The study of phenophases of Lantana camara in some parts of Makhado Municipality; Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

A few strategies have been utilized in plant phenology to observe the starting date of the life cycle events and the basic temperature for development and improvement of perennial plants. The study of phenophases on plant species required clear observations, interpretations and the recording of the plant yearly life cycle that can be characterized by the start and the end of each stage. According to the USA National Phenology Network, phenophases generally have a duration of a few days or weeks depending on the type of plant species. This study considered the various phenophase events of Lantana camara, an alien invasive shrub which poses a major threat to the biodiversity by suppressing the growth of indigenous species in the ecosystem as observed in some parts of Makhado Municipality. This study aimed to determine when different phenophase events of L. camara occurred, compared the duration of lifespans of each reproductive phase and established relationships between different phenophase events of the plant. The study was done by conducting field observations using digital repeat photography method on monthly basis for 12 months in some parts of the Makhado Municipality, Limpopo Province. The study areas were Ha-Mashau, Doli village and Elim. Observations were done randomly once or twice a month to observe as to when the life cycle events of Lantana camara begin and end. Findings showed that there was variation amongst phenological events of Lantana camara at both the study locations that were visited. Lantana camara did not carry leaves, flowers, and fruits for equal periods of times. This variation between phenophases was thought to be caused by environmental factors acting on the plants such as daily temperature, amount of rainfall, and soil moisture content amongst other factors at these locations.