Contrasting leaf phenology in two white oaks, Quercus magnoliifolia and Quercus resinosa, along an altitudinal gradient in Mexico

In tropical latitudes, the analysis of leaf phenology in tree species of lineages with temperate origin can help better understanding the potential effects of climate change on these forests. Over three years (2008-2010), we recorded the timing of bud burst (BB), leaf unfolding (LU), and leaf spreading (LS) and their relation to temperature, precipitation, and soil water potential in two deciduous oak species (Quercus magnoliifolia Nee and Quercus resinosa Liebm.) along an altitudinal gradient at the Tequila Volcano, central Mexico. Quercus magnoliifolia was monitored at three altitudes, 1450, 1667, and 1787 m, and Q. resinosa was monitored at 1787, 2055, and 2110 m. The onset of BB, LU, and LS occurred earlier at lower elevations with higher temperature in Q. magnoliifolia, but in Q. resinosa only the onset of BB occurred later at lower elevations with higher temperature. BB, LU, and LS were not correlated with rainfall and soil water potential in the two species. The total duration time of leaf development was not significantly correlated with rainfall in Q. magnoliifolia, but a significant negative correlation with rainfall was found in Q. resinosa. Results indicated that leaf phenology of the two examined oak species exhibited contrasting responses to temperature and precipitation.