Phenology
/feh-NOL-oh-jee/🦋 Ecology●● Intermediate
Also known as: seasonal timing
Phenology is the science of observing and recording the timing of recurring life cycle events in plants and animals — such as first leaf emergence, flowering dates, fruit ripening, leaf color change, and leaf drop. These events are strongly influenced by temperature, photoperiod, and precipitation. Phenological data is critical for tracking climate change impacts, as shifts in bloom timing can disrupt pollinator relationships.
Etymology
From Greek phainein (to show, appear) + logos (study)
Example
“Phenological records showed that cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. now peak five days earlier than they did in 1970.”