exists in the response of ginkgo budburst to temperature and daylength cues.
• Daylength plays a crucial role in phenology at lower latitudes, while temperature becomes a more dominant factor at higher latitudes/elevations.
• These findings enhance our understanding of plant phenological responses to climate change across diverse spatial gradients.